"So, how do we deal with the villagers?"
"We can grant them some land near this outpost. They could serve as mercenary guards, turning this place into a kind of stronghold. They have a number of warriors. With a little support, material and equipment, we can fortify this outpost into something substantial."
"But we'll have to invest a lot of resources into it. This is just a small outpost, not even big enough to accommodate a hundred warriors. And there's also the risk of them becoming powerful enough to challenge our control."
"It's a small price to pay for what we'd gain. I still think it's worth it. The Dark Lord has proven again that we can't take his forces lightly. It's better to be overprepared than risk being breached by the dark tide. Nothing comes for free in this world," James highlighted the merits of a northern stronghold for the city and continued,
"Plus, I thought you'd want to maintain cordial relations with the villagers. If you want, you can accept all the warrior initiates into the city garrison. Members of the old guard can defend the main city wall if they don't wish to remain on the frontlines. They would be a significant addition to our forces. As long as you're the only transcendent, no one can challenge your authority. If Isabella becomes a transcendent in the future, well, then you'd have to share power with her or risk fracturing our territory. But I'd suggest we cultivate a friendly relationship with her."
"I intend to do so. From what I've observed, she has very high potential. If she becomes a transcendent, or even a supreme, she could lead humanity to rise and perhaps establish a kingdom of their own. In that case, I wouldn't mind serving under her."
"We should keep her talent secret. If she truly has such incredible potential and other races find out, it could spell our doom. You alone wouldn't be enough to protect her if, or when, other transcendents move against her," James warned.
"I've already thought of that. I'll speak with them. Explaining the consequences of her talent being exposed should be enough to keep their mouths shut," Jofra said. Then, as if remembering something, he asked, "Uh, that woman Hestia—what do you think of her?"
"She's very smart, I have to admit. Predicting the Dark Lord's strategy and tricking him before sending Hestia away was a brilliant move. To think all of that through while nearly losing her daughter, that's no ordinary feat. We should keep an eye on her. While I don't expect trouble, we could recruit her into our advisory council. Her talent could be a great asset," James proposed.
"We can decide that later. For now, let's focus on resolving the current situation. Do you think we need more initiates for the rescue mission?" he asked.
"I think we should go ourselves. There's something strange about this attack. I feel like it wasn't just about targeting Isabella. If that were the case, sending so many wraiths and demonic beasts would've been overkill. A single sneak attack with a possessed beast should've been enough. You arrived here abruptly, but the Dark Lord's preparations seem far more elaborate. It's as if he was already planning an attack and simply accelerated his schedule."
"You think so too? I thought I was just being paranoid. I'm still not sure about going. Who will protect Isabella?"
"We could always take her with us. With you present, only the Dark Lord himself could pose a threat to her, and we both know he won't act directly."
"You're right. I'll speak with William. If, and when, we uncover the true cause behind this massive attack, I'll decide whether to go. Let them rest for now. We'll have a busy day tomorrow."
"One more thing," James suddenly remembered. "We should send an envoy to Cyrus Stronghold, to check on them and inform them of the attack. They might have noticed something we're missing."
"Choose a capable warrior for that. Go now and get some rest, it's quite late. I'll check on Isabella's condition one more time."
"Good night, my lord," James said, returning to his formal tone. He bowed slightly and left.
Even though everyone knew they were friends, James always addressed him formally in public. He wanted everyone to respect his authority. While no one could openly challenge it, he preferred to avoid using power to enforce obedience unless absolutely necessary. Jofra agreed with James on this matter.
***
Jofra stood up. Looking outside the window in surrounding hills he fell in deep thought.
'master said she is blessed by the heavens. What does that even mean? Is that the reason she has such incredible talent? Why does he have to be so vague?' Jofra sighed heavily.
Moon was high in the sky shining brightly. He moved to guest room to check on Isabella.
When he entered the room, the first thing he saw was William sitting along the headboard, his eyes closed. Isabella had her head on his lap sounding peacefully. Seing them like that he spontaneously remembered his mother. During his childhood he would sleep on his mother's lap as she sang lullabies for him.
He suddenly had an intense desire to start a family of his own. That kind of unconditional love could only exist between parents and child. He wanted to experience that again.
Jofra shook his head. He quitly checked on Isabella. She got rid of all the detrimental effects of dark magic and was still weak.
She should be fine. He judged. He was no healer but knew magic very well. Isabella's body did not incure any physical damage so he was confident in his analysis.
He left the father, daughter duo and returned to his quarters.