Love of Fortune and Steel

Part 1

"Thank you, Captain," James replied, offering a small smile. "I'm ready."

As they hurried through the stone corridors of the citadel atop Nviom, James noticed the heightened activity. The citadel, perched on the high ground in the core of the fortified city, overlooked the city below—much like the medieval cities in Greece he recalled from history books. Soldiers moved with purpose, their footsteps echoing against walls adorned with frescoes of past victories. The scent of wood smoke mingled with the aroma of freshly baked barley bread and the tang of sheep's cheese. The cool morning air carried a sense of urgency as dawn's first light bathed the landscape in a golden hue.

"The city is alive this morning," James observed, quickening his pace to match Vesmir's long strides.

"Indeed," Vesmir replied, his voice edged with tension. "Scouts have reported Gillyrian troops advancing from surrounding themes. We will likely be attacked by Gillyrians even before Emperor Alexander's main Gillyrian force arrives there. General Bisera is preparing for an organized retreat from Nviom."

James nodded thoughtfully. "That makes sense then."

"Yes," Vesmir agreed. "We cannot risk confrontation. We need to defend Nviom against any attack until Emperor Simon arrives."

They entered the grand hall within the citadel, where the atmosphere was a blend of haste and determination. Long wooden tables were scattered with simple fare—flatbreads still warm from the ovens, bowls of millet porridge sweetened with honey, dried fruits, and cups of watered wine. Officers and soldiers stood or sat wherever they could, eating quickly as they discussed routes and logistics.

At the head of the hall, Bisera stood over a sprawling map on the oak table, towering over her commanders with a natural, commanding presence. Clad in reddish-brown armor, each plate finely wrought with intricate symbols, she looked like a force to be reckoned with, the armor's rich tones catching the flickering torchlight. Her blonde hair fell freely over her shoulders, framing a face that, without the covering of her helmet, was strikingly beautiful—almost exquisite, a contrast to the hardened warriors around her. Her piercing blue eyes scanned the map with fierce focus, but when she noticed James enter, her expression softened, a subtle, fleeting warmth breaking through her otherwise formidable gaze.

"James," she called, gesturing for him to join them. "Come join us."

He approached, weaving through the bustling room. His modern attire drew curious glances, but there was no time for questions.

"Good morning," he greeted, his gaze meeting hers.

"And to you," she replied. "Have you eaten?"

"Not yet," he admitted.

She motioned to a servant who brought a platter of food. "We must discuss our plans, but we cannot do so on empty stomachs."

Around the table, the commanders were already partaking in the simple meal, chewing thoughtfully between exchanges. Captain Vesmir handed James a piece of flatbread and a slice of cheese.

"Thank you," James said, accepting the food.

Bisera spread the map further, revealing the detailed terrain surrounding Nviom. The plains stretched southward, dotted with villages and farmland, while to the north, the rugged mountains rose steeply, their passes narrow and treacherous.

"Our scouts report that local Gillyrian forces are advancing from the immediate east in addition to Alexander's Gillyrian imperial force advancing from the south," she began, her tone grave yet measured. "They are mobilizing troops from the nearby theme, converging on Nviom. Though their number is moderate, at around 3000 strong, but they know the terrain well."

Velika, a seasoned commander with sharp eyes, pointed to the mountain passes north of the city. "Our forces number just over a thousand," she said. "If they successfully trapped us within the city until Alexander's imperial Gillyrian force arrives, then will have to retreat through the narrow mountain pass, which will temporarily reduce the numerical advantage of Alexander's force."

Bisera nodded. "But we have to defend the city until Emperor Simon arrives. Even if it mean facing off against Alexander's 30,000 strong army."

James listened intently, biting into the hearty bread.

Captain Vesmir tapped a finger on the map, pointing to various supply depots and granaries within the city. "We should start destroying these resources so that we are ready for a rapid withdrawal upon Emperor Simon's arrival.

Velika nodded. "If Alexander's forces reclaim Nviom, they must find nothing of value."

Several commanders nodded in agreement. "The Gillyrians are our enemies," one said dismissively. "Let their people suffer. It will weaken Alexander's position."

James observed the exchange, noting the cold pragmatism in their voices. The idea of harming innocent civilians did not seem to be a frowned up on in this world.

Bisera raised a hand, silencing the murmurs. "No," she said firmly. "We will not bring harm to the people of Nviom."

