As the sun began to rise, Vergil gathered Freya, Aeka, and his five adopted daughters in their private tent. The air was crisp, the quiet hum of the waking camp providing a stark contrast to the tension within the tent.
Vergil approached the mission board, where several photos of their targets were pinned. He took the photo of Lady Lina Castellanor and, with a stroke of red ink, crossed it out. Beneath the photo, he wrote the word "Rescued" in bold, precise lettering.
Aeka and Freya exchanged knowing glances, understanding the symbolism immediately. However, Mina, the oldest and still inexperienced of the group, tilted her head in confusion.
"Father," Mina asked hesitantly, "why did you cross out the photo? Does it mean something special?"
Vergil turned to his daughters, his piercing blue eyes softening slightly. "It's simple. When a mission is complete, the target's photo is crossed out. In Lady Lina's case, she was rescued and has now fully joined the rebellion. This mark serves as a visual reminder of our progress. It also ensures we don't waste time revisiting completed tasks."
Mina nodded thoughtfully, her curiosity satisfied.
Vergil then gestured to Freya and Aeka. "Now, let's move on to the next target. Freya, your report."
Freya stepped forward, unfolding a detailed map of Lord Lucas 'Lucky' Escalbrook's camp. She pointed to key areas marked with red circles. "The supply depot is located here, towards the back of the camp. Security is surprisingly light, likely because they assume it's well-hidden. Additionally, there's a small guard post here near the main entrance, but it's undermanned. Most of the defenses focus on the central command tent where Lord Lucas resides."
Aeka followed, spreading another map on the table. "I discovered a hidden path behind the camp. It's a narrow trail through the forest, leading directly to the stables. It's likely a planned escape route for Lucas and his officers should the camp be compromised."
Vergil nodded, his mind piecing together the puzzle. "Good work. With these details, we can exploit their weaknesses."
As the group deliberated, Mina turned to Aria, her voice tentative. "Aria, do we have any magical traps we can use? Something to hinder their movements or create chaos?"
Aria furrowed her brow, her fingers tapping against her staff. "There is a spell called Flame Pillar—it creates a massive burst of fire in a concentrated area. But setting it up requires precise preparation and a significant amount of magical energy."
Vergil and Freya exchanged a glance. Freya spoke first. "If we only need one large Flame Pillar, can you manage it, Aria?"
Aria hesitated for a moment before nodding. "It's possible, but I'll need time to prepare. And I'll need to conserve my energy beforehand."
Aeka interjected confidently. "Do it. While you prepare the spell, Sylvy and I will flank the camp from the rear and sow confusion among their ranks."
Vergil turned to Lira, his tone calm but firm. "Lira, you'll provide covering fire. Target the guards escorting Lucas or anyone who seems to be rallying the troops. Keep your distance and stay hidden."
Lira saluted. "Understood, Father."
Aeka added another suggestion. "I can also set up a magic cannon to assist the rebels in their assault. It'll give them a significant advantage against the loyalist forces."
Vergil weighed the idea for a moment before nodding. "Permission granted. Set it up near the rebels' forward position, but keep it well-hidden. We don't want it destroyed before it's useful."
Vergil strode confidently into the command tent of the rebel leaders, where the air was thick with the scent of parchment, wax seals, and burning lantern oil. Seated around a large wooden table were Lady Arisa, Prince Alex, and the senior military commanders of the rebellion. Among them was Lady Lina Castellanor, her sharp blue eyes glinting behind her glasses as she studied several maps spread across the table.
Vergil placed his hands firmly on the edge of the table, commanding attention as he began. "The time has come to strike at Lord Lucas 'Lucky' Escalbrook's camp. I suggest we move tonight. The darkness will grant us the advantage we need."
The rebel leaders murmured amongst themselves, but Vergil quickly raised his hand to silence them.
"To ensure our success, I will call upon reinforcements from the Britalienne Empire," he continued. "Commander Alaric leads these troops, and they are loyal to Empress Elisa II, who has sanctioned their involvement to aid your cause. When they enter Montivelle, they will be seen as reinforcements for the royal forces, but I will redirect them to your camp. Their arrival will tilt the balance in your favor."
One of the senior commanders, an older man with graying hair and a scar across his cheek, frowned. "Vergil, are you certain this is wise? If these troops are discovered, it could lead to diplomatic repercussions."
Vergil met his gaze, his voice calm but resolute. "These soldiers were chosen for this mission. They will follow my orders without question. Empress Elisa has ensured their loyalty, and their objective is to see Montivelle's crown dismantled. Trust me—this plan is already in motion."
