Expedited by Bogdan, Henry's letter traversed the empire, reaching the city of Tiyaer in the Northern Lands.
While awaiting a reply, Henry began reinforcing his domain's defenses and reaching out to neighboring lords, preparing them to contribute men and resources.
Of course, they could refuse to contribute. It just meant Henry's army would be the first to arrive at their fiefs.
The open wooden window brought light into the study. Henry sat at one end of a long table, a lavish lunch spread before him, but he had no appetite.
His mind wasn't on the food, but on the upcoming meeting with the powerful merchants.
Henry wore an imperial robe with a Golden Ring on his finger—a stark contrast to his usual image as a Warrior.
His gaze drifted to the window from time to time, as if he were waiting for something.
Henry's expression was grim. His thoughts drifted, and his fingers tapped lightly on the tabletop, betraying a hint of anxiety.
