Chapter 253: Protect Arkansas (4) The First Day
The commander of Ravindor’s army, General Varkas, surveyed the landscape around Arkansas with a grim expression. The city’s walls loomed ahead, silent and imposing. Varkas clenched his jaw, his eyes narrowing as he took in the signs of sabotage: broken supply lines, burnt-out watchtowers, and the unnerving absence of several forward scouts.
"How is this possible?" Varkas muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. "We’ve had too many setbacks already, and we haven’t even begun the main assault. Casualties from the skirmishes alone are troubling."
When Varkas arrived, he received various kinds of reports. Supply chains were sabotaged, dozens of small groups were assassinated overnight, and more than 50 soldiers were not in a condition to fight due to fear.
"Ridiculous," He turned to his advisors, a mix of seasoned veterans and strategic minds. "We were supposed to have Arkansas in chaos by now, weakened from within. Where are our spies? Why have they not returned with information?"
One of his advisors, a grizzled man named Thane, shook his head. "There’s been no word, General. It’s possible they’ve been compromised."
Varkas’s frown deepened. "Damn it. We need that intelligence. Without it, we’re flying blind!"
Despite the uncertainty, Varkas knew they could not delay any longer. His army was vast, consisting of 10,000 soldiers, 1,000 archers, 500 cavalry, and several specialized units trained in siege warfare. The forces were divided into four battalions, each led by capable captains who awaited his orders.
Waiting would only become a burden for the supply line.
And being deemed as a burden by the Duke is never a good thing.
"We attack, let’s just use two battalions," Varkas decided, his voice firm. "Send the ultimatum. If there’s no response, we proceed."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the fields, a herald approached the city gates, bearing a white flag. He stood before the closed gates and read aloud the terms of surrender, his voice echoing in the stillness.