The Abused is The Abuser in Another World

Chapter 29: Forces in Motion

In the grand halls of Durnholde Castle, Countess Elara stood before a map of the Thunderwarren region, her sharp blue eyes studying every detail. The flickering candlelight reflected off the cold stone walls, casting long shadows across the chamber. She had received confirmation from her scouts—there was indeed a new settlement in Thunderwarren, and it was not just a random gathering of misfits. Goblins, elves, orcs, and humans were living and working together. Such an alliance could not be ignored.

A scout knelt before her, having just delivered the final report. "Countess, it is as we feared. The Thunderwarren is more than a mere hideout. It is a structured settlement, and they seem to be preparing for something larger."

Elara's lips pressed into a thin line, her mind racing. "So, they've managed to organize themselves," she muttered, more to herself than to the scout. "A threat like this cannot be allowed to grow unchecked."

She turned abruptly, her long cloak sweeping the floor as she faced her advisor, standing quietly by the door. "Summon Captain Kaelthor from Grimscar," she ordered, her voice sharp with authority. "We need to be prepared. If this...Enclave truly intends to establish itself in Thunderwarren, we must be ready to crush it before it gains any more strength."

The advisor bowed and quickly left the room to carry out her orders.

Moments later, Captain Kaelthor strode into the chamber, his armored boots echoing against the stone floors. He was a tall, imposing figure, with short-cropped black hair and piercing gray eyes that missed nothing. His face was hard, his expression unreadable, but his presence radiated command and discipline. The scars that marked his weathered skin spoke of countless battles fought and won, and his armor bore the insignia of Durnholde—a hawk poised for the kill.

Elara didn't waste any time. "Kaelthor," she began, her voice cold but steady, "you've been briefed on the situation in Thunderwarren. There is a settlement forming there, something larger than just a band of outlaws. They are organizing—goblins, elves, orcs, and even humans. Such an alliance threatens the stability of my lands, and we cannot allow it to take root."

Kaelthor's gray eyes darkened with understanding. "And you want me to deal with this before it becomes a greater problem."

Elara nodded sharply. "Precisely. I want you to mobilize the forces stationed in Grimscar. Begin preparing for a full incursion if necessary, but for now, we need information. Send out scouts. I want to know the size of this Enclave, who leads them, and what their intentions are."

Kaelthor gave a slight bow, his voice steady and professional. "Consider it done, Countess. We will gather the intelligence you need, and if they pose a threat, we will strike swiftly."

Elara's gaze remained fixed on the map as Kaelthor turned to leave. "And Kaelthor," she added, her voice a low warning, "I expect nothing less than precision. This cannot be a blundering assault. I want them crippled before they even know we're coming."

Kaelthor's cold smile spread across his face as he gave a final nod. "Of course, my lady. They won't see us coming."

As the captain left the chamber, Elara stood alone, her fingers tracing the lines of the map. "Thunderwarren will not defy me," she whispered, her eyes narrowing. "Not for long."

Meanwhile, deep within the Enclave, Noir paced the length of the central chamber, his mind heavy with the burden of leadership. The air was thick with tension, and the news of Edric's missing scouts had only added to the weight of the decisions he faced. The scouts of the Enclave had encountered the patrols in the woods, and now Edric's forces would be looking for answers. The game was growing more dangerous by the day.