"The Order Army is relatively scattered. Most of its forces are just keeping the peace in their dioceses, so they aren't as concentrated as the other four major powers. Moreover, they currently show no clear allegiance," Ottis said.
Matthew immediately interjected, "The Order Army protects, and only protects, God's faithful and His divine authority."
Of course, everyone listened to Matthew's words, but no one actually took them seriously.
"I've laid out the situation. My reasoning for believing Duke Balenzuo will attack the Tarrenno Duchy stems from their prior friction. Duke Tarrenno recently led his troops on a show of force in a Viscount's Domain on the border, meant to deter Duke Balenzuo's encroaching army. After a period of stalemate, they engaged in a minor skirmish—not a true conflict. Having gauged each other's strength, both sides withdrew," Ottis said.
