…
During the funeral, Eivana and the attendees could not stop crying over the departure of the great commander, after being immersed in sadness, King Erico Roses closed. Funeral with great speech and full of spirit.
"Oh great royal family, and true friends of the late Commander Gaele...Today we gather not to mourn a loss, but to celebrate the life of a hero who gave everything for our homeland! The late Commander Gaele did not just a great military leader, not only a loving husband, or a loving father to Andrew, Seraphina, and Xevac – he was the strong beating h Remember how he faced danger with unparalleled courage, how he guided our troops through difficult times with extraordinary wisdom, and how he seart of security always upholding the values of honesty and loyalty! Every battlefield he traversed, every decision he made, was all done with one goal in mind – to protect us all and bring happiness to his people!
He never considered himself a great man, even though his achievements were undeniable. He always respected everyone, from young soldiers to fellow leaders. He taught us that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to stand tall even when our hearts are trembling! He taught us that true strength lies in the capacity to protect the weak and respect those who are different!
Fellow countrymen, the passing of the Late Commander Gaele is not the end of his legacy. His legacy will live on in every step we take as we bravely face challenges, in every act of kindness we show to others, and in every commitment we make to uphold the honor of the kingdom he loved with all his heart!
Let us pledge here and now, beside the grave of our hero – that we will carry forward his struggle, that we will safeguard the peace and security he fought for, and that we will always care for his surviving family with the same love and attention he showed us all!
The Late Commander Gaele has returned to the Creator's embrace, bearing our boundless honor and love! Rest In Glory, our hero – your name will always be remembered and honored in every corner of the Kingdom of Roses!
"THE STRONGER OUR KINGDOM STANDS, THE STRONGER THE LEGACY OF THE LATE COMMANDER GAELE SHALL BE!"
After hearing the speech, the knights began to move with the usual movements performed by the Gaele commander, namely the Roses Knights' salute.
Everyone!!
"Honor to the Rose Knights – Honor and Love as Eternal as the Rose!"
"Honor to the Rose Knights – Loyalty to the Kingdom and Its People!"
(Semuanya pun mengikuti apa yang para ksatria ucapkan)
After that King Erico and Eivana returned to the palace , leaving their children staring at the grave of their childhood role model whom they can no longer see forever.
(In a quiet cemetery, only the three siblings remain beside the granite tomb adorned with red and white roses. A gentle breeze sweeps dry leaves around them)
Seraphina (sits gently at the edge of the tomb, her hand softly touching the inscription, her voice echoing with deep sorrow)
Commander Gaele... we have laid you to your final rest. When the King delivered his speech earlier, I felt as though a strength was wrapping around me. But now, when everyone has left... it feels like a great part of me is gone with you. (weeps quietly) You always said I was like a rose – soft yet with thorns to protect myself. But now, my thorns seem useless without you here, who was always by our side and protected us.
Andrew (stands tall beside her, his hands clenched tightly, his eyes fixed on the inscription with a determined gaze though they are red from holding back tears)
Seraphina... Commander Gaele wouldn't want us to be like this. (bends down to touch his sister's shoulder) You know well that he always taught us to stay strong not because we must not cry, but because there are people who need our protection. (turns to face the tomb) All of this... I know I must take on greater responsibility now. But I'm afraid... afraid I'll never be able to be like you – strong, wise, and always knowing what to do. He (Lord Gaele) was always my foundation... now I have to learn to stand on my own.
Xevac (stands a little further away, then approaches and kneels beside Seraphina, his eyes filled with profound grief)
I couldn't find the words during the King's speech. All the memories with you keep running through my mind, Lord Gaele. (looks up at the darkening sky) You taught me how to hold a sword, taught me that strength isn't about hurting others, but about protecting those we love. I always wanted to make you proud – every training session I completed, every mission I carried out... all of it was for you. Now I don't know who I'll show my work to anymore. (his voice begins to shake) And Mother... she won't eat, won't speak. I'm afraid of losing her too.
Seraphina (takes Xevac and Andrew's hands)
We must not give up, right? Lord Gaele wouldn't want that. (looks at the tomb with a face that is growing calm) Lord Gaele, I promise I will take care of Mother and serve as an example to the King with all my heart. I will be like the rose you spoke of – gentle yet resilient, and I will always keep our family safe.
