550-555

Chapter 550: Muffled Harp Strings

Translator: AtlasStudios Editor: AtlasStudios

Gaya gazed silently at Gillian swinging her huge, fluffy tail before her. "Interesting, Miss Gillian. But I don't think that I'm obliged to help you."

"I didn't insist on having you help us, Little Gaya," Gillian chuckled. She stuck out a finger and swayed it to the left and right delightfully. "I'm only informing you of this matter and I hope that you can provide us some assistance. Isn't this effortless for you? Come on, don't be this petty. Since you have the strength to resolve this problem, no one would know about it if you don't show off, right?"

"What about you, Fire Elemental Lord?" Gaya's pitch-black pupils continued to scrutinize the fox-eared young lady before her. Gillian giggled and leaned back to her seat leisurely. She interlocked her fingers and twitched her ear complacently. "My situation is a little special, Little Gaya. But I'm still trying my best, okay? Look at you. You've been hiding in this ice-cold, damp room all this while. Wouldn't it be more fun if you take a walk under the sun and kill some people or something?"

"Please don't compare me with you, Miss Gillian."

Gaya looked down and gently caressed the harp in her hands. "You have your own thoughts and I have my considerations. I'm not here because I want to. These are Royal Highness Lydia's orders. I don't know who thought of this battle plan, but this is your problem and not mine. If they wish to be victorious, they'd better rely on their own hands and not expect others to assist them. I hate the weak, especially those who constantly hope to rely on the strength of the strong. The weak are nothing more than ants, and I have no interest to the ants' request. I guess you understand what I mean, Miss Gillian."

"Of course, of course. I understand, Little Gaya. But the way you rejected me breaks my heart, even though I shouldn't be the one who should be sad. What a pity. Little Lize finally bucked up her courage for this, but it seems that she has to think of some other solutions now."

Gillian jumped to her feet and showed off a smile to Gaya. She approached the door and reached out to the door handle. At this moment, she came to a halt abruptly and turned around with a passionate smile. "Ah, by the way, Master wanted me to pass a message. He hopes that Royal Highness Lydia will reward him generously for accomplishing his mission, okay?"

"..." Gaya looked on without any change in her expression.

Gillian waved goodbye cordially and left the room. The black-haired young lady held onto the heavy harp and her right hand stroked lightly on its strings. She closed her eyes slowly.

A melodious tune filled her enclosed, chilly room.

A gentle breeze from the window freshened the depressing room. Lydia picked up the intelligence report and scanned it thoroughly. The corner of her mouth curled up. "It seems that the nest of mice is finally moving out... A wildcat is indeed the correct choice for chasing away the mice. Housecats are meek, but they must be tired of hiding their claws, I suppose..."

The young lady laid on the red, soft velvety sofa, smiling at the report in her hand in satisfaction. She flipped to the next page and her long, slender fingers came to a stop abruptly. She read the report curiously and after a few moments, she chuckled and stood to her feet, tossing the report to the side.

"This is interesting..." Lydia turned to the picturesque view outside the window and mumbled to herself.

Golden radiance flickered on her back and a silhouette of light wings emerged gracefully. She paused for a while before reaching out for a little bell on the side table. Ding-a-ling. A female servant entered her room shortly after.

"Your Highness, what can I do for you?"

"Get Grand Mage Amund here and pass on the word that I will be holding a roundtable conference in the evening. Also, get General Lannick of the 7th Fleet here. It's about time to deal the final blow to the mice scattering in my territory."

A glittering, lightning-like radiance glinted in her eyes for the first time.

"Phew..."

Lize placed the feather pen down and let out a bitter smile as she looked at the messy map that she had drawn. This battle plan was prepared solely by her and the following would be her most important challenge. She had to explain her battle plan perfectly to the others and gain their understanding and cooperation.

It's almost time.

Lize stood up and clenched her tiny fists. She swung a punch with all her might as though to boost her morale. Then, she picked up the map and exited the room.

When Lize arrived at the meeting room, everyone was fully prepared. Although they had plenty of such meetings, this time, they appeared much more curious and surprised. After all, they had been gathering according to the rules to follow up on the situation. But this time was different. This was the first time that Lize had taken the initiative to gather them together.

Everyone including Joey and Randolf was surprised. To be honest, it wasn't that they looked down upon Lize and went hard at her purposely. After all, Lize was the most senior member in Starlight. She had a gentle personality and was a life-saving Cleric, so no one would find trouble with this young lady for no particular reason. However, one shouldn't allow emotions to affect one's work. In the previous few meetings, Lize was as though a puppet who would agree to anything that anyone said.

After all, mercenaries moved out as groups and they needed a pillar to command them. They weren't worried about this problem with Rhode back then and there were multiple occasions when Lize had behaved like an uncommunicative clerk instead of an Adjutant who stepped up in place of the Leader. Fortunately, there weren't too many incidents that required Lize to make decisions and no one objected to her presence.

But now, there were finally some changes to the situation.

The Reformist Party's army was arriving at their doorstep and they could see that they were determined to win this battle. This was finally the time to put the mercenaries to the test. Even when there were ten thousand enemies, the mercenaries would fight fearlessly with Rhode commanding. But the mercenaries were worried now that Rhode wasn't around and Lize had been hesitant about her decisions.

Attack? Defend? Or retreat?

Everyone had had this conflict several times and they were thankful for Rhode in leaving Gillian behind to guide Lize. Although they were rather worried about the upcoming battle, at least they had this wily, formidable fox-eared young lady by their side. Besides, Rhode had told them that Gillian would be supporting Lize and with her around, they wouldn't be flustered out of their wits.

They thought that Gillian would be guiding Lize along when they heard that Lize had gathered them for a meeting. After all, there wasn't much time left and they would have a tough fight if they couldn't come up with any great strategies.

Due to this reason, almost everyone revealed a surprised expression when they saw Lize enter the meeting room alone. Joey stretched his neck to see if there was anyone behind her. However, Lize turned around and closed the door firmly.

What's this about? Joey thought.

As expected...

Lize felt a little down after noticing their expressions. She was a great observer and a meticulous person, and she understood their reactions. After all, even though the meetings had been organized in her name, Gillian was always the one with the leadership role. Will I be able to perform since Gillian isn't around?

Lize clenched her fists tightly.

No matter what, I must do my best this time!

Lize encouraged herself inwardly and looked at everyone before her. "I think everyone must be clear by now that the Southern army will be arriving here soon. Before that happens, we must come up with a strategy. I don't have the talents that Mr. Rhode has, so I hope to listen to your opinions..."

Lize unrolled the map on the table and everyone crowded around it with knitted brows.

What's this? Graffiti?

Lize disregarded their confused expressions. In fact, she was also aware of her own bad habits. Lize lacked the confidence to summon her courage when everyone was doubting her. She was worried that she would doubt herself when she was explaining halfway when she witnessed their uncertain faces. Therefore, to prevent this situation from happening, Lize had decided to not lift her head when she went through the strategy and focus solely on the map before her.

"According to Joey and Randolf's intelligence report, Miss Gillian and I have analyzed and thought that the Southern Legion have no intentions of attacking the Cloud Summit Fortress because the Fortress has no true military value for them. I think that they will use minimal soldiers to pin down the Fortress while the remaining forces will penetrate the Paphield Plain from the sides. This way, the Fortress will no longer serve any purpose. They could even cut off our retreat from the rear and encircle the Fortress instead. Mr. Rhode informed me that the Reformist Party was aware that their strength wasn't enough against the King's Party and they would be pinning their hopes on the Country of Light. According to Mr. Rhode, the Country of Light's Parliament may possibly go through diplomatic channels to protest and oppose the King's Party after conquering Paphield and eventually turn the territory into their own."

"What?!"

Joey shrieked in horror and the others exchanged worried looks. After all, the mercenaries rarely planned ahead and gaining victory in the battle before them was the most important, wasn't it? But now...

"Miss Lize, what you meant was that if those bastards avoided us and conquer the territory behind us, we will be considered to be standing in the 'enemy's' territory if the Light Parliament acknowledged it?"

"That sounds about right." Lize fixed her gaze at the map before her and nodded with might.

"In order to prevent this from happening, we have to stop their attacks first and foremost. I have studied the terrains of Paphield and discovered a few possible routes that they could take..." Lize pointed to the map. "After studying the map and consulting Commander Garcia, I learned that even though Paphield has a plain terrain, the defensive line by the Fortress isn't a flat vast of land. There are two long stretches of forests behind the Fortress defense and rear and the enemies will surely choose to penetrate the flat land between them. I think we can set a trap here to stop them."

