YM778.TV Volume 3, 3: The Dark Flower Dancing in the Line of Death
Volume 3, Chapter 3: The Dark Flower Dancing in the Line of Death
Translator: Skythewood
Editor: Hiiro
Ⅰ
Central War Theatre, Second Army, Basecamp
“Your Excellency, the second defence line has fallen. The commander Major Ignatz was killed in action. The Sun Knights will start their assault on the third defence line soon.”
Captain Liz couldn’t hide her nervousness. Two weeks had passed since the Sun Knights clad in silver armor showed up in the Central War Theatre. The Second Army resisted with all their might, but were still losing ground steadily.
“The Sun Knights, huh… To think the first and second defence line got broken so easily.”
“They are different from their average unit.”
“True. It’s no wonder that they took down Fort Kiel.”
Brad answered as he looked at the deployment map on the long table. There were stone walls around the third defensive line, and the roads were narrow. The defenders had a great advantage in terrain here, making this a terrific place for a smaller force to hold out against a larger one.
“Are we all set?”
“Yes. We have set up steel nets along their attack routes, which would slow down the enemy. Our longbowmen would lay down continuous fire in six stages of volley at their front and top.”
“That’s good enough. We should be able to buy some time with that— More importantly, any news on our reinforcements?”
Liz’s face twitched at the mention of reinforcement, and Brad didn’t miss that.
“… An urgent message came in, the First Army still needs some time to move out.”
“Tch! So the king wants us to die?”
“Your Excellency! —You are too loud. You will get executed for lese majeste. I understand your dissatisfaction, but don’t lose your composure.”
Cautious of the soldiers’ gazes, Liz said with a self deprecating tone. Brad didn’t care and smacked the table angrily. Liz quickly changed the topic:
“In their stead, Major Olivia of the Seventh Army will be coming to our aid with reinforcements.”
“Major Olivia? —The girl that the Imperial Army calls Death God… Isn’t the Seventh Army bogged down in the north?”
Brad was aware of the Seventh Army’s victory over the Crimson Knights. It was great news, but the Seventh Army also suffered serious losses. Right now, the Seventh Army had their hands full just with the defence of the north, even Paul couldn’t spare the troops to support the Central War Theatre.
“Major Olivia just happens to be in the capital. According to the reports, the guards in the Central region are being mustered on the orders of Brigadier General Neinhart.”
“Just happen to be there, huh…”
Brad lit a cigarette.
Brad had no idea how good that Death God girl actually was, but he couldn’t wager the life of the entire Second Army on a girl he had never met before. In that case, he had to make a decision.
Brad smiled sinisterly to motivate himself.
“Your Excellency?”
“Captain Liz, just to be safe, make preparations for a retreat. And of course, I will take on the role of rearguard.”
“Your Excellency!”
Liz looked at Brad with a sharp gaze. Brad understood what she wanted to say, but he refused to barge on this. This was a matter of Brad’s pride.
“Don’t be so mad. I’m not honorable enough to sacrifice everyone in order to protect our kingdom. It will be fine, don’t worry. I will take responsibility for this.”
“I’m not worried about that! I’m—!”
“Captain, I gave you an order. Repeat it back to me.”
Seeing that Liz was refusing to back down, Brad stared at her sternly.
“… Yes Sir, I will make the preparations to retreat.”
“Good. Get it done.”
Liz saluted weakly, and left the place with heavy footsteps.
“—People shouldn’t live to protect their country, it is the country that exists to protect the people. That’s what you always say, Gramps Paul.”
<TL: A bit awkward, not sure how to make it sound more cool.>
Brad watched the sun sink below the horizon and blew out a puff of white smoke.
Holy Nation of Mekia, La Shaim Castle, Hall of Flight
Outside the Mekia style window frame, everything was covered in snow. The snow reflected the brilliant light from the sun, making the Hall of Flight look even more elegant.
“Amelia. Good work with your trip to “send them our regards”.”
Sofitia complimented Amelia who was kneeling before her.
“Thank you for your kind words. It’s a pity that the results aren’t as good as I hoped.”
Lara quivered when she heard what Amelia said.
“The results aren’t good? That’s strange. I heard you completed the mission?”
According to the report from the Owl, Amelia dealt a heavy blow to the Crimson Knights with a surprise attack.
They also suffered some losses, but it was trivial when compared to the enemy. Amelia’s performance was definitely great.
“The report I received also stated that the mission was a success. Chiliarch Amelia, refrain from sprouting nonsense before the Holy Angel.”
Lara glared at Amelia.
“It’s not nonsense. I encountered one of the Imperial Tri-General, Felixus von Sieger, but failed to take his head.”
Amelia raised her head with a vexed expression.
“Oh, you mean that. Don’t mind that, your opponent is Lord Sieger that commands the Azure Knights after all, killing him is no easy task. Or rather, you did well to return back safely after running into him. So, Amelia, you have gathered information about him, right?”
Out of all the Imperial Tri-Generals, Felixus von Sieger was the only one who was shrouded in mystery. He seldom appears on the battlefield, and even the Owl had a hard time collecting intel on him. As a Chiliarch, Amelia wouldn’t let such a great opportunity slip.
