The Northwest Legion released more than one hot air balloon.
The hot air balloon that passed over the orcs had no tether. Its sole purpose was to exploit the orcs' complete ignorance of such things to intimidate them, then use "layered air-current navigation" to find a safe place to land.
However, the Northwest Legion had not released only one hot air balloon.
On the hot air balloon actually used to scout the enemy, a scout held a telescope, taking in the entire orc army below. The observer rapidly recorded the data while calling out a string of numbers to the flag signaler beside him.
"The enemy formation is approximately 800 meters deep... spread about 1,500 meters wide... heavy cavalry on both wings..."
The flag signaler immediately waved red-and-blue signal flags, transmitting the information to the command post on the ground.
Paul stood on a hastily erected watchtower. His Adjutant held binoculars and simultaneously interpreted the information from the sky:
"Approximately 100,000 enemy troops... 60,000 combat personnel... around 8,000 heavy cavalry..."
The Staff Officers quickly marked the distribution of the orc legions on the map.
Paul gave a slight nod and tapped his fingers lightly on the table. "There are more than expected..."
The signalmen on the ground immediately reflected sunlight with mirrors, sending confirmation back to the balloon.
The observers aboard the balloon adjusted the length of the tether, ensuring they remained at the optimal observation height.
They could even clearly see the commotion caused by the hot air balloon in the orc formation—the Prairie Riders who had once struck terror into everyone's hearts were now as frantic as a startled herd.
"Keep monitoring the enemy's movements," Paul told the Orderly. "Pay special attention to their cavalry units. I want to know the exact position of every one of them."