Stein Rays's Move (26): Lucifal's Miscalculation (2)

“The Ninth Knight Order... Are you saying Lord Humett-sama, the king’s uncle, has betrayed us...?”

Foggard trailed off, unable to say anything more.

For the briefest moment, the hope that they might be reinforcements for his side crossed his mind, but he immediately dismissed it.

Foggard was a novice as a knight commander, but he had extensive experience leading troops. He could tell from an opponent’s movements whether they were hostile.

...Then things couldn’t be worse.

Things were already grim. If even the Ninth Knight Order was on the enemy’s side, Rudek was all but checkmated.

Foggard’s defensive plan was intended for the First Knight Order and Liffrea’s army. If the expected forces were the ones attacking, they would have to capture Hockeharn Fort.

Ignoring the fort and marching on would be the worst strategy imaginable.

They might reach the royal capital quickly if they ignored the fort, but the Sixth Knight Order under Foggard would strike them from behind. Even if the rebels outnumbered them, the situation would give Rudek an overwhelming advantage.

But if the Ninth Knight Order joined them, everything would change...