Captain Vesmir frowned. "But General, these are Gillyrian citizens. They owe us no allegiance. By leaving resources intact, we aid our enemy."

Bisera's gaze swept over her commanders. "Our war is with the Gillyrian Empire, not with civilians. Destroying their livelihoods will only breed resentment and fuel the cycle of hatred. The resentment will hinder peace efforts in the future, especially ones where we are to rule these lands."

There was a moment of silence. Some commanders exchanged skeptical glances, but none dared challenge her outright.

James felt a surge of admiration for Bisera's stance. He stepped forward. "General Bisera is right. Harming the populace will only strengthen their resolve against us. But there is a way to deny Alexander's forces without impacting the civilians."

All eyes turned to him, curiosity piqued.

"Go on," Bisera encouraged, a hint of appreciation in her eyes.

James took a breath. "We should focus on transporting items with the highest value-to-load ratio—precious metals, weaponry, essential documents. The remaining supplies, we can hide in specific locations throughout the city. Before we depart, we'll inform the civilians of these caches, letting them know they are left specifically for them."

Captain Vesmir raised an eyebrow. "And you believe the civilians will keep this information from Alexander's forces?"

"Yes," James replied confidently. "It's in their best interest. They'll want to utilize these resources for themselves. Even if some do inform Alexander's men, the supplies will already be in the hands of the populace. Any excessive taking by his troops would cause discontent among the people, something Alexander would likely want to avoid."

Bisera nodded thoughtfully. "This way, we deny a significant portion of resources to the enemy without harming our reputation or the civilians."

Velika considered this. "But isn't there a risk that the enemy will still acquire some of the supplies?"

"Perhaps a small portion," James admitted. "But it's a calculated compromise. We avoid unnecessary destruction and foster goodwill among the people. The basis for effective rulership is a great reputation among the people. Moreover, if Alexander's forces try to seize the supplies from the civilians, it could lead to unrest within his own territory."

Bisera's eyes met James's, a subtle warmth in her gaze. "Your plan is both strategic and humane. It aligns with our values."

Captain Vesmir nodded. "It's a sound approach. We can begin organizing the transport of high-value items immediately."

Another commander interjected. "But what about our troops? Shouldn't we start withdrawing them now?"

Bisera shook her head. "We hold our positions until Emperor Simon arrives. We leave together, united. Premature withdrawal could expose us to unnecessary risks and signal weakness to the enemy."

There was a collective murmur of agreement.

After a few more discussions, the meeting adjourned, the hall began to clear. James found himself walking alongside Bisera.

"Your solution was both clever and compassionate," she said softly. "You found a way to achieve our objectives without compromising our principles."

He smiled. "I was inspired by your leadership. It's rare to find a commander in this era who values humanity over mere strategy."

She glanced at James with a glint of amusement in her eyes. "This era? What era are we in? The Age of Barbarism?"

James smiled sheepishly, "Not exactly the Age of Barbarism, but the medieval era in my world was far more brutal than the current era in my world."

"I see, it appears that the Universal Spriit is slowly but surely progressing humanity towards a utopian of their own. Hopefully that is the designed path for all the Earths in creation." Bisera said thoughtfully but with a hopeful excitement in her voice.

James nodded, impressed by Bisera's imaginative extrapolative skills.

They walked in comfortable silence for a moment. The hustle of the preparations buzzed around them, but it felt distant.

Finally, she spoke. "Your perspective is unique, James. You see beyond the immediate, understanding the broader impact of our actions."

He shrugged lightly. "Perhaps it's easier to see from an outside perspective. But it helps to have someone who listens."

She smiled gently. "I'm glad you're here."

Part 2

After a busy day shadowing Bisera as she orchestrated the preparations for the retreat, the officers gathered for a feast that evening in the citadel's great hall. Bisera seized the opportunity to introduce James individually to all her officers, ensuring he felt welcomed and respected. The feast left the hall in a warm haze, the fire still crackling and casting playful shadows on the stone walls. As most of the officers retired to their quarters, only Vesmir, Bisera, Velika, and James remained.

Velika stood near the hearth, her 173-centimeter frame striking against the glow of the fire. Clad in fitted armor that accentuated her voluptuous build, she exuded both strength and grace. Her brunette hair was pulled back into a neat braid, with a few strands escaping to frame a face of soft features. Large, expressive brown eyes held a spark of mischief, and her full lips often curved into a teasing smile. Despite the armor, it was clear she possessed strong arms and legs, evidence of rigorous training and combat experience.

