The door opened.
A young lady stepped inside—long red hair cascading down her back, bright green eyes, and a height no more than 165 centimeters. Her appearance was soft and charming, and her voice matched it perfectly. She greeted the guests with a respectful, friendly tone. Behind her entered a maid and the same man they had seen at the entrance.
She took her seat and gently motioned for the other two to leave the room. Her dress was simple but elegant, a moss-green color that suited her calm demeanor.
"Please, sirs, forgive me for being late," she said in her warm, soft voice. "I am Duchess Bell Bisberry, ruler of this city and the lands surrounding it."
"I was told my uncle arrived with two strangers," she added with a brief smile. "Naturally, I am curious to hear the details."
She poured herself a cup of water and took a small sip.
Edward, now slightly more attentive, observed her face.
"We dealt with Khan Simton in his small town a week ago," he said, inhaling deeply. "And now we are here for two reasons. First—your uncle mentioned a job. Second—he promised a reward for what we did."
The duchess looked at both hunters, then exchanged a confirming glance with Regis.
"What they say is true, my lady," Regis said.
Bell thought for a moment—but Jim interrupted her.
"I'm sorry to cut in, miss," he said with a bored tone, "but we traveled a long way to reach here. So if you want to tell us about this 'job,' please be quick. You can ask about the Khan later from your uncle."
"Of course," she said apologetically. "My uncle mentioned the problem already… It's the orcs and goblins. After the fall of the Kingdom, they poured out of their holes—destroying lands and claiming them. And now… it is my turn."
She lowered her gaze to her boots.
"At the bottom of Mount Jin, there is an old fortress. It dates back to the Great Demon War. It has been abandoned for nearly a century… and now the orcs are rebuilding it."
Regis stepped closer, voice heavy.
"According to our scouts, there are around fifteen hundred orcs and goblins gathering there—preparing for an attack. And more will come. We must take back the fortress before they finish their work and start their invasion. We want you two to join us. Price is not an issue."
Edward leaned forward.
"And how many men do you have, my lady?"
She hesitated, almost fearful to answer.
"A-around eight hundred trained soldiers. If we empty other garrisons and call upon my subjects… perhaps eleven hundred at most."
Jim finally took a seat.
"Call upon them? Aren't you their superior? You have the authority to order them."
She nodded, but Regis cleared his throat.
"That is true—she has the right. But most of their men are already serving in the army, and the rest protect their own holdings. And… they don't like us very much. Not at all, in fact."
Edward examined both of them and let out a small amused exhale—almost a laugh.
"So you want us to join an army that isn't even assembled yet… and even if it gathers, it will be full of internal problems. And then you want us to go fight a force larger than ours—inside a fortified stronghold?"
They both nodded.
Edward burst into laughter for the first time in a long while.
"With that logic, do you take us for fools?"
Jim rubbed his forehead, then smacked the back of Edward's neck.
"Shut it, mate. This is not the place."
Edward regained control and wiped the grin off his face.
"Sorry. It was just… hilarious. Do you know how terrible the odds are?"
Regis stepped forward.
"You fought four strong, well-trained men alone and killed them within seconds. A man with such skill doubts himself?"
Edward met Regis's gaze.
"I fought them outnumbered because I trust my own skill. I cannot say the same about your men."
"Uncle, calm yourself," Bell said softly. "He is not wrong. Sir… if you do not wish to help, it is understandable. As my uncle promised, you will still receive your reward for dealing with the Khan. You may rest here for a few days and continue your journey afterward."
Jim sighed and looked at Edward.
"No need for that, my lady. Edward is… difficult to reason with, but we will join—for the right price."
He nudged Edward with his arm.
"Right, mate?"
Edward nodded.
"Thank you," she said sincerely.
Edward stood up.
"But first, we must inspect this fortress—to see if taking it with those numbers is even possible."
"Of course," the duchess replied. "My uncle will accompany you, along with some men, to ensure safety."
"There's no need for many," Edward said. "Jim will go… with one other man."
"Will I…?" Jim sighed. "Fine. I'll check it out. When do we move?"
"Now, mate. Come along," Regis said as he exited the room with Jim—leaving Edward alone with the young duchess.
"You must be tired," she said kindly. "A room is being prepared for you, along with a hot bath."
She summoned a maid to guide Edward.
Before leaving, Edward paused at the doorway.
"Call your subjects. Anyone who can spare soldiers—or supply an army with food and gear. Tell them to gather here. With all their men."
Then he left the room, leaving the duchess in heavy silence.