A weary historian dies and finds himself in a different world awakened in a life as the notorious young Duke of a southern state. His nation is weakened, his army underfed, and his neighbors revolve around his lands menacingly. No one believes his land is going to hold out until winter.

But this newfound duke is no naive simpleton his enemies recollect. He carries with him the experience of centuries of war and empire, of starting and ending monarchies. From Caesar to Napoleon, from the Mongols to world wars, he has learned from each of them—and his strategy is to make history his very own arms.

He organizes his smashed levies into well-trained formations, rebuilds his castles, and turns his villages into supply centers. Where others see defeat, he senses opportunity. As he triumphs, rumors spread: of a pennant red as winter snow that shall not go to ground, of a bloody duke who writes his name in gore and flame.

Is he a savior who's constructing a new empire, or a tyrant who's going to bring the world to endless war?

The sound of warhorses and marching filled the darkness as hundreds upon hundreds of cavalry and foot soldiers marched to group up with Justinian's army.


The banners of Thirell and Vesuvian joined together as Bjorn led the march, a battle to end this petty rebellion once and for all.


Bjorn yelled out, releasing a messenger pigeon to Bridgeton, to signal to Justinian his cooperation and the details of the army with him.


Javier said in awe, riding in formation with the Vesuvian cavalry as he stared at the elite force.


It was nothing like Snowkeep's guards and militia; it was powerful, obedient, and impenetrable.


But of course, still falling slightly behind compared to Justinian's force that wiped out Bridgeton and Herdin.


"As expected of Vesuvian... Lord Justinian is lucky to have them as vassals."


Chapter 47 - Vesuvian Whiplash