I gathered a few prominent knights among my vassals and held a meeting in my office.
Recently, it seems they have been strengthening their unity due to the rumors circulating.
The rumors spread by the Duke’s faction certainly gave them an excuse and encouraged their solidarity, but they were drifting away from the original goals they had in mind.
The noble leading the formation of the encirclement had initially intended to establish a defense agreement against the invasion of Count Vywarl. However, by framing the Vywarl family as the enemy, their objectives veered significantly off course. Initially, the focus was on cooperative defense, but by leveraging the momentum of the rumors, some nobles began to adopt the mindset of “we must strike down Vywarl,” which spread among the nobles forming the encirclement.
As a result, the original plan changed drastically, forcing a shift to an offensive strategy.
We also had a plan to accumulate power through internal administration before launching an invasion. Both my father and I believed that since they were focused on a defense agreement, they would not attack unless provoked.
However, the situation changed. If they did not invade, the factions within the encirclement would lose purpose, resulting in a sentiment of, “Why aren’t we moving forward together?” Therefore, they were reluctantly compelled to invade for the sake of unity.
At this point, the original purpose and methods had completely switched.
On the desk in the office lay a map of the duchy drawn on parchment.
They had begun gathering supplies, but since there were still no signs of conscripting peasant soldiers, the invasion could still be a while away. Nevertheless, we had to prepare a defense plan in anticipation of the invasion.
Time is not infinite.
“First, let’s start with our side. Currently, we have 2,500 soldiers, 300 peasant soldiers from the count’s house, and 18 knights, totaling 2,818.”
I placed six pieces representing our forces on the map. Each piece likely represented around 500 soldiers.
“On the enemy side, we estimate around 8,000 troops, mostly peasant soldiers, and about 40 knights.”
I placed 16 pieces on the enemy territory.
Looking at it this way, the difference in military strength is quite significant…
However, there is one positive point.
Thanks to the infrastructure improvements centered around the capital, it is easier to predict the enemy’s invasion route.
“The anticipated points of invasion for the enemy are…”
If we hadn’t improved the infrastructure, we would have to consider several patterns of invasion, but with major roads in place, they would likely think to use them.
If they were to invade…
I pointed to a spot on the map.
“The eastern city of Barhen… the fortress just before it is our defensive line.”
Erich also stared at the same point on the map, deep in thought.
Barhen is a crucial point in the eastern region, directly connected to the capital by a well-maintained road. If we were to lose this place, the capital would be almost within reach.
To the east of Barhen, the road splits into two, leading to the northeast and the southeast, with the latter branching off midway.
They would likely try to invade through these three routes and converge at Barhen.
“Given the difference in strength, I’m not saying we can’t win, but it may be wise to adopt a defensive strategy.”
The vassals all wore serious expressions.
But… We have just begun to restore order within our territory and are trying to recover; if we only defend now, it will lead to a repeat of past failures, and we won’t achieve stability or recovery in the east.
“I would prefer to decide the outcome here if possible… but is that difficult?”
“I have one suggestion,” Kurt said, his face set with determination while everyone else wore troubled expressions.
“What kind of plan do you have?” I asked, and Kurt began to explain while positioning pieces on the map.
“The enemy will advance dispersed. Meanwhile, we will deploy a separate unit to take out a smaller group of the enemy.”
“Are you suggesting we divide our already limited forces?”
“Yes. That’s correct.”
He placed three pieces on the fortress, representing around 1,500 troops, and three pieces for the separate unit on the northern route.
“We expect the enemy’s main force to come from the southeast, so we will eliminate about 1,500 enemies in the northeast while buying time at the fortress. After that, the separate unit will launch a surprise attack on the enemy’s rear.”
While Kurt proposed this, Erich interjected with a counterargument.
“Even if the fortress strengthens its defenses somewhat, it would be an incredibly difficult task to hold back 6,500 enemies with just 1,500.”
“Yes, that’s why I will take on that responsibility myself.”
“Hmm. I think that’s not a bad idea, but I’ll defer to your decision, Lord Ainzich.”
At Herbert’s words, everyone turned to me.
As the one entrusted with the final decision…
I first simulated the scenario in my mind.
I began to consider whether it was truly necessary to make a stand here.
If we cannot wipe them out here, the invasion could spread, leading to a loss of control in the east. All the reforms we’ve implemented could be in vain. If we cannot prove our strength, further invasions are likely, and while my father may be unconcerned, other nobles within the faction may intervene. That is something I wish to avoid.
In that case, it seems the only option is to engage in a decisive battle… Utilizing the fortress as a defensive position should work to our advantage, and I believe our soldiers’ training time will have an impact once the war begins.
Additionally, the enemy’s ignorance of gunpowder and their low numbers may lead them to underestimate us.
If we win here, they will have no choice but to proceed cautiously, buying us more time.
And with this military achievement, we could create an impression of a strong lord in the eyes of both the populace and outside forces…
“Let’s go with Kurt’s plan.”
After careful consideration, I made my decision.