Andrew (takes his siblings' hands)
We'll do this together, but I will give my all to protect the kingdom and our family. Commander Gaele has left behind an extraordinary legacy, and we will ensure it lives on. (lifts his head with a firmer voice) We are the Roses family – like roses that grow in clusters, protecting one another.
Xevac (nods, wiping tears from his cheeks)
That's right. We'll support each other. Lord Gaele always said that Unity is our greatest strength. (touches the inscription once more) Thank you for everything you gave me, Lord Gaele. You will always be in my heart.
(The three siblings stand together, hands clasped tightly in front of the tomb, as they look up at the sky that is beginning to sparkle with small stars)
A few days after Commander Gaele's funeral, Seraphina and her two younger brothers entered the King's chamber.
After stepping into the magnificent palace with heavy footsteps, Andrew, Seraphina, and Xevac made their way to King Erico Roses' private room. The royal guards, who knew them well, simply gave them looks full of sympathy before opening the large teak wood doors leading into the king's chamber.
"Your Majesty," Andrew said in a calm yet clear voice as they entered. King Erico, who was sitting behind his large desk, immediately looked up, his face filled with concern as he saw the condition of the three children.
"You have come at just the right time," King Erico said as he stood up and invited them to sit. "I have already heard news about your mother. How is she doing?"
Seraphina, who could no longer hold back her tears, replied, "She refuses to eat and just keeps staring at the funeral site. Sometimes she cries quietly, Your Majesty."
Xevac then continued the conversation regarding the tea party that was supposed to be held next week, "We would like to request that the Tea Party be postponed for the time being, Your Majesty. Our family is still in mourning, and it is more important for us to take care of Mother and help settle the matters left behind after Commander Gaele's passing."
King Erico nodded slowly, his hand touching the crown placed on the side of his desk. "I understand completely. Nothing is more important than the well-being of our family. The party will be canceled with one condition, and I will explain the reason to all the nobles. Additionally, I have already ordered the royal physicians to be on standby to assist your mother whenever needed. Is there anything else you require?"
Andrew lifted his head with a determined gaze, "We also need to ensure that the duties previously held by the commander are properly managed, so that there is no chaos in the kingdom. We are willing to help with whatever is needed, Your Majesty."
King Erico looked at the three of them and began to speak, "Hmm... for those duties, I will think about it further. It is possible that one of you will be sent back to 'that place' along with the other commanders."
Upon hearing this, the three of them felt reluctant and were still not ready, but since it was the king's words, they resolved to follow what he commanded.
Andrew and Seraphina exchanged glances. "Very well, we take our leave now, Your Majesty." Meanwhile, Xevac remained seated as there were matters that needed to be discussed between father and son.
After Seraphina and Andrew left the king's chamber, Xevac spoke to King Erico about his plan to participate in the Inter-Kingdom Tournament at the 'Tower of the Kings'.
…
After the doors closed behind Seraphina and Andrew, Xevac finally rose from his seat and stepped closer to the king's desk. The young prince's expression was no longer the same as when he first entered – now it held a fierce determination that mirrored his father's in his younger days.
"Father," Xevac began, his voice steady, "I know our family is still in mourning, and the matter of the commander's duties weighs heavily on us all. But I must speak to you about the Inter-Kingdom Tournament at the Tower of the Kings."
King Erico leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers as he studied his son. "I had a feeling this was why you stayed behind, Xevac. You've always been drawn to challenges like this. But have you truly thought through what you're asking? The tournament is not just a display of strength – it determines which kingdom gains access to the Hall of Ancient Animals."
"I understand the stakes perfectly," Xevac replied firmly. "Each round starts with 1vs1 duels against other princes – testing individual skill, strategy, and control of our abilities. Then the final stage brings together the top five competitors from each kingdom for a 5vs5 team battle, where cooperation means everything. The winning kingdom gets the Key of the Beasts to enter the hall, where ancient relics and knowledge lie hidden."
The king stood and walked to the window, gazing out at the palace grounds below. "Your mother will not take this well. Not now, so soon after losing Gaele."
"I know," Xevac said quietly, moving to stand beside his father. "That's why I want your permission first – not just as my king, but as my father. I don't intend to go just for glory. The Hall of Ancient Animals holds records of magical creatures that once guarded our lands. If we can access that knowledge, we could strengthen our kingdom's defenses and honor Gaele's legacy by protecting what he dedicated his life to."