"Did you mean to ambush them?" Marfa asked.

"Yes, Mr. Marfa. We don't have the advantage in manpower, but we have plenty of Thieves and Rangers who can guarantee our dominance in an ambush. Besides, I have investigated in detail. My team of Clerics is confident in casting spells to shroud the entire region to slow the enemies' movements. I think we can take down the enemies with Mr. Randolf's Ranger team, Mr. Marfa's Swordsman team, and Miss Gillian's cover."

"How many of them are we going to face exactly? Will they all be Cavalrymen?"

"In order to contain the forces of the Fortress, the enemies should be sending around 3,000 soldiers to deal with Commander Garcia. The total number of enemies is close to 8,500. For the sake of security, they will not focus all their forces to break through a specific area. This way, we're looking at facing 2000 to 3000 enemies."

"This is only your guess, Miss Lize?" Randolf knitted his brows. "We have less than 200 people and we will have a hard time against them. If the enemy doesn't divide their forces to surround the Fortress and attacks the Fortress altogether instead, we will be in huge trouble. Have you considered this? Also, what if they gather their forces for the breakthrough? 5,000 of them... If Mr. Rhode were here, I wouldn't be this hesitant. But..."

Randolf didn't complete his sentence, but everyone knew what he meant. Lize continued to stare at the map before her.

"They probably wouldn't do that. I've heard from Commander Garcia that the General Dade of the Southern legion leading the command is a cautious person and he will definitely not place all his eggs in a single basket. If I were him, I would rather choose to divide my troops into different attacking teams to break through the defensive line and regather thereafter. Besides, a team of 5,000 is too huge and difficult to conceal and it will be much easier for us to guess their movements and goals." Lize paused nervously as this was the first time she had spoken so much before them. She sucked in a deep breath of air. "I think they should be mainly Cavalrymen while the Infantry will be containing the Fortress. After all, the speed of Infantries will be much slower than Cavalrymen and since they're rushing for time, the Infantry wouldn't be suitable."

"So you've decided to do this? This sounds like a good idea..." Marfa nodded and swept a gaze at Lize.

He was astonished that this always obedient young lady had actually understood the big picture. But this plan didn't seem perfect enough in his eyes...

"Lize, I remember that the Clerics' spell range is limited, right? Aren't they supposed to stand outside the forest in order to cast a spell over the entire region? If that's the case, the enemies will surely attack the Clerics first. Are you sure that will be fine?"

"Please don't worry, Mr. Marfa. We're Clerics, and we have ways to protect ourselves. Besides... Anne is around too."

"I see..."

Marfa nodded in agreement. After all, he was a Swordsman and he didn't have the qualifications to bicker with Lize over spell-casting. At this moment, Joey leaned forward and scanned the map before him. He called out strangely and turned to Lize.

"Wait, Miss Lize. What's the purpose of us if the Southern General divides his forces? Even if we can block off the shortfall, isn't it the same if the other areas were broken through? Besides, if the enemies are alerted and attack us from the front and rear... Aren't we all dead too?"

"Don't worry about that, Joey. Miss Gillian said that there's a trustworthy person to handle this problem..."

The door opened and Gillian stood there with her usual cheeky smile. "Ah, seems like Little Lize happens to be talking about me now. I hope I haven't missed anything?"

"Miss Gillian!"

Lize lifted her head and gazed at the fox-eared young lady with trembling hands. Got to say, the problem that Joey raised had been worrying Lize for a long time. Although she did have a backup plan for emergencies, it wasn't exactly ideal. Lize could only put her mind at ease after hearing from Gillian that someone would be around to resolve the problem. But now...

"Miss Gillian, regarding this matter..."

"Ah, about that," Gillian rolled her widened eyes and kept her at suspense. Then, she winked playfully. "Don't worry, everything will be fine. It's settled!"

Chapter 551: Two Person's Fight

Translator: AtlasStudios Editor: AtlasStudios

"Souler!"

Marlene's long slender fingers streaked across the air and brought about a trail of lightning. Countless lightning bolts descending from the sky and struck the soldiers, stopping them from advancing. Marlene stared at the enemies before them and took half a step back. She raised her right arm and pushed forward. The line of a dozen fully-armed soldiers before her charged toward the enemies in big strides, lifting their pike-like weapons. The gears at the weapon tips spun quickly and magical radiance emanated along the weapons and coalesced at their tips. Then, a deep, ear-piercing explosion boomed and countless dazzling golden rays erupted like a storm, penetrating the ground. The powerful airflow engulfed the petals and leaves and the high temperatures melted the soil and rocks on the surface. The dazzling brilliance of the continuous undulation formed a golden ocean. In the blink of an eye, everything ended and there was nothing left.

"Phew..." Marlene heaved a sigh of relief.

She gazed at the battlefield that had changed beyond recognition and nodded in satisfaction. She turned around and displayed a smile to the soldiers. "Well done. Our mission has been accomplished. The enemies won't launch another attack anytime soon. Form up and return to camp."

The soldiers laid down their weapons and saluted to Marlene respectfully. At this moment, a young lady who was about the same age as Marlene and clad in white light armor scuttled over, handing a canteen to Marlene. "Good work, Miss Senia. You must be feeling tired. It seems successful this time."

"Thanks, Laili. The prototype weapons are decent in might and range, and they're much safer to use now. However, the high consumption of Magic Crystals is still a big problem. We have participated in seven battles since we arrived at Flourishing Blossom and we have consumed Magic Crystals worth 500,000 gold coins. It seems that the final pike requires more modifications."

"I see, Miss Senia. I will report this matter to the Patriarch." The young lady nodded hurriedly before curling her lips. "By the way, Miss Senia, the Fortress Commander looked for me earlier and he hopes to invite you for dinner. But, don't worry! I've rejected him for you! That uncivilized man is like a toad dreaming about eating swan meat. Hmph... If he isn't Grand Mage Amund's subordinate..."

"We shouldn't be bothered about that matter, Laili."

Marlene interrupted her and looked up to the azure sky. Her nostrils were assailed by the breeze that carried a burnt smell. The dark green grassland had been burned horribly like ghastly scars on the human skin. Marlene sighed subtly and turned around. "How's the front line doing?"

"Yes, here's the report, Miss Senia." Laili handed an envelope over.

Marlene opened it up and scanned the contents quickly. "Interesting. The Southern Legion has mobilized nearly 10,000 soldiers to besiege the Cloud Summit Fortress? There were quite a lot of soldiers here in the Flourishing Blossom too... I see. It seems that the Reformist Party isn't that foolish and the unrest in the South in the past few days must have made them desperate. They used to complain about our jobs, but now, it's time for them to experience it themselves. This isn't an easy job... Yes, these aren't the main forces of the Southern Legion..."

Marlene mumbled to herself and chuckled. "Laili, how many soldiers from the Southern Legion are attacking the Paphield defensive line?"

"Yes, Miss Senia. According to the intelligence report, there are 5 legions and a total of 43,000 soldiers."

"There are 7,000 enemies attacking the Flourishing Blossom while the other 8,000 are heading to the Cloud Summit... In addition, there are 6000 infantries of Gerdal and the Southern Navy that sealed off the Grief Strait. This is strange. More than 20,000 soldiers aren't accounted for. I don't believe that 20,000 soldiers would simply disappear in the vast defensive line. But..." Marlene stopped mumbling and her eyes glinted. "It seems that our mission is accomplished, Laili. After you head back, do up a report on the final pike and I want to see it after dinner. If everything is according to our expectations, we can leave this place and head to the frontlines."

"Frontline?" Laili tilted her head and blinked curiously. "Miss Senia, isn't the frontline here? Where are you heading to?"

Marlene smiled at her servant. "This is nothing more than a monkey's playground, Laili. There should be a limit for passing time and the enemies don't seem to be stopping anytime soon. Although they seem to have the intentions to fully attack the Paphield defensive line, their lack of manpower is their shortcoming... These are simply baits and as a matter of fact, the Southern Legion's true goal isn't to mess with us here. Even though we don't know who thought of this plan, this time..."

Marlene paused as though something cropped up in her mind. Laili gazed and asked curiously. "What's with this time? Miss Senia?"

"It's nothing, Laili," Marlene shook her head with a smile. "It's just that... I think he got it right again."

"He? Miss Senia, which 'he' are you talking about?"

