A Scheme Within a Scheme?

While the Onyx Principality was making thorough preparations, the Northern Principality was also carrying out its prewar work at a feverish pace.

Atop a mountain behind Oak City, within a towering count's castle, two counts were seated in the conference hall.

"So, the Onyx Principality has already sent troops to garrison those checkpoints?" Count Barnby asked the scout half-kneeling before him.

"Yes, Lord Barnby. We secretly questioned quite a few minor nobles, and we also personally saw the Onyx Principality dispatch those troops!"

"Excellent! It seems they have completely believed that our Northern Principality is short on warhorses this year and are preparing to attack the city again!" Barnby's mind settled. After a pause, he continued, "By the way, is Her Highness the Princess safe now?"

"In answer to Lord Barnby, Her Highness asked this lowly one to tell you that you need not worry about her safety. You only need to launch the attack according to plan. When the time comes, she will create chaos within the Onyx Principality army's camp!" the scout continued.

"Good. I will certainly proceed according to plan. His Majesty the King and Lord Marquis have already assembled the army. In addition, a force of ten thousand has begun crossing the desert!"

"Once those rebels of the Onyx Principality see our ample cavalry and discover that their retreat has been cut off, they will surely enjoy this surprise!" Count Barnby nodded in satisfaction.

Having said that, he continued to the scout, "Then go rest in my castle for now. To keep the information secret, you must not see anyone else these next few days!"

"Yes, My Lord. Her Highness the Princess has already instructed this lowly one!"

The scout was then led away.

If the minor nobles of the Onyx Principality had been here, someone