The Empire's leaders have long been discontent with the Magic Guild's actions that surpass imperial law, and they believe the Empire grants Wizards too many privileges. This incident will strain the relationship between the imperial military and the Magic Guild. It's even rumored that His Majesty the Emperor has been critical of the Magic Guild in recent years, especially because the Guild did not send enough Wizards to support the navy in the last southern expedition.
His Majesty is considering reducing the annual privileges granted to the Magic Guild. As soon as news of the attack reached the provincial capital of Leir, it provoked great indignation among military officers. Even before Knight Cameron set off, over a thousand local defense officers had signed a petition demanding the governor order the Magic Guild to severely punish the attackers.
But... to put a Wizard on trial, and a high-ranking one at that? This is unprecedented in the Empire's history!
After sending off Knight Peter, who, despite his injuries, had to travel urgently to the provincial capital by carriage due to the governor's strict orders, Knight Cameron immediately took over the city's defenses. He then sent men to swiftly repair the walls damaged in last night's earthquake. Afterward, he headed to the local defense camp outside the city, where he met Knight Andrew, who was there to change horses.
Andrew was also injured but persisted despite his exhaustion. He had been riding all day and was physically worn out, though his spirit remained unyielding. His horse, however, couldn't keep up and needed to be replaced.
Knight Cameron met with Knight Andrew, and after a brief conversation, learned that the local defense forces had gathered to conduct a large-scale search. Andrew felt a slight relief.
"Moreover, I believe the Russell family's private army has begun to assemble as well. By tomorrow afternoon at the latest, the Russell family's light cavalry should arrive in Leir Province. This incident has significant repercussions... I fear..."
Andrew, a retainer of the Russell family, was naturally privy to some of the inner workings of powerful families. He quickly interjected, "You mean the impact of a Wizard attacking the military camp?"
"Yes," Knight Cameron replied slowly. "I brought a thousand cavalry, and the main force is still gathering. I have command over a 300-mile radius here, but honestly, I don't have much confidence. However, the governor's strict order is to find Master Freyr. Because..."
Knight Cameron glanced around and lowered his voice, "Because, as stated in the governor's confidential letter to me, while the situation is serious, the higher-ups likely won't dare to completely break with the Magic Guild. They might take the opportunity to suppress them a bit but won't take drastic actions. Even His Majesty the Emperor probably won't rashly offend the Magic Guild. However, appearances must be maintained, and they will issue some official condemnations. Eventually, it will likely be downplayed. Although the military was attacked, no one was killed, which leaves room for de-escalation. But... that young noble is the key! If... to put it bluntly, if something happens to Master Freyr... this matter will not end peacefully! Knight Andrew, do you understand what I'm saying?"
Andrew thought for a moment and nodded.
If... if something happens to Master Freyr, or worse...
Then, given the Russell family's status, the earl's eldest son's death cannot go unanswered! Even if it's known that the earl doesn't favor this son, the Russell family's honor demands retribution. A centuries-old family with a glorious military history cannot tolerate such an affront! If the earl doesn't seek justice, the Russell family's prestige would be severely undermined.
From the perspective of the family head, the earl will undoubtedly pursue the matter to the end. And if the earl insists, given the Russell family's influence and connections in the imperial military, they could mobilize considerable forces. If this leads to a direct confrontation between the imperial military and the Magic Guild, it would be a disaster!
Therefore, finding young Master Freyr is crucial to resolving this crisis.
"What is the Magic Guild's response?" Andrew asked.
"The Magic Guild? Hmph!" Knight Cameron's tone was disdainful, clearly indicating his dissatisfaction with the Guild after the incident. "The Magic Guild's headquarters in the provincial capital responded by saying they would handle the matter internally. Did you hear that? Internally! A blatant attack on the imperial army, an outright act of rebellion and treason, and they dismiss it with 'internal handling'! The Magic Guild has always shielded Wizards. Their so-called internal handling often amounts to nothing. These arrogant bastards think the Empire can't do without Wizards! Hmph!"
Andrew pondered for a moment and suddenly said, "Knight Cameron, I believe that searching within a 300-mile radius may not be sufficient. The Witch who attacked the camp is far more powerful than we imagined. I suspect she has already fled beyond this range, so I suggest..."
"I know."