The Punitive Expedition, Part Two

Hamilton, led by Grace, arrived at the open ground in the center of the camp and settled his several thousand troops and more than ten thousand warhorses there.

Grace said with a smile, "Luckily, His Majesty sent twenty thousand men from the Western Army elsewhere yesterday. Otherwise, it would have been difficult to find room for so many people."

As they spoke, several figures appeared in the distance, their outlines hazy. From their attire, they seemed to be soldiers of the Royal Army.

Hamilton recognized the man at their head. It was none other than Louis Hart, commander of the Sky Knights and head of the Royal Imperial Guard of the Kingdom of Arthur, the Sword Earl.

For his contributions to the campaign against the Crichton Family, the Earl had been promoted to Marquis as early as last year.

Marquis Louis was King Ferdinand's personal bodyguard and rarely left his side. If he was here now, did that mean His Majesty the King was here too?

Hamilton immediately grew solemn. He stepped forward and greeted him. "Kingdom Earl, Hamilton, Legion Commander of the Third Infantry Legion of the Gannan Province garrison, pays his respects to Lord Louis."

He had also been promoted to Earl some time ago for his contributions to the fight against the demons.

Though everyone knew the King had bestowed the title on him out of consideration for Renard, no one dared to treat it lightly.

Marquis Louis returned his greeting with a smile. "It's wonderful that you could come, Earl Hamilton. Are all these men yours? It seems we have a good chance of taking Palm County this time!"

After exchanging pleasantries for a moment, he stated his purpose directly. "Earl, His Majesty the King has been waiting for you in the royal tent for quite