The Abused is The Abuser in Another World

Chapter 23: A Nation of Shadows and Steel

The cavern was alive with a thrumming energy, the chants of the orcs reverberating through the stone walls like the beat of a war drum. Noir stood at the center, eyes reflecting the flickering torchlight, his thoughts a whirlwind of strategy. His companions watched in anticipation, sensing that something pivotal was about to unfold.

Noir raised his hand, commanding silence. The room stilled instantly. "My first order," he began, his voice clear and decisive, "is this: We will return to the former lands of the Duchy of Valewood."

A murmur rippled through the crowd. Grid raised an eyebrow. "Valewood? You sure that's wise?"

Lyralei's green eyes narrowed thoughtfully, but she stayed silent, waiting for Noir's explanation.

Noir didn't miss a beat. "We will search for survivors—elves, goblins, anyone driven from their home. We bring them here, offer them refuge. Those who wish to fight will join our cause. We will need every sword, every skill."

Thalor, ever pragmatic, stepped closer. "And if they refuse?"

Noir met Thalor's gaze. "Then we offer them safety. No one will be forced into this fight."

Lyralei's lips twitched into a faint smile. "You're giving them hope, Noir," she said softly. "You're giving us hope."

Lor, towering above the rest, took a step forward, his deep voice rumbling through the cavern. "And what if they betray us? If they don't believe in your vision?"

Noir's crimson eyes locked onto Lor's. "Then they will be dealt with. But not before we give them a chance." His tone was firm but tempered, showing both his ruthlessness and his desire for unity.

Shargoth, the orc shaman, who had been quietly observing, nodded approvingly. "Wise, Crimson-Eyed One. The spirits will guide this path."

Grid couldn't help but chuckle. "Spirits or not, I'm ready to crack a few skulls if it comes to that." He patted his axe with a wide grin.

Noir turned to the orcs. "Prepare yourselves. We leave at dawn." His voice carried the weight of a leader, and the orcs immediately moved into action—sharpening weapons, gathering supplies, discussing routes.

As the orcs dispersed, Thalor lingered by Noir's side. "Valewood is a risk," he said quietly, his voice thoughtful. "Edric's forces might still be there."

"It's a risk worth taking," Noir replied, his tone steady. "There are still those who need us. And if we're to stand against Edric, we need all the allies we can find."

Lyralei stepped in, her silver-white hair catching the light. "We'll find them," she said with quiet determination. "We'll bring them back."

Noir nodded. "You and Thalor will lead the first group to Elderglen. Move swiftly and avoid conflict."

Thalor gave a curt nod. "Understood. We'll be back before you know it."

Lyralei's green eyes gleamed with resolve. "We won't let you down, Noir."

Next, Noir turned to Grid and Lor. "You two will lead the second group to Grimbark. The goblin stronghold was heavily attacked, but some may have survived."

Grid's grin widened. "Grimbark, eh? I've got some old friends there. Let's see if they're still alive."

Lor, his expression stoic, simply nodded. "We will find them."