Chapter 198: (Self Edited) Kotlaha*
The Boff Household’s main residence sits atop a raised mound of earth. Five hundred years ago, during the reconstruction of the main house, the Mulan family wanted to create something like a castle, from which they could oversee their capital like the royal palace of Sibyaku and spot approaching enemies.
They began by digging a well and extending its shaft while piling up earth to a height of five meters, upon which they constructed a four-story building. However, the civil engineering techniques of the Shaalta Kingdom at that time had significantly deteriorated compared to the era of the Shantilla Grand Empire, and much essential knowledge had been lost. The engineers did not fully comprehend the settlement of the earthworks, and within four years of completion, the entire structure distorted and the roof cracked, necessitating a rebuild.
The current Boff Household’s main residence stands upon compacted and stabilized earth due to the passage of time. However, it lacks stone walls and the earthworks were supported by tree roots. Despite being described as four stories, the top floor consists of a single room with one side featuring a staircase. Essentially, it was a room resembling an enlarged lookout post.
This room, however, was higher than the city walls, affording a clear view in all directions over the city as planned. Currently, three people, including Clarine Boff, the wife of Orlon Boff, have gathered there.
“Clarine-sama, what are your intentions?” (Tigris)
Tigris Hamon spoke. The Hamon Household was a branch of the Boff Household, receiving a feudal title for generations. Among the Boff Household’s territories, they ruled the city of Mestina nestled in the mountains. Mestina prospered as a mining town, boasting the second-largest gold output in the country.
The various cities and subordinate castles of the Boff Household succumbed one after another to the declared war and lightning-fast invasion. In response, Clarine dispatched messengers to each city and hastily raised an army, ordering them to assemble in Kotlaha. Tigris Hamon was one of those who entered Kotlaha following these orders.
“I am currently considering.” (Clarine)
“Eynola-sama, do you have any thoughts?” (Tigris)