"What's wrong with me?"
A hand supported Navis, the Count's voice was weak.
"The doctor said you're ill."
Navis helped the Count back to bed, his aged body sinking into the soft mattress. Though he had just awoken, he still felt exhausted, not just physically but spiritually.
"How long did I sleep?"
"A day and a half."
"How's the battle going?"
"..."
Navis remained silent without answering, there were faint cries of despair outside. The Count shifted his glance out of the window; this was his room at the highest point of the castle, providing a view over everything. But now in his view were roaring flames and thick smoke; the outer fort of the castle was now flying the flag of Gaulunaro.
The Count showed no extra emotion, as if he had expected this outcome. He asked again.
"What happened?"
"It was… it was Lord Madre. After you fell unconscious, he took charge of the castle's defenses. In last night's battle, he led the knights out and… and didn't return."