As expected, Amelia answered with a nod:
“Of course.”
Sofitia smiled at that.
“There’s no problem then. Amelia, you did great, I will give you your reward later. Have a good rest for now.”
“I’m deeply honored by your grace, Holy Angel.”
Amelia stood up, bowed, and left the Hall of Flight.
“—Fufu. So Lara, I told you so. Amelia completed her mission splendidly.”
“Yes, my lady. I’m impressed by your foresight, Holy Angel.”
Lara bowed deeply. Her lustrous silver hair hung from her shoulders to her chest.
“There’s no need to flatter me. By the way, have the Sun Knights that have been hiding in Fort Kiel finally moved?”
“It is as you say, our reports say that they have already engaged the Second Army.”
“I see… Who do you think will win?”
The Hall of Flight fell silent for a moment, but Lara quickly answered:
“— The commander of the Second Army is said to be very outstanding, but the Sun Knights will most likely win. After all, the differences in numbers are too great.”
Sofitia largely agreed with Lara’s opinion. The Second Army was probably exhausted, but still managed to defend the Central War Theatre by themselves so far.
Like Lara said, they definitely had a great commander. If possible, Sofita would want to recruit him to her cause. You can never have too many good ‘chess pieces’.
“The Empire has finally run out of patience.”
“The Imperial Army suffered consecutive losses. They still had the overwhelming advantage, but they couldn’t let this situation continue. This was the right time for the Empire to launch an attack.”
Sofitia rests her cheek on her right hand and sighed.
“This will be difficult. If the Holy Winged Legion interferes any further, the Empire will catch on to us…”
The Imperial Army weren’t fools, and they also had the intel bureau Heat Haze. It would only be a matter of time before they found out that Fort Astra was attacked by the Holy Nation, but it was still too early to publicize this truth. The Holy Nation still needs some time to prepare, before they would be ready to engage the Imperial Army directly.
But if the Second Army fell, the Empire might march right for the Royal Capital. The Farnesse Kingdom would then be just one step short of being ‘checkmate”, and the Arsbelt Empire’s dominance over the continent would be assured.
This dilemma stood before Sofitia.
“Holy Winged Legion is ready to strike. What are your orders?”
Lara requested Sofitia to make a decision, and the Knight escorts standing by the wall all knelt down. The creaking of armor echoed in the Hall of Flight.
“—We will watch from the sideline this time. No matter how ignorant King Alphonse is, he will have to send out the First Army to engage the enemy. This might sound strange, but let’s pray to Goddess Citresia for the Royal Army’s victory.”
“The will of the Holy Angel shall be done.”
Lara placed her left hand that was glowing with the jade green light of the “Sky Serpent Sorcery Circle” onto her chest, and bowed respectfully.
Royal Capital Fizz Leticia Castle, Audience Hall
“Your Majesty, I already explained the urgency of the matter, won’t you grant us your permission?”
The commander of the First Army, Field Marshal Cornelius stepped forth with an expression of grief.
It was noon.
The Audience Hall illuminated by the sun was filled with tension.
“Stop nagging, gramps. I have repeated myself many times. I will never send out the First Army. Besides, the guards in the Central Region had already been mustered and sent to reinforce the Second Army.”
From the very start, Alphonse objected to the mobilization of the guards too. Sending them away would result in the deterioration of public order, and adversely affect the economics of the city.
Even so, Alphonse would rather send the guards instead of the First Army, so he reluctantly agreed to that. If he despatch the First Army now, that would be putting the cart in front of the horse.
“But they are only 6,000 strong.”
“6,000 is one whole division, is that not enough?”
“Your Majesty, the Sun Knights number 40,000. If we add the other units participating in their campaign, they will have 80,000 men. In contrast, the Second Army has just 2,000 troops. Even with 6,000 reinforcements, the gulf in numbers is too great.”
“Isn’t it the duty of the soldiers to turn the situation around with strategy and tactics? You can’t expect the numbers on both sides to be even for every battle, right?”
“Pardon me for being blunt, but there’s a limit to that. Your Majesty will be right if the difference in number is within a certain threshold. But like I said, this is far beyond that limit. Furthermore, our opponent is the Sun Knights, commanded by the leader of the Imperial Army. Please reconsider my liege.”
Cornelius stared at Alphonse with bloodshot eyes, with the vigor no one would expect from a 70 years old man. Before Alphonse even realized it, his back was drenched in sweat.
“… But the Seventh Army defeated the Crimson Knights. How do you explain that?”
The Seventh Army overturned the overwhelming disadvantage in numbers, and won against the Crimson Knights. The situation back then was somewhat similar to the present. However, Cornelius concluded that the Second Army couldn’t achieve the same thing. Alphonse didn’t feel that the Crimson and Sun Knights were all that different, and wasn’t convinced.
“Please think of that victory as an exception. Not anyone can repeat that feat, not even me.”
Alphonse asked angrily:
“Gramps, is that something the Field Marshal of the Royal Army should be saying!? Why don’t you hand your post over to Paul, and demote yourself to General instead?”