King Erico turned to face his son, a small smile touching his lips despite the gravity of their conversation. "You sound more like a leader every day, Xevac. But let me be clear – the other princes are not to be underestimated. Prince Aldric of Valdris has never lost a 1vs1 duel, and the team from the Eastern Realms trains together year-round."
"Then I will train twice as hard," Xevac stated. "I'll start preparing immediately, but I'll also make sure to spend every moment I can with Mother. I won't let my duty to the kingdom tear our family apart."
After a long pause, the king placed a hand on Xevac's shoulder. "Very well. I will grant you permission to compete. But you will not go alone – I'll assign two of our most experienced knights to guide you in team tactics. And we will tell your mother together, when the time is right. The tournament is still three months away – that should give us space to help her heal, while you prepare for what lies ahead at the Tower of the Kings."
Xevac bowed his head in gratitude. "Thank you, Father. I won't let you down."
Then because of that conversation, Xevac left the King's room. After that, the King called one of the Knights. To find information about the Tournament at the Tower of Kings as well as the prizes that will be received and the opponents that the child will face.
…
The Return of King Erico's Envoy Knights
After nearly three weeks of exploring remote territories and coordinating with various relevant parties, the envoy knights of the Kingdom of Roses—led by Captain Dean Silvercraft—have returned to the main palace, the Tower of the Kings. They were dispatched by King Erico to gather crucial information in preparation for the upcoming King's Championship Tournament, which will be held at the tower in two months' time.
The information they successfully collected includes:
- A list of kingdoms that have confirmed their participation (10 kingdoms total from across the continent)
- New regulations regarding weapons competitions,group battle strategie,the physical condition of the Tower of the Kings, with the main arena currently in the final stages of refinement and food supplies and accommodation arrangements for participants and visitors.
After reading the letter containing the information, the King was satisfied with the results, but Knight Dean gave 2 letters containing the results of his investigations regarding the Cold North as well the Darken Kingdom's reaction to what we (the Roses Kingdom) did in the Cold North.
King Erico smiled broadly knowing the information regarding the Tower of Kings that Knight Dean had given him, "This is quite satisfying Sir Dean, I think this is quite accurate information for the size of the Tower of Kings." You are just an ordinary knight, so is there any other information you have?" While putting the letter in his desk drawer
Permission to provide two other letters sir, the first is about the situation in the Cold North and the reaction From the Darken Kingdom to us in the Cold North" handed the two letters to the king.
"Hmm... Taylor Read the contents of both of them out loud!" said the king firmly.While taking a cup of wine to enjoy.
""Okay, I will start by reading the contents of the two letters in stages, so please listen carefully, my lord." Taylor took the letter and start reading
"Due to the situation there (Cold North) It is not possible for me, the Frostheaver tribe leader Rhea, to postpone the cooperation due to internal problems that could lead to a rift in the agreement, so I will giving myself and my tribe and you time to think again about the right time to start this collaboration" Taylor Berbicara lantang...
Signed by 'Rhea the Witch'
"Then the next one is...." still talking
"Hold on Taylor" King Erico spoke while holding another letter, "Why is this letter different from the others?? Please read this first Taylor" Gives the letter to be read.
"ahh... OK sir, I'll read it, So the king without a crown or the king who loves women has repented, cough!!... Ehh...." shocked because Didn't expect the contents of the letter.
""Enough for now, I want to hear your explanation first regarding the condition of the 'Crazy One'" Putting on a serious face and stinging in his eyes towards the knight.
"Ohh.. J..So the letter was shown to you because the village head there felt that Mr. Lustien had gotten better than before, my lord." Speaking while prostrating himself because of fear.
Am Aish that "crazy one" okay For all of you prepare a room for Mr. Lustien, he will probably return to the kingdom in the next few months" While rubbing his dizzy face.
""Yes, my lord, I will prepare it with the servants and chamberlain," said one of the servants.
…
The next day King Erico called one of his Knights to decided to send one of his most experienced knights in diplomacy—Robert Jogger—to conduct peace negotiations.
Robert Jogger, known for his wisdom and ability to read the mood of his conversation partners, immediately departed with a small entourage carrying the Kingdom of Roses' signature gifts: high-quality silk fabrics, jewelry set with local gemstones, and an official letter from King Erico stating his good intentions.
