Free Web NovelChapter 141: Inconsistencies
Inside the Phoenixes’ headquarters, a spacious room filled with maps, strategic diagrams, and a long wooden table, General Ironheart stood before Marcus, Nova, and Sable, his gaze sweeping across their determined faces.
The room hummed with anticipation, their shared purpose binding them together. But more importantly, the Phoenixes wanted to know about the General’s decision to make them an extension of the military’s power.
In other words, Marcus wanted to know if they were officially being given the right to rule over their city... or whatever remained of it.
"Phoenixes, I cannot express enough gratitude for your unwavering support," General Ironheart began, his voice resonating with authority and appreciation. "The supplies and weapons you have provided us have been invaluable in our battle against the undead." ƒreewebɳovel.com
He continued, "Without your assistance, we would not have been able to mount such a successful defence against the relentless eastern horde we have ever encountered."
Marcus nodded respectfully, thinking the meeting was off with a good start.
"General Ironheart, it has been our honour to aid the military in this fight. We understand the gravity of the situation and the importance of standing together to protect our settlement and the entire region."
The General’s eyes gleamed with curiosity as he sensed the thick layer of butter over Marcus’ words. He knew the leader of the Phoenixes had always been like this, but knowing about it did not make it more pleasant for the General.
"Your weapons, in particular, have been instrumental in turning the tide of battle. The innovative designs and craftsmanship are unparalleled." The General said, his hands resting on the table. "I would very much like to meet the individual responsible for their creation."
Marcus felt a surge of discomfort at the mention of their weapons. He glanced at his comrades, he had helped the military in ways unimaginable, but the old man was only focused on the weapons?
Moreover, there was another problem. Shinon did not know that the weapons he had created for the Phoenixes were being sent to the military, where they were most likely trying to replicate it.
Initially, Marcus had turned to Tom, seeking his expertise in replicating Shinon’s designs. But to his dismay, Tom had explained that it was impossible to replicate the blacksmith’s creations.
Shinon’s crafting methods were deeply ingrained in his artistic intuition, and his designs seemed to emerge organically from his mind. It was a unique process that defied conventional replication.
With no viable alternative, Marcus had made the difficult decision to send the weapons directly to the military, hoping their advanced technology and resources could unlock the secrets of Shinon’s originality.
However, as he observed the General’s reaction, it became apparent that their attempts had fallen short.
’It seems they failed in doing so.’ Marcus thought
However, Marcus knew better than to show his discomfort in front of the General and kept smiling as if he had received the biggest compliment ever.
"General Ironheart, we would be pleased to introduce you to the mastermind behind our arsenal. Our resident blacksmith, Shinon, has poured his heart and soul into crafting these weapons. Even now, most guards have been using his stuff to protect us." freēwēbηovel.c૦m
The General’s interest piqued further as he listened to Marcus’s words. "Shinon, you say? I would be honoured to meet him and express my gratitude for his exceptional craftsmanship."
Marcus hesitated for a moment, aware of Shinon’s absence. Suppose he informed the General that he had sent Shinon on a deadly mission. It could tarnish his reputation and the trust they had built with General Ironheart over time. He needed to think quickly and come up with a convincing lie.
"General, I regret to inform you that Shinon is currently on a mission to gather rare materials. He may not return in time for this meeting."
Ironheart’s brow furrowed slightly, his expression a mix of disappointment and understanding. "I see. Well, I hope his mission is successful, and I look forward to meeting him at a later time."
Marcus felt a surge of relief, his lie taking shape with each carefully chosen word. He continued, emphasizing the importance of Shinon’s role.
"Rest assured, General, Shinon’s craftsmanship is unparalleled. His creations have proven instrumental in our previous battles, and I have no doubt that his weapons will be a game-changer. Once his task is accomplished, I will ensure he joins our future meetings."
"I look forward to witnessing the fruits of his labour and ensure he knows that we appreciate his efforts more than anyone could imagine."
As the conversation continued, Marcus and General Ironheart delved into discussions about potential strategies, resource allocations, and the continuous strengthening of their alliance.
A sudden commotion echoed outside the headquarters as the conversation continued, exploring avenues for future collaboration and strengthening their alliance. Muffled voices filled with urgency reached their ears, drawing their attention away from the discussion.