"Heh. That's a secret," Marlene said and hugged the report in her arms. She turned around and headed toward the campsite with Laili. "Alright, Laili, you should get prepared too. We will be heading off immediately after inspecting the conditions of the equipment. The adjustments to the final pike has completed and the Reformist Party's attack on the Flourishing Blossom has ended. It seems that they're no longer viewing this place as their main target, so we have to move immediately. This time, I will give him a surprise."

The sun shone brightly for the best time of a lazy afternoon nap. But for Garcia, he wasn't in the mood for one at all. He leaned on the Fortress wall anxiously and looked at the flag fluttering in the distance at the horizon. Then, he widened his mouth for a huge yawn, raising his arms above him and stretching before standing up straight again. At this moment, a soldier climbed up the wall frantically.

"Reporting, Sir. We spotted enemies ahead."

"I have eyes. How many of them?"

"Seven companies of infantry. A total of about 3,500."

"Heh," Garcia let out a sneer and picked up the liquor flask hung around his waist.

He tilted his head upward and poured the liquor down his throat. He burped in contentment and placed the liquor flask back. But this time, he widened his narrow eyes.

"I've never expected that they respect me this much. 3,500 of them. Heh, makes me really want to head out and wipe them all out. By the way, who's the guy leading them?"

"It's General Dade!"

"Eh? Hmm..." Garcia's expression changed slightly, but he quickly returned to his usual self and waved his hand lazily. "Okay, head back and inform our people that it's time for them to shine. Also, tell the nonsensical nobles that if they want me to write their honorable names on the postwar report, they'd better work hard for it!"

"Yes!" The orderly left immediately.

Garcia rubbed his stubbly chin and gazed toward the troops at the distant horizon with knitted brows. He muttered under his breath. "This is getting troublesome. Never did I expect that the old fart will actually lead the troops himself. Isn't he responsible for the feint attacks? If this old fart is in charge of encircling and pinning us down, who will be the one leading the breakthrough? Based on my understanding on him, I don't think he will simply find anyone to fill in the gap."

Garcia's expression gradually became stern.

That little girl... will do fine, I guess.

There wasn't a trace of wind in the unbearable, humid forest. Sunrays spilled in between the leaves like a massive, dazzling carpet spread across the forest. Lize hid in the shrub and observed the horizon through the small opening. She was extremely tense and her heart was pounding. She felt as though the lightweight Cleric robe on herself had become as heavy as a lump of lead.

Anne laid on her stomach beside Lize like a meek little puppy bathing in the sun and narrowing her eyes in contentment. If she weren't swinging her arms and legs, they would have suspected if she had dozed off. The other Clerics were also hidden in the shrubs silently. Some of them were excited while others were nervous or expressionless.

Time is almost up.

Lize squinted at the sun and counted the time inwardly. There was no signs of enemies before her and everywhere was in complete silence. At the far end of the horizon, there was only twisted air from the heat wave.

Am I wrong? It shouldn't be... Lize was confident that she had made no mistakes. She had scanned through the map several times to figure out the possible routes that the enemies would break through from and even consulted Commander Garcia and the soldiers. If the enemies wished to pass through in the shortest time possible, this path would undoubtedly be the best choice. But now...

Suddenly, the row of shrubs beside hers swayed. Joey peeked out and made his way to Lize swiftly. He laughed cheekily and said, "They're here, Miss Lize! Just as you've predicted!"

"How many of them?"

"3,500. Heh, it seems that Uncle Marfa was right... He has jinxed it. It's gonna be really troublesome, but if your plan works, we will be in for a good time. Heh, if news of 200 men wiping out 3500 Cavalrymen spreads out, who would dare to look down on Starlight?"

"What about the flag? Is there a two-headed lion?"

"Ah. There isn't. The flag has a blue background with white edges and a white pigeon in the middle."

"White pigeon?" Lize stared blankly.

There indeed was something wrong in the situation. She, Gillian, and Garcia thought that the enemies would leave this important breakthrough mission to the most capable General Dade and he would surely choose to go into battle himself. After all, the feint attack was only a pretense and it was considered more of an overt plot rather than a conspiracy. Therefore, it would be the same no matter which commander was responsible for pinning down the Fortress troops. But now, it wasn't General Dade who lead them? Who exactly was he?

"No matter who he is, we will still need to fight this battle, right?"

"That's right. How long more before they arrive?"

"A few more minutes. They're not far from here."

Lize came to her senses and nodded with might. She clenched her tiny fists. "Joey, inform Randolf, Mr. Marfa, and Miss Gillian that the enemies are arriving soon. Get them to act according to our plan."

"Understood. Leave it to me."

"Ah. By the way, Joey, your traps... will work, right?"

"Don't worry, Miss Lize. No matter how dumb I am, I wouldn't be dumb enough to risk my life," Joey said cheekily before diving into the shrub and disappeared to nowhere.

Lize shifted her attention to the front once again and she felt as though the ground was trembling a little and she could hear warhorses galloping. But she quickly realized that this wasn't her misconception. Because at this moment, Anne jumped up to her feet. She widened her eyes and pressed her right hand on her shield on the ground as though she was a beast about to dash toward the front. Lize looked toward the direction where Anne was scanning.

Shortly after, black figures emerged one after another on the empty horizon. Thousands of well-equipped Cavalrymen urged on their horses using the whips in hand. The flag with the blue background, white edges, and a white pigeon was fluttered in the wind. It was apparent that this was the mark of the commander. They're almost here, they're almost here... Lize grew increasingly nervous. She stared at the Cavalrymen while calculating the Cleric's spell range, the Cavalrymen' charging speed, and the position required for the upcoming battle. The Cavalrymen were closing in and Lize could clearly see the patterns on their armor and the steam bursting from the warhorses noses as they sneezed. But even so, Lize waited for the most opportune timing. These Cavalrymen didn't seem to notice their presence as they were fully focused ahead. To them, perhaps time equaled their lives and they didn't have any more to waste.

Shortly after, about half the wave of Cavalrymen had rushed past Lize and the young lady made a firm resolution.

She stood to her feet and raised her right arm.

Get ready to attack!

Chapter 552: Strange Ending

Translator: AtlasStudios Editor: AtlasStudios

Along with Lize's movements, the Clerics who were hidden in the shrubs stood up and raised their hands high quickly. Several white light balls erupted. The bright radiance illuminated the entire forest and it was so bright that even the glory of the sun was inferior. The Cavalrymen that had galloped past them were caught off guard as though a dozen huge searchlights were shining on them all at once and they had to close their eyes shut. Not only them, but even their warhorses neighed in shock. The Cavalrymen controlled their warhorses and lifted their shields as soon as they witnessed that their fellow Cavalrymen by the perimeter getting attacked. It was obvious that the Cavalrymen didn't consider the possibility of them encountering ambushes here and instead of stopping, they spurred on the warhorses forcefully.

But at this moment, a strange situation happened.

Loud, painful screams broke out as the Cavalrymen galloped forward. A dozen warhorses lost their balance as though they were tripped and fell forward, breaking the formation into chaos. If it were the warhorses in front that had fallen down, they would still stand a chance to adjust their formation at the back. However, the warhorses that stumbled were in the middle and they were surrounded by their comrades, which overwhelmed their formation immediately. Some Cavalrymen fell to the ground while some dodged to the sides and slammed into their comrades. Some tried to leap over the fallen comrades, but they collided heavily to those in front. In the blink of an eye, dozens of Cavalrymen and warhorses were trampled by their friendly forces.

"Heh..."

Joey grinned as he crouched low on the thick tree branch and observed the chaotic situation below him. He turned to Randolf beside him who was clasping his bow and scrutinizing the situation. "Bro Randolf, did you realize that even though Miss Lize seems harmless, her strategy is so sinister? She made us set up a trap that will only activate in the middle of the crowd. I didn't expect her to think this up... Look at those unfortunate bastards... I can't bear to continue watching them..."

"—!"

Suddenly, a strange whistle sounded from the center of the army. The Cavalrymen stopped their movements abruptly and held their shields high in front of them. Then, almost simultaneously, an overwhelming rain of arrows flew out of the forest toward them. However, the arrows were useless against the Cavalrymen's heavy steel armor and shields.

Then, a bugle-horn sounded and the Cavalrymen spurred on their warhorses. They gave up their formation completely and galloped forward from both sides.

