After Dante's heartfelt confession and Aria's acceptance, a subtle yet powerful shift occurred in their relationship. They were no longer just general and advisor, but two souls bound by fate, facing new challenges in this harsh world. Their feelings, blossoming amidst the smoke of war and lurking dangers, deepened with each passing day.
However, that peace was short-lived. The threat from the mysterious force Dante had mentioned became increasingly apparent. Reports of brutally attacked villages, merchants mysteriously disappearing, and sudden ambushes on Dante's smaller contingents constantly poured in. Clearly, an unseen hand was manipulating events, sowing chaos.
One night, as Dante was studying military maps in his tent, Aria sat beside him, observing intently. She noticed his face was more strained than usual, his deep eyes revealing a hidden anxiety.
"Is something wrong?" Aria asked softly.
Dante sighed, tapping his finger lightly on a point on the map. "Latest report from the front line. A small village on the border was attacked. No traces of any familiar army. They massacred everything, leaving no survivors."
Aria frowned. "Anything unusual?"
"Yes," Dante replied, his voice dropping. "The way they killed. It wasn't conventional fighting. It seems they wanted to instill absolute terror." He looked at Aria, his eyes sharp. "And they left no traces. No banners, no identifying marks. As if they vanished into the night."
Aria felt a chill run down her spine. A mysterious army, acting brutally and disappearing without a trace. This reminded her of notorious terrorist organizations in the 21st century, those who operated in the shadows to achieve their goals.
"Who do you think they are?" Aria asked, trying to piece together all the information.
Dante shook his head. "I've sent spies to investigate. But they all vanished without a trace. I suspect there's a force trying to weaken my army from within, preparing for a major assault." He stood up, pacing around the tent, his face full of contemplation. "The fire at the provisions storehouse, your ambush on the battlefield... it all seems connected."
Aria also stood, stepping closer to him. "I'll help you. With my experience, perhaps I can find clues."
Dante turned, looking at her, his eyes holding both gratitude and a new worry. "No, Aria. You've risked too much already. I don't want you in danger again."
"But I have skills you don't," Aria insisted. "I can see things your soldiers can't. I can help you."
Dante was silent for a moment, looking deep into her eyes. Finally, he sighed, a heavy sigh. "Very well. But you must promise me you won't act recklessly. I cannot bear to lose you again."
He pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly. Aria could feel the strong beat of his heart. In his embrace, she felt safe, but also felt the weight of responsibility. She knew the coming battle wouldn't just be an ordinary war. It would be a confrontation with darkness, with unseen enemies, and she would have to use everything she had to protect Dante and this world.
That night, under the faint moonlight, Aria and Dante planned together.