The kingdom's army was already much closer than Emilia had expected. They were currently 6 days away from the fortress. His formation was a bit scattered for anyone with the slightest bit of military tactics, but there was nothing that could be done.
Colonel Orus Mifar was the officer in charge of this mission. He was Astrus' younger brother and was determined to avenge his fallen brother. The fall of the Platinum Fist Stronghold shook House Mifar's position in the realm and Orus intended to use this quest as a form of redemption.
Orus was not in the throne room while the battle was broadcast, but he received the news of his brother's shameful death a few minutes later. He ran to the capital as fast as he could and bowed before the king, going so far as to touch his forehead to the ground and begged to be put in charge of the attack force he was sure was being formed.