Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1409

Balin entered the city with just a dozen men. They were all strong and sturdy, with curved blades at their waists, looking fierce and intimidating.

But when they sat down to eat and drink, their tanned faces broke into wide, radiant smiles.

Balin was in his fifties, with skin as dark and shining as his men's, his eyes sharp and intelligent. He was a man of great wisdom and was meticulous in his thinking. In other words, he remained cautious and never fully trusted the Hell Monarch.

His one demand was simple: this would be a one-time alliance. After driving back the Sandorians, the Southern Frontier Army was to withdraw from the grasslands swiftly. No one was to step foot in the heart of the grasslands again without permission.

Rafael agreed, and the treaty was signed immediately.

Once the agreement was made, they didn't linger any longer than necessary and left.

The grassland tribes held little fondness for Starhaven, as the endless warfare often spilled over into their territories. However, with so many tribes scattered across the land, they weren't united, which meant they couldn't oppose either Starhaven or Sandoria directly.

Timothy escorted them out of the city, then returned to Redstone Manor to discuss how best to conduct the upcoming pursuit.

The grassland tribes had offered their land, allowing the Southern Frontier Army to press forward in pursuit. However, a pursuit was very different from a siege. Logistics were crucial—supplies, food, arrows, weapons—all had to be accounted for. Medical care, stretchers, and support for the troops were also necessary.

It was a large-scale operation, complicated by the harsh winter cold. The risks were significant, but the rewards could be great. If they succeeded, it would deter Sandoria for at least the next ten years.

The generals deliberated through the night, crafting a strategy. By morning, the basic plan was ready, and orders were issued. Naturally, they also sent an urgent report to Salvador. As usual, a letter for Carissa was included with it.

When on the battlefield, there were no secrets between husband and wife, and fewer complications were always better.

When the court received the report, some officials felt Rafael's decision was overly ambitious and reckless. With the harsh winter looming, leading a large force into pursuit seemed a risky move. Plus, they still had to guard against the grasslands tribes seizing the opportunity to attack Simonton City.

The officials petitioned Salvador to order the Hell Monarch to retreat and defend Simonton City, arguing that holding the city would be sufficient to keep the Sandorians at bay.

However, some believed that simply holding the city would cause more problems in the long run. Soldiers unable to farm would increase the burden on the court, and military supplies would drain the treasury. Even their families had to be supported.

If they let Victor drag things on, who knew how long it would take?