Reincarnated with the Country System

Chapter 72 Hearts of the Jungle (1)

01-11-1560 WC

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The Royal Britannia navy fleet, led by Admiral Nicholas, was docking in the port.

The flagship, a grand ship named HMS Valor, stood out among the fleet. Its polished wooden deck gleamed in the sunlight, and the intricate carvings along its bow told tales of past victories. The ship was a symbol of power and pride, adorned with the Royal Britannia crest fluttering proudly from the main mast. The crew moved with precision, their uniforms crisp and their expressions focused, reflecting the discipline instilled by Admiral Nicholas.

The rhythmic clanging of bells echoed from the nearby watchtower, signalling the arrival of the fleet. Merchants and townsfolk gathered along the docks, their faces a mix of curiosity and admiration as they watched the impressive ships manoeuvre into position.

Admiral Nicholas stood at the ship's helm, surveying the fleet.

Although he was confident in his fleet in the past, he no longer finds these ships impressive. Because he was still mesmerized by the Yamato, he was daydreaming about being the captain of the Yamato.

Admiral Nicholas had these thoughts, { That ship is truly one of a kind, it truly is a beauty even in the night. When I first saw the ship, I immediately felt fear and in love. The captain of that ship sure is lucky to be riding that ship. I am even trying to stop my urges in trying to challenge it to a duel with my ship, knowing that I would lose. But how capable really are these ships? Those escort ships are also a beauty, but I think this big one is the most capable among the trees.}

As Admiral Nicholas was about to leave after taking a glance at the Yamato he noticed another ship. He then comments unintentionally.

" That ship stands out too much in the dark with its white paint and lights turned on. It's also a beauty, alright, but I think it's more like a ship for show and not for war. Well, each ship has its own personality but that big one is still the best for me."

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Your journey continues on empire

As the first light of dawn filtered through the woven walls of their hut, Rachel stirred from her slumber. The jungle was already alive with the cacophony of birdsong and the distant cries of howler monkeys. She sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes, and saw that Jammy and Lewis were already awake, their faces etched with a mixture of determination and apprehension.

"Good morning," Jammy said, his voice low and serious. "Are you ready for this?"

Rachel nodded, stretching her muscles which felt taut with tension. "As ready as I'll ever be," she replied, trying to inject confidence into her voice.

Jammy was poring over his notes, "I've been trying to decipher any clues about the Rite from the texts I've studied, but there's so little concrete information."

Before they could discuss further, there was a rustle at the entrance of their hut. Takoda, the imposing warrior who had first greeted them, ducked inside. His face was painted with intricate patterns, and he carried a bundle of cloth in his arms.

"The sun rises, and with it, your trial begins," he intoned solemnly. "Don these garments. They are sacred to our people and will protect you during the Rite."

He laid out three sets of clothing, each made from a lightweight, shimmering fabric that seemed to change colour as it caught the light. Rachel ran her hand over the material, marvelling at its softness.

As they changed into the ceremonial attire, Rachel could feel her heart rate increasing. The reality of what they were about to face was setting in.

Takoda led them out of the hut and through the village. The normally bustling community was eerily quiet, with only a few solemn faces watching their procession. They were led to the edge of a dense patch of jungle, where the King himself waited, flanked by a group of elders.

"The time has come," the King's voice boomed across the clearing. "You will enter the Heart of the Jungle, where you will face three trials. Each will test a different aspect of your being. Success will bring you closer to our people. Failure..." he paused, his eyes glinting dangerously, " mean your end."

Rachel swallowed hard, feeling the weight of the moment. She glanced at Jammy and Lewis, seeing her own mix of fear and determination mirrored in their eyes.

"We're ready," Jammy stated, his voice steady.

The King nodded, gesturing towards the dense foliage. "Then enter, and may the spirits of our ancestors judge you worthy."

As they stepped into the shadowy undergrowth, Rachel felt a shiver run down her spine. The jungle seemed to close in around them, the light dimming as they moved deeper into its heart. The sounds of the village faded away, replaced by the mysterious whispers of the ancient forest.

They walked in silence for what felt like hours, the path twisting and turning unpredictably. Just as Rachel was beginning to wonder if they were lost, they emerged into a small clearing. In the centre stood a massive stone structure, covered in vines and weathered like countless years.

An elderly woman, her skin wrinkled like tree bark and her eyes milky with age, stood before the entrance. When she spoke, her voice was like dry leaves rustling in the wind.

"Welcome, seekers of knowledge. I am the Keeper of Trials. Your first test awaits within. May your minds be sharp and your spirits unbreakable."

With trembling hands, she pushed open a heavy stone door, revealing a dark passage that seemed to lead into the very heart of the earth.

They were surprised to see this because the woman was able to open such a heavy door even though she was so old.

But they soon turned their attention to the door.

Rachel took a deep breath, steeling herself for whatever lay ahead.

And with that, they stepped into the darkness, the stone door grinding shut behind them with a finality that sent chills through their bodies. Their first trial had begun.