"They realized that we lack manpower and they are trying to escape!" Randolf discovered that the enemies didn't slow down for their own safety. Instead, they were acting as bait to probe the strength of the ambushing troops. Randolf had about 50 Rangers under his lead and they were an utterly inadequate measure against the thousand Cavalrymen. He leaped to another tree branch and placed his finger by his lip to whistle a cuckoo's cry that resounded in the entire forest. He drew an arrow from his quiver swiftly and when he landed onto another tree branch, he aimed forward and released his finger.

Whoosh!

Another rain of arrows flew out from the forest and a dozen Cavalrymen collapsed. But this time, the Cavalrymen at the rear didn't trip on their fallen comrades as they were not grouped up in their organized formation anymore. Although they had lost a dozen Cavalrymen to the arrows and some even fell into strange traps beneath their feet, most of them continued to charge forward regardless. After two to three minutes, they had arrived at the edge of the forest — What presented before them was a vast open-field and no longer the land that was shrouded in the forest. As long as they dashed out of this place, they would no longer face any obstacles.

At this moment, the world before the Cavalrymen darkened.

The green forest, grassland, and azure sky had lost their vibrant colors as though a thick, filthy curtain had filtered them. Not only that, but their fast movements had also been slowed down as though they were shackled to heavy chains on their backs and the warhorses eventually came to a halt.

What exactly is going on?!

Even though the Cavalrymen were highly experienced, they had never met this strange situation. The ambushes had made them somewhat nervous and they had exceeded their expectations. The weird, gloomy color of gray engulfed the entire land and their warhorses' movements slowed down tremendously. No matter how much they whipped, their warhorses had no intentions of speeding up. The exit was just before them, but it seemed so far away.

Rustle! Several young ladies in white robes emerged before them and chanted softly. Even though the Cavalrymen didn't know what they were up to, they knew that the flickering golden radiance in their hands was no good news.

"30 seconds!" Lize bit her lips anxiously.

Surprisingly, the enemies didn't panic as she had expected. When Lize followed Rhode in battles in the past, no matter how powerful the enemies were, as long as Rhode launched an ambush, the enemies would end up in a great mess as though they were out of their wits. But now, the Cavalrymen weren't as flustered as she thought they would be. After all, she had no intentions of relying on this method to gain victory. As a young lady who always thought about the worst outcome, this current situation was much better than she had predicted.

The Decelerating Haloes hindered the Cavalrymen from moving further, but Lize knew that her men couldn't hang on much longer. If the enemies had about a hundred soldiers, her Clerics could maintain the Decelerating Haloes for a longer duration. But 3,000 of them was too tough for them. Although the Clerics had been through strict training and several battles, they were only about the standard of the 6th to 7th Circle and it would be too difficult for them to maintain this large-scale spell. Fortunately, it would be enough as long as Lize could stop them from moving forward!

The effects of the Decelerating Haloes were slowly diminishing and the Clerics were starting to pale. Moreover, the Cavalrymen seemed to have realized that their current state had something to do with the Clerics. The Cavalrymen at the rear pushed forward while those by the front turned around. They lifted their shields and clasped their swords in an assaulting posture.

"How long more?!"

Randolf released the fully-drawn bowstring and the arrow pierced into a Cavalry's eye like a lightning bolt and the Cavalry flipped out of his warhorse. Although they had eliminated more than 200 Cavalrymen due to the Decelerating Haloes, 3000 of them was too much to handle. Not only were the Clerics in front in the face of danger, but the other Cavalrymen had also detected the source of the problem. 500 of them dispersed toward both sides of the forest with their lifted shields. It seemed that they decided to divide their manpower to handle the troublemakers... The standards of these soldiers couldn't be belittled.

"Phew..." Lize heaved a sigh of relief.

Then, she puckered her brows and extended her arms forward. A dazzling light column rose from the ground and burst into the sky. At the same time, two similar light columns from the other ends emerged as though responding to hers. The light columns went straight into the sky, like pillars connecting heaven and earth, exuding a dazzling brilliance.

At the same time, the Decelerating Haloes flickered weakly and vanished. The Clerics panted for air and retreated swiftly into the forest. However, the enemies were much quicker than them. After the haloes had lost their effects, the Cavalrymen charged to the Cleric young ladies with raised swords...

However, at this moment, a huge whirlwind blew from the side and slammed into the Cavalrymen. "Get lost!"

Anne struck a Cavalry with the shield tightly clasped in her hands. The powerful impact sent the Cavalry flying off his warhorse. Anne used the momentum and somersaulted in midair before crashing into the ground like a meteor before the other Cavalrymen. She lifted her head and gazed at the highly raised horseshoes that were about to trample her. The corner of Anne's mouth quirked up and she pulled the handle on the shield off with her left hand and struck forward.

"—!"

Roaring winds swept up the dust from the ground like a hurricane and wiped the Cavalrymen out of the battle completely. Anne's shield was as though an invisible giant hand that struck the Cavalrymen away. After the dust dispersed, none of the Cavalrymen remained and the nearest warhorse to her was at least two hundred meters away, twitching all over, seemingly unable to survive the ordeal.

If Rhode or any other players witnessed this scene, they would surely turn around and flee immediately. However, it was a pity that Cavalrymen weren't players and they made a wrong decision swiftly. Shortly after, the highly lifted flag started waving and pointed forward and the surrounding Cavalry Leaders responded quickly.

"Destroy those spellcasters!"

One of the Cavalry Leaders raised his shield and sword. He galloped forward and led a team of Cavalrymen toward the Cleric young ladies who were shrouded in radiance in the distance .

They're here!

Lize felt her blood froze as she witnessed the Cavalrymen charging toward her. At the same time, she made complicated hand gestures and a beautiful holy rune emerged from thin air. It hovered around the light column and flew upward.

The enemies were getting closer and Lize saw the shimmering sword blades. However, she didn't stop because this was her last trump card and the guarantee of victory...

"Brothers, attack!"

The shrub beside Lize shook violently and a few mercenaries sprung out. Marfa was as calm as ever. He extended his right arm and gestured. Then, the mercenaries around him drew out hatchets from their waists and threw forward.

"Aaahh!"

The spinning hatchets struck the Cavalrymen heavily and they screamed in pain, tumbling down their warhorses.

At the same time, Lize's spell was finally completed.

"Everyone back down!"

Lize yelled and retreated from the light column swiftly. Marfa and his men rolled away without any hesitation and dodged the Cavalrymen's attacks. At this moment, the Cavalrymen had arrived before Marfa and Lize. But, that was the closest they could get.

The Cavalrymen brandished their razor-sharp blades, but to their horror, their attacks were deflected. They realized that they had been trapped in a pyramid-like triangular barrier. The thin, yet solid golden barrier expanded along the light column and shrouded the entire land. This time, the Cavalrymen had finally lost their cool. They raised their heads and witnessed that everything had exceeded their expectations. Before they figured out what exactly had happened, they heard crisp laughter.

"Huhuhu, Little Lize, I didn't expect this to turn out this well. It seems that all's left is to wind this up, eh?"

Gillian emerged out of thin air. She squinted proudly and gazed at the flustered crowd below her. She revealed a pleased smile before extending her arms forward. A dazzling scarlet card spun in her palms gracefully. Gillian smashed her palms together.

[Magic Symbol — Seven Hells]

Scarlet flames surged violently and burned their entire world.

Chapter 553: First Victory

Translator: AtlasStudios Editor: AtlasStudios

"Phew..."

Lize witnessed the barrier before her covered by flames and she heaved a sigh of relief, softening her knees to the ground. Although, strictly speaking, this battle didn't seem as intense as expected, this was, after all, Lize's first battle where she was responsible for the strategy. Now that the plan had entered the final stage, Lize was finally feeling relieved. Joey and the others had arrived by her side and gazed at her with strange expressions.

Joey, Randolf, and Marfa knew that the tactics that Lize came up with weren't as simple as they appeared. This was the first time that she had worked out her tactics down to the smallest details. Lize split her Clerics into teams of four. One of the teams was responsible for deceiving the enemies with Glittering Rays while another was in charge of maintaining the Decelerating Haloes. Lize personally led the remaining two teams to activate the 'Divine Edifice', which was the core of this ambush.

Lize had never thought of relying on Marfa's Swordsmen or Randolf's Rangers to accomplish this mission. After all, there were too many enemies and they wouldn't be able to annihilate them all even if the enemies simply stood there without retaliating. Fortunately, Lize had experienced plenty of battles with Rhode which they had won with lesser men than the enemies. Lize realized that Rhode normally placed Mages or Clerics in the front line instead of close-combat units and she imitated his style of using the spellcasters as the main attackers and planned this ambush.

