I’m the fifth son of a count’s family, but I became the head of a duke’s house
After finishing the drill, I returned to my office, took out my notebook, and gathered my thoughts.
It was because I had come to think that the existing system would be inadequate with the decision on tactical doctrines and the incorporation of the concept of logistics.
Specifically, I felt it would be better to specialize rather than demand the same level from everyone.
As for the detachment led by the knights, I’ll leave that to Werner. The problem now is with the remaining personnel.
I wrote down several items in my notebook and began filling in the names of the people in charge.
For the logistics unit, which oversees transportation, it would likely be Herbert, who seems to have a good understanding of its importance. I’ve made him work hard, so I’d like him to rest a bit in the background.
The remaining candidates are Erich and Kurt. Since Erich will use magic to provide support on the battlefield, would it be appropriate for him to be the commander of the entire standing army?
Kurt could join Werner’s unit, but although there’s no grudge, Werner seems to have developed a competitive spirit towards Kurt since the confrontation, so it may not be ideal. In that case, it seems reasonable to assign Kurt to guard me, as the defense skills he has would shine in a protective role.
I feel like my thoughts are finally coming together.
The overall command of the army will go to Erich. The detachment will be Werner’s. Logistics will be handled by Herbert. The guard will be Kurt.
Looking at it this way, you might think, “Why do I even need to be here?” But surprisingly, there’s still plenty for me to do, so leaving would be difficult.
It’s not just about fighting—post-war processing and negotiations involve a lot of political considerations. Therefore, it’s almost a duty for the nobility… or more precisely, the head of the household, to participate in the war.
In fact, if I weren’t present, people might think of me as weak.
Even the so-called cowardly Count Kastaren has gone to the battlefield, after all.
“Haa…”
I paused my writing, stretched, and heard satisfying cracking sounds from my body.
There’s a lot to do, like setting up hot springs and training the civil officials. It’s a bad habit of mine to take on too much. Wait… is it my fault that we’re short-handed and everyone’s busy?
A cold sweat trickled down my back.
Maybe everyone realized this but didn’t say anything out of politeness?
I’m sorry, everyone.
But even if I realize that, honestly, I don’t plan on changing my mind. In the end, I’m doing all of this because I think it’s necessary.
Well… I could maybe apologize and hold a light drinking gathering. It wouldn’t be fair to exclude Wolf, and we could celebrate the completion of the hot spring facility in winter.
As I was thinking this, a knock on the door caught my attention.
“It’s Erich. Your Grace.”
“Erich, come in.”
Erich opened the door and entered the room.
I will assign him a new role, but I’ll announce that later when everyone gathers.
I thought to myself and tucked the notebook into my pocket.
Erich stood in front of my desk, facing me.
“You did a great job earlier. Your command was excellent.”
“I’m honored by your praise.”
It was Erich who led us to victory, and it was impressive. Although the drill seemed like just a simple encirclement, in reality, he gave very detailed instructions, ensuring that the soldiers’ formations didn’t get breached.
“Is there something you need?”
“I have a letter from the Count for you.”
Erich handed me a letter, which I took. What could it be? I opened it and read through the contents.
“It says I should come a bit earlier than usual this year.”
“I see.”
It was about time for the meeting, but why only me?
I had a bad feeling about it.
“Could this be a case where they’re calling me separately to scold me?”
My brother Lemay had said that Father was angry because I had acted recklessly in battle.
He wasn’t upset when I received the letter about looking for a hot spring designer, though.
I wondered what to do and looked at Erich’s face, who seemed to ponder for a moment before quickly coming to a conclusion.
“Well, that’s probably it.”
“I thought so…”
I felt a little depressed about meeting Father and slumped on the desk. Ah, the coolness feels nice.
Please, Father… just forgive me with one generous slap on the back.
I couldn’t help but silently wish for that.
