"Hmph, putting on airs. Have you detected any movements from other armies nearby?"
"Not yet, Your Grace."
"Have there been any reports from Sir Sae and Sir Kad, who attacked Mintai Fortress?"
"Not good, Your Grace. The assault has been repulsed."
"How?" Grand Duke Golan-Elson's expression turned cold.
"...According to Sir Sae, the enemy is highly experienced, and their will to resist is exceptionally strong. They have been fighting our two knights' armies in street battles through every alley and lane, so our progress has been extremely slow. Moreover, the enemy has witches supporting them, often retaking defensive lines we have already captured by catching us off guard."
"What nonsense." Before Grand Duke Golan-Elson could speak, a middle-aged nobleman beside him said coldly, "The most elite White Lion Guard and Cave Dwellers of Earl Tonigell have not even left Fir Territory. The only forces left in Mintai are the local Patrol Cavalry and guards. Where did this supposedly seasoned army come from? Hmph. Those selfish bastards only care about preserving their own strength."
Upon hearing this, Grand Duke Golan-Elson could not help frowning. Although he agreed with the man's reasoning, Sae and Kad were his men, after all. Who did this fellow think he was, butting in?
He was nothing more than a despicable usurper who had stolen his elder brother's position. Had they not shared a common enemy, Golan-Elson would never have deigned to associate with someone like him.
Moreover, the rumors concerning Earl of Yanbao had left Grand Duke Golan-Elson deeply uneasy. He could not help glancing back at the man, his gaze falling on the skin covering the other's neck and cheeks, which was mottled with silver and purple patches. In some places, fine crystals had already begun to grow. Grand Duke Golan-Elson shuddered and took a