“Heuk, heuk…”

Thousands of people marched nonstop through the territory of the Pendragon Duchy as the hot summer rays bore down on them.

“Your Excellency, our troops are way too exhausted. What don’t we let them take a little break?”

“Nonsense. We will reach the gate in a little while. Keep feeding the soldiers salt and water. Make them hold out somehow, whatever it takes.”

Count Louvre was firm, or rather, a glimpse of madness could be seen within his resolute expression. A strange light glimmered in his bloodshot eyes, while sweat drenched his clothes like pouring rain.

“…..”

The knights and nobles of the Great Territory of Alice were unable to find words to respond. The dice had already been cast, and their fate could only be in accordance with their lord’s orders.

“Heugh…”

Eventually, some of the soldiers collapsed. They could not continue to march under the extreme heat without rest.

“Leave behind those who fall behind.”

Several soldiers attempted to support their fallen comrades, but they had no choice but to turn a blind eye after hearing the orders of their high lord. As such, the remaining soldiers continued walking without rest. A heat haze hung over the dirt road.

A couple of hours later, the army of the Great Territory of Alice finally arrived at a place where Bellint...