Saved By The Mad Duke

The evening sky was blanketed with heavy gray clouds that resembled dirty cotton, casting an even deeper darkness over the snowy ground surrounding the duke’s castle.

Aideen snapped her fingers, and dozens of glowing orange orbs spread out like giant fireflies, their light illuminating the work area.

After Tillian left for the battlefield, preparations for the upcoming attack had to commence immediately. Thanks to the hard work of the knights and mercenaries stationed at the castle, everything for the anticipated arrival of Prince Valon’s army was nearly complete, with only the finishing touches remaining.

The plan to destroy Valon’s army was straightforward and simple: trenches were dug around the castle, deep and long enough to serve as traps for the approaching soldiers, who would inevitably fall into them as they hurried toward the castle using the shortest route.

Inside the trenches, spikes were installed to ensure the deadliest outcome possible before Aideen’s magic could be deployed to further assist in the defense.

Ahspid’s long black cloak flapped in the wind as he approached the princess. He flicked Taru on the forehead, chuckling at the creature’s funny reaction to the unpleasant touch, then stood next to Aideen and said in a rather triumphant voice,

"What a clever idea, My Lady. A deep trench disguised as a deadly trap... Many of his soldiers will die simply by falling inside it!"

Though she knew the mage was partially right, the princess couldn’t help but feel a bit uneasy at his remark.

"I am certain someone as sly as Prince Valon will use alchemical devices to protect his army... But once they fall into the trap, my magic will seal any superhuman power that might be aiding them, ensuring they won’t be able to escape. His tricks will have no effect either."