Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

When the others arrived in the area and found the enemies setting their camp, they immediately readied themselves for battle and got closer to Rain, but soon they relaxed a bit, not that much, though.

"I didn't expect that they would come so soon… even if Karla is leading them, she shouldn't be this influential," Branden said while squinting his eyes.

"What are we going to do?" Reca asked.

"Continue your training as much as possible, and then we will wait for the enemies to make their move," Rained explained. "When they try anything, I will be sure to slow them down."

Rain had a strategy in mind, one that aimed to not only defeat the enemy but also send a powerful message. His approach involved maintaining relentless pressure on the opposition, depriving them of any chance to catch their breath. This would gradually erode their physical conditions, making them progressively weaker.

However, Rain wasn't only targeting their physical strength; he recognized the psychological impact of such an assault. His intention was to shatter their confidence and resolve, undermining their overall combat effectiveness.

Rain saved his most devastating attacks for a crucial moment. His plan was to deliver a crippling blow that would not only inflict physical harm but also leave a deep and enduring emotional scar. He firmly believed that those who had chosen to side with the enemy deserved to face severe consequences for their decisions.

Still, the enemies didn't make any move, and the sun eventually began to set. Thanks to the tunnel and the golems, Rain could send anyone to home in less than half an hour, but no one wanted to stay there… even the former prisoners were with them and wanted to help somehow.

While Rain was thinking about that, he saw Allion and then wondered if it would be a good idea to let that guy join the fight… he probably would end up killing some people whether he wanted to or not.

"Did you find them?" Branden asked after he approached. "I can't see Karla or anyone familiar while using Magic Eyes."

"No, I can't sense the earth from the other side, thanks to the waterway," Rain explained. "Still, it is clear that they won't show up since it can cause issues for them. At the same time, I don't want to contact them anymore."

"Why not?" Branden asked, visibly surprised.

"They have families, right?" Rain asked. "If Karla and the others have, betraying their side will put them in a difficult spot. Sorry to say, but if I have to choose between betraying you or my family and the enemy is too far away for me to kill them all in a single moment, then you would be going now."

"Well, I would do the same thing in the same situation, so I can understand it," Branden said while rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "I guess those are the demerits of fame. Joanis had plenty of time to study us and make sure to know where our weaknesses are."

"Should we go and shake them up a bit?" Roan joined the conversation and asked.

"Let's make them think that they can decide where they will fight, and then we will make them understand that it isn't the case," Rain said. "Everyone should just rest in the meantime. I will keep an eye on them and slow them down if they try anything too big in the middle of the night."

As night descended upon them, the group tried to rest, but the looming tension in the air made sleep escape them. The weight of the upcoming clash with the formidable enemy army cast a heavy shadow over their minds, rendering rest a distant luxury.

Amidst this uneasy atmosphere, Rain, Roan, and Branden took up the mantle of sentinels, standing guard. In the tranquility of the night, their senses were finely attuned to every subtle sound and movement. This trio stood ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

"What about using me and Esmeralda to make everyone understand on the other side that we are alive and well?" Branden suddenly asked.

"You can do that once they start fighting during the day; don't expect much results from that, though," Rain said. "It will be hard for the ordinary soldier to recognize you all from a distance, and those who Joanis sent will probably try to kill you all before anyone can recognize you.

If we guard you all, people will think that we are keeping you all as prisoners… Since Esmeralda lost some weight, they will probably think that we aren't giving her food either."

Branden nodded… There was no easy solution out of that mess. So, they could only target the real enemies and knock down everyone else. Even so, that was risky as well.

When morning came, the group finally could see some movements on the other side. Rain didn't notice any scouts approaching to look at them from a closer distance… they probably knew that Rain had gotten rid of the scouts that they had sent to the magic people's country, so doing the same here would only be a waste of time.

As the sun was rising, a small contingent of enemy soldiers began to approach the waterway. Among them was Karla, and her presence was confirmed when Rain's group recognized Cor and the other agents who served Joanis.

The appearance of this select group from the enemy's camp raised questions and concerns among Rain and his companions. It hinted at a possible negotiation or interaction, but the true nature of their intent remained uncertain. With their senses heightened and their guard unwavering, Rain's group prepared for whatever developments might unfold in the dark of night.

"I guess they want to demand my surrender before shedding any blood," Rain said. "We will probably hear some interesting sentences."

Everyone behind stayed on guard while Rain, Roan, and Branden waited for the group to approach on the other side…