Published at 27th of August 2023 10:50 am

Chapter 171 Return To The Niram Empire

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Luke and Aslan had spent the past month traversing treacherous terrains, facing countless challenges, and conquering insurmountable odds. Their journey to return to the Niram Empire, where the shield team headquarters exist, had been a grueling test of their strength, resilience, and unwavering determination.

Along the road, they had encountered monstrous creatures that threatened innocent lives, wicked sorcerers who sought to plunge the world into darkness, and bandits who preyed upon the weak. Together, Luke and Aslan fought side by side, defending the helpless and vanquishing evil.

----Now----

As Luke and Aslan approached the outskirts of the Niram Empire, a sense of anticipation welled up within them. The familiar landscapes and bustling towns confirmed their return, and a renewed sense of purpose filled their hearts. The duo pushed forward, eager to reunite with the Shield team and share their remarkable tales.

Word of their heroic deeds had spread throughout the land, and the people of Niram greeted them with admiration and gratitude. Cheering crowds lined the streets, their voices echoing with praise and admiration for Luke and Aslan. The Shield team is admired by many and it has become a custom for the people of the Niram Empire to welcome Team Shield members upon their return from their missions. This kind gesture made Luke and Aslan forget all the hardships they went through along the way.

After indulging in some well-deserved rest, Luke and Aslan made their way to their favorite restaurant, where they would reunite with their friends and fellow members of the Shield Team.

Gathered around a wooden table were six members of the Shield Team, and a new guest. Sitting beside Luke was Jareth, a muscular man with a rugged appearance and a scar that ran across his cheek, exuding an air of quiet confidence.

Next to Jareth sat Lysander, a skilled archer with a sharp eye, a mischievous smile, and dark skin that contrasted with his thin frame. His nimble fingers gracefully strummed a tune on a small lute, providing a melodic backdrop to their conversation.

Completing the quartet was Evelyn, a young woman winight-bluelue hair and unwavering determination. Her expertise lay in healing magic, and her soothing presence had saved countless lives on the battlefield. Despite her youth, Evelyn possessed an old soul, often offering sage advice and a compassionate ear to those in need.

And lastly, there was Rashid, a short young man wearing glasses, known for his intellect and friendly smile.

Jareth, always the first to speak, broke the silence as he pointed to the girl sitting by Aslan's side. "Luke, Aslan, who's this?"

Luke smiled with pride as he introduced Eris. "This is Eris. She's a brave young girl we rescued from the clutches of the Parada family. We couldn't leave her behind, and we thought she could find a new family here with us in the Shield Team."

In their recent journey, Luke and Aslan had encountered troubles along the way, and to protect Eris, they had sent her ahead with one of their friends to the Niram Empire. Eris had arrived before them and found a safe haven within the team.

Evelyn's eyes softened as she looked at Eris, extending a welcoming hand. "You're safe now, Eris. We're here for you."

Eris hesitated for a moment, her gaze shifting between the friendly faces around the table. Slowly, she reached out and took Evelyn's hand, feeling a sense of belonging and security.

Lysander, always the joker of the group, playfully ruffled Eris's hair. "Welcome to the team, kiddo! We're like one big, crazy family here."

Rashid, the ever-observant, had been silently studying Eris. With a warm smile, he spoke up. "I'm Rashid, the resident strategist of the team. If you ever need anything or have any questions, don't hesitate to ask."

Eris, still adjusting to her new surroundings, nodded shyly. "Thank you, everyone. I'm grateful to be here."

The conversation continued as they settled into their seats, sipping on mugs of warm mead. Naturally, their discussion turned to the absent captain of their team.

"Even the captain will have a tough time defeating a Rank-eight monster," said Evelyn.

"Yes, Fayzan Kingdom sent hundreds of knights to assist him, but the monster proved stronger than anticipated. It seems he will take a long time to return," Lysander added.

"Indeed, he won't be able to fulfill Fray's request," Rashid chimed in.

"With my understanding of Fray, I'm sure he won't back down. It looks like we can't interfere in that dungeon without the international court. What do you think, Luke?" Jareth asked.

"Actually, I'm not sure. Lucas mentioned that the Parada family has started taking the dungeon seriously. I think we should let them deal with it for now," answered Luke.

"That bastard risked the safety of the container just to avoid us. I should have killed him when I had the chance," Evelyn said, her tone filled with anger.

"Evelyn, we may not agree with him, but Fray is still one of us. We swore to protect each other like family," Lysander reminded her, his voice gentle.

Lysander's words hung in the air, causing everyone to fall silent. The matter of Fray was a complex subject within the Shield Team, and each member held their own thoughts and feelings about it. Deciding to change the subject, they turned their attention to the other significant news in the continent.

Rashid, always eager to share information, provided the latest updates. "Word has it that one of our empire's generals, Maris, was working undercover in the heart of the Lionar Kingdom. Unfortunately, he was discovered and is now a prisoner there," he said, his deep voice resonating with seriousness. "The tension between our two kingdoms has reached a boiling point, and it's impossible to prevent a full-blown war by now."

Luke furrowed his brows, surprised by the news of the escalating conflict between the Lionar Kingdom and the Niram Empire. Both kingdoms had long been allies, their strength and unity essential in maintaining peace across the continent. The losses incurred during the recent skirmishes had undoubtedly shaken the stability of the realm.

"Yes, I heard that three villages were destroyed last month, and hundreds of innocent lives were lost," Lysander added, his voice tinged with sorrow.

Aslan leaned forward, concern etching her features. "We must do something to stop this war. We can't stand by while countless lives are lost."

Evelyn nodded in agreement, her eyes glimmering with determination. "We cannot allow tensions to escalate further," she said firmly. "The cost of war would be devastating, not just for the Lionar Kingdom and the Niram Empire, but for the entire continent."

Luke sighed, contemplating the gravity of the situation. "We must seek diplomatic solutions, find common ground," he suggested. "War should always be the last resort."

----

In search of solace amidst the turmoil, Luke and Aslan decided to take a break from their duties and venture out for a peaceful evening in the unaffected corners of the Niram Empire. Despite the brewing conflict,

the city had managed to maintain an air of normalcy, with bustling streets and people going about their daily lives.

Hand in hand, Luke and Aslan strolled through the enchanting streets, taking in the sights and sounds of their surroundings. Colorful lanterns illuminated the cobblestone paths, casting a warm glow on their faces as they passed charming shops and bustling cafes.

Eventually, they arrived at a serene garden tucked away from the chaos of the outside world. Lush greenery surrounded them, and the scent of blooming flowers filled the air. They found a secluded spot beneath a majestic willow tree, its long branches gracefully swaying in the gentle breeze.

Luke spread out a blanket on the soft grass, inviting Aslan to sit beside him. They leaned back against the tree trunk, feeling its sturdy support as they gazed up at the starlit sky. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only their presence and the tranquility of the moment.

Resting her head on Luke's shoulder, Suddnley Aslan sighed softly, as she said with an exhausted expression "I'm so tired. When will we find peace?"

Luke turned to look at her, his eyes filled with warmth. Said with a confident voice "I don't know for certain, but I promise we will work towards creating peace, not just for ourselves, but for the entire continent."

Moved by his words, Aslan raised her head and met his gaze, a gentle smile forming on her lips. "And I'll stay by your side until that day comes true."

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