Everyone Is A Lord: My Talent Is A Little Too Strong Chapter 2642: 1454: The Situation and Worries (Part 2)

This explains why, the moment they discovered the ancient mine's presence, the Outer Region powers aligned with us charged forward without hesitation to vie for it, since veins of rare ores are exceedingly rare in the outer fringes of the Outer Region.

From this perspective, it's clear that should a second-tier power attempt to seize control over the Rainforest Fortress Alliance or the Desert Alliance, it would endure heavy casualties for minimal reward, making military aggression an unlikely choice.

For if they end up severely depleted, other second-tier powers would swiftly target them, leading to an inevitable downfall.

Yet, this balance isn't entirely unbreakable.

If it were, formations like the Rainforest Fortress Alliance and the Desert Alliance—mere third-class entities—would never have emerged. Such unions create a sense of caution among second-tier forces, preserving a fragile equilibrium.

“In the present circumstances, it's highly probable that a second-tier power is scheming to shatter this equilibrium, which is why they've positioned themselves to support the Witch Demon.”

With these thoughts swirling, Leo Ray creased his forehead deeply and asked once more: “Rainforest Leader, in your view, which second-tier power might launch an assault against us?”

“To speak plainly to Your Majesty of the Humans, this very puzzle has occupied my mind. No fewer than five second-tier powers share borders with us and the Desert Alliance, each entangled in fierce clashes to varying degrees, rendering judgment a tough task.”

Loris reflected briefly, then shook his head in resignation and added, “Furthermore, based on my most recent reports, unrest plagues all these adjacent second-tier powers, with ongoing conflicts between them and troops massed at mutual frontiers. By all logic, they lack the bandwidth to partner with the Witch Demons, or else I wouldn't have shifted our primary forces here.”

“This situation is truly baffling. If not these powers, then who exactly lurks in the shadows backing the Witch Demon?”

Leo Ray's brow furrowed even tighter as he absently rubbed his chin.

His drive to expose this hidden hand stemmed, without doubt, from preparations for the looming brutal clash against the Witch Demon.

After all, the Land of Howling—the Witch Demon's domain—is perpetually veiled in toxic miasma that bars entry to anyone below Tier 5, while the Witch Demon and its Undead Army remain utterly unaffected.

Thus, should our core troops and top fighters deploy en masse, any assault from the Witch Demon's concealed allies would leave the Rainforest Fortress Alliance and Desert Alliance woefully exposed.

In that scenario, we'd face an impossible bind, with spirits plummeting and the risk of total collapse looming large.

Hence, pinpointing the foe's true identity allows for precise countermeasures and solid defenses, ensuring we're ready to act preemptively.

Consider, too, that the frontier linking the Rainforest Fortress Alliance and Desert Alliance spans an immense distance, nearly traversing the whole continent.

Though both maintain robust Teleportation Gate systems, relocating a vast army to distant points demands considerable time.

And should the enemy first disrupt those Teleportation Gates, the peril would escalate dramatically.

“Fortunately, Ice Stone City enables rapid transfers, and as a last resort, the Administrators can push forward with troop movements, providing fallback options.”

These considerations had barely crossed Leo Ray's mind when Loris's resolute tone cut in: “Your Majesty of the Humans, even aware of the Witch Demon's shadowy supporters, the Rainforest Fortress Alliance stands ready without a second's pause. We'll ensure they face the consequences they deserve!”

“We're aligned in thought; failing to crush them now invites endless repeats of today's chaos. Swift action is crucial.”

Leo Ray gave a subtle nod, then declared gravely, “No delays then—I’ll rally every Tier 5 and higher asset right away. We'll converge in the Land of Howling soon.”

“I've awaited these words from you, Your Majesty!”

Loris unleashed a hearty burst of laughter, then took his leave from Leo Ray, soaring toward Rainforest Fortress Alliance lands and vanishing into the distant sky.

