A Break

After eliminating the demons and retaking control of the enemy fortresses, Damian visited Count Harden, who was bedridden. They only discussed the war's outcome, the recovery of prisoners, and the fallen soldiers. Using his authority, Damian extended his troops throughout the forest to expel any remaining enemies from the area before leaving.

In recent days, Damian has recruited 20,000 young soldiers eager to train with the Night Guard, currently the most powerful human army on the continent. No other force could face the demons so effectively without magic.

Therefore, Damian transferred these young recruits to training campaigns where they would be trained for five short years and receive potions to enhance their physical attributes.

Among them, Wilson stood out. He approached Damian to be considered for future battles. A natural leader, Wilson stayed at the front lines while his soldiers retreated, demonstrating a warrior's will surpassing even Drogo's.

Damian entrusted Wilson with managing the captured orc slaves, assigning them to forced labor in tree felling.

During this orc invasion, Damian ordered the massacre of all orc descendants, reducing the orc population in the mines to less than half its original number. A few hundred were sent this time, enough to compensate for the deficit.

Damian instructed everyone to follow his orders or fend for themselves. Determined to start anew, they began constructing a second modernized city based on his plans.

Including this group, the population under Damian's control now exceeds 200,000 humans, increasing annually.

After defeating the Maruland orc tribe, Damian brought back the population and resources. The captured gold coins and iron materials were distributed among various barons.

In this wartime state, the barons decided to bow to Damian, possibly the most powerful human warrior in the world at that moment.

Families that had opened the magical barriers were stripped of their ranks, losing all noble rights and becoming prisoners for their foolishness, risking the lives of everyone in the village.

Damian took control of that territory, and even the high-ranking northern leaders dared not challenge him. Any annoyance towards Damian would be met with severe consequences.

Currently, Damian aimed to avoid troubling the nobles, ensuring that once they were gone, he would take command of the entire north. One power dominating, powerful warriors, and children studying.

His students would take control of the houses, and only then would he rise as the Lord of the North. Absolute control, evolution, and drastic changes. He would ensure that no one else suffered at the hands of demons, allowing everyone to lead fulfilling lives.

"Sir, the wounded have been sent to the city." Drogo approached Damian, who was watching the fish beneath a frozen lake.

Damian nodded, waved his hand, and several puppets miles away moved to create an effective demon elimination zone.