Hello everyone please enjoy second chapter out of three!

Dawn arrives to find Lena carrying the fallen and gently placing them onto the pyre that was hastily constructed by the east wall. After conversing with the earth mages, they agreed to gather the fallen soldiers to burn in an honoree pyre, whilst using earth magic to bury the enemy soldiers in the valley.

The men wanted to leave them out in the sun, but Lena refused not wanting the spread of disease to arise from the corpses. Besides, the enemy fought valiantly against them on the battlefield. They had more than received their due to be properly buried.

The men all salute Lena and stare with admiration as she passes by. In reverent tones, they recount the captain’s prowess on the battlefield.

Lena hadn’t really wanted too, but she needed to send proof to the capital as a sign of victory. While it was still dark and the men were finishing off the last remnants of the enemy, she handed the severed heads to a messenger with orders to deliver the package directly to the king. The battered soldier with great pride saluted her, before riding at full speed towards the capital.

The men and women busy with their duties cheer as Lena enters the fort. The air is filled with their flowing praises as Lena waves lightly at them in response. Once at headquarters, Lena swiftly washes and dresses as her stomach clambers unhappily.

Without Holly, Lena was forced to fend for herself. Luckily, she had a hidden stash of snacks for just such emergencies. Exhausted, Lena plops into her chair as she cramps her hidden stash of goodies in her mouth. Rapid footsteps are heard as Lena almost chokes in her haste to swallow.

Lieutenant Darrell leads the victory parade of officers as they all gaze at the captain with newfound respect. The last officer to enter reverently shuts the door as the officer’s line up. Lieutenant Darrell salutes and says, “Captain, sir, we were utterly victorious and crushed the enemy!” At his words the officers all beam and puff out their chests.

“We would not have been victorious if it was not for my loyal officers and the valor of our soldiers,” Lena firmly said as the officers preen at the praise.

“Captain, after the bombardment of the cannons began, the enemy fell into complete disarray and fled upon finding their general dead. However, the second prince of Cypress gave the enemy a second wind as they rallied once more under his banner.

Nevertheless, once the Captain enclosed and beheaded the prince, the enemy lost all will to fight and fled. Many the enemy were killed in battle, but we did manage to capture a fair share of enemy soldiers as our prisoners and are currently housed in the dungeon.

As for losses, I regretfully announce, that we lost 338 men. Our wounded total 350 men and 5 women being injured to various degrees. The fault lies with me, Captain. Please discipline me as the Captain sees fit, I will not protest,” Lieutenant Darrell sincerely said as he bowed deeply towards Lena.

The officers look startled at Lieutenant Darrell’s words, but there is some truth there. Had Lieutenant Darrell led and positioned his men better the outcome would have been very different. But Lena can’t just outright punish him, but would allow the incident to be a learning lesson for him instead.

“Lieutenant Darrell, should there be an opportunity for promotion in the nearby future, you will not be promoted until you feel that you are ready,” Lena steadily said as the officers grinned in reply as Lieutenant Darrell’s face was filled with hope and respect at the kind words.

A fair middle aged with the rank of Corporal had been slightly frowning the whole time suddenly interjected himself. “Captain -, sir, where is Corporal Vernal? There are also 5 missing officers as well!” The Corporal strongly demanded to know.

“They were in injured while in the line of duty. Is there anything else, Corporal Quarrie?” Lena confidently said as she carefully studied the outspoken Corporal.

Corporal Quarrie was one of the potential spy suspects, but he had never made any sudden or strange movements. Either he was a plant or he truly was worried for his comrades. Nonetheless, Lena would keep a close eye on his movements in the nearby future.

Corporal Quarrie merely nodded in thanks as he stepped back in line. “In that case, this meeting is adjourned for now except for those that I wish to have a word with,” I seriously said as though I was going to reprimand said officers.

The officers trail out in pairs and nosily leave the room until only Lieutenant Darrel, Sergeant Robertson, Staff Sergeant Jones, and Chief Officer Gauthier remain behind as the last officer shuts the door behind him. Chief Officer Gauthier leans close to the door and gestures that there is no one listening in on the conversation.

Lena gaze warmly at the officers and says, “I am proud to call you my subordinates,” they all pop out their chests at her words and gaze back with profound loyalty in their gaze.

“It is true that there are things that can be improved on, but wisdom only comes with time. Now that being said, Chief Officer Gauthier, what is the status of our six officers?” Lena asked.

Chief Officer Gauthier steps forward and answers, “Corporal Vernal has committed suicide, whereas the rest they refuse to speak. Shall I use more extreme methods to gain a confession?”

Lena frowns as she replies, “Torture is not a reliable method for extracting information. Seeing as their ring leader is dead, have the rest of the spies executed and buried in secret. Lieutenant Darrell will later announce that Corporal Vernal and the rest of the officers perished from their wounds in battle.”

Staff Sergeant Jones takes a stop forward and grimly says, “Captain, if I may speak freely?” Lena signals in permission as Staff Sergeant Jones continues, “I beg to differ, Captain Bartholomew, sir. The traitors should be publicly executed and be denied the honor of being buried! Their corpses should be hung from the fort gates!”

