For days, news of the bandits had returned to North Wind Territory one report after another. Though the bandit group was sizable, the long journey and lack of supplies had left them marching in a loose, disorderly formation, with some of them already exhausted. Even so, no one in North Wind Territory dared lower their guard. The guards and residents were all prepared for battle.
Ang stood by the fields, watching several guards escort farmers back from the farmland. He asked, "Has the harvest been completed?"
A guard clasped his fists and replied, "My lord, most of it has been harvested, but several fields near the Beastlands have not been harvested in time."
Ang frowned and decisively ordered, "Forget those fields! Notify all the farmers to withdraw immediately. No one is to go near the Beastlands again. Safety is more important than food."
"Yes, my lord!" The guard hurried off to relay the order.
Ang then turned to Aisha and said, "Aisha, suspend production at all workshops. Have the craftsmen and apprentices return home as well. No one is to remain outside."
Aisha nodded. "Brother, I've already arranged it. Everyone is waiting at home for your orders."
Seeing how capable his sister was, Ang smiled in satisfaction. He patted Aisha on the shoulder. "You did well, Aisha. You're becoming more and more like a real lord's assistant. Leave the rest to me. Stay home and take care of our parents."
Aisha's brows drew together slightly as she asked uneasily, "Brother, can you really handle such a large battle?"
Ang answered firmly, "Don't worry. I've made all the preparations. You and our parents will stay home. Aida will arrange for two full members to protect you."
Aisha took a deep breath and nodded. "All right, Brother. You all have to be