Alphonse’s bodyguards gasped when they heard that, and focused their gazes onto Cornelius.
After a moment of silence, Cornelius said slowly:
“If this is what it will take for your permission to mobilize the First Army, then I have no complaints.”
Cornelius knelt on one knee and hung his head reveredly. Alphonse didn’t expect Cornelius to agree, and changed his tone:
“Forget that, I was just speaking in jest.”
“—Your Majesty, I will use this chance to make this clear. After the Second Army falls, it won’t be long before the Royal Capital Fizz is caught in the flames of war. When that happens, the doom of the Farnesse Kingdom would be inevitable. The Kingdom that spanned for nearly 600 years will then end with King Alphonse.”
Cornelius raised his head and offered his harsh advice. He was implying that Alphonse’s mistake will be the downfall of the Kingdom.
Alphonse was enraged when he heard that:
“Damn it… Even if it’s you, Gramps, those words deserve death!”
Alphonse turned around and reached for his bodyguard’s waist.
“Y-Your Majesty!! What are you...!?”
“Give it to me!”
“Y-You can’t!!”
“Shut up!”
Alphonse snatched a sword from the bodyguard who was backing away in panic, and looked at the kneeling Cornelius with rage in his eyes.
“Brace yourself.”
Alphonse slowly walked down from the elevated platform to Cornelius, and placed the blade on his throat. All the bodyguards desperately plead for his mercy.
Death awaits if he didn’t take action, but Cornelius was unfazed. This made Alphonse even more mad.
“… You think I’m playing!?”
Cornelius shook his head gently.
“I’m already prepared for this. I would rather not see the fall of the Kingdom, and Your Majesty— My young liege Alphonse walked up to the execution grounds. So end me here.”
With that, Cornelius placed his sword on the floor and closed his eyes. He showed no fear in the face of imminent death.
Alphonse looked at him silently, then retracted his sword weakly.
“— Alright then, it’s my loss. I won’t say anything more, so do what you want, Gramps. If the Kingdom ever falls, I won’t bear a grudge towards you.”
Alphonse then patted the shoulder of Cornelius who had his eyes closed. Alphonse would probably never forget the scene before him.
There was no way he would forget the tears of the Ever Victorious General, the hero whose fame reached the very end of the continent.
(It’s finally over…)
The sentry moved, and the door to the Audience Hall opened slowly. After catching sight of Cornelius, Neinhart hurried up to him and asked:
“Field Marshal Sir… what happened?”
Neinhart noticed that Cornelius’ eyes were red.
“—Hmm? Neinhart, huh… Don’t mind me, it’s nothing.”
Cornelius stroked his white beard, and waved his right hand to indicate that there weren\'t any problems.
“I see… so what’s the verdict?”
After asking the matter that would decide the future of the Kingdom, Neinhart gulped. Cornelius paused for a moment, then gently patted Neinhart’s shoulder.
“Prepare the First Army to move out. Pass down the news.”
“You mean...?”
“His Majesty granted us his permission.”
Cornelius who looked a little tired smiled faintly.
“That’s wonderful news!”
“And His Majesty conferred me with command of the military in the near future.”
“What!?”
It was a rare sight to see Neinhart raise his voice.
Command of the military. That means Cornelius would be free to deploy the army without needing to consult with Alphonse. He didn’t know what they discussed, but this was an unexpected piece of good news.
“I will command this battle personally. We will field an army of 40,000. General Lambert will stay and defend the capital with 7,000 troops.”
“I understand, Sir.”
“— Hoist the banner of the First Army in the capital.”
“Yes Sir!!”
Neinhart saluted crisply.
Ⅱ
Central War Theatre, Sun Knights Basecamp
In the middle of a war conference, Field Marshal Graden received a report from a messenger that the First Army had set off from the capital.
“—I see. The First Army has finally made their move.”
Since the start of the battle, the First Army had not left their post of defending the capital. The slumbering lion has finally woken, and Graden felt his blood was boiling.
“The First Army is around 40,000 strong. They have reached the foot of Koborg mountain.”
When the officers heard that report, they looked at the map laid out on the table. The Koborg mountain was just a hill away from the Second Army’s defence line.
“It seems that the First Army intends to cut off our retreat path.”
The Sun Knights’ head strategist, Brigadier General Oscar Remnant, said as he pointed at the Nobis Plains. That was right behind the Sun Knights’ basecamp.
“I see, they are planning a pincer attack before the Second Army is defeated. That’s a surefooted strategy… Gentlemen, what are your thoughts on this?”
Graden surveyed the room and asked. A man seated in the corner stood up excitedly. He was the youngest officer present— Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Galli.
“Field Marshal Graden Sir, the Second Army is on their last legs. In my humble opinion, we should crush the Second Army in one sweep, and head straight for the Royal Capital Fizz.”
Alexander waved his hands as he laid out his grand plan, his eyes filled with narcissism, rendering the rest of the officers speechless.
“Are there any other opinions?”
Graden asked again, and Brigadier General Oscar said:
“In any case, the First Army is still the most elite unit of the Kingdom. I propose we turn around and engage them with the full might of the Sun Knights.”