On the third day of their journey, they arrived at the Darken Palace—the seat of power for the Darken Kingdom. In the cold, steel-adorned council chamber, Robert was received directly by King Darken himself, Cladimir Darken Blackthorn, along with his cabinet ministers.
"We do not see your kingdom's actions in the Cold North as an act of aid, but rather as an attempt to seize control of our territory!" stated Cladimir firmly.
Robert replied calmly: "Your Majesty, our only intention is to maintain mutual security. The savage creatures that have emerged know no territorial boundaries—they will threaten both our kingdoms if we do not address them together. Furthermore, the facilities we have built can be used jointly for the welfare of the people in both regions."
He also proposed the establishment of a Cold North Cooperation Commission, which would consist of representatives from both kingdoms to manage the region's resources and security. After several hours of discussion, Cladimir finally agreed to consider the proposal and consented to halt military exercises temporarily
However, in the Agreement there was one condition which Robert did not look at carefully, the condition to 'cancel the agreement'.
Cladimir Darken, who knew about this, ordered several hitmen or assassins to follow the movements of the envoy from the Roses Kingdom. And if possible, erase their tracks so they cannot return to their kingdom.
"Shadow Assassin!! I order you to follow the movements of the Roses kingdom envoys and if there is a chance kill them all without leaving a trace, then listen to what I will say and "Tell Robert about this sentence" while opening the other contents of the agreement letter and starting to read it aloud.
'if one of the envoys or someone who was sent If the agreement to another Kingdom has an accident or is lost, the agreement is cancelled. Then, if their wealth or valuables are in another kingdom, it already belongs to that kingdom'.He immediately closed the agreement and burned it in front of the assassins and his subordinates understood what Cladimir meant.
…
Meanwhile On the way home, Sir Robert spoke to his deputy, Sir Bastian, while riding a horse.
Dusk was fading into night, painting the sky in deep shades crimson and orange. Two horses trotted slowly, yet remained ever alert. The wind howled strongly, carrying clouds of dust along the path. The atmosphere was tense and eerily silent, broken only by the rhythmic clatter of hooves against the ground.
Sir Robert sat upright in his saddle, his gaze sharp as he scanned the darkening woods surrounding them. Beside him, Sir Bastian kept his hand resting on the hilt of his sword, visibly unsettled by the ominous quiet.
Sir Bastian: "Sir, this road feels far too quiet. Ever since the negotiations were accepted without so much as an objection this noon, my gut has been telling me something is wrong. They... the enemy, will not let us return so easily."
Sir Robert let out a long sigh, his voice remaining firm and cold.
Sir Robert: "I know, Bastian. They are nothing but bloodthirsty wolves. They respect no treaties, let alone the honor of a knight. If they seek my life, they will strike right here at the border, far out of reach of any aid from Roses."
Sir Bastian: "Then what is our strategy, Sir? If we are ambushed, their numbers will surely overwhelm us. Should we find an alternative route or attempt to break through?"
Sir Robert turned, looking at his deputy with fiery determination.
Sir Robert: "Taking a detour would only waste time and exhaust us further. And I, Sir Robert, never run from a fight. Listen closely... Should the first arrow fly, or swords be drawn from the shadows..."
He paused for a moment, weighing every word.
Sir Robert: "...we will not surrender. We will not give ourselves up as prisoners. We shall fight until our very last drop of blood. We will carve our way home, or fall as honorable knights. There is no retreat. Understood?"
Sir Bastian: (Nodding firmly) "Yes,Mr. Robert! I will guard your back until my dying breath. Fight or die, we shall face it together!"
A faint smile crossed Sir Robert's face, satisfied by his deputy's loyalty. His eyes then drifted to the side of the road, where a vast expanse of dry, yellowing grass stretched out—remote, quiet, and situated exactly on the boundary of their territory.
Sir Robert: "The sun has set completely. Riding in total darkness will only tire our horses and make us easy targets."
He pulled on the reins, slowing his horse to a halt.
Sir Robert: "We will make camp over there. In that yellow field. The open ground will allow us to see anyone approaching. We shall rest for a while, regain our strength, and take turns keeping watch tonight. At dawn tomorrow, we continue our journey."
Sir Bastian: "As you wish, Mr. Robert. Let us find a safe place for the night."
The two men then guided their horses away from the main road, heading toward the silent sea of dry grass beneath the starry night sky, unaware that dark shadows were already watching them from the distance.
