Chapter 591 - 501: Buried in the Flames of War (Double Update Combined)
When Maxwell learned that the Dwarf army had already started arriving at the Kingdom Border, the first defense line of the Helong Mountain Range had already come under fierce attack.
The old Earl hoisted himself onto his horse, a cold sweat breaking out on his neck.
"Damn, how could those Dwarfs have gotten here so quickly!"
His eldest and second sons were hurriedly fastening the belts of their armor on horseback, clearly flustered. It was obvious that the marching speed of the Dwarfs had exceeded everyone’s expectations, including Maxwell’s.
"Make ready to respond," Maxwell said, "and may the Gods bless us. We depart immediately for the Ron area—that is our second line of defense."
As Maxwell spoke, he spurred his horse to a frantic gallop, followed by his two sons and the soldiers hastily marching in a single-file line. A month ago, upon hearing that the Dwarfs were mobilizing, the old Earl had issued a call to arms for the Nobles and Landlords to commit to the war. However, the Dwarfs’ mobilization had been too rapid, and the Nobles and Landlords had been almost completely unprepared for warfare. By today, they had only managed to gather a mere ten thousand men—just half of the total number needed.
"Father, shouldn’t we go to the first line of defense?" the second son asked, puzzled.
"The Dwarfs might still be at the Border!"
Maxwell turned his head and cursed angrily,
"Fool! Just follow orders; the Gods wish it as well!"
The second son immediately hung his head. His thoughts weren’t without reason; considering the Dwarfs’ naturally short stature, even slightly taller walls were advantageous in defense. Therefore, by all logic, even if the Dwarfs were assaulting the first line of defense, holding it should have been more than possible.
But Maxwell was not optimistic. The marching speed of the Dwarfs had already shocked him greatly. Who knew what further surprises they might bring? Therefore, Maxwell held no illusions of luck.