49. Scourge (I)

Robert rode on horseback, following at the rear of the army.

On either side of him, dozens of soldiers struggled to push the heavy Dragon-Slaying Ballista, the massive wheels on the ballista's base turning slowly with a grating metallic sound.

Schroeder, the "Grey Hawk," also rode a black horse, following beside Robert.

"This damned place is getting hotter and hotter."

Robert wiped the sweat off his body and complained.

He asked the adjutant, "Why is the army moving so slowly? How much longer until we pass through the Throat of Triel?"

The adjutant responded in a solemn tone, "My lord, our forces have just endured a bloody battle. It's normal for our march to be a bit slower."

"Lord Robert!"

"We discovered a stone wall ahead, blocking the Throat of Triel."

A messenger arrived on horseback at full speed, urgently reporting.

"What?"

"How is that possible? They only just passed through." Robert's face was full of disbelief.