Ironvine Territory (50)

James and Ron were quite surprised after hearing this, not expecting Victor to say such a thing, since Victor usually takes casualties very seriously.

James and Ron exchanged a glance; they both knew that if Victor wanted them to do this, it was probably about to be something big.

Ron's expression immediately perked up, and his previous listlessness vanished in an instant. He grabbed the bandage supporting his right arm with his left hand, and with a "rip," the bandage was pulled off, revealing a dark bruise on his arm, as if the bruise hadn't faded.

James gasped, "Didn't you break your arm? It's only been a few days and it's already healed!"

Ron casually wiggled his wrist a couple of times to make sure it was okay, then said nonchalantly, "The bone isn't broken, just a minor fracture. The doctor just told me to rest for a while, and I think I'm almost healed. Since Victor is preparing for a big operation, I certainly can't miss out."

James wanted to say something, but after hearing Ron's words, he could only swallow his words.

He turned to look at Gutierrez, who was still standing outside in a daze. "Gutierrez, go back and report to the lord. From now on, we will keep a firm grip on the enemy cavalry in this area and will not let a single one escape. Please rest assured, lord."

Gutierrez nodded. "Regimental Commander James and Regimental Commander Ron, I will return immediately to report to the Lord. Is there anything else you two may need me to convey to the Lord?"

James took out his pocket watch and checked the time. It was still past one in the morning, and it was drizzling. He said, "It's so late. Why don't we rest here for a while and set off early tomorrow morning? Besides, even if we travel through the night now, we probably won't get much faster, and it might even be dangerous."

After speaking, James gestured with his chin towards the group of Cavalry behind Gutierrez. Gutierrez turned his head and saw that they were covered in twigs and grass, and had a lot of dirt on them. They all looked tired and exhausted. He turned his head and looked at his own attire, which was no different from theirs.

Gutierrez said shyly, "Captains, you flatter us. We were unfamiliar with the roads this time and were in a great hurry. It took us a lot of effort to get here, and the fact that we traveled all night is why we are in such a sorry state."

James nodded. "Yes, I could tell, that's why I suggested you rest for a bit and set off early tomorrow morning. Have some hot soup and close your eyes for a little while."

When Gutierrez's men heard James say this, they all looked delighted. Seeing this, Gutierrez knew they were interested and nodded.

"Thank you for your trouble, sirs."

James turned and called out, "Go prepare some food and some hot soup, so the new guys can get some rest and thank them for the good news."

Soldiers quickly responded and withdrew, seemingly to prepare the food.

Several more campfires were lit in the clearing in the woods, where the soldiers sat to warm themselves, and also cooked soup or other dishes.

James, Ron, and Gutierrez also found a campfire and sat around it. James and Ron picked up a map to discuss their next move, while Gutierrez, wrapped in a fur coat, squatted down and squinted his eyes.

After a while, a soldier brought him a bowl of meat soup and a large piece of flatbread. He noticed that his soldiers were already eating, so he took the soup and started eating.

After eating, he felt warm and comfortable all over. In the warmth of the campfire, he soon felt his eyelids getting heavy and then he fell asleep.

James noticed that Gutierrez had fallen asleep, so he and Ron moved away from him and lowered their voices. The two began to plan their next move.

Soon, many Cavalry emerged from the forest and rushed off in all directions.

The next morning, Gutierrez opened his eyes; it was already broad daylight.

Gutierrez realized he had overslept, quickly threw off his bedding, and stood up.

"You're awake, Gutierrez."

Gutierrez turned around and saw Ron and James.

He quickly bowed and said, "I'm so sorry, both Regimental Commander, I've been too lazy."

"Looks like you've been exhausted these past few days, but it's not too late now. We should head out after breakfast."

Gutierrez nodded quickly. He called his men, James had already prepared breakfast for them: a bowl of hot soup and a large piece of Black Bread.

After Gutierrez noticed that James's soldiers were eating the same food as them, he felt reassured and began to eat as well.

After finishing their meal, Gutierrez and his men fed and watered the horses, packed their gear, and prepared to depart.