✓ | The Borrowed Identity (Fate's Transgression Series, #4)

TBI 20: Support

[ Chapter 20: Support ]

Selene | Selvy

Valan with Lutch and Admiral stood side by side on the terrace of the inn, their eyes fixed on the distant horizon. The weight of their mission pressed upon them, evident in the tense atmosphere that surrounded them.

"Sigrid will not rest until he captures her," It was Lutch who broke the silence, his voice filled with concern. His words are heavy with the weight of the impending danger. He glanced at Valan, seeking confirmation of the shared understanding between them.

Valan's gaze remained fixed on the distant landscape, his expression stoic. It had been three weeks since the mermaid had arrived on land, and her ability to adapt to her new environment had surpassed their initial expectations. She had not transformed back into her mermaid form since then, which only intensified the urgency of their task.

Valan turned to face Lutch, his eyes conveying a mixture of determination and concern. "I need everyone to stay vigilant. Sigrid's persistence is a clear indication of the threat he poses. We can't afford to let our guard down."

Lutch nodded in agreement, his gaze unwavering. "As commanded, we will heighten our efforts at securing the Cargo. We must remain one step ahead and anticipate his every move. The cargo's life depends on it."

Just then, Admiral interjected, his voice laced with urgency. "We need to act quickly. The General's arrival will provide us with much-needed support, but time is running out. Sigrid's reach is expanding, and we can't let him get his hands on her."

He delivered the news of General Reagan's imminent arrival, a glimmer of hope amidst the encroaching darkness. The letter from the Ansels indicated that they were making their way through Zepares and would navigate through Burske to reach them.

Lutch placed a reassuring hand on Valan's shoulder. "We've come this far, Commander. We won't falter now. We'll do whatever it takes to protect her and restore the delicate balance between land and sea."

Valan still stayed stoic. Nangako siya kay Selene na mananatili ang dalaga sa kanila, subalit darating na ang Heneral para kunin ito at dalhin sa palasyo. He can't go to places that the Blue Steel cannot reach. Though, sometimes he navigates to the Palace, but only when Seisha demands his presence.

Afterall, the Queen is one of the people who made the Blue Steel's core. The Golden Iris uses her power to protect Valan from the reactor of the Blue Steel that often burns when the host is staying too much on land. That is the price of the Blue Steel, the price of being its host.

Valan knew that very well.

"Prepare the troops," Valan commanded, his voice steady. "We have a battle ahead, but we won't let Sigrid prevail. Our resolve will guide us through the storm."

Admiral nodded, his expression filled with determination. "We'll rally our forces and make the necessary preparations. Only until the General arrives and the Cargo will be out of our hands."

As the night settled in, the three men acknowledged the gravity of the situation and resolved to remain vigilant. They retired to their quarters, their bodies weary but their minds sharp, knowing that danger could lurk in the shadows.

Valan lay on his bed, his eyes flickering open and closed, his senses attuned to the slightest disturbance. His mind raced with thoughts of the impending battle and the safety of the cargo. He couldn't shake off the lingering scent she emitted, like an invisible trail leading straight to her.

Lutch, restless in his sleep, tossed and turned, his subconscious mind still vigilant. His fingers twitched occasionally, as if ready to reach for his weapon at a moment's notice. Even in rest, he remained on guard, aware of the dangers that surrounded them.