Chapter 95: The Crimson Guard
I pulled my cowl low as we stepped from the carriage, concealing my demonic features. We were within a spacious courtyard within the sprawling city of Viriden, before the City Lord’s keep. Unlike Lord Byron’s mansion, it was a solid building with a high outer wall and soaring towers. A contingent of soldiers stood at attention, led by a man with gleaming plate and a scarlet cloak. He removed his helmet, placing it under the crook of his arm, and dropped to one knee.
"It’s a pleasure to welcome, great heroes. I only wish it were under more tranquil times. I am Andres, vice commander of the Crimson Guard, leading the Second Guard."
Soltair’s brow creased as he peered at the ranks of trained soldiers. "Did Alric send you?"
"Indeed. We were deployed the moment he heard the first Demon Gate appeared in Radia. I humbly request you allow us to accompany you in your mission."
"It would be an honor, Commander," Soltair replied, voice strong and clear. "But let’s save this for the road."
"As you wish. Men, move out!"
The ranks of gleaming steel moved as one, nearly a hundred strong. Each carried auras no weaker than the fourth level, with some of the stronger approaching the sixth. Soltair, Trithe, and Commander Andres took to the front of the column, leading the small army out of the courtyard and through the city streets. To avoid drawing undue attention, I stuck near the rear, where a small contingent of mages marched. Although I left distance between us, they subtly shifted their pace, enveloping me in their ranks.
Their leader, a wizened old man with more hair more white than gray, fell into step beside me. "Judging by your aura, you must be the Fate hero. According to our estimates, it’s about an hour’s march to the Gate, so I hope you don’t mind if I borrow your ear."
His respectful tone took me by surprise, and I glanced over the rest of the mages. They wore heavy white robes emblazoned with the Radian Royal Crest and carried identical staffs. Unable to find so much as a derogatory smirk, I nodded. "As you wish."