After some cordial chitchat, Bisera dismissed Vesmir for the evening, deciding to take on the duty of guarding James's safety herself.

As the last few servants collected the empty cups and cleared the remnants of the evening, Bisera stood near the hearth, her expression more serious than it had been all night. James, sensing the shift in her demeanor, looked over curiously. Bisera was rarely one to hesitate, but now she seemed to be weighing something in her mind, glancing at him occasionally before her gaze flicked away again. Was she... nervous? That couldn't be right. He had never seen Bisera nervous. Finally, she turned to face him, clearing her throat as though about to deliver an official decree.

"James," she began, her voice firm but with a hint of hesitation. "Captain Vesmir will not be able to guard you tonight. He's exhausted, and I've ordered him to rest."

"That's fine," James said, nodding. "He's done more than enough. I'm sure someone else can handle it. You have plenty of capable soldiers."

Bisera shook her head sharply, her expression serious. "Yes, but your safety is of utmost importance to me. I trust only myself, Velika, and Vesmir with your protection. So tonight, Velika and I will be responsible for you."

James raised his hands slightly, trying to ease the tension in her voice. "It's okay, Bisera. I don't need you personally standing outside my door all night. You're too important to the troops—you need good rest. You won't be able to function properly tomorrow if you don't sleep."

For a second, Bisera's eyes widened as though that thought hadn't even crossed her mind. Then she looked away, clearly frustrated with herself, and muttered, "Right. You're... you're right. I can't stand guard all night outside the door..."

James sighed in relief. "Exactly! I mean, you're the commander here. You need your rest."

Bisera's head snapped back to him, her expression firming up. "Which is why I've decided to sleep in the same room as you. For your safety, of course."

James blinked, not sure he'd heard her correctly. "Wait, what?"

"With Velika," Bisera added quickly, her cheeks flushing just a little. "We'll all be in the room. You, me, Velika... for safety purposes."

James stared at her, mouth slightly open, trying to wrap his head around this sudden development. "In the same room? Together?"

"Yes, and there will be four elite guards outside," she continued, as if discussing military strategy. "Instead of the usual two. But Velika and I will be inside with you. On separate beds, of course."

"Separate beds?" James echoed, still trying to process the situation.

"Yes, of course," Bisera snapped, a bit more defensively than necessary. "Separate beds. It's not like we're all squeezing into the same one." She paused, clearing her throat, clearly struggling to maintain her usual commanding tone. "Look, it's the best solution. You were chosen by Seraphina. If something were to happen to you under my watch, it would be a disgrace—not to mention a dereliction of a sacred duty on my part."

James raised a hand, trying to follow her logic. "Wait, wait. Hold on. I understand you're worried about me, but... isn't it bad for your reputation to be sleeping in the same room as me?"

Bisera looked directly at him, her blue eyes intense. "Yes, it is." Her voice softened slightly as she added, "But with all three of us in the same room and your importance to our cause, most people will understand. And... I will not let you get hurt, no matter what."

James opened his mouth to argue, but she cut him off, her tone brooking no more debate. "That's final. And since I need to get good rest, I will sleep in the room. Velika and I are trained to wake at the slightest disturbance. If anyone attacks, we'll know before you're even aware something's wrong."

Velika, who had been silently watching the exchange with a slight smirk, finally stepped forward. Her expressive brown eyes gleamed with mischief. "Oh yes," she said, her voice laced with amusement. "We're very good at that. You'd probably still be snoring while we're dispatching assassins left and right."

James blinked at her, unsure if she was joking or serious. "That... doesn't exactly make me feel better."

Velika grinned, her full lips curving into a teasing smile. "Don't worry. It's not like you'd even see the assassins. By the time you wake up, we'd be standing over their bodies, wondering what took them so long to get through the door."

Bisera shot Velika a glare, clearly trying to maintain some semblance of seriousness. "This isn't a joke, Velika."

Velika raised her hands in mock surrender, the movement highlighting the strength in her arms. "I'm just saying, James. You're going to get the best night's sleep of your life while Bisera and I handle the night shift. In fact, we're so good, we might take care of any potential attackers and have breakfast ready by the time you wake up."