All the officers save Alexander expressed their consent. Alexander wanted to protest, but Graden waved him off.
“I know what you want to say, Alexander. Crushing the Second Army in one sweep is one option. But this time, I have decided to go with Head Strategist Oscar’s proposal.”
Alexander’s face started twitching midway through.
“— I don’t mean to question the Field Marshal’s decision, but may I know the reason why?”
“Do you even need to ask? Because the enemy commander is probably the Ever Victorious General Cornelius.”
A mocking laughter made Alexander’s face twitch even more.
It came from Lieutenant General Patrick who was in his forties. He was a burly and rotund man who earned numerous war merits in the Sun Knights. His contributions were instrumental in the capture of Fort Kiel.
“I have long heard of the Ever Victorious General Cornelius. My ears almost grew numb from hearing about him in the Military Academy. Pardon me for being forthright, but he is just a moldy old man now. There’s no need for Field Marshal Graden to fight him personally.”
Alexander’s words made Graden smile awkwardly.
“It’s good to be young, but sometimes, it will kill you. You need to study a little more.”
“… My apologies, but may I know what you mean?”
Alexander frowned and was clearly upset. Graden sighed in his heart. It seemed that Alexander was doomed to be short lived. This war in the Central War Theatre was a harsh place where soldiers with excessive pride like him would die.
Leaving that aside, Graden craved to engage Cornelius in this battle.
During the ending period of the warring era, Cornelius’ accomplishments were as numerous as the stars. It was an honor to parley with a great hero like the Ever Victorious General.
As the highest ranking officer of the Imperial Army, and as a soldier, Graden was determined not to let this chance slip.
“You will understand at the end of this battle— Well then, we will reorganize our forces. I will take 30,000 Sun Knights main forces and 10,000 reserves to engage the First Army. The rest will continue the battle with the Second Army.”
Ignoring Alexander who was sitting down reluctantly, Graden issued his orders. He divided his 80,000 troops equally in half. Graden assigned more Sun Knights under his command, as he was wary of the First Army.
—The officers nodded in agreement, and Patrick stood up and said:
“Field Marshal Sir, please leave the Second Army to me.”
No one objected to his request. Despite his brusque appearance, Patrick was calm and organized in his planning. When he goes on the offensive, the attack prowess of his men were unmatched. Everyone felt he was the best choice.
“Alright then, I will leave the attack on the Second Army to you. Don’t let your guard down, a cornered rat will bite the cat.”
“Yes Sir! This matter is in good hands. I will destroy the Second Army swiftly and remove the threat of a pincer attack, so you can have a good fight against the First Army.”
“Well said, I hope you keep that in mind.”
Patrick saluted, and the seated Graden nodded to acknowledge him.
The Second Army was putting up a more stubborn resistance than expected. The commander was clearly formidable, since he managed to hold the Central War Theatre with just his lone army. Graden didn’t think Patrick would lose, but war was full of uncertainties.
No victory could be guaranteed.
After all the officers left, Oscar who was holding a cup in his right hand asked:
“Your Grace, is it really fine to leave this to Lieutenant General Patrick?”
Graden took a sip of tea, and looked at Oscar who seemed troubled. It seemed the head strategist had something to say.
“You are worried?”
“… More or less. The fact is, the commander of the Second Army is the type who uses unorthodox strategies. On the other hand, Lieutenant General Patrick’s character trends towards fighting fair and square. I’m not saying his character isn’t good, but he is a bad match for his opponent.”
Graden already knew the problem Oscar pointed out. But when he put courage and compatibility on a scale, it tipped towards courage. Patrick was reliable on this aspect.
“Don’t worry, I made my decision after considering this issue.”
“In that case, I won’t speak further. I will proceed with the reorganization of the unit.”
“I will be counting on you.”
“Yes Sir.”
Oscar saluted and left the tent briskly.
“In this battle, I will personally wipe the Ever Victorious General from the face of the earth.”
Graden muttered with a sinister smile on his face.
Central War Theatre, Second Army Basecamp
When Liz rushed over, Brad was formulating battle plans with his subordinates at a table.
She saluted Brad as usual, caught her breath, then said:
“Your Excellency, a report from the Third Defence line.”
“Hmm? Didn’t we just get a report?”
Brad said as he took out a watch that had a dull shade of gold. He opened the cover and checked, confirming that the last report came less than an hour ago. Brad furrowed his brows.
“The situation has changed. The Sun Knights have stopped their attack, and are withdrawing in an orderly fashion.”
“Withdraw...? Did we deal such a serious blow to them?”
The Second Army had the upper hand in the Third Defensive line, but the enemy kept up their attacks. Brad was just speaking in jest, he didn’t think his unit could inflict a heavy enough loss on the enemy to force them to retreat.
Brad wasn’t that optimistic.
“No, the enemy’s losses aren’t that great. The commander of the Third Defensive line, First Lieutenant Alabaster, was baffled by this too.”
Liz said with a confused expression.