Lady Arisa nodded thoughtfully, her hands clasped before her. "If these reinforcements are as reliable as you say, they could be the key to our victory. But we must ensure their arrival is timed perfectly."
Prince Alex leaned forward, his princely demeanor softened by the weight of the rebellion's struggles. "If we're to attack Lord Lucas' camp tonight, what approach do you recommend? A frontal assault, or should we focus on sabotage?"
Vergil tilted his head slightly, considering the question. "A direct attack under the cover of night is ideal. The loyalists won't expect a nighttime assault so soon after losing Lady Lina. They'll likely be disorganized, and we can exploit their overconfidence."
Lady Lina chimed in, her voice measured. "Lord Lucas may have a reputation for being 'lucky,' but his luck runs thin when he's out of his comfort zone. A nighttime attack will throw him into chaos."
Prince Alex nodded, his jaw tightening with determination. "Very well. We'll prepare for a nocturnal strike. But what about your reinforcements? How soon can they arrive?"
Vergil's response was immediate. "By midday tomorrow, they'll be within striking distance of the loyalist camp. That gives us one night to cripple their defenses and scatter their forces."
Lady Arisa rose from her seat, her authoritative tone cutting through the room. "Vergil, if these troops arrive as planned, I want you to personally oversee their integration into our forces. Their presence must not cause confusion among our ranks."
Vergil inclined his head in agreement. "I'll handle it. For now, focus on preparing your men for tonight's battle."
Vergil rode swiftly under the midday sun, the rhythmic sound of his horse's hooves a steady companion on the journey to the border village between the Britalienne Empire and the Montivelle Kingdom. The village itself was modest, with stone cottages and bustling villagers going about their business, but its strategic location made it vital for the mission.
As Vergil dismounted near the village square, Commander Alaric, a tall, imposing figure clad in the distinctive crimson-and-gold armor of the Britalienne Empire, approached him. The commander greeted Vergil with a firm handshake, his sharp hazel eyes filled with curiosity.
"Vergil," Alaric began, his voice deep and commanding. "I've been awaiting your arrival. Tell me—what's the situation with this rebellion?"
Vergil wasted no time, his tone calm but urgent. "The rebels are planning to strike tonight, targeting Lord Lucas 'Lucky' Escalbrook, one of the Loyalist faction's key nobles. A night attack will catch them off guard and disrupt their operations."
Alaric frowned slightly, crossing his arms. "A night raid? That's unconventional for disciplined soldiers. Are the rebels even capable of such precision?"
Vergil nodded, his expression unreadable. "The rebels are not professional soldiers; most of them are common folk, defectors, and disgruntled royal troops. Their supplies are limited, and time is not on their side. This attack is their best chance to gain momentum."
After a moment's consideration, Alaric sighed and gestured to his men, who were waiting in formation nearby. "Very well. I'll prepare the troops. But remember, Vergil, our official reason for crossing into Montivelle is to assist Crown Princess Kanami. That pretense must remain intact."
Vergil's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Understood, Commander. Let's ensure our true purpose stays between us."
Commander Alaric turned to his officers, issuing orders with practiced efficiency. The Britalienne soldiers moved swiftly, securing supplies, checking weapons, and saddling horses. Their discipline and coordination were a stark contrast to the ragtag nature of the Montivelle rebels.
As the troops began their march, Vergil took the lead, guiding them through main roads and dense forest trails to avoid any suspicion act or some ruckus. The journey was uneventful, and by the time the sun dipped below the horizon, they had reached the Montivelle border.
The Montivelle border checkpoint loomed ahead, a stone fortress manned by wary guards. As the Britalienne forces approached, the guards tensed, their weapons at the ready. The border captain, a stout man with a weathered face, stepped forward, flanked by a dozen armed soldiers.
Commander Alaric dismounted and approached the captain with a confident stride. "I am Commander Alaric of the Britalienne Empire. By the decree of Empress Elisa II, we are here to assist the Montivelle Loyalists in suppressing the rebellion. Allow us passage."
The captain studied Alaric for a moment, his eyes flicking to the impressive size of the army behind him. After a pause, he nodded cautiously. "Very well. The Loyalists have struggled against the rebels, and reinforcements are long overdue. Proceed."
Vergil observed silently as the troops began to cross the border, their banners fluttering in the evening breeze. The captain turned to Alaric and added, "Be wary. These rebels are cunning—they've evaded capture time and again."
