O'Neil Castle was bustling with activity.
The King's first batch of Standing Army troops had finished stationing themselves. The total number of defenders in the entire fortress soared to thirty thousand, making it the most fortified on the Western Front.
Fortunately, O'Neil Castle was built along a river and was a massive military port in its own right. In times of peace, it was also a haven for smugglers.
In the inner city of O'Neil Castle, several figures dressed in lavish brocades were pointing and gesturing at an old parchment map.
"Your Highness, a reply from Count Valentino."
Noah's aide-de-camp entered the council hall, breaking the silence.
The crowd present, including Count Fernando and Earl Norwich of O'Nel City, all turned their gazes toward the aide.
The aide-de-camp held the document in his hand, suddenly feeling a wave of nervousness.
"Read it."
Although he already knew the gist of the situation, Prince Noah still clung to a sliver of hope.