After securing their horses to sturdy wooden stakes, the two knights worked swiftly. They erected a small, simple tent to shield them from the biting wind, and soon gathered dry twigs and branches scattered around the field.
Crackle... Whoosh...
Flames quickly rose, dancing wildly and casting warm orange light against the darkness of the night. The fire provided much-needed warmth and chased away the looming shadows.
Sir Robert stood up, unsheathing his sword slightly and scanning the horizon in all directions—north, south, east, and west. The field was vast and open, offering no place for enemies to hide nearby. Satisfied that the immediate area was clear, he nodded to Bastian.
Sir Robert: "The perimeter is clear. The nearest tree line is too far to pose an immediate threat. Start the fire, Bastian. We need to eat."
Sir Bastian nodded, placing a small iron pot over the flames. He took out dried meat, hard bread, and some simple spices from his pouch. While waiting for the stew to boil, he ventured a short distance away, following the sound of flowing water until he found a small, clear stream. He filled their waterskins, quenching their thirst before returning to the camp.
The aroma of cooking food soon filled the air, replacing the smell of dust and dry grass. They sat cross-legged facing the fire, the silence of the night now broken only by the crackling wood and the bubbling soup.
Sir Bastian: (Stirring the pot carefully) "It smells good, Sir. Even simple food tastes like a feast after a long day of riding."
Sir Robert: (Taking a piece of bread and dipping it into the hot broth) "Indeed. A full stomach restores strength, both for the body and the mind. We must eat well tonight. Tomorrow... who knows what awaits us."
They ate in silence for a moment, savoring the warmth. Suddenly, Sir Robert stopped eating, his eyes fixed on the flickering flames.
Sir Robert: "Bastian..."
Sir Bastian: "Yes, Sir?"
Sir Robert: "You heard what was said today. They agreed to the terms too easily. Too smoothly. That is never a good sign in politics or war. A wolf does not smile unless it intends to bite."
Sir Bastian: (Chewing slowly, his expression serious) "I noticed it too, My Lord. Their leader looked calm, but his eyes were cold. It felt like a trap being set right in front of us, and we were forced to walk right into it."
Sir Robert took a long drink from the waterskin, then handed it to his companion.
Sir Robert: "That is exactly why we must remain sharp. Even while we sleep, our senses must stay awake. If they dare to attack us here, in this open field, they will find that two swords of Roses are sharper than a hundred of theirs."
Sir Bastian: "We are ready,haa..hahaha...hahaha.... Whether they come by stealth or force, we will be waiting. This fire... it is not just for cooking. It will be the light that guides their doom."
Sir Robert smirked, tapping his sword hilt resting beside him.
Sir Robert: "Well said. Finish your meal. Then you rest first. I will take the first watch. When the moon reaches its peak, you will relieve me."
Sir Bastian: "Understood, Sir."
They continued their meal, the atmosphere relaxed yet filled with unspoken tension, fully aware that danger could strike at any moment.
During that time they remained safe and sound, but over time they realized that the longer they were here, even the sound of the grass blowing could not be heard.
The silence grew heavier, suffocating and absolute. Not even the wind rustled through the grass. The crickets had stopped chirping, and the world seemed to hold its breath. The bright moonlight that once lit the plains began to fade, swallowed by thick, dark clouds rolling in from the horizon, plunging the field into near-total darkness.
Only the campfire remained, now dwindling down to glowing embers, casting long, dancing shadows that looked less like men and more like ghosts.
Sir Bastian: (While Holding the Torch he took at the Campfire Mound)"Sir Robert... do you hear that?"
Sir Robert: (Gripping his sword hilt tightly) "Silence. Too much silence. That is the sound they make before they strike. Put out the fire! We cannot stay silhouetted in the light!"
Bastian quickly kicked sand over the dying flames. Darkness instantly engulfed them. Just as they stood up, ready to move toward their horses...
SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHT!!!
A volley of black arrows whistled through the air, embedding themselves into the ground and the tent fabric with terrifying precision.
Sir Robert: "TAKE COVER!!"
CLANG!!! BZZZZZZZT!!!
A steel blade clashed violently against Sir Robert's sword, barely inches from his face. From the darkness, shadowy figures clad entirely in black leaped out. Their faces were covered, only their cold, murderous eyes visible. They moved like phantoms, silent and deadly.
