Chapter 101: Not Even a Goodbye
Baines crossed the threshold of the Darkan gate, his eyes narrowing at the gathered crowd, a mix of nobles, clan members, and curious onlookers. His gaze settled on the figure at the forefront: the 5th Imperial Commander, resplendent in a golden robe emblazoned with five sun stars, the fabric rippling as if kissed by divine light. His hair, a cascade of gold and cream, framed piercing green eyes that marked him as a battle mage of fearsome renown.
Baines’s memory flashed to the last time he saw the commander, his single, cataclysmic strike from the sky. It was a blow that had ended the war in an instant.
Dolik, beside him, froze, whispering, "Shit, 5th Imperial Commander," before bowing deeply. Baines, sensing the gravity, mirrored the gesture, his respect calculated.
"So, you are Jin," the commander said, his voice cutting through the murmurs, the first words he’d spoken in days. Reports had labeled Baines a mid-6th star, but the aura before him pulsed at high-6th-star strength, a discrepancy that piqued the commander’s interest.
Baines nodded, his attention shifting to the Darkan Head, who stepped forward, his voice tinged with formality. "Ah, yes, the family wishes to express our gratitude for your service. As a token..." A servant approached, presenting a parchment and two leather-bound tomes, their covers etched with runes. "These books, from the 5th floor of our library, though, cannot match your contributions, but we hope they serve you well."
The moment took on the air of an award ceremony, the crowd watching in hushed reverence. The Darkan Head continued, "From today, you are dispatched to the capital to serve the empire directly. Once again, thank you for your service."
"..." Baines remained silent, his face a mask as he faced the imperial commander. ’The Darkans have served their purpose. Now, it’s your turn, Emperor.’ His voice was steady. "I’m ready."
The commander’s brow lifted. "Aren’t you going to say goodbye? Surely you’ve made connections here." He didn’t want to think that Baines didn’t make even a friend here.
"Soldiers don’t say goodbye," Baines replied, echoing his earlier words to the Darkan Head: Soldiers don’t have a choice.