“We didn’t inflict a heavy blow on them, which means…”
The most likely reason was that something happened to the enemy commander. Maybe he fell ill and couldn’t command, and had to retreat.
If he boldly let his mind loose, maybe Emperor Ramza—
(No, that’s too delusional…)
War wouldn’t progress in the way he wanted. Brad laughed at himself, and Liz looked at him with worried eyes.
“It’s nothing, I just thought that the enemy commander might have fallen ill or something.”
When Brad said that out loud, he realized how delusional that sounds. If that was true, the enemy wouldn’t be retreating orderly, and there would be some disarray in their movements.
Hence, the enemy was retreating with a purpose in mind.
“That might be so, but from the measured movements of the enemy, that seemed unlikely.”
Liz arrived at the same conclusion.
Brad lit a cigarette, took a big puff, and then asked:
“—Then why did they pull back?”
“Let me think…”
A moment later, Liz continued:
“Maybe Major Olivia’s unit is nearby? The Empire fears Major Olivia, so they decide to withdraw and reorganize.”
After hearing Liz’s thoughts, the officers all looked at each other with faces that had lightened up. Brad looked at them with pitiful eyes and said:
“I don’t mean to throw a cold blanket, but this isn’t the reason.”
“Why do you say that?”
Brad laughed wryly in response to Liz’s combative eyes. The other officers more or less reacted the same way. Like them, Brad wanted to grab onto a lifeline too.
“Think about it. No matter how much the Empire fears the Death God, she only has 6,000 men with her. That’s not enough to force an army to retreat. But your idea is on the right track…”
After listening to Liz, Brad was sure of it now.
“What do you mean?”
“Like Captain Liz said, the Sun Knights are withdrawing to reorganize.”
“But Your Excellency, you just refuted that… Oh!?”
Liz yelped, and Brad looked at her with a malicious smile.
“You finally got it.”
“Yes! The First Army is finally here!”
“That’s right.”
Liz clasped her hands before her breasts and tears in her eyes. Her prayers had finally been answered.
He knew this didn’t suit his style, but Brad still took out a handkerchief and stuffed it into Liz’s hands.
“T-Thank you very much.”
Liz was surprised. She took off her glasses to wipe her eyes, then smiled brilliantly.
Brad felt a little bashful and scratched the back of his head.
(Alright… the real battle starts now.)
If Brad was right, the First Army should be nearby, and the situation would turn for the better. However, it would take some time for the First Army to get to the battlefield. Before that, the Second Army was still in dire straits. The nonstop battles had pushed their unit to exhaustion.
Brad cleared his throat and ordered Liz:
“The enemy’s withdrawal is a good chance. Let the men have a proper rest.”
“Yes Sir.”
“And make sure their bellies are filled.”
“Yes Sir!”
The voice of Liz’s light hearted response penetrated deep into Brad’s heart.
Ⅲ
From the Desert City Keffin, and traveling one day on horseback to the northwest, you would reach Fort Gracia.
Fort Gracia was built on an island in the middle of a lake, where the water was clear and abundant. Erected in the warring era, Fort Gracia was a small but sturdy fort.
There was only one stone bridge that led into the fort, and enemies could be easily taken out by defending that bridge. At a glance, it was great for defences.
However, the Royal Army in the current day didn’t place much importance in Fort Gracia. The reason was simple, Fort Gracia’s supply line would be cut off by blockading that very bridge.
In other words, Fort Gracia had many flaws from its fundamental designs. The older generation wondered why a fort would be built in such a place, and it was still a mystery now.
Currently, Fort Gracia’s commander was a high ranking officer who lost in a political power struggle. This useless fort became the final appointments for these exiled officers.
And so, Fort Gracia was secretly called “Dusk Fort” by the Royal Army.
After leaving the Grey Crow Pavilion, Olivia and company bid farewell to Neinhart and Katherina, then headed for Fort Gracia. With Olivia on her trusty steed Comet in the center, 20 burly built male soldiers formed a ring around them. They were Neinhart’s soldiers, tasked with the escort of Olivia’s group.
Olivia turned him down in the beginning, as she felt there wasn’t a need. She could protect herself, and it was the same for Claudia. Ashton needed an escort, but Olivia could do that herself.
She only agreed because of Claudia’s gloomy smile. The riders moved swiftly towards Fort Gracia.
Three days later—
“Major, this is Fort Gracia.”
After passing through a road in the woods, Claudia pointed the fort out. To the open space to the west, a round fort built in the center of the lake could be seen clearly. The sun dyed the sky red as if it was on fire, and this sight was reflected on the lake, creating a fantasy-like scene.
“So pretty! Look, Ashton. It’s so beautiful, like a scene out of a drawing book.”
“I don’t particularly care about the scenery. Olivia, you are always so carefree and without worries.”
Ashton who was riding beside her said lacklusterly.
“Why do you look so pale?”
The book said that people who weren’t moved by beautiful sceneries have mental issues. Olivia regurgitated this fact to Ashton, and he sighed heavily.
“We will be battling the Sun Knights next, I’m not in the mood to admire the scenery.”
“I see.”
“I see… You are taking things so lightly, and aren’t worried about anything.”