She used the sudden outburst of holy rays to throw the enemy formation into disorder and force them forward. Then, she made use of the Decelerating Haloes to hinder their movements and to buy some time for the casting of the 'Divine Edifice'. At the same time, the Rangers distracted the enemies to prevent them from breaking through the Decelerating Haloes while the Swordsmen lurked in front of the Clerics who were casting the 'Divine Edifice' and served as a defensive line in case of any accidents. The Thieves wandered the perimeter swiftly to investigate the front and rear. When the 'Divine Edifice' was completed, Gillian descended and used her trump card to deal the final blow to the trapped enemies.

Frankly speaking, this tactic wasn't grand and honorable at all. Anne was responsible for protecting the Clerics who were maintaining the Decelerating Haloes in the front. But apart from her, there were two more Clerics lying low by the sides and they would cast defensive spells on their companions if the situation had gone south. The Rangers and Thieves lurked in the forest to minimize contact with the enemies and once the enemies entered the forest, they immediately retreated without hesitation like a timid person who was fearful of death wandering in the forest and a light breeze could break him into fleeing... This wasn't worth showing off at all.

In order for this battle to be successful, Lize spent the entire night explaining to the others about their specific roles. She knew that she wasn't an experienced commander like Rhode and she thought that she might as well consider all the possible scenarios before the battle commenced. What should I do if the enemies came to a halt? What if the enemies continue to break through without stopping? What if the enemies break away from the encirclement? What if there is an unexpected powerful presence among the enemies? What if we are sandwiched between the enemies? What if the enemies destroys us first?

The team leaders didn't ask for her advice after the battle started. She had clearly gone through the scenarios with them.

It was tedious, dogmatic, and even rigid.

Lize was aware of it herself, but she chose not to care. Even after listening to Gillian's opinion, Lize didn't give up on her thoughts. After all, she was a stubborn person and it was this stubbornness that helped minimize the chances of her men dying recklessly. All she could do was rely on the battle experiences she had with Rhode to consider the possible scenarios during battle.

Honestly speaking, if both sides were fighting to their deaths, this thought of Lize's might be a lethal weakness. As the saying 'only the brave wins' go, there were many times when one must possess such an attitude to be victorious. There would be situations where one could only win after putting everything on the line. Although Marfa led 50 Peak Elite Swordsmen, he wasn't that foolish to suggest leading them against 3000 Cavalrymen. That wasn't being heroic. That was purely an IQ problem.

"Woah, this is really..."

Joey gazed at the surging flames in astonishment before sweeping a glance at Lize with lingering fears. Gillian's [Seven Hells] was the combination of massive fireballs and flares. Its effects were doubled in the 'Divine Edifice' and loud explosions were heard booming from within. They couldn't see the Cavalrymen inside, but they could easily imagine their terrible state. Even the most well-equipped soldiers couldn't survive such an attack.

However, Joey wasn't only in awe over the Fire Elemental Lord's capabilities. Instead, he shot a meaningful look at Randolf while Randolf shook his head and sighed in response.

Frankly speaking, this battle had astounded them.

Lize's head had been occupied with various methods to protect every single one of them. She had worked hard in stopping the Cavalrymen from breaking through the defensive line that she didn't notice the meaning of everything that she had done. To Joey and Randolf, they realized that they actually didn't understand this quiet, gentle young lady at all.

Not only that, but the unique style of the traps also forced the Cavalrymen to focus on their front and rear, which hindered their speed greatly. Thereafter, the enemies realized that the disturbance from Randolf's men wasn't actually as threatening as they thought. They continued to advance forward and eventually plunged into the trap of the Decelerating Haloes. Afterward, their movements and reactions were within Lize's predictions and all the naggings before the battle had taken effect completely. Although Lize's decision making wasn't as lethal and crucial as Rhode's, her abilities to ensure the entire process worked was equally outstanding!

Of course, Lize had sought Randolf and Marfa's opinions on what they do when they faced various situations. During the battle, although the Cavalrymen tried to counterattack more than once, the mercenaries didn't panic at all because Lize had briefed them in accordance with the various scenarios.

And this way, there was another interesting response. Lize focused fully on the defensive line and she didn't have the time and energy to consider other problems. However, to Joey and the others, Lize appeared to them as she was secretly plotting against the pitiful Southern Legion from the start where she had calculated their every move. Those who knew her were aware that she wasn't this vicious, but those who didn't understand her enough would perhaps think that she had some hatred against the Southern Legion.

After five to six minutes, the flames in the 'Divine Edifice' weakened and the golden barrier vanished into speckles of golden dust. Then, the smoke dissipated and the battlefield unveiled itself. Everyone sucked in a deep breath in unison.

The green grassland was filled with holes from the explosions and stacked with corpses of warhorses and Cavalrymen that laid across the ground. Although the entire world appeared to be melting in Gillian's [Seven Hells], she, after all, had similar strength to Rhode and it was inevitable that her core spell would be weakened after a period of time. The Cavalrymen didn't melt entirely in the flames, but the seal of the 'Divine Edifice' and the series of explosions within were enough to deal fatal damage to them.

"Phew..." Lize heaved a sigh of relief.

She had conflicting emotions about the scene before her, but she bestirred herself and stood to her feet. "Mr. Marfa, please lead your men to sweep the battlefield. Mr. Randolf, please gather your men and check for any losses. Joey, please go check out the surroundings for any abnormalities."

This time, the mercenaries team leaders hesitated no more. They nodded in agreement and left swiftly. Lize loosened her shoulders and looked up at the azure sky. The pitch-black, thick billows of smoke were soaring gradually, smearing a ghastly scar to the beautiful heavens.

"Well done, Little Lize," Gillian giggled as she descended from above and gazed at Lize with an amusing smile. "Your first battle is a huge success. To be honest, I never thought that you actually considered this much. But it seems that Master's expectations of you were correct."

"... Is this fine, Miss Gillian?"

Lize revealed a complex expression. She puckered her brows and turned to the disorderly, stacked burnt corpses. The battlefield looked like a living hell...

"Everything that I've done..."

"Aiya, Little Lize. The battle is over so why are you worrying about this?"

Gillian interrupted cheekily. She held Lize in her arms and spoke softly into her ears. "Alright alright, stop thinking about unnecessary matters. You've spent a long time with Master and this isn't the first time that you've witnessed such a horrible scene so what's there for you to not let go? This is a battle, Little Lize. You did well and no one will reprimand you for it. Let it go and stop showing such an expression to your men. If you feel guilty, they will feel uneasy too."

"... Okay." Lize lowered her head instinctively as she sensed that something was off from the fox-eared young lady's words. However, she couldn't figure out what exactly was wrong.

At this point, Lize was feeling extremely emotional. After all, the tactics that she came up with had finally worked. On the other hand, she felt horrible because so many lives were gone because of her, and yet, she felt this excited and accomplished. Although she understood that these people were her enemies and defeating them was her duty, she couldn't help but feel uneasy witnessing the corpses laid across before her. But shortly after, she stifled the fluster in her mind and calmed herself down.

"Our job here is done. Not sure about the situation on the other side... Miss Gillian... Will it really be fine?"

"Huhuhu, don't worry, Little Lize," Gillian let out a chuckle and scratched Lize's nose lightly. "I guarantee you that there isn't any problem at all. Hehe. Some people are just too prideful and we must give them a way out before they're willing."

"???" Lize turned to Gillian curiously, but Gillian simply squinted at the horizon meaningfully.

It's about time now.

A look of vigilance and concern emerged on the Cavalry Leader's face as he observed the thick dark smoke coming into view from the horizon in the distance. He knew the battle plan with the utmost importance was going on in that direction. Initially, General Dade had planned to split the Cavalrymen into two teams and penetrate the defensive line as quickly as possible while the others pinned down the Fortress. Afterward, they would attack the city of Paphield altogether after converging their forces. As long as their breakthrough was successful, it would mean that their battle plan had worked out perfectly. General Dade was extremely confident in this battle plan because he had dispatched scouts to investigate the forces in the Cloud Summit Fortress and he learned that the Fortress didn't have enough manpower to defend against his attacks. Moreover, based on the Reformist Party's intelligence network, there weren't any troops deployed by the King's Party at the rear of the Fortress, which meant that if they could break through the defensive line, victory would be within their reach!

