(Chapter 15)
The expression on Lorcan Frostborne, Duke of the North, grew increasingly grim as he read the report brought by Aedric Thornshade. Every word in the report revealed the meetings and conversations between Clarisse Faeloria and Kaelion Arvasyn, the crown prince. Although it was clearly stated that there was no special relationship between the two, the fact that they frequently met still made Lorcan uncomfortable.
Aedric, noticing the tension in his lord, tried to calm the situation. However, Lorcan's focus was too fixed on the news about Clarisse and Kaelion, making it hard for him to listen to any explanation.
"Additionally, Princess Caelira Duskthorn from the South is also friends with Lady Clarisse, Your Grace," Aedric added cautiously.
Lorcan took a deep breath, trying to control his emotions. "I will visit the Academy," he said firmly.
"You wish to meet Lady Clarisse?" Aedric asked, though he already suspected the answer.
"Yes," Lorcan replied shortly.
As a loyal aide, Aedric immediately went about his duties. He prepared everything needed and sent a letter to the headmaster of the Academy, citing an official visit. Although the reason sounded implausible, the added information that the Duke of the North would provide funding for the Academy made the letter receive an immediate reply.
"Your Grace, the headmaster has approved your visit," Aedric reported.
"When is it?" Lorcan asked.
"Next week, Your Grace."
"That's too long," Lorcan muttered.
"He said that since it's close to the exams, you can only visit after they're finished," Aedric explained.
Lorcan thought for a moment. Clarisse's graduation was approaching, and he gave a thin smile. "It can't be helped, we'll go next week."
Their conversation was interrupted when a soldier arrived, reporting that a wave of monster attacks had occurred at the northern border. Lorcan immediately stood up, his face hardening, anger swelling within his chest.
"Prepare everything! We're heading to the border!" Lorcan ordered firmly. Aedric, used to his lord's reactions, quickly took the initiative and began organizing preparations.
Lorcan was not only angry because of the monster attacks, but also because this situation would prevent him from visiting the Academy to meet Clarisse.
"Your Grace, the attacking monsters are a horde of Orcs," reported a soldier.
"Those bastards really want to be wiped out," Lorcan snarled.
"What are your orders, Your Grace?" Aedric asked.
"We'll destroy them. There must be an Orc settlement nearby."
"Understood, Your Grace."
At night, they arrived at the border. The latest report stated that the number of Orcs attacking had reached 200.
"200 Orcs..." Lorcan murmured, still confident that they would not lose. With 2000 soldiers, including elite knights and well-trained warriors, as well as capable commanders and generals, Lorcan felt victory was within reach.
A soldier spoke with confidence, "With our forces, victory is certain, Your Grace."
Lorcan nodded, a thin smile appearing. "If you're so sure, I want this victory to be achieved without me having to step into the battlefield."
"Of course, Your Grace. I will ensure absolute victory for us!"
Their enemies were large monsters with muscular bodies and dark green skin. Although there were many of them, Lorcan knew the physical strength difference between humans and Orcs was vast. He was confident his troops could handle the attack, though casualties on their side were unavoidable.
Lorcan and Aedric observed the ongoing battle. Their forces had successfully pushed the enemy back and kept the border secure.
"It seems that this time, Your Grace really doesn't need to intervene," Aedric said with a relieved tone.
Lorcan responded calmly, "We'll see. After all, our enemies are Orcs. We must still watch out for an Orc Champion or even their King."
TO BE CONTINUED