On this occasion, Loris exercised utmost vigilance, surrounded as he was by Rainforest Fortress Alliance elites, thwarting any chance for the Witch Demon to pull off its earlier deceptions.

Following the established strategy, Leo Ray assembled the bulk of his Tier 5 powerhouses, retaining select Commanders for defense, and after mustering a million-strong Human Clan army, he stationed all Tier 4 Legions in Ice Stone City as a safeguard.

In the midst of these arrangements, Leo Ray paused to employ the [Contract Purple Crystal] in binding Fanny—who pledged unwavering loyalty to him—alongside the Flower Fairies.

With preparations hastily completed, moments before departing for the Land of Howling, Leo Ray paused at Ice Stone City's entrance, his expression still tinged with concern.

Beyond the unseen threats lurking, two pressing issues demanded attention.

First, though the immediate peril had eased and the Witch Demon's role as culprit stood revealed, Dana, Davis, and their companions remained unaccounted for.

Moreover, now that we'd bested the Witch Demon, their fury could easily vent upon Dana and the others in retaliation.

Second, of course, was Frank's delayed return; his unique ability counters the Witch Demon effectively, and his involvement would bolster our ranks immensely.

“For now, wiping out the Witch Demon takes precedence; these concerns must wait.”

As this resolution formed in Leo Ray's thoughts, right as he prepared to step through Ice Stone City's portal, Fanny approached deferentially: “Your Majesty, fresh intelligence from the Flower Fairy scouts patrolling nearby woods points to a brown-robed figure identifying himself as Frank!”

“Excellent—escort him here at once!”

Leo Ray's gaze sparked with eagerness as he responded on impulse.

Shortly thereafter, a brown-robed elder materialized before Leo Ray, who advanced to greet him alongside Grey Elder, Yonir, Lina, and the rest.

“Your Majesty, it's truly that old scoundrel Frank!”

Grey Elder offered Leo Ray a salute with hand to chest, then hurriedly presented the newcomer: “My comrade, behold the emperor we've spoken of!”

“This old one offers respects to Your Majesty!”

A booming declaration echoed as the brown-robed elder dropped to one knee before Leo Ray, proclaiming, “Rumors of Your Majesty's guidance elevating the Human Clan to glorious new peaks—accomplishments envied by ages of rulers—have reached my ears long ago. To behold it firsthand is an honor beyond measure!”

The voice, weathered yet vibrant, betrayed profound thrill and delight.

“Stand, please; without your aid, the Wailing Fortress would have endured a savage fight.”

Leo Ray stooped to assist the elder to his feet, replying with warmth.

The man's face glowed with health, bearing far fewer lines than Grey Elder or Yonir, radiating vitality and unyielding determination.

Furthermore, this legendary Dragon-slaying Hero exuded a far more potent presence, on par with Jess, suggesting he'd attained Tier 6 Five Stars.

“Your Majesty overpraises; as a Human Clan member, despite my years wandering the Outer Region, the homeland's landscapes remain etched in my soul. Such deeds are simply my duty.”

Frank's timeworn eyes gleamed with uncontainable admiration as he nodded firmly: “Witnessing the Human Clan's resurgence under a leader of Your Majesty's caliber fills me with boundless elation and pride.”

“Your words honor me unduly. I merely fulfill my role, walking this road with steadfast companions.”

Leo Ray glanced at Grey Elder and his followers nearby, his smile unwavering, “Your legendary exploits have echoed in my ears for ages; encountering you now brings genuine astonishment and pleasure.”

With that, Leo Ray's demeanor turned earnest anew, pressing on, “Sir, eradicating the Witch Demon demands urgency; if it suits you, shall we confer within?”

“Your graciousness overwhelms, Your Majesty. The Witch Demon's scourge has tormented these realms far too long. I've yearned to strike back, yet my power fell short—now, with you commanding the Human Clan's mightiest here, how could I stand idle?”

Frank inclined his head in deference before adding, “That said, prior to anything else, I must relay one vital detail to Your Majesty!”