The Adventures of Rose Hood

Chapter 38: Thus Begins the Battle

While most people were scared of the two shards, they immediately recognized that they were here to help. After a week of setting up, we were discussing the plan of combat with the king.

"One question, Ms. Benevolence."

"Yes, your majesty?"

"If Rose is the target, then why is she also on the front lines."

"Because she would refuse to not be in the front. She wants to defeat Wrath, and if we weren't here to help, she'd take on the whole army alone."

"I see. Is it dangerous for you?"

"Of course, we wouldn't be absorbed willingly, and if we are forced to be absorbed then our minds die."

"I see."

"Yes, the fact of the matter is that Wrath doesn't care if we are interested or not. She wants as much power as possible, and to get revenge through it."

"But why target Rose."

"Wrath is strong, but she lacks a proper body."

Benevolence gave a dark smile,

"And what better body is there than a mature arcane dragon."

"That is a terrifying idea. The power of Rose in addition to a shard would be undefeatable."

"And that's why we are here, because me and Peace rather like this world, we agree that the only ones we should destroy are the fools that tore us apart. That's why me and my sisters want one of us to be the core."

"I see, so it will happen either way, the only difference is how much gets destroyed."

"Bingo."

"Well, I still don't trust you, but I will follow this strategy."

"It would be foolish of you to trust me, but smart choice."

Her smile caused the king to shiver.

_

"Alright, the wall is situated, we have a team that is in position to react to anything."

"What about the main group?"

"We have ambush groups for 5 sides, the invading army will get pressed against the wall."

"Good, now all we have to do is wait."

"How long will it take for Wrath's army to attack?"

"3 hours."

"MISTRESS PEACE!!!"

"What is it, Galiath?"

"Pride's army is meeting up with Wrath's."

"Calm down, this was in our calculations. All it means is that we have 1 hour instead of 3."

"Why so much less time?"

"Pride has a trait that bolsters a soldiers resolve. It makes it so that they will go faster and stronger. Be prepared for the fight of a lifetime."

"Understood."

'Rose, you ready?'

'As ready as I'll ever be, Sloth.'

'This is a bad situation; the endgame is happening so soon.'

'This isn't the endgame, it's just starting.'

'You think so?'

'I do.'

At that moment, we saw an army running through the forest sounding war cries. Wrath was here, and behind her was an old enemy. The Whilder king was here.