Thick smoke filled the air at the edge of the dense forest, and the morning light illuminated the battlefield. Torn flags hung from broken tree branches. Wolf rode on horseback, witnessing Oscar commanding the army to drive the tribes back to Airtulan. Many tribal warriors perished at the border. He squinted, confirming that the battle was decided, then raised his whip, spurring his horse toward Kane's estate, filled with excitement from the victory.
Several hours later, Wolf knelt before Kane, who was already in Elwin Keep, a large city located in the eastern noble territory of Strongson.
Elwin Keep was one of the oldest noble territories in the eastern region, known for its towering gray-white stone walls and lush oak forests. The fortress was built on the side of a mountain, overlooking a winding river. This land had long been a symbol of Strongson's noble culture, and its owner was a count who had played an influential role in Strongson's history.
"Your Highness, Leon has dispatched tens of thousands of troops from Eldenia to the eastern border. They successfully repelled the tribes' ambush and counterattack. Now, there is no longer any threat at the Eldenia border," Wolf said, excited.
Kane leaned back in his chair, his fingers lightly tapping the armrest. A meaningful smile curved at the corners of his mouth. "The abilities of Leon's commanders exceed my expectations. It seems there's a reason Leon is able to dominate Strongson."
Altu, standing nearby, showed an approving expression. "Your Highness, your foresight was key to this victory. Not only did it weaken Airtulan's power, but it also gave Leon more support for his eastern campaign. His subordinates are clearly worth deeper observation and utilization."
Kane stood up and walked to the window, gazing into the distance. "The cruelty of war often conceals the true victor. Leon and Eldenia are just pieces on the chessboard. The real game has only just begun."
Maeldor and the surviving members of the tribes dragged their weary bodies into Airtulan's border camp. The injured Taka still sat firmly on the stag, his face pale, but he endured the pain, keeping his composure. Loka and the other tribal leaders rushed to meet them. Upon seeing Maeldor and the bloodied Taka, they immediately arranged for people to assist them into the camp.
"Priest, take Taka into the tent immediately!" Loka ordered loudly. An older tribal priest stepped forward and helped Taka into a hastily erected tent.
Inside the tent, the priest quickly retrieved herbs and bandages to treat Taka's wounds. Despite his clothes soaked in blood, Taka gritted his teeth and remained silent. His eyes were still sharp, as if the wounds didn't exist.
"Taka, you need to rest. You won't last much longer if you keep going like this," Maeldor said from the entrance, his voice filled with unquestionable concern.
"I'm fine," Taka replied in a low voice. "The enemy is still out there. I cannot fall."
Maeldor stepped beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder. His gaze was gentle yet firm. "You are the leader of the Green Shadow Tribe, not an invincible warrior. A leader must survive for the tribe to have hope."
Taka said nothing in reply, silently closing his eyes as if accepting Maeldor's words.
Maeldor sighed and turned to leave the tent. At that moment, Loka arrived with Katherine and Irene. She nodded to Maeldor before speaking. "Maeldor, these two are Katherine and Irene. They come from Solantis on the Western Continent. They intercepted the information about this attack, which allowed us to come in time to provide support. They also bring even more important news."
Maeldor looked at the two sisters, his expression complex. "Your arrows were timely and deadly, saving my people and me. The Ancient Deer Tribe owes you a debt. If we have the chance, we will repay you."
Katherine smiled lightly and waved her hand. "There's no need for that. We didn't come for repayment, but to explain something much more important." She glanced at Irene, who nodded in agreement, then continued, "Things are far more complicated than you think. Back in our homeland on the Western Continent, the traces of Eryndor have slowly faded from memory, but that doesn't mean they've disappeared."
Irene stepped up to a simple map, pointing toward Strongson with a heavy tone. "Based on our intelligence, people from Eryndor have infiltrated here. They are likely aiding Leon in his campaign against Eldenia, especially the devastating fire on the frontlines."
Maeldor, curious but confused, asked, "Eryndor? That's a legendary kingdom."
"Indeed." Irene paused, her eyes showing a flash of complex emotions. "It lies deep in the Western Continent, almost isolated from the world. Its history is full of darkness and bloodshed, with a fallen dynasty and mysterious forbidden powers intertwined. The rulers of Eryndor believe that power is maintained through the control and consumption of life force. What they desire is eternal power, with no room for resistance."
The warriors of Airtulan listened intently, and Loka remained silent. Katherine continued, "On the Western Continent, the rulers of Eryndor use necromancy and dark sorcery to strengthen their army. Their soldiers are like soul-devouring monsters—cold-blooded and powerful. In their quest for expansion, the shadow of Eryndor has slowly infiltrated other nations, including Strongson. We received intelligence from the underground forces in New Harbor, which revealed that Eryndor's influence has quietly seeped into Strongson's political and military structures."