Might & Magic of Emotions - Nijisanji Fantasy

Chapter 20: Thunderous Overture

- Two days later... -

A couple of agonizing days have passed and the Helestan Capital started to feel isolated. Aside from refugees that came from the western settlements, there were no other people who came to reinforce the Capital's defenses. The slow march of the revolutionary army as well as (Falric's) attempts at slowing them down days ago should have given them enough time to receive help from other settlements-

Yet, none came.

Investigations by Mysta Rias and the royal censors have pointed fingers towards General Rafael who has disappeared week prior to today. The timing of his disappearance as well the news of the revolutionary army mustering in the mountains has caused him to be labelled as a suspect. However, it doesn't matter anymore.

The revolutionaries are already upon them. From the Capital City's battlements, they could see smoke rising to the skies. They are now only a few kilometers away from the defenses on the ground before they could stare each other down. The cavalry positioned themselves at the flanks of the retinues outside the city walls, preparing to defend them against other enemies that might circumvent the defenses. The purpose of the retinues outside the walls were to merely test the revolutionaries of their strength. Once that is done, the gates of the city are wide open for them retreat back into safety and under the cover the numerous archers, sorcerers, and ballistae on the walls.

Behind the retinues of Helestan soldiers are the volunteers, each of whom are unique in their own rights. Ex Albio, Marek Mathesius, and the Felgardian princes Lev Taurius and Sergius Severus are among the mercenary company that they have managed to hire at the last minute. Leading them at the front are Grandi and Lize Helesta with (Falric) Felgarde and Kaldan Littorio in charge of the two cavalry companies on the flanks. They stand there, waiting for their enemies to show themselves.

The garrisoned troops on the walls are under the command of Diana and Klein Helesta along with Sir Giazza. They are joined by Ban Hada, Ars Armal, Mateo Caesar, Cyril Silvercane, Dareth Crosslake and even the true Cheliot prince, Mithze Cheliot is with them. Further down in the city itself in supporting roles are Nui Sociere, Rindou Mikoto, Pomu Rainpuff, Oliver Merden, Ange Katrina, Inui Toko, and Belmond Banderas.

Today, everyone has a purpose for their very survival is on the line.

An hour later, the entire Helestan defense came face to face with the revolutionaries who appear to be eager to win glory and riches. There is a large space between the two opposing forces, with the rebels standing just outside of the kill zone of the Helestan sorcerers and artillery. From a single gaze, everyone can make out that the force before them isn't exactly as well-equipped as they had prepared for, but they know are still more numerous.

A bird with purple feathers flies down onto the battlements where Diana and Sir Giazza stand with the volunteers and the soldiers. The bird transforms and there, Enna Alouette, the representative of the Winged Highlords of Harold, appeared before them.

"They have no siege equipment whatsoever and their supply lines are already far behind them, meaning that they must've rushed the remaining distance out of foolish eagerness." Enna informs everyone who can hear her, having scouted the enemy force from the skies.

"So it means that it will be nearly impossible for them to even get through the defenses below the walls." Diana surmises.

"Why do they bother? Even if they have greater numbers, the Capital is the most well-defended location in all of the Eastern Plateaus. Surely they know that they don't stand a chance?" Klein questions.

"They seek to destabilize Helesta, Prince Klein." Sir Giazza said to him. "If what Princess Lize and Prince (Falric) said are true, then Éleanor cares not if this army will win or not. Whatever the outcome of this battle, he alone will be the victorious one." He adds and Klein frowns.