Bisera rolled her eyes but couldn't entirely suppress the small smile that tugged at her lips. She quickly cleared her throat and refocused. "The point is," she said, attempting to regain her composure, "we'll be in the room for your protection. If something happens, Velika and I will be ready. The four elite guards will be outside the door, and between them and us, you'll be safer than anywhere else in Nviom."

James ran a hand through his hair, trying to absorb all of this. "And you're sure this is the best option?"

"Absolutely," Bisera said firmly. Then, in a quieter voice, she added, "And... look, I know what you might be thinking, but this isn't about anything improper. Velika is here, and she can serve as both a witness and to prevent us from accidentally... crossing ethical boundaries." She glanced to the side, clearly trying to avoid looking too embarrassed.

Velika's grin widened as she leaned in, her brunette braid slipping over her shoulder. "Oh yes, James. Seraphina's got her eye on you. Wouldn't want her to get the wrong idea about our fearless commander sharing a room with her divine emissary."

Bisera's face flushed deeply, and she gave Velika a sharp look. "Velika..."

"What?" Velika shrugged innocently, the fitted plates of her armor shifting smoothly with her movement. "I'm just saying, thank goodness I'll be there to keep things... virtuous."

James couldn't help but laugh, the absurdity of the situation finally hitting him. "Right. Good to know I'll be well-protected tonight."

Bisera, trying to regain control of the conversation, straightened her posture. "It's not funny," she muttered, though there was a faint smile tugging at her lips. "This is about your safety."

Velika leaned back, her arms crossed over her chest, the armor accentuating her curves without hindering her movement. She was still grinning. "And your reputation, of course."

Bisera shot her one last glare, but the tension in the room had finally eased. "Let's just... get to the room."

The three of them made their way through the citadel corridors, the torchlight flickering off the stone walls as they walked. The citadel felt much colder than it had during the feast, the cool night air seeping through the ancient stones. Velika led the way, her strong legs carrying her with confident strides. Her armor clinked softly with each step, and her presence cut through the lingering awkwardness. Bisera followed closely behind, her expression more serious, though softened now that the earlier tension had passed.

When they reached the chamber Bisera had chosen for the night, it was exactly as she had described: large and practical, tucked deep within the citadel for maximum security. A central hearth held a low, flickering fire, casting long shadows across the stone floor. A large bed dominated one side of the room, clearly intended for Bisera and Velika, while a smaller cot had been placed at the far side for James.

Part 3

The clinking of armor filled the room as Bisera and Velika began shedding their gear, settling into their quarters. Velika's movements were fluid as she removed her fitted plates, revealing the strength in her arms and the grace of her form. Even without the armor, it was evident that rigorous training and combat experience had honed her physique. James sat on his cot, feeling the day's grime clinging to his skin. His eyes drifted to the small pouch of soaps and shampoos he'd brought from his last visit to the bathhouse in the lower city. The thought of taking another bath grew increasingly appealing.

After a moment's hesitation, he cleared his throat. "So... is there any chance I could take another bath? Maybe there's a smaller bathhouse here in the citadel?"

Velika paused mid-motion, raising an eyebrow as a teasing grin spread across her face. Her expressive brown eyes danced with amusement. "Another bath? Didn't you just wash yesterday?" Her tone was laced with mirth. "How often do you think we bathe around here?"

Bisera turned slightly, her expression calm but surprised. "You wish to bathe again? So soon?"

James shifted uncomfortably on the cot under their gazes. "Well, yeah... back home, it's normal to bathe every day. Sometimes twice, especially after a long day."

Velika let out a hearty laugh, shaking her head in disbelief, her brunette braid swaying with the motion. "Twice a day? In the garrison, you'd be lucky to bathe once a week! During campaigns, it's even less."

Bisera, ever the practical leader, nodded thoughtfully. "In times of peace, we might bathe twice a week, but even then, it depends on our situation."

Velika leaned in, smirking, her full lips curving into a playful smile. "Unless you're the emperor himself. But for the rest of us? Once a week and be grateful for it."

James sighed, realizing how out of place his request sounded. He glanced down at the pouch of toiletries beside him—the modern products a stark reminder of how different his world was from theirs. "I'm just used to it, that's all."

Bisera's expression softened. "The citadel has a smaller bathhouse, used during times of siege. It's functional but far simpler than the one in the city. I can take you there if you'd like."