Sir Bastian: "HAAAAAH!!"
Bastian swung his sword wide, deflecting a dagger thrown at his chest. He kicked one assassin in the gut, sending him rolling into the dry grass.
Sir Robert: "They are assassins! You're right Bastian Looks like I'll have to treat you later at the beer store, now it's time HYAAA..... No honor, no mercy! Fight for your life!"
Sir Bastian : "Hahaha...That sounds good Alright time to Finish these Bastards" (Parrying out small Dagger Slashes)
SLASH! CLANG! THUD!
Steel rang out against steel. The sound of grunts, the slicing of air, and the heavy thud of bodies hitting the ground filled the night. The assassins attacked relentlessly, using speed and numbers to overwhelm them.
Sir Bastian: (Panting, parrying three consecutive strikes) "There are too many of them, My Lord! They came from everywhere!"
Sir Robert: "Stand your ground! Back to back! Do not let them surround us!"
Sir Robert roared, swinging his heavy sword in a wide arc, forcing two attackers to jump back. His eyes scanned the darkness, finding his target instantly.
Sir Robert: "Who sent you?! Speak, you cowards!"
Assassin Leader: (Voice raspy and cold) "Death... is the only... answer you need."
The leader lunged forward with a dual blade technique, attacking with blinding speed. Sir Robert blocked with sheer strength, sparks flying in the dark.
Sir Robert: "Then DIE!"
With a powerful shove, Robert broke the guard and delivered a fatal strike.
Sir Bastian: "Watch your back, Sir!!"
Bastian threw himself forward, tackling an assassin who was trying to sneak up behind Robert. They rolled in the dirt, grappling fiercely before Bastian finally overpowered him.
Sir Robert: "We cannot hold them forever! To the horses! Now, Bastian!"
Sir Bastian: "I am with you! HAAAAA!!!"
With a final burst of energy and a flurry of steel, the two knights fought a path through the circle of death, cutting down anyone foolish enough to stand in their way, aiming for their steeds waiting in the darkness.
CLANG! SHING! THUD!
Sir Bastian fought like a man possessed. His sword moved like lightning, parrying and striking with terrifying precision. Despite being outnumbered twelve to two, he was an unstoppable force of steel and rage.
One assassin dead
SLASH!!
blood sprayed in the dark.
Two others attacked from the sid
BLOCK! SWING! CRUNCH!
they fell lifeless to the ground.
Sir Bastian: "HAAAAAAHH!! TAKE THIS!!"
With a mighty roar, he cleaved through the defense of a third attacker, sending him rolling in the dry grass. In mere moments, three of the twelve assassins lay dead at his feet. His chest heaved, sweat mixing with dirt, but his spirit remained unbroken.
Seeing Sir Robert being pressed hard by the leader, Bastian gritted his teeth and prepared to rush to his aid.
Sir Bastian: "Hold on, My Lord! I am coming!"
He turned his body, stepping over the corpses, eyes focused solely on helping his master. In that split second, his guard was down. The darkness was absolute, and the moonlight had completely vanished.
From the black void of his own shadow, a figure emerged silently like a ghost.
Sir Bastian:What the....Sigh....(Surprised by the sudden attack)
STAB!!!
A sharp, serrated dagger pierced through his armor and sank deep into his back, driving straight through his heart.
Sir Bastian: "Ghk...! Aaaaagh...!!"
His eyes widened in shock. The strength instantly left his limbs. His sword slipped from his grasp, clattering loudly on the ground. He looked down at the blade protruding from his chest, then slowly turned his head, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.
Sir Bastian: "M-My... L-Lord... R-Rober... Sorry, I don't t...thi....ink I c-c...can h-ha...ve Ghakk.. Ahh.. a beer with you S-siirr....Aaa...."
His body went limp and collapsed heavily onto the yellow grass, motionless. The light in his eyes faded forever.
SILENCE.
For a moment, even the fighting stopped.
Sir Robert saw his loyal deputy fall. He saw the steel buried in Bastian's chest. He saw the man who had sworn to fight beside him until the end, lying still in the dirt.
"BAAAAASTIAN!!!!!!"
A roar that was not human erupted from Sir Robert's throat. It was a sound of pure, unadulterated rage and agony that shook the very ground.
