The Valeria Empire.
In the private territory of Duke Charles, early March. Howling winds swept across the land, and the town of Liya Tower was blanketed beneath a heavy layer of snow.
Located in the empire's northwest, Liya Tower was a border town closest to the frontline between two nations. Positioned at the center between the Abyssal Rift and the Dragon Spine, it formed a critically prominent bulge in the empire's planned defensive line.
With war looming, Duke Charles had evacuated most of the town's original civilians, leaving only a few behind to support the army's supplies. Enhanced by a series of defensive magic circles and military fortifications, Liya Tower had transformed into a stark, jet-black military fortress.
At the heart of Liya Fortress stood a towering command tower. Wearing a thick, fluffy military uniform, Charles stood on the rooftop, gazing down upon the entire fortress.
"The Emperor hasn't attended any meetings for two weeks."
