A Looming Threat

Translator: Cinder Translations

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Compared to other forces on the continent, the Kingdom of Aldor enjoys a unique geographical advantage. To the north of the kingdom stretches the Rocky Mountains, a vast mountain range running east to west that blocks large-scale invasions by the orc forces from the grasslands. To the east of the kingdom, the Sunset Mountains (named so from the opposite side, where it is considered to be in the west) prevent eastern powers from coveting the kingdom's territory.

The Sunset Mountains generally run from north to south. They bend to the north and intersect with the Rocky Mountains, forming a large valley at their junction— the Neron Valley. This valley connects the northeastern territory of the Aldor Kingdom with the continent's interior, and is therefore commonly referred to as the "Neron Corridor" or "Northeast Corridor."

If the orcs from the northern grasslands or the Gabella Empire from the east wish to invade the northeastern territories of the kingdom, the Neron Valley is the essential route. For large-scale invasions, the valley provides sufficient transportation conditions for both troop movements and logistical support. For smaller groups, there are alternative routes into the Aldor Kingdom, but such infiltrations rarely make a significant impact.

Every winter, small bands of orc raiders cross the mountains into the northeastern territories of the kingdom, attacking villages and towns, plundering winter supplies and human slaves, and then returning to the grasslands. When conditions permit, the kingdom's army also frequently drives orc tribes from the edges of the grasslands through the Neron Valley.

Despite the long-standing state of mutual hostility, border trade has intermittently occurred. Orcs need human-made iron, cloth, food, and salt, while humans have a high demand for orc-tamed livestock—especially fine horses for cavalry.

The rulers of Aldor Kingdom have always placed great importance on this region. The Neron Valley is under direct control of the kingdom's government and hosts a powerful military force— the Watchers Legion, which maintains a standing army of about 20,000 to 30,000 troops. The commander of this legion even has certain powers of oversight over the northeastern lords.

"I am here to confirm your opinion of our Watcher Legion," said Sir Hal, the deputy commander of the legion, to the new Northwestern Duke, Henry Fraule.

"Opinion?"

The three present understood Sir Hal's meaning. The northeastern territories have long been plagued by orc raids, and the Watcher Legion, in recruiting supplies and troops, is not limited to their immediate vicinity. The Northwestern Bay, particularly the relatively prosperous Duke's territory of Manda to the east, is also an important supply procurement and recruitment area for the Watcher Legion.

The king has issued a decree to the northern lords, requiring them to provide conveniences for the Watcher Legion. After all, they guard the northeastern gate of the kingdom, and in the face of such pressing threats, most lords obediently comply with the king's decree. The Watcher Legion can either purchase supplies at a low price, pass through checkpoints duty-free, or enjoy recruitment and conscription powers in the northern territories.

However, these advantages or powers fluctuate with the local lords' dispositions, making it crucial to maintain good relations, especially with high-ranking and extensive lords like Duke Fraule of the Northwest.

As a member of the Fraule family, Henry naturally knew these matters. The Watcher Legion can purchase a certain amount of supplies at half price annually within the Fraule family's territory and pass through checkpoints duty-free with the duke's credentials.

"Hmm..."

Henry, in his duke's demeanor, stroked his mustache and pretended to ponder.

He then slowly said, "As you know, we recently fought a major battle here. The trade routes have been cut off, and the common people are struggling. So..."

Sir Hal remained unfazed, but the tension and dissatisfaction on the face of his attendant, Arthur, were apparent.

Henry continued, "However, you are guarding the kingdom's gate, and supporting you is also the king's decree. Therefore, despite our difficulties, we must do our part. So, we will continue with the strategy set by my brother during his tenure."

Sir Hal sighed inwardly with relief. Many lords follow this pattern— first lamenting their difficulties, then offering help as though they were giving a great favor.

"Then, on behalf of all the brothers in the legion, I thank you for your generous support, Your Grace."

After the formal discussion, the conversation shifted to the situation inside and outside the Neron Valley.

As a former member of the Watcher Legion, Schroder was naturally concerned about his former comrades. "How is the legion's pressure recently?"

Duke Arthur sighed, "To be honest, the pressure is quite significant. Last winter, the grasslands suffered a blizzard, causing a large number of livestock deaths. The orcs couldn't trade goods, so they resorted to raiding. They are most rampant during the cold weather, though they have quieted down somewhat recently, they are still sporadic."

Paul asked, "Is it not possible to hold the Neron Corridor alone?"

Duke Arthur shook his head, "Small groups can cross the Rocky Mountains, especially since the vast northern forests provide excellent cover. Some orcs come from fishing and hunting tribes and have settled directly in the forests. We occasionally organize cleaning operations, but their movements are unpredictable, like searching for a needle in a haystack."

Arthur, the attendant, interjected, "It was during last year's period when the kingdom diverted a batch of troops south due to the southern rebellion, causing a sharp increase in our pressure. In my view, the orcs on the grasslands are a much greater threat than the greedy wolf Duke."

The assembled individuals felt a bit awkward. This young attendant spoke too bluntly, likely a member of some great family sent to gain experience in the Watcher Legion, hence his presence with the deputy commander.

Sir Hal snapped, "Silence, Arthur. Military and national policy are not for you to discuss recklessly."

Arthur fell silent, though he still looked unconvinced.

Sir Hal continued, "However, Arthur is partly right. The White Wolf Clan has rapidly risen in recent years and has become the leading force on the grasslands. Chief Bloodhand is considered a formidable leader, having annexed many tribes with both soft and hard tactics since taking over."

"Various reports indicate that Bloodhand harbors ambitions of unifying the grasslands. If he succeeds, the unified orcs will surely become a major threat to all humanity."

Sir Hal's words made everyone present shiver. This was a far more pressing issue than the rebellion of the lords.

(End of the Chapter)

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