His eyes turned bloodshot, veins bulging on his forehead and neck. The grief instantly transformed into a burning, murderous fury. The air around him seemed to crackle with dark energy. He no longer fought like a knight; he fought like a demon unleashed from hell.
Sir Robert: "YOU... DARE... TOUCH HIM!!!"
He swung his massive sword with impossible strength, knocking the Assassin Leader aside effortlessly. He turned his gaze toward the one who had stabbed Bastian, his eyes glowing with hatred.
Sir Robert: "YOU KILLED MY BROTHER, MY BEST FRIEND, MY TRUSTEE!!! YOU WILL SUFFER!!! I WILL RIP YOU APART LIMB BY LIMB!!!"
He charged forward, ignoring all defense, ignoring all pain, driven only by the desire to slaughter every single one of them until not a trace remained. The battle had turned into a massacre, and Sir Robert was the angel of death.
ROAAAAAR!!!
With the strength born from grief and rage, Sir Robert's sword moved like a blur of steel. He lunged forward, meeting the Assassin Leader blade-to-blade.
CLANG!!! CRACK!!!
With a terrifying burst of power, Robert shattered the leader's defense and drove his sword deep into the enemy's chest. The leader gasped, eyes wide in disbelief, before collapsing lifelessly to the ground.
Seeing their commander fallen and their numbers decimated, the remaining assassins hesitated. Fear finally took hold of them. They retreated step by step into the shadows, disappearing as silently as they had come, leaving the field to the lone survivor.
Silence returned, but this time it was heavy and cold.
Sir Robert stood alone amidst the piles of bodies. His chest heaved violently, but every breath brought searing pain. He looked down—his own armor was stained crimson. A deep stab wound pierced his chest, dangerously close to his heart and lungs. Blood poured out uncontrollably, soaking the yellow grass beneath his feet. He knew... this wound was fatal. There was no healing from this.
With trembling legs, he walked slowly, step by agonizing step, toward the motionless figure lying in the dirt.
Sir Robert: "Bastian... Bastian, my brother, my best friend ohh ARRGHHH...HA..HAA..."
He fell to his knees, pulling the lifeless body of his friend into his arms. He embraced him tightly, pressing their foreheads together, feeling the warmth fading rapidly from Bastian's skin.
Sir Robert: (Voice breaking, tears streaming down his dirty face) "Forgive me,Forgive me,Forgive mie ... I am so sorry... I promised we would go home together. I promised I would protect you...But the truth is I can't ARRGHHH... "
Sobs shook his body, mixing with the coughs that brought up fresh blood.
Sir Robert: "You fought like a lion... you took three of them down... but I failed you. I couldn't save you. I couldn't help you..."
He wept freely, not as a mighty knight, but as a man who had lost his other half. But through the tears and the pain, his mind remained clear. His duty was not yet finished.
With great effort, he pulled himself up, leaning against his sword. He reached into his pouch, taking out the sealed scroll containing the copy of the treaty—and a small piece of parchment for his final words.
He whistled weakly, a sharp and clear sound. From the dark sky, a magnificent white messenger hawk descended, landing gently on his trembling arm.
Sir Robert tied the documents securely to the bird's leg. He looked into its eyes, whispering his final command.
Sir Robert: "Fly... fly high... To the Castle... To King Erico Roses... (i Hope this message will be the reason why I love the kingdom of Roses and all its contents)."
He stroked the bird's feathers one last time.
Sir Robert: *"To His Majesty, King Erico.
I send this treaty, secured with blood. We were ambushed, but the truth shall reach you. I have failed to return in body, but my loyalty remains unbroken until my last breath. Sir Bastian fought with honor and died a hero. Bury us with pride, for we did not fall without leaving a trail of our enemies behind us.
Long live the Kingdom of Roses.
— Sir Robert"*
He released the hawk. The bird soared into the night sky, carrying the final message away.
Sir Robert watched it disappear, a faint smile touching his lips. His mission was complete.
He sat back down on the cold ground, leaning against the body of his faithful friend, Sir Bastian. Side by side, two brothers-in-arms. The pain began to fade, replaced by a cold numbness spreading from his chest.
His eyes closed slowly, his head resting peacefully against his companion.
On that vast yellow field, stained with blood and glory, the two greatest knights of Roses breathed their last. They died not in fear, but with honor, standing tall until the very end.
The battle was remembered by the Commanders as a "battle of the honorable braves", At a later time.