"Understood," Alaric replied curtly before returning to his men.
As night fell, the Britalienne forces established a secure campsite within Montivelle territory. Tents were erected in neat rows, guards were posted, and a steady hum of activity filled the air. Commander Alaric ensured that everything was in order before addressing Vergil.
"We'll rest here tonight and be ready to move at first light. Ensure the rebels are prepared for our arrival."
Vergil nodded. "I've already made arrangements." He withdrew a small scroll from his cloak and attached it to the leg of a waiting owl, its bright eyes reflecting the flickering firelight. "This will inform the rebels of our progress."
The owl took flight, disappearing into the dark sky.
Back at the rebel camp, Freya was the first to notice the owl's arrival. She untied the scroll from its leg and read the message quickly, her eyes lighting up with relief.
She hurried to Lady Arisa and Prince Alex, handing over the message. Lady Arisa read it aloud, her voice steady but laced with relief: "The Britalienne troops have crossed into Montivelle and are camped for the night. They will march to our location tomorrow."
Prince Alex let out a sigh of relief, running a hand through his hair. "That's one less thing to worry about. Now, we can focus on the attack tonight."
Lady Arisa nodded, her expression firm. "Vergil done his mission. Let's make sure we don't falter on ours."
The rebel leaders and their forces began their final preparations for the night raid, their resolve strengthened by the knowledge that reinforcements were on the way.
The atmosphere in the rebel command tent was tense but focused. Maps and plans sprawled across a large wooden table as Lady Arisa and Prince Alex stood at its center, discussing strategy with the other rebel leaders.
Aeka and Freya were busy helping the soldiers, ensuring every detail was in place. Freya directed the placement of traps along the escape routes she and Aeka had scouted earlier, while Aeka personally supervised the setup of magical traps and hidden snares to corner Lord Lucas 'Lucky' Escalbrook if he attempted to flee.
One of the more eager rebel commanders, Captain Leoric, leaned forward and slammed his hand on the table. "Why wait? We have the advantage of surprise now! If we strike tonight, we could take Escalbrook before he even knows what hit him!"
Lady Arisa raised a hand, silencing the murmurs of agreement that followed. Her voice was calm but firm. "No. If we act hastily, we risk losing our foothold. We must wait for the reinforcements from the Britalienne Empire. Commander Alaric's forces will tip the scales in our favor. Patience, Captain."
Freya stepped forward, her voice level but laced with practicality. "The reinforcements will be here by midday tomorrow, at the latest. Attacking now, without their support, risks unnecessary losses. The sooner we capture Escalbrook, the sooner we can move on to more critical targets. With autumn approaching and the winds already turning cold, we need this victory to be decisive."
Aeka, who had been standing by the tent's entrance, nodded in agreement. "Freya's right. On my way here, I could feel the chill creeping in. Once autumn fully sets in, moving supplies and troops will only get harder. If we secure Escalbrook's camp and his resources now, we'll be better prepared for the challenges ahead."
The rebel leaders exchanged glances before reluctantly nodding in agreement. Even Captain Leoric, though clearly dissatisfied, grunted his assent.
As the plans solidified, Aeka adjusted her black cloak and checked the weapons at her belt. "I'll scout the camp again tonight," she announced, her tone resolute.
Lady Arisa frowned slightly. "You've already scouted it once. Is that truly necessary?"
Aeka smirked, her eyes glinting with determination. "There's always something new to see. I want to make sure nothing has changed. Besides, if I find Escalbrook making any sudden moves, I'll be the first to know."
Without waiting for a reply, Aeka slipped out of the tent, disappearing into the night like a shadow.
After Aeka's departure, Lady Arisa turned to Freya, curiosity evident in her expression. "Freya, do you have a clear plan for how you intend to capture Lord Lucas? Or are you simply trusting in Aeka's intuition?"
Freya tilted her head slightly, a sly smile playing at her lips. "Lady Arisa, some things are better left unsaid. Even I don't always fully understand how Aeka's mind works, but one thing is certain—when it comes to hunting her prey, she's never failed."
Lady Arisa sighed, crossing her arms. "That's hardly reassuring. Still, I suppose I must trust you both. The plan hinges on capturing Lord Lucas quickly and efficiently. If we falter—"
Freya raised a hand, cutting her off gently. "We won't falter. Aeka and I know what's at stake. Trust us."
Lady Arisa studied Freya for a moment before nodding reluctantly. "Very well. We'll wait for the reinforcements. But I hope your confidence is well-placed."
