In the council chamber, Jonady's announcement sent shockwaves through the room.
— "Abandon the front?! Withdraw from our positions?!" several generals exclaimed, their voices a mix of surprise and outrage.
Princess Raelia frowned, sharing their skepticism.
But before she could voice her concerns, Jonady raised his hand to calm them.
— "That's exactly what they need to believe."
He then outlined his plan with chilling confidence.
Meanwhile, in the northern part of the island, the allied forces of demons and orcs were gathering strength.
Their encampments, built on conquered lands, were buzzing with activity. Massive orcs, their bodies covered in scars, sat around a campfire, conversing.
— "I can't wait to be done with this war," growled one of them, seated on a tree stump.
— "Me neither," replied another, inspecting his war axe. "
But I'm even more excited to reach their capital.
Imagine the treasures they're hiding there.
With what the demons are already paying us, I bet the castle is full of priceless jewels."
Inside a larger, more ornate tent, Kurt, the orc leader, stood polishing his massive blade. His imposing chest, long ears, and protruding tusks gave him an intimidating presence. Beside him, a heavy shield rested against the tent wall.
Facing him stood Giyard, the demon leader, his blazing red eyes and black horns accentuating his menacing demeanor. He adjusted his dark armor while listening distractedly to the orc's words.
— "You really trust that human," Kurt sneered, continuing to polish his weapon.
Giyard shot him a cold glare, gripping his two-handed sword tightly.
— "Trust a pathetic human? Don't confuse us with your kind, orc. We're not as foolish. Once they've outlived their usefulness, we'll dispose of that pitiful Philippe and install a more obedient puppet."
Kurt burst out laughing.
— "Hahaha! That's fine by me. As long as you demons keep paying us, we'll do the job."
Such was the nature of orcs in this world: pragmatic and driven by profit. Targeted assassinations, mercenary work, pillaging... It didn't matter what the task was as long as it paid well. Their motto, "The world is our gold," guided their every decision.
Giyard observed the orc for a moment, disgusted by his crudeness but fully aware of his utility.
— "The humans won't last more than three days," the demon declared with a sinister smile. "Victory will be ours."
Convinced of their imminent success, he stared into an invisible point ahead.
— "The royal family of Ednia should have accepted submission. Stupid humans."
He erupted into malicious laughter, savoring the kingdom's anticipated downfall, completely oblivious to the meticulously orchestrated counterstrike brewing in the shadows.