Chapter 351: The War of Nobes (3) The Offensive
Lyan marched at the head of his army, the rhythmic sound of boots crunching against the dirt road filling the early morning air. His black cloak billowed lightly behind him as the sun crested the horizon, casting a faint glow over the assembled troops. Unlike the previous battles where he relied on his formidable summoned creatures, this was different. This was a march of humans, trained soldiers and warriors honed under his leadership, alongside the deadly Valkyries who had fought beside him through countless wars.
Wilhelmina, her sharp gaze always ahead, walked silently by his side, her mind clearly focused on the strategic importance of every step they took. To her left was Alice, the platinum-blonde Small General, whose calm demeanor masked the deadly precision she would unleash on the battlefield. Behind them followed Emilia, Surena, Josephine, Abraham, and the two sisters, Raine and Ravia, all poised for the confrontation with Hektor that loomed ahead.
The decision to leave the summoned monsters behind was deliberate. Lyan wanted this battle to be fought by the soldiers he had personally trained. The Valkyries, fierce and disciplined, were a core part of his strategy, and today their strength, combined with the human army, would be tested in full.
As they marched through the narrow valley toward Hektor’s territory, Lyan’s mind churned with strategic calculations. The battle at Grafen had been a resounding success, but the fight ahead would be different. Hektor’s forces were desperate now. Cornered animals were always the most dangerous.
Wilhelmina glanced at Lyan, breaking the silence. "We should reach the edge of Hektor’s territory by sunset. The scouts have reported that he’s mobilized most of his remaining forces to fortify his stronghold. If we strike tonight, we might catch them off guard."
Lyan nodded, but his thoughts were already elsewhere. "It would be unwise to underestimate him again. Hektor won’t make the same mistakes twice. He’ll be expecting a direct attack, which is why we won’t give him one."
Alice’s voice, calm and measured, cut in. "What are you suggesting? A feint?"
"Exactly." Lyan stopped for a moment, turning to face the group. The army behind them continued marching forward in disciplined lines, unaware of the discussion at the front. "We’ll divide our forces. Wilhelmina, you’ll lead a frontal assault with half the army. Make it look as though we’re preparing for a full-scale siege. Meanwhile, I’ll take the other half through the southern hills. There’s a series of caves there—narrow, but passable. We can come up behind them while they’re distracted with your forces."
Wilhelmina folded her arms, her sharp eyes scanning the map Lyan had unfurled. "It’s a risk. If Hektor has scouts in the hills, they could ambush you."