But... What was going on now? The sparkling flares and deep, loud explosions... He felt rather anxious, but he couldn't link up with the forces there. Although it was the reliable General Dade who led the Cavalrymen personally for the breakthrough, he still expected some sort of resistance from the enemies.

However, this stillness... didn't seem like...

"—!"

Suddenly, a deep, ear-piercing sound broke out and struck his chest like an invisible steel hammer. The Cavalry Leader let out a groan and he almost fell off his horse. He tugged the reins hurriedly to secure his position, but the soldiers around him had fallen to the ground.

At this moment, the Cavalry Leader discovered a black-haired young lady seated on the ground, strumming the strings of a tall harp. Even though the young lady was alone, the Cavalrymen sensed an overwhelming pressure as though she possessed the might of a thousand soldiers. The warhorses below them neighed uncertainly and even though they tugged their reins, they couldn't control them at all. The black-haired young lady knitted her brows as she looked at the shameful Cavalrymen. "How ugly."

Her voice wasn't loud, but it sounded so crisp and clear like she was whispering straight into their ears.

"This is the shameful behavior of the weak. How unbearable... I had no intentions of dealing with you people, but since I've received an order, I have to finish it... It's normal for a strong one to show pity for the weak, so I will give you all a chance to turn around and return to wherever you came from. This is my mercy to you and this is your only chance."

The young lady remained in silence as she waited for their responses. Meanwhile, the soldiers were dumbstruck. They never thought that this young lady would dare threaten a brigade of thousands of soldiers.

She must be insane!

The Cavalry Leader knitted his brows slightly. Although he felt something strange in the way she spoke, he didn't believe that she was bluffing. The weird voice remained in his mind clearly and the unbearable sensation he felt in his body was still present. This proved that the young lady wasn't easy to deal with. But... would they back down just like this?

"We will never back down!" The Cavalry Leader raised his sword and pointed at the black-haired young lady. "We fight for the freedom of the Southerners! We will use our lives to defend and protect our families! We will not succumb to sinister ruler! We will go all-out and never give up!"

The Cavalry Leader grunted, blew a long whistle, and urged on his warhorse forward. The Cavalrymen behind him lifted their weapons and darted toward the black-haired young lady. In an instant, the entire Calvary team had as though transformed into a berserk tornado, whizzing and pulverizing everything before them.

"Hmph..." The young lady revealed a look of disdain. "How dare you weak ones rebel against the strong and continue to revel in your foolish behaviors? This is disgustingly loathful!"

Her brows snapped together furiously and she readied her fingers on the fine strings.

Chapter 554: A Startling Change

Translator: AtlasStudios Editor: AtlasStudios

Thousands of armored horses galloped forward while the soldiers raised their shimmering swords. Nobody could remain indifferent in the face of such dignified attack, but Gaya didn't even bat an eyelid. Instead, she ruffled her ring finger on the harp strings.

"—!"

In an instant, the entire world became clear and silent.

The ground sunk in abruptly as though a gigantic object had crashed down from the sky and not a single Cavalry stood before Gaya any more. In the blink of an eye, the shapeless sound wave had smashed them into snowflake-like fine powder. The young lady stood to her feet and the powder fluttered in the gentle breeze.

"Ugly, weak, and not worth a mention." Gaya swept a glance at the ground covered in white powder before her. She snorted and left with her harp in hands.

Everything had ended for her.

But it had just begun for the others.

It was afternoon.

General Dade lowered his gaze to the Cloud Summit Fortress in the distance and he sucked in a deep, long breath to calm his nerves. He observed the soldiers on the Fortress walls. They had pulled back their bowstrings fully and were aiming at his men. However, there weren't any movements in the Fortress indicating their intentions to move out. This was fine for General Dade because his mission wasn't to take down the Cloud Summit Fortress. With his current manpower, he would pay a huge price to take down even this tattered Fortress. Moreover, it was the 'Red Fox' Garcia taking charge of the Fortress and General Dade knew the best ways to deal with a cunning person like him. The best way against him was to observe changes and ensure that the soldiers wouldn't leave the Fortress.

Bu, even so, the explosions and thick billows of smoke left Dade feeling nervous. He stroked his long beard and his stubborn, stone carved-like angular face gloomed. Although he trusted his subordinates, the thick, dark smoke worried the prudent general. No matter what, he was sure that the smoke was the doing of the enemies.

Besides, no matter how many enemies there were, it was rather apparent that they had discovered his true intentions. However, he didn't know how much manpower that rascal, Garcia, had dispatched to stop his 3000 Cavalrymen. With his current manpower, perhaps it wouldn't be enough even if he sent everyone.

Originally, Dade had nothing to worry about the current situation. According to his battle plan, his men would be converging in deep Paphield by noon and he would receive a signal to retreat immediately. However, he felt that something was off as though things weren't that simple. He tried to contact his men, but the Remote Communication Crystal was an expensive item and shouldn't be used by a general like him.

It's afternoon already. Just two to three hours more and they should arrive at the destination according to the battle plan...

General Dade shook his head and scanned the surroundings before returning to his campsite. "Garcia seems so idle. It seems like I must apply more pressure on him..."

"I don't think that's necessary, Old General."

Suddenly, a carefree voice sounded from behind him. General Dade instantly knew that the voice was hostile and he instinctively reached for his sword. However, the assassin was much quicker than him. General Dade grabbed his sword hilt, but a dagger had pushed against his throat. Any slight movements from him and the razor-sharp blade would undoubtedly tear his throat.

"Who... Who... are you?" General Dade's body stiffened entirely.

He possessed strength in the Elite Stage and he had no lack of powerful bodyguards around him. It proved that this assassin was much stronger than him since he was able to sneak up on him that closely. General Dade smartly chose to give up resisting because he knew that the assassin had the strength of at least the Master Stage and it was impossible for his men to take him down. If he put up a meaningless struggle, not only would he die even quicker, but they would also be unable to capture this mysterious intruder. Since the assassin had managed to sneak into his camp without getting discovered, it proved that he could slip away equally well from their encirclement. If he reacted hastily, there would be no purpose other than losing his life.

"Now isn't the time for self-introductions, Old General. I have a request. Order your men to lay down their weapons and surrender to the Cloud Summit Fortress. How about that? This is something that you can easily accomplish, right?"

"I've never expected a holy and righteous Angel to resort to such evil, shameless means."

"That's not right. I'm a genuine human, so you can stop attacking me using race. Indeed, perhaps Royal Highness Lydia dislikes such methods, but we, subordinates, are a pragmatic bunch... Moreover, I don't think that this is vicious. Sacrificing you is better than sending that many soldiers to their death for the sake of the brainless merchants' greedy desires, right?"

"..." General Dade fell into silence.

As one of the generals for the Southern Legion frontline, he knew the situation by the rear at the tip of his fingers. He had heard about the incidents involving the conflagration and the Undead Army, and this was the first time that he was highly disappointed in the Reformist Party. Although both incidents were eventually resolved, he had seen the operations between the impassioned merchants and the nobles. Instead of working hard for the Southerners as they claimed, they protected their benefits and revealed their shameless side.

Not everyone in the Southern Legion supported the Reformist Party. Apart from the imprisoned officers that objected independence from the Munn Kingdom, the other officers that were devoted to the Reformist Party all had different standpoints. Some of them fancied the authority, position, and wealth that the Reformist Party had given them. They abandoned their pride and honor as military officials and kneeled before the merchants and became their hired thugs. Some of them had the same idea as the Reformist Party and they hoped to break away from the Munn Kingdom. The families of the remaining officers were threatened and they had no choice but to succumb to the Reformist Party.

General Dade belonged to the second group. He was a true Southerner and had grown up listening to the Reformist Party's propaganda. In his impression, the King's Party was as the Reformist Party described, ferocious, violent, and dictatorial. Furthermore, the bloody night that Lydia had caused years ago left him stunned. This was why he was determined to join their forces after the Reformist Party declared independence.

But now, he was utterly disappointed after witnessing the Reformist Party's actions. He thought that they would choose to mobilize the frontline forces to curb the Undead Army's threat. After all, no matter what, the Undead Army was the biggest threat at the moment. But he didn't expect that the greedy Southern Parliament members actually made a grave mistake in their decision... They had actually sent inexperienced city guards to battle the Undead Army!

At the end, needless to say, all the city guards died in the battle and General Dade's young brother was one of them.