“That’s my strong point. Isn’t that right, Comet?”
Olivia tapped Comet’s neck, and it neighed with gusto.
“Don’t say that yourself. And don’t seek affirmation from a horse.”
“Ashton, haven’t you heard about man and horse being of one mind? If you want to ride freely on the battlefield, it is important to communicate with your horse— Right, Comet?”
Comet neighed again, and Olivia puffed out her breasts proudly.
“Ughh! I’m actually convinced by your logic. Fine, I can’t understand horses or master basic swordsmanship either.”
Ashton shrugged, and stared ahead weakly. Claudia observed their interaction from the side with a faint smile.
As they walked along the lake and crossed the lone stone bridge, Claudia’s group finally made it to the fort gates. It was probably untouched by the flames of war, so despite being a fort erected in the warring era, it didn’t look battered at all.
Claudia took a deep breath, and yelled at the guards on the walls:
“I’m a Royal Knight, First Lieutenant Claudia Jung! You should have been notified already! Open the gates!”
“R-Right away!”
The soldiers whispered to each other, and was quickly gone.
Claudia and company dismounted and waited for a while, and the gates slowly opened with a creak. A stout man leading a large group of soldiers appeared behind the gates.
“You must be tired from your long journey. I’m the commander of Fort Gracia, Dominic Eckhardt.”
Dominic whose uniform might burst at any moment introduced himself. On his collar was three silver stars that signified the rank of Colonel.
“We’re honored that the commander came to welcome us personally. I’m First Lieutenant Claudia Jung of the Seventh Army, and this is—”
“Yes, no need for introductions. The famous Death God, Olivia Valedstorm, I presume?”
Dominic looked at Olivia with a lewd grin. It was unpleasant, but they couldn’t complain directly since he was a superior officer. In any case, this man left a terrible first impression.
“Yes! I’m Major Olivia Valedstorm!”
On the other hand, Olivia didn’t mind Dominic’s attitude and answered obediently.
“I see. I already heard about your beauty, but didn’t expect you to be at such a high level.”
“Is that so?”
“Yes, like a unique piece of art.”
Dominic said as he checked Olivia out with a lewd gaze. Claudia could hear Ashton behind them clicking his tongue.
(I know how Ashton feels. What a shameless man.)
Claudia stood before the oblivious Olivia and asked about the mustering of the troops. Dominic stood stiffly for a moment before continuing:
“You mean the mustering of the guards? It’s already done.”
Claudia suppressed her anger towards Dominic’s nonchalant attitude, and said as calmly as possible:
“In that case, we will leave with the troops first thing tomorrow morning—”
“No no no, First Lieutenant. That won’t do.”
Dominic cut Claudia off, waving his arms exaggeratedly. It was Claudia’s turn to become stiff.
“—Huh? What did you just say?”
“Your hearing is going at such a young age? I said that won’t do.”
Dominic shrugged, and loudly ordered his subordinates to close the gate. At the same time, the soldiers around him surrounded Claudia’s company. Their weapons that should be pointed at the enemies, were directed at their allies.
“Colonel Dominic, what’s going on here? If this is a joke, then you are going too far.”
Claudia stayed near the hapless Ashton, and gripped the hilt of her sword. Neinhart’s men had already drawn their weapons.
“Joke? —Unfortunately, I hate jokes.”
Dominic sneered as the hundred soldiers slowly tightened their encirclement.
Now that she thought about it, the signs were all there. When she requested for the gates to be opened, the soldiers acted very suspiciously. The commander welcomed them personally, so he was prepared for this. And the large number of armed guards.
There had already been cases of traitors appearing in the Royal Army, but Claudia didn’t expect a Colonel who was a commander of a fort to do so.
(I’m still too green…)
Claudia unleashed her Celestial Eyes, and prepared for the worst.
“— May I know the reason?”
“Reason? The reason, huh… very well, I have a soft spot for beauties after all— Do you know what the troops call Fort Gracia in secret?”
“……Dust fort.”
Dominic nodded unhappily.
“That’s right. I’m an outstanding man, but got exiled here because of bad fortune. The life here is terrible. There’s no fragrant wine nor pretty ladies to spend the night with me. This is no different from a prison.”
Dominic lamented his misfortune. To the others, his reasons were nonsensical.
Claudia had gone beyond being angry and just felt speechless.
“You betrayed the Kingdom just because of that?”
“Just that? What do you mean by ‘just that’? You won’t understand how I feel about being relegated to this damn place!”
Dominic threw his command baton into the ground and stomped on it furiously. A man who looked like his attendant tried to soothe him.
“Hah, hah… Forget it. I’m outstanding enough for the Empire to take me in, but if I present them with the head of the Death God, they will give me a high post. Your visit isn’t a coincidence, it must be the blessing of Goddess Citresia for all the good deeds I have done.”
“—Hey, so Colonel Dominic is the enemy?”
The confused Olivia asked, and Claudia nodded:
“He is planning to betray the Kingdom and join the Empire.”
“I see. So he is the enemy!”
