"You may dispense with formalities."

Edward, mounted on his horse, casually replied, his indifferent gaze fixed on the distant peaceful town, his brows slightly furrowed as he breathed a sigh of relief.

His emotions were quite conflicted, hoping for some warfare yet wishing the fighting wouldn't be too fierce.

After all, once war breaks out, all the problems he faces would be resolved, those nobles opposing him would return to his side, and even his brother, who often speaks against him, would be without strength to compete.

But on the other hand, if this war escalates into a full-scale one, his ideals would be shattered.

Aaron Campbell, the Duke, has already become a legend in military affairs, and it's impossible for him to take his place. The only way is to become a ruler known for peace to leave a good name.

Perhaps—

This is why the previous king left that sword to his sister rather than giving it to him, considering these aspects.

Such were his thoughts recently.

Of course, even if his father had ample reasons, such betrayal is unacceptable to him.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Adela stood tremblingly, respectfully nodding and standing aside.

Holding the reins, armored Edward looked down at him and continued.

"I heard there is a fortress of the Demon King in the land our ancestor granted you. What is the story behind this?"

"Indeed, a fortress has appeared in the northern part of Silver Pine Forest, but strictly speaking, that is not part of the Baron Gess Territory. During the previous king's time, the Andes Family had a mine there, but it was soon occupied by demons, with only adventurers occasionally venturing there." Adela answered truthfully, head bowed.

Though he doesn't like Lord Gess, he has to speak for him when facing the Monarch's questioning.

After all, he can't naively think the Duke's whip would only fall on Lord Gess's head.

And even if, at worst, Gess alone is punished and stripped of his title, it's not good news for someone who already holds real power in Silver Pine Town.

Edward the Duke seemed to accept this explanation or perhaps didn't want to waste time on these trivial matters.

His gaze moved past Adela the Sheriff and towards the tranquil and harmonious Silver Pine Town, speaking in an emotionless voice.

"Regardless of what has happened, seeing you all fine puts me at ease."

"Thank you for Your Majesty's grace!" Adela expressed his gratitude.

Edward regarded him, shifting his tone he added.

"...However, what I cannot accept is your Lord's stupidity which not only endangered himself but also the Duchy's guest, putting my dear sister in jeopardy. I will hold him accountable later, but for now, tell me everything you know about the Demon King Army."

Adela certainly couldn't reveal everything about the Demon King Army to His Majesty, as his interests had long been firmly bound with Lord Demon King, even his very soul sold to him.

To be honest, he himself didn't know what trick Lord Demon King was up to this time, pretending to kidnap himself and everything.

But at that moment, Hephael, rushing in, helped to resolve it.

Not wasting his promotion, the timid Shield Dropper dismounted and knelt, reporting fearfully.

"To report Your Majesty, we captured scouts of the Demon King Army near Silver Pine Town... It seems they noticed your army's movements and came to spy, but we thwarted them, pressing them down as soon as they appeared!"

Edward looked at him.

"Bring them up."

"Yes!" Hephael surveyed Sheriff Adela beside him briefly, receiving a nod of affirmation from him, retreated hurriedly.

Not long after, sixteen goblins were brought up quickly, held down by militia with heads bowed down.

Perhaps sensing the majesty of the human Monarch or fearing the overwhelming military might, they trembled, hardly daring to breathe loudly.

Edward had no interest in personally interrogating them, merely signaling to the Knight Followers beside him.

After taking the cue, the followers dismounted without a word, brandishing a whip to lash the goblins. Then they poured a bucket of saline on them, tormenting them until they were disoriented before beginning the questioning.

The goblins, tortured to the brink of death, dared not utter a false word, soon recounting the events in detail.

Including being taken by Hell Dwarfs for supplies at where they were raided by human Mage during transit.

They described those fireballs as torrential fire rain, ultimately fleeing like birds and beasts without stopping.

Edward expressed astonishment upon hearing this but was soon relieved.

The nobles' Soul Levels are all above Silver, and Imperial nobles have a penchant for magic, hence the birth of powerful Mages in noble families wasn't a rare occurrence.

For instance, Edward himself possesses Silver Level prowess but seldom had opportunities to wield it.

Leaving the goblins behind, the Heavy Armor-clad follower returned before Edward the Duke and, saluting with Knight's courtesy, reported dully.

"Your Majesty, based on these goblins' confessions, they appear to be deserters from the battlefield. The Demon of Thunder County seems to have formed an alliance with the Hell Dwarf of Shattered Rock Peak, selling them captured barons. While delivering goods, they were attacked by Mr. Colin. If anything unexpected happens, I speculate they should have returned last night."

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