Defense, Part One

Blazing flames shot into the sky, and the four peaks surrounding Qiming Mountain instantly became dazzling torches.

Even from more than ten miles away, Renard could still faintly hear the demons' anguished screams. It was truly horrifying.

After a long while, he pulled his gaze away and turned toward Amboya Mountain, murmuring, "The demons over there must be hopping mad right about now."

Renard had guessed correctly. Viscount Malgarni was indeed burning with rage.

He had been gathering his army, preparing to slaughter all the humans who had occupied Qiming Mountain the following day.

But his orders had barely been issued when the sky in the direction of Qiming Mountain suddenly lit up. The towering flames could be seen even from dozens of kilometers away.

Only one thought crossed Viscount Malgarni's mind: It's over!

He knew the humans had started the fire, but he didn't particularly hate them. In fact, he felt a faint sense of satisfaction.

He had issued orders long ago for the demons to clear the mountain of its vegetation, but few demon nobles had been willing to obey him.

Now those who had ignored his orders had all paid the price. How could he not feel pleased?

Even so, he was the Commander-in-Chief. Something this serious was bound to implicate him.

So, to minimize his responsibility and ensure his punishment was as light as possible, he promptly issued an order.

"Send word to every commander under my command: have your troops assembled before daybreak and march toward Qiming Mountain at full speed. Anyone who exceeds the time I've set will suffer the most terrifying torture this world has to offer."

The order was quickly passed along. Although Viscount Malgarni couldn't control the other demon nobles, his own subordinates didn't dare disobey him.

At dawn the following