The Dragon's Shield

Lynaria moved to stop the envoy from the Wolf Kingdom, but Kaelron's voice cut through the air, firm and commanding.

"Let him go."

Reluctantly, Lynaria stepped aside. Days later, a declaration of war arrived from the Wolf Kingdom, and Kaelron received it with a calm demeanor, showing little concern. Without hesitation, he sent Lynaria, along with his elite troops, to lead the charge.

"Lead the troops to the battlefield, and make sure only the best join you."

Lynaria, ever dutiful, immediately began preparations, her mind focused on the task at hand. Meanwhile, Ares, the royal advisor, couldn't hide his anxiety.

"Are you truly sending her alone to lead? This is her first battle—can she handle it?"

Kaelron's response was cool. "If you're so concerned, you're welcome to join her."

Ares' frustration grew, but he obeyed, catching up with Lynaria as she gathered her forces in an open field.

"I'll accompany you," Ares said.

But Lynaria shook her head, her gaze cold. "I'm only taking those I've chosen, or those the king has sent. Your place is with him."

"But I can help—"

"No," Lynaria cut him off. "Our army is strong enough."

With that, Lynaria mounted her horse and led her forces to the battlefield, leaving Ares behind with his frustration.

Once he returned to Kaelron's side, Ares wasted no time venting his displeasure. "She doesn't even accept my help."

"I told you not to interfere with my decisions," Kaelron replied, his tone sharp. "And now you see. She doesn't need you."

Ares, growing more certain of his suspicions, muttered, "So, you admit it. She's more than just a soldier to you. Why don't you just marry her if she means so much?"

Kaelron's gaze darkened. "You don't understand how feelings work."

As Ares grumbled, Lynaria's forces continued their journey, with the battle set to begin the next day. That night, while discussing the war strategy, Kaelron arrived to check on her. The commanders immediately stood to attention, offering him a seat of honor. Lynaria quickly resumed her plans, ignoring the presence of the king.

Kaelron's voice was low as he leaned in. "You know why they're fighting, don't you?"

"It's about the Dragon Blade," Lynaria answered without hesitation.

"Correct. They want your sword. Show them its true power. Don't hold back—make sure they know it's not a weapon to be taken lightly."

"I understand, my lord."

After the meeting, Kaelron invited Lynaria to his tent to rest. Though their closeness was no secret, it still drew attention. Inside the spacious tent, Kaelron pulled her close.

"Don't make me freeze in this huge tent," he said, pulling her into his embrace.

Lynaria fought the confusion building in her chest. "Why does he act like this? Does he treat all the women around him this way? Forget it. I just need to sleep."

As she closed her eyes, Kaelron's thoughts were a mystery, but he remained silent, content to hold her as she rested.

"I can't promise you safety, not with the danger ahead," he whispered, but Lynaria was already asleep.

The next morning, Kaelron was gone. Lynaria, ever the soldier, rose to continue the march toward the battlefield. As they neared the border, Glosbe, her trusted companion, warned her of hidden threats.

"They're not just spies. We're surrounded," Glosbe warned.

Lynaria halted the troops and set off to investigate. As she approached the hidden enemies, her suspicions proved true. The wolves had laid a trap.

"We're surrounded. Get ready for a fight," she ordered.

Her troops formed a defensive circle just in time as fire arrows began to rain down. With swift coordination, Lynaria's soldiers deflected the barrage, but the enemy pressed on. Lynaria, refusing to lose more men, ordered them to take cover.

"Lie down, stay low. I'll deal with this."

With a swift motion, Lynaria's sword cut through the air, releasing a blinding light that obliterated all enemies in hiding. Her troops quickly reformed, and they resumed their journey.

By the time they reached the battlefield, the enemy general was waiting, throwing a fireball their way. Lynaria and her troops dodged with ease, but the enemy general's taunt was biting.

"I didn't expect the great Dragon King to cower behind a woman's strength."

Lynaria's gaze was cold. "The king doesn't have time to deal with your arrogance."

The general sneered. "Still, I'd advise you to surrender. You're outnumbered. Hand over the blade, and I'll let you live."

Lynaria's voice was steady, but the threat in her tone was unmistakable. "You think I'd surrender so easily? Let's see if your forces can match mine."