Lena tilts her head to the side and asks, “Do all of you feel the same way?” The four men all nod at me with various degrees of agreement.

“An execution would bring about a worse outcome,” Lena flatly stated as the offices eyes widen with confusion. “We have just won a grand battle against the enemy. Executing traitors will destroy the men’s newfound moral.

The effects will be much worse once it is announced that the traitors were all officers. The men’s trust in us to lead them will disappear. When soldiers cannot trust their leaders, they falter in the face of the enemy. Not to mention secondary issues that will arise as a result.

Soldiers might be tempted to turn traitors or desert the fort. The men will unconsciously begin to watch each other unable to trust their comrades and friends; resulting in a rather negative atmosphere among the men, which always results in unruly disorder springing forth among the men.

I am also doing this out of consideration to those who saw those officers as friends. There are many who trusted these officers. I do not wish for any of those officers to feel or be treated as traitors for their friendship with said individuals.

And the reason for a burial is because I am old fashioned. They fought valiantly against us for what they believed was a righteous cause. Therefore, I honor their courage to be spies knowing that death surely awaited them if discovered,” Lena honestly said as she watched their faces fill with admiration at my words.

Staff Sergeant Jones grins ruefully and proudly says, “Captain, I am honored to serve you and if the gods will it, I will serve you until the day I perish.”

“Thank you, Staff Sergeant Jones, but please step forward Sergeant Robertson,” Lena said as the Sergeant curiously stepped forward. “You performed superbly leading the mages in battle and effectively used the cannons against the enemy. You are hereby promoted to Master Sergeant Robertson.”

Master Sergeant Robertson blinks rapidly as a sheen appears in his eyes. Unable to speak, he salutes Lena with sincere gratitude before stepping back in line. Staff Sergeant Jones grins and claps Master Sergeant Robertson in congratulations so hard, that Master Sergeant Robertson was flung slightly forward.

“Resume your duties, you are dismissed,” Lena calmly said as they saluted and exited the room except for Chief Officer Gauthier.

As the door shuts, Chief Officer Gauthier coolly seats himself and hesitatingly says, “Captain, am I truly to execute the traitors?”

“Yes, except for one officer in particular, Private Eithan. Chief Officer Gauthier, can any of your spirits possess the body of another?” Lena quietly asked as she leaned forward.

Chief Officer Gauthier frowns as he carefully answers, “Yes, Captain, there is one particular spirit that is capable of that. Do you wish to allow the traitor to escape and become our own hidden spy? But my spirits already do an excellent job of keeping us informed of enemy movements.”

“Hmm, yes, but most importantly for one reason alone, Private Eithan is a high ranking noble of Cypress. I had not realized his identity until my maid, Holly, remembered his appearance during a stately visit some years ago, about the time, Private Eithan joined the ranks of the Fort of Terra.

If Private Eithan returns alive with the corpses of the second prince and general. Not only will he be seen as a valiant young man, but as a hero. He will easily be granted access to ongoing military information, but to the very ruler of the Kingdom of Cypress. And my dearest wish is to insert Private Eithan into the highest circle of power.”

Chief Officer Gauthier eyes widen as a sudden realization appears in his eyes. “Captain, Private Eithan joined the forts forces over eight years ago. Is it possible-,” Chief Officer Gauthier words died off unable to voice his thoughts.

“Yes,” Lena softly responded.

Chief Officer Gauthier wordlessly excuses himself as the door shuts silently behind him.

Lena yawns as she resumes stuffing her face. She needed to be wide awake, the funerals would commence soon.

~ POV of Holly (Lena’s Maid) ~

Holly stands next to master, Duke Bartholomew and His Royal Majesty. Holly desperately wished to return with full haste to her Lady, but His Royal Majesty ordered that she attend formal state functions on behalf of her Lady. Everything was going well until a few days ago, a messenger arrived and the news that he carried sent the entire capital once more into an uproar.

Not only had her Lady completely defeated and destroyed the enemy’s army, but her Lady had personally beheaded the enemy general and the second prince. After that, Holly was forced to accept and remain in the capital to attend the official ball His Royal Majesty planned in honor of her Lady that was to be thrown in a week’s time.

Not only had Holly been cruelly detained at the Capital for a prolonged time, but she was forced to accept the gifts and praises of the court on the behalf of her Lady. Holly could only pray and hope that her Lady did not find herself in any trouble. Her Lady was so simple minded that she sometimes forgot to eat. What will happen to her health if Holly was not there to care for her?

A cough is heard from Hollys side as she curtsies to the Marquise of Belmont and thanks him for his gracious gift. Holly continues greeting the guests to the full of her ability. Most of the guests seem surprised at her simple maid attire, but her daily attire was her pride and joy.

Holly recalled when she first donned the formal maid attire. Some of the local village children mocked her causing her to cry. Through shimmering eyes of disbelief, she saw her Lady leap from a tree and smile darkly at the children.

