Chapter 87 - 86: The Legion Wears Black
The morning sun had barely breached the treetops when the village gathered near the eastern ridge. Mist clung to the earth like a soft farewell, and the scent of pine drifted on the breeze.
Lumberling stood at the head of his formation, armor polished, cloak clasped, spear slung across his back. Behind him, fifty-nine elite soldiers and three golden eagles stood in perfect discipline. Skitz, Aren, Rogar, Gorrak, Trask, all ready.
Across from them stood Krivex, his group equally prepared. Packs secured, weapons sheathed, determination in their eyes.
The air buzzed with quiet tension. The kind that only came before a long road.
Lumberling turned first to his family.
Uncle Drake stood tall, arms crossed, but his eyes were heavier than usual.
"You sure about this?" Drake asked.
Lumberling nodded. "We’ll need eyes and ears in the empire. It starts here."
Drake stepped forward and clapped a hand on his shoulder. "Just remember... not all nobles fight fair. You’re strong, but don’t get cocky."
"I won’t," Lumberling said. "And I trust you to hold the line here."
Celine moved in next, a hand on her belly.