Due to this reason, General Dade was feeling increasingly disappointed and hopeless in the Southern Parliament. He knew why the Southern Parliament didn't mobilize the troops and had sent the city guards to face the terrifying creatures instead. However, the Southern Parliament's statements to them had been entirely different. They said that this was for the sake of the people in order to save them from the despotic rule so they could leave a peaceful life. But now? They abandoned their people and protected their own benefits!

Are my actions correct?

"... General Dade, sorry to interrupt you, but don't you think you've remained silent for a little too long?" The voice sounded in his ears once again.

General Dade let out a helpless sigh.

Forget it. My mission has been accomplished... No matter what happens next, it has nothing to do with me anymore.

General Dade lifted his head and called out. "Messenger..."

His voice had never been this agonizing.

The fiery sun shone on the city walls brightly.

Garcia leaned listlessly and the liquor flask in his hand was empty.

"This is boring. What's that old fart doing? Setting up camp and not moving an inch? Is he intending to be a permanent resident there? Heh. What's the point of this deadlock? He might as well send some men forward for a great fight. Tch, I've finished my liquor. How troublesome. I wonder how's that little girl's doing on the other side. If that little girl is doing well, maybe I can use this chance to attack that old fart..."

The slipshod Fortress Commander rubbed his hands and let out a cheeky laugh as though he was more like a dirty gangster. But shortly after, he stood up straight and revealed a stern expression. "Heh. That old fart is finally sending out his troops? How daring of him. Messenger, pass down my orders... Eh?"

Garcia's hand gestures came to an abrupt stop. He squinted at the teams of soldiers approaching the Fortress. The soldiers weren't raising their weapons and charging over aggressively. Instead, they were unarmed and crestfallen while their leader raised a white flag high.

"What in the world?" Garcia was dumbfounded.

The dejected, unarmed soldiers entered the Fortress with the escort from the soldiers. Garcia scrutinized the young man who stood beside the dispirited old general who was bound tightly in ropes. "Mr. Rhode, long time no see. What a huge surprise you have there."

"It's nothing, General Garcia. I was just passing by and I saw that your Fortress had been surrounded again. Since I had nothing better to do, I thought that I might as well... It seems that this ending is great too, right?"

For unknown reasons, Garcia found the word 'again' ear-piercing.

"... Yes, it's all thanks to you." Garcia shrugged lightly and approached General Dade.

He shot him a look and gestured to his bodyguards. Shortly after, the bodyguards silently brought the old general away and Garcia turned to face Rhode with a smile. "Mr. Rhode, you've done a great job again. Don't make the other nobles too jealous, will ya? By the way, your troops are..."

"I know. Don't worry, she'll be fine."

Rhode was confident in Lize's abilities. In fact, he had received a 'live report' from Gillian about Lize's battle plan. Got to say, Rhode knew that Lize had this talent in her and she performed impressively this time. Clerics were a strict support class and this meant that an outstanding Cleric had to grasp the characteristics and classes of the members in her team, in order to prevent any mistakes during battle. Due to this reason, many Clerics in team battles took up the roles of adjutants because they possessed pragmatic commanding moves, meticulous observation skills, and sharp reactions. Lize had no lack of these characteristics and during their previous operations, Rhode had discovered that Lize led her Cleric team skillfully without any issues. This was one of the reasons that he had appointed Lize to represent him in commanding the battle.

Remarkable results.

Rhode felt that he was really fortunate. Indeed, Lize lacked overall views on situations. Perhaps it was due to her small-minded personality that she limited herself to observe the outcomes of the one or two battles. The furthest that Lize could envision in this battle was the Reformist Party trying to launch an attack on Paphield after getting past the defensive line. On the contrary, Marlene was different. As Rhode's adjutant, she wasn't as careful in pre-battle preparations, but she concentrated on the present conditions instead. If both of them were chess players, Lize would be planning her moves in terms of gains and losses while Marlene would watch the movements of the entire chessboard.

Both of them had their merits and drawbacks. If Rhode could make use of their strength perfectly, it would surely be beneficial for future battles. Marlene didn't need his guidance while Lize finally unleashed her potential under pressure.

This was the best gain for Rhode.

"I see that Mr. Rhode is aware of the current situation?"

Garcia had invited Rhode to his room and he asked softly.

Rhode twitched his brows. He picked up the teacup and sipped the fragrant tea. "That's right, Mr. Garcia. I'm clear of the current situation. But, nobodies like us should do what we're supposed to and as for the other matters... Someone else will naturally do it."

"I hope so." Garcia shook his head as he knew what Rhode meant.

At this moment, someone knocked on the door. Garcia knitted his brows and responded. "Come in."

The door opened and Lize entered the room. "General Garcia, we have accomplished the mission. Among the 3,500 enemy Cavalrymen, 2,300 of them are dead and those who survived are heavily injured. My men are looking over them, but there are too many of them. If it is possible, I hope the Fortress can... Mr. Rhode?!"

Lize shockingly detected Rhode sitting at the side. She widened her eyes in astonishment. "You're back? When did you..."

"Only just, Lize. I've heard from Gillian. And you've done well."

"Mr. Rhode..."

Complicated emotions clouded her mind as she witnessed his nod. There were feelings of joy, complaints, and grievances... She didn't know how she should face Rhode. She looked at Rhode vacantly but she couldn't utter any more words. On the other hand, the corners of Rhode's mouth turned up and he approached her, placing his right hand on her shoulder. "Good job, Lize. I'm happy that you're able to face everything bravely and accomplish the mission that I've handed to you impressively."

"Mr. Rhode, I..." Lize blushed to Rhode's gaze.

When she was about to respond, suddenly, a soldier rushed into the room. "Reporting, Sir! We received news that the Thistle Wreath Fortress has fallen into the enemies' hands! The Southern Legion's 20,000 troops have penetrated deep into the Paphield hinterland!"

Chapter 555: Take The Bait

Translator: AtlasStudios Editor: AtlasStudios

Lize's expression paled as soon as she heard the news. The thing that she feared the most had eventually happened. She looked at Rhode and Garcia worriedly and attempted to seek their assistance. However, the next scene left her stunned.

Rhode and Garcia appeared unfazed. Garcia smiled at Rhode and gestured to the soldier. "Alright, I got it. You can back down now."

"Yes, Sir." The orderly left swiftly.

Garcia strolled to his table and lifted a bottle of red wine. He shook it slightly at Rhode. "Mr. Rhode, shall we?"

"Sorry, I'm not interested in being alone with a man. Besides, Mr. Garcia, since we've driven off the enemies, how about we have a celebration feast tonight? Everyone has put in hard work and it will be a great time for them to unwind, right?"

"Yes, that's a great idea. I will get my men to prepare immediately. Please join us tonight, especially Miss Lize." Garcia turned to Lize with a gracious smile. "You've led the mercenaries and secured our defensive line. At the same time, you've also held hundreds of enemies captive. This is a great achievement. Please join our celebration feast with your mercenaries. I will get my chefs to prepare their best dishes to treat everyone's palettes."

"Ah. It's nothing. General Garcia, this is my duty... No!" Lize nodded instinctively before coming to her senses abruptly. She looked helplessly at Garcia and Rhode. "General Garcia, Mr. Rhode, the Thistle Wreath Fortress has fallen into the enemies' hands and they have penetrated Paphield. Aren't we supposed to do something?"

"..." Garcia and Rhode exchanged glances with each other.

Garcia spread his hands out and gazed at Rhode with a dissatisfied look while Rhode shrugged as though the matter had nothing to do with him. "What has this got to do with us? Lize, our mission has been accomplished. Alright, don't worry so much and get some rest. I'm sure you must be tired. Just relax and join the feast tonight."

"But..."

Lize couldn't understand why Rhode had such an attitude toward the matter. The Reformist Party army had invaded Paphield and who knew what they would be up to. But now, Rhode and Garcia didn't seem as nervous as she had expected. Instead, they were casually discussing some celebratory feast? Was this what they should do now? However, before Lize finished her sentence, Rhode had stood up and nodded at Garcia. "Alright then, General Garcia. I will take my leave now and let my men know of the feast tonight."

"Please be assured, Mr. Rhode, I will prepare it well..." Garcia paused and swept at glance at Lize. "... I hope all of you will enjoy yourselves fully."

"I'm looking forward to it." Rhode patted Lize's shoulder and left.

Lize looked at Garcia, who put his leg on the table, leisurely drinking red wine. She eventually turned around and followed Rhode hurriedly.

"Mr. Rhode!" Lize scurried her way to Rhode's side and she asked. "Do you really intend to not do anything? Paphield will..."

