The Esalavya Duchy sat between the kingdom's capital and the Swargaloka Province, nestled right at the border.
Even though it was close to the capital, the entire territory was ringed by mountains. Those mountains acted as a natural fortress. Soldier camps were built at various points along the slopes.
From the very beginning, soldiers trained in harsh terrain, and over time, that tough environment made them far superior to soldiers from other territories.
Being close to the capital also meant the duchy was far from the kingdom's outer border.
However, the territory of Swargaloka Province which was closest to the mist borders were led by Duke Eshaan's most powerful vassal— Marquess Cakra.
Duke Eshaan had other strong followers as well, many of whom ruled lands right on the frontier.
Because of this, the duchy could quickly dispatch troops and commanders to fight mist monsters.
