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A straight path to the Holy Kingdom has emerged from the Empire.

If I were to borrow memories from my past life, it’s like a highway. Yes, a literal highway has been opened.

Not too long ago, the Southern Kingdoms were blocking the way of the Imperial Legion.

But now, those Southern Kingdoms have all retreated.

There were no forms of physical contact or threats equivalent to such.

(Of course, the fact that the Imperial Legion has approached is somewhat akin to a threat.)

Moreover, nothing has occurred that would go against the public sentiment of the South which could cost the Empire its justification.

For example, looting or attacking the Southern Kingdoms.

There must have been some murmurs among them.

In the end, they might say they succumbed to power. Or that they are cowardly ones swayed by money.

There is certainly an influence from this event that can’t simply be brushed aside.

‘But, that too is only temporary.’

The Empire, along with sincerity, provided them with a considerable sum that both preserved their pride and benefited them materially.

The kingdoms realized well that this was far too large of an amount to outright refuse under the guise of loyalty.

It became a truly desirable scenario where both sides could take and give accordingly.

Ah, I hope no one gets mistaken. There’s definitely a part that should not be overlooked.

The Empire did not simply buy their hearts with money. That’s also a form of pressure.

‘Are you really going to reject this gesture of sincerity from us?’

Then it means we will push forward with pure power, leaving no room for negotiation.

Is the Empire prepared to move the Legion, accepting the contempt it will incur? For them, that would be a calamity.

That’s why they quickly took what they could and retreated.

“Prince Kael. I’ve heard news that Benito’s army, heading towards the Holy Kingdom, is retreating.”

“Have you definitely made it clear to the 4th Legion and 15th Legion?”

“Yes. Instead of chasing after Benito, we’ve instructed them to prioritize stability in each Southern Kingdom and saving the Holy Kingdom.”

“Good. Be sure to convey that to the two legion commanders. While it’s regrettable that they won’t achieve a feat, considering the backdrop of this war and the reason for involvement, saving the Holy Kingdom is truly important.”

The essence of imperial power. The total responsibility for that legion lies in the commander.

It’s a position that ordinary capabilities cannot attain. They’re all extraordinary individuals and won’t do anything foolish.

They surely know well how crucial justification and public sentiment are.

Even so, human emotions can be quite fickle, which makes such reassurances necessary.

“Your role is extremely significant, so please do not feel regret and do your best.”

That way, mistakes won’t arise even by chance.

“If this continues, all of Benito’s forces heading towards the Holy Kingdom will successfully return.”

“What’s the current number?”

“Based on reports thus far, it’s estimated to be about 50,000.”

“50,000?”

Benito’s total force is 70,000, with 20,000 left for their own defense.

This means nearly all of the forces they brought out are intact.

‘Those Holy Kingdom folks. Did they really not inflict any damage?’

Suddenly, I seem to understand why the Southern Kingdoms despise the Holy Kingdom so much.

That blended religion, depending heavily on faith, is merely all talk without substance.

No, what’s this—it’s said it’s the Runen army but they couldn’t deal any damage against the expelled Benito army?

I quickly flipped through my mental notebook to organize what I know about the Holy Kingdom.

They must be preserved for the doctrine of light, but they rendered no practical help.

That once-renowned Knight Order is now merely an ornamental façade.

“What will you do, Prince Kael?”

“What about?”

“Will you just watch? Or will you advance and block their retreat?”

Fatigue from non-combat has hit hard, paired with distrust towards the alliance, causing the chain to break.

Now, our 6th Legion and 13th Legion can choose one of two options.

Either press forward to pressure Benito or change directions and confront the retreating Benito army.

It seems the commander is asking which among those two I would choose.

“Why are you asking me? The commander of the 6th Legion is you.”

“And you, Prince, are a direct appointee of His Majesty the Emperor. It’s only right for me to inquire about your opinion and seek advice to assist in the decision making.”

While those words are said, they likely already know what I’ll say.

I can see it in the commander’s face—the desire to engage in battle.

Didn’t they come here initially to confront Benito?

The decision lies with the commander. They bear the responsibility too.

Nevertheless, asking for my opinion and counsel is likely to bolster morale.

If I deem it’s right to fight, then the soldiers will surely also grow stronger in their belief of victory.

“In my opinion.”

As soon as I opened my mouth, the 6th Legion commander’s eyes sparkled with interest.

“I think conducting a feint operation seems to be the best method currently.”

“A feint operation, you say?”

“If both legions head straight for Benito, we’ll be ambushed from behind by those that are returning. Conversely, if all head to counter Benito’s forces, the remaining forces will surely be waiting for us at the back.”

Compared to the Empire, the South is indeed weaker. Benito may be strong, but only in the South.

