After the Red Tide Fief's grain convoy escaped danger, the red-cloaked knight immediately ordered, "Everyone, take cover! Stay put until I return!"
He waved a hand, signaling the remaining knights and soldiers to hide in a dense patch of forest.
He drew a deep breath, and red Battle Aura erupted from his entire body as he shot out of the woods like a gust of wind.
He raced along the narrow path, heading straight for the Red Tide Fief.
I have to inform Lord Louis as quickly as possible! he thought, pushing his speed to the limit.
Hurried footsteps sounded outside the door.
"Lord Louis!" The red-cloaked knight came in panting and dropped to one knee, his expression tense. "Something's happened! Yesterday, the grain convoy was ambushed while crossing the Pale Deer Forest. The grain was stolen, and we suspect the Snow Oath was responsible!"
As he spoke, he looked up to gauge Louis's reaction, certain his lord would fly into a rage at the news.
Yet, to his surprise, Louis merely tilted his head slightly, without the slightest trace of surprise on his face.
"Oh?" He set down his teacup unhurriedly, his gaze as calm as still water. "The Snow Oath? Were they wearing masks?"
"Yes, my lord!" The red-cloaked knight broke into a cold sweat. "Their Battle Aura was dark blue, and they wore black masks. They killed several soldiers, but the rest of us withdrew safely."
"Mm." Louis gave a faint acknowledgment, as though he already knew every detail, not even bothering to lift his eyelids.
He looked down and straightened his cuffs, saying casually, "It wasn't the Snow Oath at all."
"What?" The red-cloaked knight froze. "But... they..."
Louis raised his head, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly as a cold glint passed through