Count John leaned against the wall, his head spinning. He felt as if he were about to faint.
Grief and indignation burned within Count John like a raging fire. He had dominated the southeastern grasslands for over twenty years. The reputation of the Hoyland Clan was legendary, and everyone showed its members a measure of respect.
But now, he had been pushed to this point by a young man ennobled just two years ago. It was a complete and utter humiliation!
He was the undisputed lord of this land; his word was law.
But now, he could only watch helplessly as his enemy's army brazenly marched through his domain, and there was nothing he could do.
'Did I not attack Henry because I feared the Emperor's mediation? No, it's because I can't beat him! I'm afraid he'll put on that impenetrable armor and cut me in half!'
Count John's eyes were bloodshot. He gripped the stone bricks of the city wall tightly, his knuckles turning white from the force.
