Chapter 45: Taking a bath

Three days had elapsed since the conclusion of the raid, and the army bustled with activity, breaking camp and meticulously preparing supplies for the return journey. Soldiers could be seen meticulously setting provisions onto carriages, ensuring each item found its designated place. The rhythmic clatter of armor being packed echoed through the air, accompanied by the occasional commands of officers orchestrating the organized chaos.

Some lazy bastards, would instead hide outside camp, playing cards and betting their raid's reward in game of cards or dice.

Nearby, the mana cannons were meticulously secured within specially designed carts. A collaborative effort between engineers and mages ensured that the delicate machinery would travel safely on the return journey. Before the start of the march, the cannons had been discharged, a precautionary measure based on past documented incidents where cannons, if left loaded, mistakenly fired during a march.

This precaution, while ensuring the safety of the troops during the journey, also meant that if attacked, the crew would have to charge the cannons before firing. It was for this reason that many commanders left their cannon loaded when campaigning in foreign lands. However, in this particular case, as the march was homeward-bound, Victor deemed it unnecessary to keep the cannons charged, eliminating the potential risk of inadvertent discharge during the journey home.

In the midst of this orchestrated flurry, I found myself able to move around once more. Within the confines of my tent, a large wooden tub filled with steaming hot water awaited me. The medic, concerned about the integrity of the stitches, initially objected to my indulgence in a hot bath. After assuring him that I wouldn't use soap or put any pressure on the wounds, he reluctantly granted permission for the much-needed respite.

After enduring five long days, the prospect of finally cleansing myself from the accumulated dirt was a welcomed relief. Releasing a silent moan of satisfaction, I immersed myself in the hot water, allowing its warmth to envelop and relax every weary muscle in my body. The soothing embrace of the bath provided a momentary sanctuary from the harsh realities of the recent battles.

Despite my attempt to maintain a facade of bravery for the guests, the recent events had instilled a deep fear within me. That enveloping darkness that surrounded me, coupled with the anxiety of an attack that I could not see , continued to haunt my nights, leaving me tense and on edge.

Alone in the dark, I often found peace in the warm glow of a candle, a feeble attempt to dispel the lingering fear that clung to me. As I cast my gaze downward, the evidence of my recent wounds only deepened the stress.

 The mere thought of the helpless sensations I experienced sent shivers down my spine, causing me to flinch involuntarily, accompanied by the familiar, stinging pain.

Suddenly, Baalkaroth's voice echoed in my mind, urging me to stop.

As I submerged my head into the water, Baalkaroth's voice echoed in my mind with a mix of disdain and amusement. "Your current state makes me want to puke. All of this for a weakling demon? He died more by his own hand than yours."

My patience wearing thin, I retorted, "Shut up."

But Baalkaroth continued to taunt me, his laughter resonating in my mind. "Look at your wounds. After battling with that arrogant weakling, you're nothing but pathetic."

I clenched my fists, frustration boiling within me. "If I'm pathetic, what does that make you? A glorified dog, bound to do my bidding for a mere bone or two?"

Baalkaroth chuckled. "Oh little human, you think killing one demon makes you tough? You're nothing without me. I'm the one who gives you power, who makes you stronger. Don't forget that."

I sighed, knowing there was no point in arguing with him. "Fine, I'll give credit where it's due. Thanks to you, I survived long enough to think of that trap.I will make sure of you giving you a reward for it "

Baalkaroth's tone softened at the mention of reward. "Reward? What do you have in mind?"

A smirk formed on my lips as an idea came to me. "Once the army leaves and I've rested, I'll prepare a sacrifice for you as promised. And maybe throw in a few more souls as a token of gratitude."

His laughter resounded in my mind once again. "Now we're talking. Just make sure it's worthy and our pact will grow stronger."

"How exactly does a stronger pact benefit me?" I asked curiously.

"It means I can channel more power through you when needed," Baalkaroth explained. "It amplifies the impact of my abilities and gives you heightened strength during our battles."

Another thought crossed my mind. "Do you think you could defeat the Demon King if I invoke you?" I asked, a mix of skepticism and curiosity in my voice.

For once, Baalkaroth's taunting tone disappeared, replaced by vulnerability. "No, there's no way I can achieve that."

"Why not? What makes it impossible?" I pressed for further clarification.

Baalkaroth responded cryptically, "It's a cultural aspect that you, as a human, cannot comprehend, he was one of the demon's commader..... However, with enough souls, I might be able to present a formidable challenge to him. Victory might be attainable when other variables come into play."

I remained silent as I continued to splash water over myself, the rhythmic sound of droplets echoing within the confines of the tent. The cool sensation offered a momentary reprieve from the weight of recent events, allowing me to find solace in the simple act of cleansing and rejuvenating my body.

"Can you help me train in using my soul projection?" I then asked Baalkaroth, my voice carrying a hint of anticipation, as now having such ability meant that my chances of survinging increased exponentially.

 "Usually, I would ask for something in return, but considering you've promised extra souls, I'll help you without any additional requests.After all if you die I will go to hell with you...."He replied in his usual tense voice

I rose from the water, reaching for a towel, and slowly began to wipe myself dry. As the fabric grazed my skin, my thoughts turned to the elephant in the room,where the hell would I find souls to be sacrificed?