Velika crossed her arms, the gesture emphasizing her strong, toned muscles. She gave him an exaggerated, amused look. "You're really getting the royal treatment, aren't you? Just don't take too long. Bisera's got a short fuse when it comes to waiting."

Before James could respond, a familiar voice echoed in his mind—the voice he had come to call Seraphina. "Would you like a portable bathtub with hot water ready for you? Only $200," the voice offered.

James blinked in surprise. The timing was uncanny. Is she watching me all the time? he wondered, a slight unease creeping in. But the allure of a hot bath was too strong to resist. "Yes," he thought in response.

"James?" Bisera asked, noticing his sudden distraction.

"Uh, sorry," he said, shaking his head. "Just... thinking."

Suddenly, right there in the middle of the room, a large plastic bathtub materialized, filled to the brim with steaming hot water. Bisera stepped back, eyes wide in astonishment, while Velika nearly dropped the gauntlet she was holding.

"What in the name of the Spirit...?" Velika exclaimed, her voice a mix of shock and awe.

"It's a bathtub," James said sheepishly.

Bisera's eyes darted between James and the bathtub. "You conjured this? Just now?"

"Sort of," James replied. "The voice—I mean, Seraphina—offered it to me. I said yes, and here it is."

Velika approached the tub cautiously, poking it with a finger. "It's... warm," she noted, marveling at the strange material. "And so smooth. What is this made of?"

"Plastic," James said, then realized that meant nothing to them. "It's... a material from my world."

Velika folded her arms, her gaze scrutinizing. "So Seraphina grants you the power to summon objects from your world?"

"Yes and no," James replied. "She offers me items, and if I agree, the cost is deducted from my account back home. Then the item appears."

Velika raised an eyebrow, her brown eyes reflecting curiosity. "Your... account?"

"Money," he clarified. "Currency from my world."

Bisera looked thoughtful. "So there is a price for these gifts."

"Exactly."

Velika glanced at Bisera. "Why are you so certain that this voice is Seraphina?"

Bisera met her gaze. "Because James encountered a lady with eight flaming wings before being transported to our world. Only Seraphina is depicted that way in our texts."

Velika's demeanor shifted instantly. She turned to James, her eyes wide with reverence. Without warning, she took his hand and bowed deeply, pressing a reverent kiss to his knuckles. "Forgive my earlier intrusions, Lord James," she murmured, her voice sincere.

James felt his face flush. "Oh, um..."

Bisera couldn't suppress a chuckle, covering her mouth delicately. Velika looked up, confusion evident in her features.

"What?" Velika asked, glancing between them.

"That's a courting gesture in James's world," Bisera explained, amusement dancing in her eyes.

Velika's face turned a deep shade of crimson. "Oh!" She quickly released his hand, stepping back. But after a moment, she burst into laughter, her embarrassment giving way to hearty mirth.

Before the moment could grow more awkward, Seraphina's voice echoed in James's mind again. "Would you like to purchase a swimsuit? There's a promotion—only $100."

James perked up. A swimsuit? Sure, that would be useful, he thought, pleased. Nice of her to offer a discount for once.

But when the transaction completed, he realized something was off. Out of thin air appeared not only a pair of men's swim trunks but also two women's one-piece swimsuits.

"Wait a minute," James muttered. "Why are there two extra swimsuits?"

"It is part of the promotion," Seraphina's voice chimed. "Buy one, get two free."

Before he could protest, Velika picked up one of the female swimsuits, holding it up with a mischievous grin. "Are these undergarments?"

Bisera's eyes widened as she examined the sleek, modern fabric. "They feel... peculiar. What are they for?"

James felt his face heating up. "They're, uh, swimwear. For swimming."

Velika raised an eyebrow, her expressive eyes gleaming with mischief. "You wear this? In water?"

"Well... I wear the other one," he admitted, pointing to the men's swim trunks. "In my world, we wear these when we need to submerge ourselves in or swim in a body of water."

Bisera held up the swimsuit, the stretchy fabric slipping through her fingers. "I've never seen anything like this. So, do you wear anything on top of it when swimming?"

James cleared his throat, desperately trying to steer the conversation away from dangerous territory. "Well, they're meant for swimming. Less fabric means less drag in the water."

Velika leaned in, a sly smile on her lips. "But no fabric means no drag in the water."

James's eyes widened. "Uh, well, yes, but that might not be... appropriate in mixed company."

"So, what are these other two swimwear for if you're just wearing that one?" Bisera asked curiously.