Olivia nodded, finally figuring out the situation. Dominic said with an apologetic face:
“Oh, forgive me. Forgive me, as I have to kill a beauty like you. Your head is more valuable than any gem in the world. I will at least pray that it will be painless—”
It happened in a blink of an eye.
Claudia couldn’t have kept track of Olivia if she didn’t activate her Celestial Eyes. Olivia sprinted to Dominic with lightning speed.
One beat later, Dominic’s head rolled onto the ground. Blood then spurted out of his body that fell with a loud thud.
Both sides were stunned, and Olivia’s bell-like voice rang out:
“One done. Who else is the enemy?”
Olivia rested the blood stained dark sword on her shoulder, and looked around her enthusiastically. The soldiers finally realized the situation, and tossed aside their weapons before kneeling down.
Fifteen minutes after Dominic started his revolution.
Fort Gracia fell into Olivia’s hands.
Ⅳ
Central War Theatre, Freiberg Highlands, Patrick Army Basecamp
Patrick, who had been tasked by Graden to defeat the Second Army kept breaking through the defence lines of the Second Army, and finally pushed them to the Freiberg Highlands. Pushed to the brink, the Second Army had nowhere else to run.
If they crushed the Second Army here, the way to the capital would be clear.
“Looks like they found their hill to die on.”
Twin star gold lion.
At the sight of the numerous banners of the Second Army, his adjutant Major Ares said:
“Yes, it finally came to this.”
“Mere parlor tricks, how revolting.”
For Patrick, there was no point in battles that weren’t fair and square. However, he couldn’t force his opponents to act in the way he wants.
Using steel webs to stall the enemy, digging trenches to change the river flow, breaking river dams, and even simple pitfalls. This went completely against a straight up fight, which disgusted Patrick.
“Sir, war is a dirty affair. Battles are full of deceits, and the enemy commander is proficient at that. If possible, I even want to recruit him to our cause.”
However, Ares had opposite views from Patrick.
“Hmmp. You are really enamoured with the enemy.”
“Outstanding individuals deserve praise, be they friend or foe.”
Ares who was a well learned military scholar explained his principle. That was enough for Patrick to vent out the anger that had been accumulating all this time.
“You are lecturing now!? Why do you like to drone on about unnecessary things!?”
Ares shrugged with an awkward smile. Patrick sighed at Ares’ attitude, and looked at the triangular formation of the Second Army.
“But to use a wedge formation at this juncture… They are not giving up.”
<TL: 魚鱗>
“Unlike us, they are already exhausted…”
Ares was implying something, and Patrick knew that.
“Hmmp. They must have received news that the First Army is coming.”
To stop the Second Army from getting intel about the First Army’s arrival, Graden deployed a large number of work teams in the area to block any flow of information. Even so, the Second Army’s morale showed no signs of waning, so the reason was obvious.
“That should be it. We didn’t place much hope in it working in the first place.”
Patrick grunted at Ares.
“Of course. This might sound rude to the Field Marshal, but the information blockade is just a waste of time. Instead of using tricks like that, we are better off crushing the enemy head on.”
“Leaving that aside for now, what should we do? Normally, we should attack in waves to probe the enemy.”
“Stupid question. You should know what I’m thinking.”
“Well, Your Grace’s train of thought is quite easy to grasp.”
Ares smiled faintly at that. He had a tendency to nag, but Ares was a competent man that Patrick trusts deeply.
“It’s settled then. What we need to do is to keep up the pressure and continue advancing. Probing isn’t my style. Since the Second Army is using a wedge formation, then we will destroy them with our crane wing formation.”
<TL: 鶴翼>
“I will make the arrangements.”
Ares turned crisply and headed to the place where the messengers were standing by.
<TL Note: Here’s the Japan wiki page on formations https://tinyurl.com/u7tx3er>
Central War Theatre, Freiberg Highlands, Second Army Basecamp
“So this is the calm before the storm, huh…”
Brad mumbled to himself. The two armies were staring each other down in the Freiberg Highlands quietly. Brad and Liz were exhausted, but they still insist on observing the enemy’s movements.
Three weeks had passed since they first fought the Sun Knights.
Thanks to the First Army drawing away the bulk of the Sun Knights’ main forces, the Second Army’s burden has lessened considerably. Even so, the enemy still broke through the third and fourth defensive lines, and they suffered great losses. Their spirits had not been broken, but it was almost at their limits.
“Your Excellency, there’s enemy movement.”
Brad nodded at Liz. In front of them, the enemy formation was forming into a crescent shape, with the ends protruding out. They moved swiftly, and would be done in no time.
“A crane wing formation, huh…”
“Because of our wedge formation?”
“That must be it. They know our spirits aren’t broken, and plan to finish us off.”
“What should we do?”
Liz’s face was gloomy as she asked. She knew very well that they had no chance of winning. But at the very least, they had to avoid defeat.
“… You need a pair of wings to fly.”
“Are you saying we should crush one of the enemy’s wings, and stall them out?”
Liz understood what Brad was saying, and Brad was impressed by her quick wittedness once again.
“That’s right. Unfortunately, the only thing we could do now was to buy time and pray for the First Army’s victory.”