Without shame or worry her lady rolled up her dress sleeves and tied her dress up, before launching herself at the village children. After thoroughly spanking them and having them kneel in front of Holly until their apologies were sincere, she allowed the children at last to leave.

Upon seeing her face her Lady knelt on the grass and smiled. “Holly, don’t listen to those fool, they don’t know half of the truth,” her lady confidently said as she gently patted Holly’s head.

Still close to tears her Lady mischievously said, “I shall tell you a secret, Holly. Do you know why women smile?”

Rather confused at her Lady’s words, Holly shook her head. Her lady replied, “Ever day a woman dons on a smile and goes out into battle. And the next time the enemy laughs at you, smile and I promise you that you will triumph over them.”

Her lady reached over and tweaked Holly’s nose, before helping Holly to her feet and leading her away. As a child, Holly didn’t understand her Lady’s wise words, but now she did. Holly wore her maid uniform with great pride and not once had her smile ever failed to defeat her enemies.

Finally finished, master Duke Bartholomew extended his hand to lead Holly. Holly steadily places her hand in his as they follow behind His Majesty onto the ball floor. The Duke gently hands Holly to His Majesty who gently took her slightly trembling hand into his and they led the first dance. Holly’s heart beats wildly in her chest as keeps her gaze fixated on His Majesties shoulder trying not to stumble nor miss a step.

Finally, the music dies down and with great relief Holly curtsies to his majesty as the court takes to the floor. Holly cautiously removes her hand from His Royal Majesties grip and curtsies once more, before promptly returning to the Duke’s side. Holy sighs softly with considerable relief as she safely stands at the Duke’s side.

The Dukes eyes twinkle as he barely moves his lips and fatherly says, “Well done, Holly. I am sure Lena is proud of you as well.”

At the mention of her Lady Holly preen at the Duke’s praise. Holly gratefully gestures in thanks as the Duke’s eyes crinkle with mirth before returning his gaze to the floor. The ballroom becomes heated from the dancing bodies and Holly begin to feel a tad bit rosy.

Holly properly excuses herself and heads into the gardens for some fresh air. To her surprise, Holly begins to hear some shouts and loud words being said.

Holly slightly bit her lip as she gathers her courage. Holding her head high, Holly grips her skirt tightly and rushes forward. Holly rounds the corner to see the crown prince and his friends. Holly insides turn icy at seeing the women and cause for her Lady’s suffering.

An unknown source of courage fills Holly as she self-assuredly marches forward. The group does not notice her until Holly clears her throat only a few feet away. The group gazes are filled with chagrin as Holly demurely curtsies before them.

“My most sincere apologies for my folly. May this humble servant request Lord Flint Alcott’s presence?” Holly modestly lied with a straight face.

The crown prince and the young men cool their tempers as THAT woman smiles warmly at her. Holly forcefully keeps her eyes from showing blatant disregard as she keeps her gaze firmly fixated to the ground.

Lord Flint Alcott stiffly says, “Thank you, Holly. I will accompany you back to the court.” Lord Flint Alcott excuses himself from the second prince and strides angrily away.

Holly curtsies once more and turns to follow Lord Flint Alcott. Before Holly had taken two steps, the crown prince firmly says, “Wait, a minute mademoiselle.”

Holly’s heart trembles indignantly at being spoken by the man who so carelessly tossed aside and trampled upon her Lady’s pride. Gripping her skirt, Holly turns and softly replies, “This humble servant asks for forgiveness if she or her words have offended the crown prince.”

The crown prince sighs and says, “No, but I wish to question thee. Please rise”

Holly does so keeping her gaze demurely in front and hides her clenched fists in the folds of her skirt. “What can this humble servant possibly answer for the Crown Prince?” Holly said.

The Crown Prince stiffens slightly and says, “It is matters concerning your mistress.”

Holly frowns recalling the crown prince’s actions in the past weeks. The crown prince seemed to be genuinely worried for her lady. It could not possibly that the crown prince sincerely wished to make amends, could it?

Crown prince crosses his arms and stiffly says, “I wish to know who is the genius strategist your mistress has hired to aid her. I swear on my honor that I will not make the matter known to the public. I merely desire to meet the genius who is capable of such an extraordinary feat.”

Fearlessly Holly raises her gaze to meet that of the crown prince. “Crown Prince, I fear that you are gravelly mistaken. There is no hired strategist only my Lady. If you wish to meet my Lady, you wait until she returns triumphant to the Capital. Now if you would excuse me, I am needed at the court,” Holly callously said and with an utter disregard for propriety turned her back on the crown prince, his friends and on THAT woman.

Holly’s skirt flounces at her speedy departure as she trembles fearing an attack from behind. But to her relief none of those things occur as she safely returns to the ballroom. The Duke immediately gestures for Holly to come over.

Holly furrows her brows knowing full well that she was to socialize with the court. Having spent time at court, Holly finally understood why her Lady hated appearing at such functions. It is rather tiring and vexing when having to deal with such people.

It is a sheer wonder how her Lady managed to reign in her temper. But her Lady is incredible and naturally is capable of such a feat. Therefore, Holly too must last the night.