The East Sea Alliance was optimistic, but the Xister Kingdom remained cautious. Its commander, Marquis Kayo, took great care to keep the Xister Kingdom Army in contact with the coast and never ventured far inland.
After retaking the four coastal counties, his forces launched no further attacks. Instead, they set about repairing the defenses of the county seats.
That made life difficult for the Vela Army, which was trying to lure the Xister Kingdom into a trap.
Fortunately, after more than a month of fighting, the armies of both countries had finally grown bolder.
Once news of victory reached the Xister Kingdom, it abandoned its earlier caution. Marquis Kayo and his loyal troops were sidelined, while Prince Yonicha and several hardline generals took charge.
The Xister Kingdom had now gathered more than ten legions, intending to attack the territory occupied by the Raine-Vela allied forces from the west.
Their plan to join up with the East Sea Alliance army finally gave Vela its chance.
Vela's legions and the four legions sent by the Raine Kingdom began to maneuver. While some troops held the enemy in place from the front, the rest swung around both flanks to encircle the Xister Kingdom Army.
Victor led the main force of the Two Rivers Legion on the widest maneuver of all, circling behind the entire Xister Kingdom Army.
His task was the most important: close the mouth of the trap, then block the remaining Xister Kingdom troops so they had no chance to rescue their surrounded main force.
Only the Two Rivers Legion could do it. Not just anyone could find a route through those mountains wide enough for an army, one even the locals knew nothing about.
To make the forced march, the troops also had to travel light. It demanded exceptional discipline