Chapter 66 - Aftermath (1/3)

Looking up, Ben saw Blue as he used his magic to reduce the portal's ring.

All was going well when some creatures started materializing from the other side. Blue had to use a telekinetic boast to push the creatures back while continuing to wrestle with the portal.

A few Hollow Moon mages must have noticed what was happening and motioned the fairies for a lift. Once they were in the air, they assisted Blue by barraging the inside of the event horizon with a similar spell that was more sustained.

Being freed from multitasking hell, Blue could concentrate all his energy on the portal, which began to shrink before it exploded like a firework, filling the sky with multicolored sparks.

Blue gave the mages and fairies a nod before hovering down into the dust cloud that had formed with all the damage the Chateau had taken. There were a few rumbles as powerful earth-shattering magic blasts were expelled, causing the fortification to tremble momentarily.

[+600XP, +1MP.]

Strands of magic emerged from the dust like spider legs, contacting various points of the Chateau. Every inch of the fortified structure began to glow similarly to the van’s [Repair] skill when active before the damage began to reverse. Within moments, it looked like the Chateau had returned to its original condition, minus any trace of the infection.

Ben noticed Le’Vieux starting to make his way into the courtyard. He took a few moments to look at the repair work before motioning everyone else to make their way inside. Ben drove inside, parked to the side, and got out before joining the others.

Once Blue arrived there, Le’Vieux asked. “Is it done?”

Blue nodded. “All traces of the enemy from here have been eradicated. I can sense there are still small pockets of the enemy scattered across the Feruslands, but not enough to pose a severe risk.” He glanced towards Quicksilver, “I’m assuming those will be dealt with once your people have regrouped.”

“We will ensure it’s done. We will graciously accept assistance if the Hollow Moon wants to contribute.” Quicksilver replied.

Le’Vieux acknowledged the request. “Consider it done. I will instruct a company of my elite soldiers and knights to make their way to your settlement. It’s the least we can do in return. After all, if it weren't for your people, we would have suffered heavier losses here.”

Quicksilver bowed his head.

“It’s good to see humans and fairies finally getting on with each other.” Blue started, “Maybe this alliance could strengthen us against future transgressions. Now that this debacle is finished, I used the reminder of my power to bring this place back to its original state.” Turning to Le’Vieux, “You know more than anyone things can change within an instant. Our enemies may find this an opportunity to take this Chateau from under our noses, so I suggest you elect someone to keep it manned.”

“You don’t have to tell me that twice.” Le’Vieux muttered before turning to Alfred, “Are you ready to return to your duties?”

Alfred looked like that took him aback and scrunched up his forehead. “Are you being serious? You know I don’t have access to my system anymore.”

Le’Vieux gave Alfred a narrow gaze before crossing his arms. “And you know that the system is not the only way to communicate with your superiors. The mages at the academy will deliver a communication sphere so you can conduct your new duties as Commander of the Trident Fort. This won’t be on behalf of the Hollow Moon but rather the Mesolands. You will be tasked with rebuilding the order from the ground up. I trust you’re more than capable of handling this position. Now, don’t make me change my mind.”

Alfred sighed deeply. “That sounds like one hell of a task, and I doubt I can do it without good people by my side.” He then turned to Ben, adding, “However, one thing is standing in my way. I can only accept it if Ben doesn’t mind me leaving my position at the village.”

Ben waved the notion away. “Ah, don’t be silly. Taking care of the Chateau and rebuilding the order is more important than being a second in command at a mining village. Besides, with things calming down, we should have that place on the right track in no time.”

A smile filled Alfred’s face before he gave Le’Vieux an eyebrow bounce. “That means you’ve got me on board.”

Le’Vieux let out a huff of relief. “Well, I’m glad that’s sorted now.” He looked around at everyone. “Regardless of rank and position, you’ve all done great work here. We fought an impossible enemy and won. Your names shall be remembered eternally once those pesky bards know this. I hope you all don’t slow down your momentum, as much work still needs to get done.”

Hauxwell slapped Le’Vieux on the back. “I bet you can’t wait for those bards to sing your name with such romantic tones. Before we all get going our own ways, let’s share a drink.”

Le’Vieux turned to Blue and shrugged.

Blue shook his head slowly. “I’ll leave you to this unnecessary drinking and meet you once you’re back at the Hollow Keep.” He then opened a portal and stepped through.

Once everyone was ready, a small group of knights were left to guard the Chateau before the rest made their way to Robynhill.