Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

"Our skills will get rusty," Liss said and then frowned, but then she saw Rain's condition. "Well, not like we have any other choice..."

While the backline of the battle had managed to largely avoid direct harm, the frontlines, including Rain, had endured significant damage. The toll of continuous combat on the body was undeniable, even with the availability of healing magic that could mend wounds and regenerate even lost limbs. Rain couldn't help but recognize the price that came with such intense and prolonged fighting.

Healing magic was indeed a powerful tool capable of restoring the body to its optimal state. However, the frequency and intensity of the battles had taken a toll on his physical well-being. Rain couldn't ignore the strain on his muscles, bones, and stamina, even if those wounds were promptly mended by the healing spells.

As he pondered his skills, Rain's thoughts turned to the healing abilities he possessed. While his physical combat skills had significantly improved, he realized he had room to develop his healing skills further.

In the end, Branden returned three days later alongside Revan. It seemed that they worked well together and without any issues. At that point in time, it would be foolish to get on his bad side… the organization was a force that couldn't be ignored anymore, and with the accomplishments in the war, they would probably be recognized as more than just a mercenary force.

"We are going back, everyone," Branden said. "The soldiers stationed at the border will be able to stay there for weeks, and I received orders that we should return as well. His Majesty orders. In two weeks, we will receive our rewards from the King himself, so make sure to rest plenty until then."

"Woooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!"

The mercenaries' faces were a mixture of exhaustion, sorrow, and an unexpected glimmer of excitement. The battlefield was now strewn with the fallen, and the weight of their comrades' sacrifices was heavy on their hearts. Thoughts of having to convey the tragic news to families and loved ones back home weighed heavily on their minds. It was a somber reminder of the brutal reality of war.

Amidst the somber atmosphere, an unexpected development had ignited a spark of anticipation in the mercenaries. The invitation to enter the castle was akin to receiving a rare and treasured opportunity. For soldiers who often lived on the fringes of society and faced countless battles with little recognition, the prospect of entering the castle was a momentous event.

The excitement in their eyes spoke volumes. Their battle-hardened faces were lit up with a newfound hope and curiosity. Even though they had just lost hundreds of their own in the fight, the chance to be acknowledged and welcomed within the castle walls was a reward that carried immense meaning.

Rain heard all that from his room while he was lifting some weight with his arms. He didn't recall taking so much time off, so he felt truly restless. While everyone was celebrating outside, Branden entered Rain's room.

"Hey, I heard about your wounds," Branden said. "It looks like the enemy forced you to show your real skills this time. Everyone still is talking about that fight, and most of them always say the word: legendary battle."

"It was fun, but it wasn't legendary," Rain shook his head. "The magic people still have a lot of tricks up their sleeve, right?"

"Yeah… we found them using tribes that we never heard of… their skills aren't just basic stuff like elemental magic," Branden said while he crossed his arms. "Elemental magic is actually the weakest type of abilities that they had, and they used that to defeat us for over a decade."

Rain had spent considerable time pondering and experimenting with various approaches to uncover the technique employed by the second general. He had yet to unearth the key that would unlock its secrets despite his relentless efforts. It was as though the threads of his existing skills and abilities failed to intertwine with the enigmatic technique he had witnessed.

Frustration and determination waged a battle within him. Each skill he possessed had its own niche and purpose, none of which seemed to align with the elusive technique that had left such an impression on him. Yet, Rain's resolve burned brightly; he was not one to easily back down from a challenge.

"Anyway, I want to keep that kind of stuff for later since we need to celebrate this victory, but there is still one problem," Branden said. "The final general apparently has a real story with you, right?

She kept sending soldiers to attack us, and she forced them to gather Intel information about you while her minions were fighting… I can tell that she is a crazy woman, so it is better for you to lay low for a while. The whole enemy country knows about you, so they will try to get you in some way or another."

The imminent danger that lay ahead didn't stir apprehension within Rain. He understood that his pursuit could lead him to become a formidable adversary in the eyes of the magic wielders. However, his concern was more fixated on the impact this transformation could have on his family, particularly his younger sisters. Their safety and well-being were paramount in his mind.

Rain recognized the need for his sisters to enjoy a life of relative peace and security. In a world rife with uncertainty and conflict, he wished to shield them from the turmoil that often accompanied the path he was treading. He understood that the choices he made could ripple out and influence the lives of those he cared for deeply.

"That is fine by me," Rain replied, thinking that he would have to train his little sisters once they came to the capital. "I will be busy for a while with some personal matters."

Rain decided to put his priority in his family and in this important period for his sisters since they will be away from their parents for a while.