Freya gave a small bow and exited the tent, her wolf-like ears twitching as she stepped into the crisp night air.
Noon broke, casting warm light over the rebel camp. Aeka just awake from her sleep after her overnight scouting mission just as the first rays of dawn painted the horizon. She reported her findings before retiring to her tent for some much-needed rest.
By midday, the camp was bustling with activity. Suddenly, a sentry approached the command tent with urgency. "A large force has arrived near the outskirts of the camp," he reported. "But they're not flying the Montivelle banners!"
Freya, always alert, stepped outside the tent with Vergil's five adopted daughters trailing closely behind. The sight of Vergil riding at the head of the approaching army quickly set her mind at ease. "Open the gates!" she called to the guards.
Hearing the commotion, Aeka emerged from her tent and hurried to the gate as well. The rebel soldiers opened it just in time for Vergil and Commander Alaric to ride through, their imposing presence drawing stares of awe and relief from the rebels.
As Vergil dismounted, Commander Alaric followed suit, his tall, armored frame exuding authority. Aeka approached them with quick, purposeful steps and exchanged a brief conversation with the commander, assessing his demeanor with her usual sharpness.
Lady Arisa and Prince Alex arrived moments later, and Vergil wasted no time in making introductions. "Lady Arisa, Prince Alex, this is Commander Alaric of the Britalienne Empire. He leads the reinforcements sent by Empress Elisa II to aid the rebellion."
Commander Alaric extended his hand, his tone respectful but firm. "An honor, Lady Arisa, Prince Alex. Her Majesty, Empress Elisa II, believes in your cause and has tasked me with assisting Lord Vergil Ragnaros in your efforts to end the Loyalist tyranny."
Lady Arisa and Prince Alex exchanged a glance before shaking Alaric's hand. Lady Arisa's voice was measured as she spoke. "We're grateful for your assistance, Commander. Please, join us in the command tent. We'll update you on the situation."
Inside the tent, all the rebel leaders had gathered, their expressions a mix of anticipation and relief. Lady Arisa introduced Commander Alaric to the assembly, who listened attentively as the Britalienne officer spoke.
"I am Commander Alaric of the Britalienne Empire," he began, his voice carrying authority. "I am here under the direct orders of Empress Elisa II to aid in your struggle. My objective is clear: support Lord Vergil Ragnaros in capturing Crown Princess Kanami, thereby destabilizing the monarchy and ensuring the removal of the King and Queen from power."
As dusk fell, Lady Arisa convened with Commander Alaric and Vergil to finalize the plans for the night raid. The map of Lord Lucas 'Lucky' Escalbrook's camp lay spread across the table, marked with observations from Aeka and Freya.
Vergil's sharp eyes scanned the latest reports, quickly identifying a weak point on the left flank of the Loyalist camp. "This section is poorly defended," Vergil pointed out, tapping the map. "If we breach this wall with a powerful enough strike, it will create chaos within their ranks and open a direct path to their command tent."
Commander Alaric nodded in agreement. "But what will you use to breach it?"
Vergil smirked. "A magic cannon. Aeka and Freya can craft one alongside me. Its projectile will be a high-explosive magic shell. The only drawback is that it's a single-shot weapon. Once fired, it's done."
Freya studied the map carefully and pointed to a nearby hill. "This position provides an excellent vantage point. It's elevated and out of the Loyalists' immediate sightlines. From here, we can fire directly at their weak point."
Lady Lina leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "How far can this cannon fire?"
Aeka answered confidently, "Far enough to make sure the enemy won't see it coming. The damage will be catastrophic and precise."
Lady Arisa gave her approval. "Prepare the cannon. This strike could be the key to victory. The rest of us will coordinate our forces to capitalize on the breach."
Vergil, Freya, Aeka, and his five adopted daughters led a small team to the hill Freya had identified. When they arrived, Aeka surveyed the terrain and nodded with satisfaction. "This location is perfect. They won't suspect a thing."
Without wasting time, Vergil began conjuring the magic cannon from special type magic, weaving intricate runes into its structure. Aeka followed suit, her own cannon taking shape beside his. The air around them shimmered with the raw energy of their combined magic.
As the cannons completion, Vergil turned to Freya and the girls. "Freya, you'll take two squads and move toward the escape route we identified earlier. The moment the explosion happens, the Loyalists will panic, and their leaders will attempt to flee. Your job is to cut them off."
Freya nodded sharply. "Understood."