However, getting ambushed in battle greatly narrows the gap in combat effectiveness.

“That’s why we’ll split into two directions.”

They say you become weaker when scattered, but that does not apply to our legion.

The advance was initiated by these two legions right from the start.

And a legion is designed to deliver perfect combat power when moving as one war machine.

“Inform the 13th Legion commander. The 13th Legion is to push forward and pressure Benito as is, in a way that prevents their remaining forces from moving.”

“What about the 6th Legion?”

Oh dear. Our commander seems to be trying hard not to show his anticipation.

Watching that eager expression, I suddenly feel tempted to play a prank.

But given the situation, I know I can’t afford to do that.

“We’ll change course and confront the returning Benito forces.”

“Our 6th Legion, then.”

“The enemy far outnumbers the 6th Legion, over twice their might. I don’t want to underestimate our forces, but I can’t help my concern. You can lead them well, right?”

“Of course.”

I can sense the solid determination from the 6th Legion commander’s expression, suggesting trust in me with their fate.

Yet, I can also see his true feelings. It’s somewhat pitiful.

The excitement over the feat available to him, but worry for his own legion that will inevitably face losses.

So paradoxical, yet they shouldn’t coexist. But as a commander, there’s no other way.

Those feelings clashed, unable to openly smile, nor could he express reluctance.

‘Don’t worry. I’ll help as much as I can.’

I certainly don’t intend to just sit back and leave everything to the commander and their subordinates.

Though I think otherwise, it seems they see me in that light.

If so, then I must perform at least a minimal role as that tactician. That’s what I believe.

*

―Boom!!

With a loud noise, the table didn’t split into two, which was expected.

It’s only natural. This isn’t some ordinary stuff used by common folk; it’s for the Royal Palace.

A table made of the finest wood wouldn’t shatter with a mere punch.

“….”

Thanks to that racket, the fury of Andrea II has somewhat subsided.

To be precise, it’s the momentary pain from his hand that distracted him.

“Kingdoms that were supposed to ally with us are now all withdrawing.”

“Reports indicate that the kingdoms that agreed to hinder the Empire have already allied with the Empire.”

Those were reports I absolutely did not want to hear. They should not have been heard.

Each of them repeatedly has turned the insides of the King upside down.

“The path for the Imperial Legion to head towards the Holy Kingdom is now entirely clear.”

“Thankfully, the Empire has prioritized the stability of the Holy Kingdom. Because of that, our forces’ retreat faced no great difficulties.”

Thankful? What the hell does that mean?

It would have been better to occupy the Holy Kingdom even if it meant isolating ourselves.

We should have grabbed the Pope by the collar and appointed another in their place.

After which, if we lifted the excommunication and canceled the holy war, everything would have worked out.

‘Foolish commanders. If they could have held on just a little longer, reinforcements from Dedorant would be on their way soon. How could they ruin everything just a few months short of patience!’

The Empire’s weakness has always been time. And justification.

With how much military spending they’ve already amassed, they can never afford to drag things along.

Meanwhile, internal discontent grows, making unnecessary tax expenditure impossible.

Thus, they declared war. Purposefully drawing them in.

Stealing away the justification of excommunication and holy war, while granting them the justification of a declaration.

If the Empire could lock themselves down, Dedorant would surely become stronger.

Eventually, the Empire would realize they had nothing more to gain and surely seek negotiations.

On the brink of despair, one must fight tooth and nail.

Only then would this Benito see a clear path to survival.

But those commanders ultimately crumbled in fear and fled.

“And that cursed Gori! Those bastards have been clinging to us, and while they were comfortably protected, why did they retreat in an area where just holding ground was sufficient?!”

“P-Please calm down, Your Majesty. It’s said Gori’s forces have been under extreme fatigue. Their soldiers haven’t been able to properly rest for a week…”

“Was it because of fighting that they reached that state? No! They just fell for the Empire’s tricks, so what right do they even have to speak of fatigue! I never believed in them!”

“Your Majesty, Gori also has its own difficulties. Surely you must have anticipated how hard it would be for them to hold out.”

Hearing the officials around him, Andrea II managed to regain some measure of composure.

‘Hoo. Yes, the situation is bad, but it’s not the worst.’

The two legions of the Empire have settled into the Holy Kingdom.

Instead of advancing towards Benito, they say they’re focused on maintaining order there.

The imperial forces that Benito must contend with have now been reduced to two legions.

About 40,000. And with Benito’s total forces being around 70,000.

It’s manageable. We might not win, but holding out is feasible.

Isn’t it for this very moment that the soldiers of Benito were sent to Dedorant?

To learn through real combat and then improve their own troops’ training with the knowledge gained.

‘If we’re lucky, perhaps we could even win.’

Yes. We just need to win once. Just that single victory will resolve everything.

 

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