Half a year after the orcs began their southern invasion, the cracks within Northwind Province were finally starting to burst open.
Some nobles had lost their wealth and subjects. Others were discontent with meager territories. And still others acted purely out of scheming and political ambition.
"In Lingdu County, the conflict between Viscount Miles and Viscount Dragon has become irreconcilable."
"Miles' second son, March Miles, has once again led troops from his father's domain back to his own fief, where a violent dispute broke out with Enzo Dragon."
So said Baron Hatton, who—like Ryan—only knew a fraction of the full picture. If Ryan was blind to Northwind's full turmoil, Hatton was at best half-blind, owing to the remoteness of his domain near the province's fringe.
What he did know was mostly second-hand, courtesy of Baron Barnes.
"War may be about to break out."
Ryan's comment sent a visible shiver through Hatton, who stared at him anxiously.
