A week later.
Stratholme Fortress, Duke Boske's Mansion.
Duke Leo Boske kept stroking his beard, his face full of anxiety. It had been a long time since he had lost his composure like this. The bad news of late was too much, making even the usually calm duke find it hard to accept.
The Principality of Norton had been swiftly annihilated by the Ashen Kingdom in a single day, without even sending out a distress signal.
And in the northern part of the kingdom, with the sounding of the strange horn, the legendary "Frost Calamity" started to stir once more. Signs of Frost Giants' advancement had appeared near the Vaar Glacier.
"Your Grace, Your Grace!"
The adjutant rushed in hurriedly, bringing the latest intelligence.
"Our scouts in the north have discovered signs of Frost Giants' rapid advance! On roads long sealed, there are remnants of beasts, massive footprints, and the ground... is covered in snow."
Duke Leo's face immediately darkened, masked by a heavy shadow.