The General’s eyes narrowed, his instincts alert. "What is happening outside?" he questioned, his voice tinged with concern.
Marcus exchanged a quick glance with Nova and Sable, their unspoken agreement urging them to investigate. They swiftly exited the room, General Ironheart following closely behind.
Outside the headquarters, a small crowd had gathered near the entrance, their murmurs growing louder as Marcus, Nova, Sable, and General Ironheart approached. Their eyes widened in surprise and worry as they saw the figures lying motionless on the ground.
’Goddamnit! These fuckers just had to appear now!’ Marcus silently gritted his teeth as he saw Shinon and Lova lying outside the settlement.
He couldn’t help but think about the potential complications that Shinon and Lova’s sudden appearance in such a state might cause, especially in front of General Ironheart.
In stark contrast, Selena and Nova reacted swiftly and instinctively. Their thoughts focused solely on the well-being of their loved ones. They rushed to Shinon and Lova’s sides, their hands reaching out to assess their conditions.
Nova’s voice trembled with concern as she gently cradled Lova’s head, checking for signs of consciousness. "Sis, can you hear me? Stay with us."
At the same time, Selena knelt beside Shinon, her eyes filled with worry. She immediately checked his pulse to find him alive and breathing. It almost felt like he was just sleeping.
General Ironheart, having observed the scene unfold, approached Marcus, his eyes keen with scrutiny. "What happened here, Marcus? Who are these individuals?"
Marcus took a deep breath, his voice steady as he responded. "General, these are Shinon and Lova-"
"Shinon?" General Ironheart’s gaze bore into Marcus’s, his voice stern but understanding, almost as if he was threatening Marcus. "I trust you will provide the necessary assistance and ensure their recovery."
Marcus nodded, his resolve renewed. "Of course, General. We will do everything we can to aid their recovery and get to the bottom of what happened."
However, deep within his mind, Marcus was hoping they never opened their eyes again... well, maybe Shinon should because he still needed his talents.
As for Lova, her thirst for blood had become a problem, and Marcus knew the General wouldn’t have anything to do with them once he found out about the atrocities Lova had committed.
Then, as if by some miracle, a faint flicker of consciousness danced across Shinon’s and Lova’s faces. Their eyelids fluttered, and groans of pain escaped their lips. Slowly, they began to regain awareness of their surroundings.
Nova breathed a sigh of relief, her voice filled with relief. "They’re coming back to us. They’ll be alright."
General Ironheart’s features softened with relief as he witnessed the Phoenixes’ resilience.
"Thank the gods," He murmured under his breath. "We cannot afford to lose their talents like this."
As Shinon and Lova regained consciousness, their eyes met the concerned gazes of their comrades and the imposing figure of General Ironheart.
Blinking their eyes open, they exchanged puzzled glances, their memories fragmented and hazy.
Shinon’s brow furrowed as he tried to piece together the events that led them to their current location. "Selena, what... what happened? Where are we?"
Lova groaned softly, her head throbbing with pain. She attempted to sit up, but the lingering weakness in her limbs made the task arduous.
"I... I don’t know. The Queen... we were fighting her, and then..."
Her words trailed off as the fragments of their memories slowly resurfaced. Their minds were clouded, memories fragmented as if lost somewhere in her mind.
"Thank god!" Selena’s voice was filled with compassion as she hugged Shinon tightly. "Shinon, Lova, you’re back with us!"
"We’re back at the settlement?" Shinon mumbled, looking at everyone around them. "I... I remember the fight. The Queen was overpowering us. But after that..."
Lova’s voice quivered as she struggled to recall the missing pieces. "There was darkness... and then nothing. How did we end up here?"
"Well, at least you guys are alive. Congratulations!" Marcus joked.
Lova shot a wary glance at Marcus, her instincts telling her that something wasn’t right. "We were fighting the Queen. There’s no way we would have just collapsed outside the settlement. This doesn’t add up."
"We’re just glad you’re back with us. The details can be figured out later. Right now, you both need rest and time to recover." Nova stepped forward, her voice filled with concern and support. "Come, let’s get you people inside."
