In the second battle against the Kingdom of Lancel forces, the defensive unit at Barrel Fortress suffered nine casualties, all of whom were beastman conscripts.
Additionally, there were 16 soldiers so severely wounded that they could not return to combat for some time. These included not only beastmen but also soldiers from the Kingdom’s army and the Arlquist territory’s forces.
“This means we’ve lost about 10% of our combat strength. Although some injured soldiers can still fight, they’re not in peak condition. The next battle will be even tougher.”
“And to make matters worse, the enemy’s forces are growing even stronger. There’s nothing funny about this.”
The day after the battle, Noein stood atop the fortress wall, speaking with Frederic while observing the Lancel Kingdom’s encampment.
Despite having killed over a hundred enemies yesterday, Noein could see with his sharp vision that the enemy’s camp had already swelled with reinforcements.
“Judging by their movements, they won’t attack today…”
“Yeah, but they’ll probably come up with some new strategy. Look, they’re cutting down trees in the forest at an alarming rate.”
Frederic sighed and turned back to glance inside the fortress.
“The soldiers seem quite disheartened.”
“They’ve just witnessed their comrades dying before their eyes.”
The soldiers not on guard duty were sitting on the ground, resting with somber expressions. They seemed to have deeply realized that this wasn’t a one-sided slaughter but a battle where they, too, could be killed.
Jinozze and Boreas, who were responsible for boosting morale, were going around encouraging the troops, but their efforts didn’t seem to have much effect.
“…Lord Noein, may I humbly offer a suggestion?”
“Of course, Mathilda.”
Noein turned to Mathilda, who had spoken up from beside him. Frederic looked slightly surprised—perhaps because this was the first time he had seen Mathilda speak of her own accord.
“How about sharing your plans for the conscripts’ future with them once this war is over, Lord Noein? It might help restore their morale.”
“That’s a good idea. I was just thinking the same thing.”
Noein nodded in agreement with Mathilda, then turned to Frederic.
“Mr. Frederic, I heard that these beastmen lost their homeland villages and have nowhere to go. Would it cause any issues if, after the war, I took them in as settlers for my territory?”
When Noein had heard from Jinozze about their burned villages and saw Mathilda’s somber expression, they had exchanged a silent nod. Without words, they had agreed to welcome the beastmen into his domain.
“No, that wouldn’t be a problem. In fact, it would be commendable since it would prevent them from becoming refugees. But… are you planning to take in all of them? That’s a considerable number.”
“That’s not an issue. My territory has ample food and funds, and we can always use more workers.”
Reassured, Frederic gave a small smile.
“…I see. In that case, you should tell them as soon as possible. Knowing there’s hope after the war should lift their spirits.”
“Thank you. I’ll do that.”
Descending the fortress wall, Noein approached Jinozze and Boreas.
“Excuse me, Lord Arlquist, but what might this be about?”
Jinozze asked, his expression puzzled, with Boreas looking similarly bewildered.
“Well, actually… I wanted to ask if you and your people might consider relocating to my territory once this war is over.”
Hearing Noein’s proposal, both Jinozze and Boreas looked slightly skeptical. Having lived in the discriminatory southern regions, they were wary of an offer that seemed too favorable to be true.
Noticing their concern, Noein continued to reassure them.
“Of course, I’m not planning to enslave you or subject you to harsh labor. I guarantee you’ll have a place to live and work. Whether it’s farming your own land, working in construction or mining, or even joining the territorial army—there will be opportunities. If you have literacy and numeracy skills, I could employ you as civil servants.”
“That’s… an incredibly kind offer, but why would you go to such lengths for us? We’re beastmen.”
Still cautious, Jinozze posed the question. Instead of answering himself, Noein glanced at Mathilda, who gave a small nod and spoke up.
“Lord Noein has a unique background and holds no prejudice against beastmen. He is remarkably tolerant of differences in social status, gender, and other divisions.”
Jinozze and Boreas listened intently, their expressions still tinged with disbelief.
“In the Arlquist territory, beastmen live alongside humans and demi-humans as equals. Some are independent farmers or craftsmen, and others even run their own trading companies. And I, a beastman, serve as Lord Noein’s closest aide and have earned his trust and affection. My position speaks to his genuine respect for beastmen.”
After Mathilda’s explanation, Jinozze and Boreas seemed deep in thought.
“…Indeed, when we weren’t receiving enough food, Lord Arlquist stood up to other nobles on our behalf. He even called us his comrades. No noble has ever treated us that way before,” Boreas said.
Jinozze nodded in agreement.
“Exactly. His Excellency has always been kind and considerate toward us… I will trust his words. I apologize for doubting you earlier.”
“It’s understandable to be cautious about such a sudden proposal. Don’t worry,” Noein replied with a smile.
“However, not all our people are here. We’ve dispersed children and the elderly to places like the Bezell Forest or a church run by a beastman priest to keep them safe.”
“I see. Let’s include them in the relocation plans as well.”
“W-Would that be alright? Including them would bring the total to nearly 300 people…”
“My territory is undergoing rapid development. We have the resources, and we need more hands. Increasing the population would be a welcome benefit.”
Even while Noein remained on the battlefield, immigration to the Arlkvist territory was likely continuing, accompanied by progress in land development and house construction. There was still ample capacity to accept newcomers. For the further development of the territory, an abundance of manpower was invaluable.
“Ah… My Lord, thank you so much. I don’t know how to properly express my gratitude.”
“It’s like a dream come true. Thank you.”
Overcome with emotion, the two expressed their thanks, to which Noein responded with a warm smile.
“I’m glad you’ve agreed… Please share this news with the conscripted soldiers as well. It will surely rekindle their will to live.”
“You’re right. Hearing this will inspire everyone to fight and survive. I’ll share it with them right away.”
With visible enthusiasm, Ginotze headed toward the beastmen, and Boreas followed.
As Noein watched them go, he murmured to himself,
“This will boost the morale of the beastmen, and I’ll gain more residents for my territory. I had intended to share this after the war, but… this worked out for the best, didn’t it, Mathilda?”
“Yes, Lord Noein. I think it’s a truly wonderful decision,” Mathilda replied with a smile.
