Chapter 194: Ira Versus The World Pt.1

Chapter 194: Ira Versus The World Pt.1

As soon as Lance and his group were left alone, he turned to shout at Gerald and Zella.

Why did you say that back there?! Lance asked. You want to leave? After everything that happened to get you back?

I have nightmares, Lance, Zella replied listlessly. Gerald too.

Nightmares? What are you even talking about? Lance responded with clear confusion.

You dont understand how scary it is to have them, Lance. I see how I died every night and even when Im awake I see terrible things, glimpses of that fog-filled place...Sometimes it even feels like my soul is going to be ripped away from me and Ill die again. Sometimes I think that Im already dead and I just haven't realized it yet. The only thing that reminds me that Im alive is this Zella pulled open her shirt slightly and showed the shiny black orb embedded into her chest.

Zella, Sarah spoke without a clue as to how she could comfort her friend.

No, you cant go...After all, we waited for you to come back for so long...It was terrible for me realizing that I was the one who got you both killed and now...Gerald, you even have a wife, you wouldnt just leave her behind. Lance shook his head in denial.

I think its safer if Im not with her. If I stay the way I am now Ill end up hurting her. Gerald explained. What Zella described as nightmares were better labeled as night terrors that caused the one experiencing them to react as if they were in a battle. He feared that if he wasnt careful he would end up attacking the one he loved.

...How long do you plan on staying with Ira then? Lance finally asked.

No longer than five years. I hope that Ill be well enough to return at that time. Gerald answered.

Seeing Zella had yet to respond, the eyes of the group focused on her.

Gerald had someone to go back to, but Zella was different. Other than her friends there was no one that was relying on her. Her lips parted a few times but she couldnt quite get the words until a few moments of silence had passed.

Never.

Like that a day passed and Ira found himself back inside of the familiar conference room. Though, this time Rhys had been brought along much to her surprise. Harper was left to watch the children since they were old enough not to panic when Ira wasnt around for along.

Whos the first target? Ira asked as soon as he sat down. Avery took a seat on his left and Rhys, not knowing where to sit, sat to his right.

Weve given it some thought and we think its best to attack the Diavol or the Telvians as well as the Forest Elves. Sylun was the first to speak. Faint traces of exhaustion could be seen as she had been planning ever since Ira left the room the first time. Not just her but everyone who served under her stayed throughout the night. She pointed to a map on the table which outlined the cities for each country they sought to target with the exception of the Elves. Instead of a city a large portion of the Great Forest was circled as it was hard to pinpoint the exact location of some Elven territory.

Why? Ira inquired.

The two weakest countries are no doubt the Diavol Republic and the Telvane Empire with the latter being the weaker one. As long as we can land a heavy blow to those countries their overall strength would weaken. Still, we should be wary of that magic formation that the Diavol used previously.

And the Elves? Avery was the one to speak.

We are under the assumption that most of the rations used to supply the army will come from the Great Forest due to its growth properties. Since youve taken sap from the World Tree it goes without saying the Elves are holding a strong grudge and would be more than willing to quickly grow food.nove(l)bi(n.)com

Why not strike all three at once? Casey raised the question.

Ah, that sounds good. Ira immediately agreed. Better yet, Ill attack the Grenitian Kingdom.

What? No, that wasnt what they suggested, Ira. Avery responded.

Rhys showed dissatisfaction on her face as well as many others in the room.

Why not?

While everyone checked their equipment and went over the plans one last time. Ira gathered up his children.

Im leaving the city for a little while but Ill be back before you know it, Ira said with a warm smile. Though it seems a bit ominous to say that with a lot of confidence.

Ill look after them, Dad, Raveria replied. Although one couldnt tell, she wasnt much older than her brothers but she carried herself like it.

Good, I wont have to worry then. Ira kissed her forehead. He decided not to tell her that he would only be less than an hour.

Can I come? Valeryn asked.

Me too? Zephyr chimed in.

No, both of you arent old enough. Ira shook his head. If I could take you I would.

But Ravi told me that you took her to the other continent when she was a little younger. Zephyr pouted in protest.

Thats different, Zeph. Ira ruffled his sons hair.

...When you come back can you help me make a sword? Valeryn asked quietly. It seemed that he was scared of Ira saying no, but his father had no such thoughts.

As soon as I get back, I promise. Ira smiled. Just stay in the fortress until then.

He hugged his children and was reluctant to let go but he was completely fine with leaving them in Rhys care. She was strong enough to protect them if anything went wrong.

Not that it would. Ira reminded himself. The Valkyrie Fortress inside of the Underground City was probably the safest place in the world.

Avery walked over to Ira and broke him out of his thoughts. She had her black pendant armor equipped so she was covered from head to toe.

Its time, Ira.

Mom, Raveria jumped to hug Avery and Valeryn followed right behind her. Zephyr seemed unsure of what to do so he glanced at Ira who smiled and gave a slight nod. Zephyr ran to hug Avery and it was her turn to feel unsure of what to do. Beneath her helm, she made a slightly awkward expression but no one realized it except Ira who laughed to himself as he literally heard her expression change.

After sending his children off, Ira stood in front the force gathered.

Alright. One word from Ira was all it took for everyone to become completely silent.

Since theyll call us evil anyway dont feel too bad about attacking them. His words were meant for those unaccustomed to killing and war. Go for anyone with weapons and anyone who looks important, leave the children alone. Dont waste any time and get back to the same place you arrived as fast as possible.

Ira finished speaking and the Dark Elves brought their fists to their hearts.

As the Keeper wills it! They shouted in sync.

Ira grinned and turned his attention to Avery who was to lead the Valkyries to the Great Forest. They shared a look and then Ira waved his hand causing the entire group to disappear from sight.

Ira. Casey approached.

I got it. Ira waved his hand once more and she vanished.

...I should hurry up. Ira stretched before teleporting away.