Vergil handed a folded message to one of his falcons. "Deliver this to Lady Arisa," he instructed. The bird took off into the night sky, its silhouette barely visible against the fading light.
Back at the rebel command camp, Lady Arisa read Vergil's message aloud to the gathered commanders. "Be ready to launch the main assault at the sound of the explosion," she said firmly. "The breach will be our signal."
Freya and Vergil's adopted daughters divided their squads and moved into position with stealth and precision, their movements masked by the growing shadows of nightfall. The tension in the air was palpable as the rebels awaited the signal that would set their plan into motion.
The chill of the autumn air cloaked the night, sharpening the senses of the silent watchers on the hill. Vergil and Aeka stood near their magical cannons, their eyes scanning the bustling camp of Lord Lucas Escalbrook below. Fires flickered in the distance, a signal from the rebel scouts stationed around the perimeter.
Vergil's gaze remained cold and calculating as he watched the signal fire grow brighter. "They're in position. It's time to strike."
Aeka adjusted the angle of her cannon, her fingers tracing glowing runes on the barrel. "One shot each, but we'll make them count." Her voice held a quiet confidence, underpinned by the precision she was known for.
Vergil placed his hand on his cannon, murmuring an incantation. The cannon hummed, its magical energy building to a crescendo. With a nod to Aeka, he spoke one word: "Fire."
The night erupted in chaos.
Twin blasts roared from the hilltop, their projectiles streaking across the night sky like comets. They struck the wooden walls of the Loyalist camp with devastating precision, exploding on impact. The ground shook as massive holes were torn in the defenses, sending debris raining down on the stunned soldiers below.
Alarms rang out through the camp, and confused Loyalist troops scrambled to respond. Shouts of officers barking orders clashed with the panicked cries of soldiers waking to chaos.
Inside the largest tent at the center of the camp, Lord Lucas Escalbrook was roused from his rest by the thunderous explosions. He burst out of his tent, his face a mix of rage and panic.
"What is happening?!" he demanded, grabbing the nearest soldier.
"Rebels, my lord! They've breached the walls!" the soldier stammered, his face pale.
Lucas clenched his fists, his voice booming. "Then form ranks! Drive them back! Are we soldiers, or are we sheep?"
Even as he shouted, Lucas's sharp eyes took in the scale of the destruction. The rebels, armed and ready, were pouring into the camp through the gaping holes in the walls.
From their vantage point, Vergil and Aeka watched as the camp descended into chaos.
Aeka smirked. "They're scrambling like rats in a sinking ship."
Vergil's focus never wavered. "Let's sink it further."
With a calm, deliberate motion, he began recharging his cannon, weaving a complex spell to prime it for another devastating shot. Aeka did the same, her concentration unyielding.
This time, Vergil aimed for the supply depot. The magical projectile struck true, detonating the depot in a fiery explosion that lit up the night sky. The shockwave rippled through the camp, scattering soldiers and sending a plume of smoke and flame into the air.
The rebel forces cheered as they surged forward, emboldened by the destruction of the Loyalist supply line.
In the chaos, Lady Arisa and Commander Alaric led the main rebel force into the fray. Their coordinated assault overwhelmed the disoriented Loyalist troops, who found themselves outnumbered and outmaneuvered.
Meanwhile, Aeka's tactical foresight ensured that the rebels maintained their momentum, targeting key positions to dismantle the Loyalists' defenses.
The Loyalist forces fought valiantly but were ill-prepared for the precision and ferocity of the rebel assault.
As the battle turned decisively against him, Lord Lucas made a swift decision. "We can't win this tonight," he growled to his officers. "Rally what's left of the guard and retreat through the hidden path. We'll regroup and strike back."
Mounting his horse, he barked orders to his remaining forces. "Fall back! Use the secret route—now!"
Accompanied by a small contingent of loyal guards, Lucas fled the camp, using the escape route he had secretly prepared.
The forest was silent, save for the faint rustling of leaves in the cool night breeze. Freya stood at the ready with Aria, one of Vergil's adopted daughters, along with the other four sisters and two squads of elite rebel soldiers. They lay in wait at a choke point along the secret escape route, hidden within the shadows of the dense foliage.
Freya's wolf-like ears twitched as the sound of hurried hoofbeats echoed through the trees. Her sharp eyes caught the faint glimmer of moonlight reflecting off armor—Lord Lucas Escalbrook and his entourage were approaching, moving at a breakneck pace.
Freya raised her hand, signaling Aria to prepare her spell.
