Meanwhile, farther south of the abandoned fortress held by Roderick, Carnford's southern Main Corps was advancing slowly north along the gradually widening valley in a vast, steady formation.
Karl rode at the center of the army, surrounded by senior commanders such as Brendan and Lyon, along with a large staff and escort contingent.
The dust raised by the marching army was not thick, for the road remained muddy. Yet the low, oppressive sound unique to the collective movement of more than ten thousand men and horses converged into a dull torrent, proclaiming an irresistible force.
"My lord," Brendan rode up from the front flank and drew abreast of Karl. Holding a parchment dispatch just delivered by a fast rider from the front, he reported in a low voice, "The latest news from Battalion Commander Roderick. They encountered strong interception by the Sauron Army at Nalan Castle. The enemy has heavily reinforced the castle and copied our defensive methods, constructing a complete system of trenches and walls before it."
"Roderick attempted reconnaissance and a probing attack at the scale of a reinforced company, but failed to break through. We suffered some casualties. At present, the Vanguard Camp has withdrawn as planned to an abandoned fortress and is reinforcing its defenses. They successfully established a security perimeter, intercepting all Sauron scouts outside it, and are currently locked in a standoff with our forces."
Karl listened quietly, his face expressionless. Only the fingers holding the reins gave the leather a nearly imperceptible tap.
The strength of Nalan Castle and the tenacity of the Sauron people had not been beyond his expectations.
If Harald lacked even this much adaptability and defensive capability, he would not be worthy of being Karl's opponent. Roderick had fought cautiously, withdrawn in time, and handled the situation properly. Good.