Rhode came to a halt and turned to her. "Lize, you're a qualified adjutant. I know you have this capability and I heard from Gillian about everything that you've done. I have to say that you did a good job. As an adjutant, you're qualified. But as a commander, you've failed terribly."

"Mr. Rhode?"

Lize gazed blankly at him. Rhode noticed her doubts and he patted her shoulder before gesturing for her to follow him. Lize followed puzzledly as they headed toward the exit of the Fortress. Rhode continued. "Lize, you have to understand that we are only a Guild. Of course, I'm a Baron now, but that's about all. I'm not a commander of a region, neither am I a noble of the Golden City. To put it bluntly, I'm a civilian and not the King of the Munn Kingdom. We don't have the rights and responsibilities to question. Besides... you seem to distrust Royal Highness Lydia a little too much."

"I don't really understand... Mr. Rhode."

Lize knitted her brows, but Rhode gave her an explanation swiftly.

"I've said before that Royal Highness Lydia has no intentions of ending this battle anytime soon because if the Southerners don't personally experience the tragedies that these battles would bring them, they wouldn't stop them. If they don't lose their families in the battles, end up living on the streets where they can't even afford food and to live in the rubbish dump to snatch food from wild dogs, they will surely put in more passion for this senseless rebellion. If the Southerners can't feed themselves and are always on the brink of death, to begin with, this method will surely be ineffective because they have lost everything and there is nothing else for them to lose. But you and I are aware that this isn't the truth. The South in the Munn Kingdom is the wealthiest place where the laborers dress up even better than the nobles and manor owners in the North. This time, their rebellion and so-called independence isn't built on the foundation of their survivability. Instead, it is to seek additional benefits. Therefore, they won't watch their benefits be devoured by the flames of battles."

Both of them stepped out of the Fortress and were welcomed by the heat waves and noises. The air was filled with soldiers' screams and berates. There were also sounds of sufferings and moanings from the wounded soldiers in the medical camps in the distance.

"Lize, you are aware of Royal Highness Lydia's strength. Indeed, the Battle Angel Army basically won't intervene with human battles and this is one of the Archangel's considerations. After all, the ruler isn't a human. If she uses non-human subordinates to interfere with human affairs, it will surely raise an uproar among the civilians. But even so, Royal Highness Lydia has the loyal forces of the King's Party, namely the Northern Army, Eastern Plain, Court Mage Association, and the Senia Family, taking the lead. But, have you seen any of them at this point? Is it possible that Royal Highness Lydia is so worthless that she couldn't mobilize any troops? Could it be that the Munn Kingdom has fallen so low that we have to rely on mercenaries to fight?"

"I..." Lize was speechless.

"Frankly speaking, if Royal Highness Lydia only wishes to repress the rebellion, the entire Reformist Party would be hanged and whirling in the wind in the forest behind Golden City by now. But this is meaningless because the other civilians will continue to be intoxicated in worshipping their so-called thoughts of freedom and independence. If things reach that stage, perhaps Golden City would hang a group of people in their back forest every year."

"But Big Sister has also done something similar in the past..."

"The past and now are different," Rhode shook his head. "Back then, Royal Highness Lydia had just succeeded the throne and she didn't have the reputation to convince the people. On the contrary, the Reformist Party had been conspiring for a long time and they took actions while the iron was hot. On one hand, it was to establish their prestige within the King's Party in the shortest time possible and on the other hand, it was to delay and suppress the Southern group of idiots. But it is different now. Royal Highness Lydia has stabled her strong position and grasped the Munn Kingdom firmly in her hands, so she can set her mind at ease and carefully act in accordance to the enemies, rather than slash out her swords. The Thistle Wreath Forest's fall is actually within General Garcia and my expectations."

It was apparent from Lydia's dillydallying of not dispatching military troops that she had intended to lure the enemies into penetrating deeply into the Flourishing Blossom, Thistle Wreath, Cloud Summit, where one of the three Fortresses had to be sacrificed. Since Gaya had been sent by Lydia to the Cloud Summit Fortress, it meant that this place wouldn't be abandoned. Rhode had read from the letter that Marlene had headed into the Flourishing Blossom so the chances of there being abandoned were basically zero. Lastly, the Thistle Wreath Fortress—its terrain wasn't suitable for defense and furthermore, there was only a city, Calentes, behind it. That place was in the wilderness with minimal population, specialties, and wealth. It could be said that it was the most likely to be abandoned.

It seemed that the situation had been developing according to Royal Highness Lydia's plans. Rhode knew that his identity was nothing more than a lowly Baron and mercenary, and the Munn Kingdom hadn't reached the desperate stage where everyone would be dragged into a role in battles. Therefore, he was only responsible for some early stage projects. However, this proved as a great opportunity for Rhode. He wasn't furious that he had been left out from the huge battle at all. Instead, he was delighted and pleased. His less than 200 mercenaries would be useless in a battle of the thousands and the situations in battle were so everchanging that all his men might even be sacrificed for nothing. He would prefer to lead his team of Elites to complete missions like what a player did best. After all, this was the way players cleared the game.

"I guess you're aware that the King's Party's strength is much stronger than the Reformist Party's. The Reformist Party launched their attacks to conquer as much land as possible in Paphield because they would then seek help from the Country of Light Parliament when the King's Party retaliated. By then, they would pick up this cheap deal of territory in Paphield, with the prerequisite that the King's Party would respect the decision of the Light Parliament."

But, in fact, the King's Party wouldn't.

The Light Parliament had understood this point ever since Lydia witnessed how Mini Bubble Gum had defeated the Mist Sword Saint. However, the Light Parliament didn't inform the Reformist Party because, from their standpoint, the Reformist Party's actions would only weaken the Munn Kingdom's strength no matter whether they succeeded or not. If they didn't manage Lydia well enough, it might bring a hidden danger that wouldn't be eradicated for a long time. The Light Parliament only needed to put in some harsh words and they could simply watch in safety.

Therefore, the Light Parliament's best deal was to continue pretending. However, they could never be as invested as before when it came to applying pressure on the King's Party because they had understood the consequences of getting involved.

"Have you seen people catch monkeys before, Lize?"

"Catch monkeys?" Lize shook her head in surprise.

Rhode nodded and continued. "I've seen some people catching a monkey. They used a heavy clay pot with an opening the size of a monkey's hand and place delicious fruits in it. The monkey naturally inserts its hand for it and it couldn't pull out of it... Then, the hunter goes up to it and grabs it."

"Why can't it take its hand out of the opening? Mr Rhode? If it could put its hand in, it should be able to take it out, isn't it?"

"The reason is simple. It put its empty hand in and grabbed a fruit when it tried to retrieve it. Even in the face of danger, the monkey still wasn't willing to let go of the fruit. In the end, it couldn't escape the trap and was caught by the hunter..." Rhode narrowed his eyes. "And now, the monkey has put its hand in the opening and all we need to do is to be devoted audiences to see how the hunter captures the monkey. Soon, the hunter will be attacking the monkey, but the monkey will not let go of its hand even after it sees the rope on the hunter's hand. Instead, the monkey will be foolishly hoping for someone to step up and get it out of danger before the hunter captures it."

"..."

Lize lowered her head in silence. Rhode had given a clear explanation and she naturally understood what he meant. After a brief moment, the young lady let out a sigh and said. "Mr. Rhode, what should we do next?"

"Our mission is almost done. We shall see the situation over at Royal Highness Lydia's side. I think that Cloud Summit Fortress won't be in any danger and we should focus on our own mission soon... I guess the reinforcements will arrive at the Cloud Summit Fortress in a few days and we will be free from anything by then. Lize, have a good rest during this period of time and afterward, we will head to the Frozen Lake in Cranmore to complete our next 5 Stars mission."

Frankly speaking, although Rhode had gained political and reputational respect after coming to the Paphield defensive line, this actually was a miserable result for a player. The enemies here were low-leveled and Rhode gained merely a pathetic 20000 EXP. Even before he got to accumulate more EXP, the 'Sulfur River' in Grosso had wiped it all out. Then, in Fiat, he received a special 'Fiery Rose' mission and failed to complete it due to the circumstances. Although Lydia's mission had been completed, his system missions had failed and he felt dispirited. Since there was nothing much going on with him in the upcoming battle, he intended to use this opportunity to strengthen his Guild's strength.

Both of them spoke as they walked and they arrived at the mercenary campsite. As they were about to step into the campsite, an unfamiliar voice berated. "Let me go, you despicable Northerners! I will fight to the death with all of you!"