Freya stepped forward as the sound of galloping hooves grew louder, her sharp eyes locking onto the incoming figures of Lord Lucas Escalbrook and his entourage. With a swift motion, she raised her hand, giving the signal.
"Aria, now!" she commanded.
Aria, the second eldest of Vergil's adopted daughters, began chanting a powerful spell. Her voice carried through the cool night air as the ground trembled beneath their feet. A moment later, a massive pillar of fire erupted from the earth, blazing bright and hot, blocking the escape route entirely.
The Loyalist horses whinnied in terror, rearing back and throwing some of their riders. The sudden eruption of fire triggered hidden magical traps along the path—explosive glyphs detonated with concussive force, scattering soldiers and horses into chaos.
"Now! Attack!" Freya's voice rang out.
The ambush began in earnest as Freya's squad of rebels surged from their concealed positions. Vergil's daughters, each uniquely skilled, joined the fray with deadly precision:
Mina, the eldest, wielded Sword of Greed with unmatched speed. She darted through the battlefield, slicing tendons and disarming Loyalist soldiers before they could react. Her movements were a blur, leaving confusion and devastation in her wake.
Lira, positioned high in the trees, provided cover with her Crossbow. Each arrow she loosed glowed faintly with magic, striking with pinpoint accuracy. Her arrows found gaps in the Loyalists' armor, felling soldiers with every shot.
Aria, standing behind the front lines, unleashed a flurry of magical projectiles. Her firebolts seared through the air, exploding on impact and forcing the Loyalists to scatter further. She followed each attack with precise, controlled gestures, maintaining an overwhelming magical assault.
Elen, calm and deliberate, chanting her spell more faster. Her fighting style was graceful but lethal as she weaved through the Loyalist ranks, striking down enemies with swift, calculated slashes. Her movements were almost mesmerizing, each attack a perfect blend of offense and defense.
Sylvy, the youngest of Vergil's adopted daughters, commanded the battlefield with twin daggee. Her sheer speed and strength allowed her to cleave through the Loyalist front line, breaking their formation deceptively innocent in appearance. Her weapon's reach kept enemies at bay while her strikes crushed any who dared to approach.
Freya and her squad marched triumphantly into the rebel camp, the captives in tow. Lord Lucas Escalbrook, his once-pristine armor now dented and smeared with dirt, stumbled as the ropes binding his hands bit into his wrists. His officers followed behind, heads hung low in defeat.
The camp came alive as the sight of the victorious squad spread. Cheers erupted from the rebels, their morale bolstered by this significant win.
Vergil, waiting near the entrance with Lady Arisa, Prince Alex, and several rebel leaders, rushed forward the moment he saw his daughters. His normally stoic demeanor broke as he enveloped Freya and his five adopted daughters in a tight embrace.
"I'm proud of all of you," Vergil said, his voice uncharacteristically soft, though a trace of worry lingered in his blue eyes. "But don't ever make me worry like that again."
Freya grinned, brushing off the dirt from her armor. "We're fine, Father. You trained us well."
Mina, ever the mischievous one, piped up, "I think he just missed us."
Vergil chuckled, ruffling her hair. "Perhaps I did."
Lady Arisa, watching the reunion with a faint smile, soon stepped forward to address the situation. "Lord Vergil, I trust the captives are secured?"
Freya nodded, motioning to the bound figures behind her. "Lord Lucas Escalbrook and his officers are here as promised, Lady Arisa. They didn't put up much of a fight after we ambushed them."
Lady Arisa's sharp eyes turned to one of the nearby guards. "Take Lord Lucas Escalbrook and his officers to the prison. Ensure they're under heavy guard. I don't want any surprises."
The guard saluted, stepping forward with several others to take custody of the prisoners.
As Lord Lucas Escalbrook was dragged past, he sneered at Lady Arisa. "You rebels think you've won? The crown will never let this stand."
Lady Arisa's expression remained calm, though her words were laced with steel. "You'll find that the crown has fewer friends than you think, Lord Lucas. Enjoy your cell—it's more comfortable than what you deserve."
With the prisoners secured, Vergil turned back to his daughters. "Go and rest for now. You've earned it."
Lira, always the most practical, nodded. "We'll be ready for the next mission, Father. Just say the word."
Vergil placed a hand on her shoulder. "For now, take the time to recover. There will be more battles ahead, but tonight, we celebrate."
The group dispersed, the camp buzzing with energy as preparations for the next stage of the rebellion began.