Liz grasped Brad’s intent, and relayed the orders to a messenger. Brad watched as he lit a cigarette. A while later, purple smoke started rising.
“— By the way, Major Olivia’s unit isn\'t here yet. I could really use a hand right now…”
After giving a series of instructions, Liz suddenly remembered that. Olivia’s reinforcement was already on their way, but there were still no signs of them.
“A regular unit might reach here by now, but she is bringing a hastily gathered group this time.”
“You mean it’s not properly organized?”
“That’s very likely.”
“But they might already be nearby.”
Brad nodded gently:
“I can’t deny that possibility, but I won’t bet on it either.”
Right now, getting 6,000 reinforcements sounded very enticing. Normally, they would be very welcomed, but reorganizing them was in a sense more problematic than fighting the enemy. One wrong move, and it might cripple the chain of command, leading to the collapse of the entire army.
Brad felt very conflicted.
“—Alright, let’s get started. We are stalling for time, but that isn’t a reason for us to sit and wait for them to finish forming up. Let’s target the enemy’s left wing that is moving a little slower.”
“Yes Sir!”
On Brad’s orders, the Second Army started their assault on the enemy’s left wing.
— The intense battle started.
After seeing the Second Army’s clear attack, Patrick ordered heavy shield troopers to the front. In the orders of the unit commander, the soldiers blocked the front and flanks of the formation with tidy ranks of shields, without any gaps.
This was the Sun Knights’ famed defensive formation, the 《Castle Tower Formation》.
“This is too hard for us to chew on…”
Brad judged the formation to be too difficult to break, and changed his target to the enemy’s right wing instead. A mediocre officer would just follow through with his plan, but the commander of the Second Army understood the importance of changing things up on the fly.
“The enemy is quick to react. Don’t let them through.”
And in response, Patrick swiftly sent reinforcements from the center to help out the left wing.
The two outstanding commanders sloughed it out, and the battle was at an impasse.
—The second day of the battle.
The first to show a lapse was the Second Army. A moment of carelessness resulted in a corner of their defence line breaking. Patrick who was adept in offence didn’t miss this chance, and ordered an all out attack at this gap.
On the other hand, Brad sent a message to Second Lieutenant Laina in order to fill in this gap. The reserves had been mobilized, but were stopped by an enemy’s ambush.
The battle had been decided.
“Your Excellency!”
“They are not giving us a chance to mend this gap. The enemy commander is really harsh.”
Brad grabbed his hair roughly and said with a wry smile.
“Now isn’t the time to be impressed by the enemy!”
“You are right. With the way things are, it will only be a matter of time before they break through our line. When that time comes…”
Brad stiffened his face at that.
“You know what will happen, right?”
“Then…”
Liz’s lips trembled a little.
“Unfortunately, our time is up. We will start an orderly retreat. Take the unit to Castool low grounds in the east. We can build up a sturdy defence line there. Before everyone retreats, I will pin the enemy down here with 3,000 men.”
“Yes Sir! Leave it to me!”
Colonel Carl-Heinz answered loudly. He was brave and smart, and will act as the rearguard alongside Brad.
“Allow me to stay with you to the end..”
Liz stepped forth and requested to carry out her duty with Brad in a firm tone.
Her deep blue eyes under her glasses had an indomitable will. Brad gently pat her slender shoulders and said:
“No, the war isn’t over yet. Captain Liz, you have the obligation as my adjutant to lead the retreat of as many soldiers as possible. You understand? This is an order.”
“There are plenty of suitable candidates, including Major General Adam and many others. An adjutant has the right to refuse an unreasonable order.”
“… This is the first time I have heard of that. Is there such a rule in the military doctrines?”
Brad tried thinking back to his time in the military academy, but couldn’t recall at all. If such a rule did exist, there wasn’t any reason not to abuse it during his time as an adjutant.
“There isn’t, I came up with it just now.”
Liz said something ridiculous with a serious face. Brad forgot about the imminent danger and laughed out loud.
“You sure are bold to joke at a time like this.”
“I’m not joking/ I want to fight together with Your Excellency until the end…”
Liz calmly closed her eyes.
“— And die by your side.”
She opened her eyes after saying that, and smiled like a blooming flower. Liz’s smile was whimsical, like a flower that would wilt with a touch.
Unlike his usual self, Brad tensed his face:
“Captain, that’s enough. I might not die here just yet, and I don’t intend to. Like I said, dying for my country isn’t my thing.”
“In that case, I don’t see any problem.”
Liz’s smile brightened a little, and she leaned onto Brad’s chest. Her sweet scent permeated right through Brad.
“……Liz, please let go. There’s no time.”
“…………”
“Liz?”
“…………”
“Liz, can you hear me!?”
Liz didn’t react, and just looked behind Brad in a daze. Brad followed her gaze and—
“Phew, I made it just in time. I must say, this is quite a flashy entrance.”
Light cascaded down from the gaps between the clouds, illuminating the hills in the distance. And on that hill was a girl dressed in majestic dark armor.
Beside the girl was a banner fluttering in the wind, with a skull and two crossed scythes on it.