SWNOVELXO Chapter 126
I continued to issue directives without pause regarding the subsequent events.
“Prior to launching our full-scale counterattack, we’ve deliberately leaked a ton of information indicating that there will be large-scale attacks from the north and south. In reality, a supply unit is due to arrive soon, so from Dedorant’s perspective, they’ll probably think it’s all preparation for a major offensive.”
“The Eastern Legion and Southern Legion should maneuver towards their respective northern and southern borders as if that were their actual destinations. You must intentionally allow the impression that you’re supporting a large-scale attack.”
“And when the news comes that the Western 5th Legion and Eastern Allied Forces have retreated, turn the army around immediately. Act as if you’re overly concerned about possibly being flanked due to a report of our defeat. It’s like the Empire has not forgotten the terrible losses it suffered from Dedorant’s siege.”
They surely know the possibilities better than anyone else since they have their own ways.
We have faced humiliating defeats, and they have achieved notable victories.
What if the tables were turned in such a situation? Who could possibly sleep soundly?
“I will subtly inform them, who are getting increasingly anxious, that this is their last chance. If we retake Setongrad, they’ll undoubtedly be considering attacking the area to seize the supply depot and use it as a stronghold for defense.”
“Your Excellency is right. If they indeed retake Setongrad and establish it as a stronghold, launching a central attack, our Empire’s siege will lose its effectiveness. If the anvil can’t hold, the hammering won’t matter.”
At that moment, the silent princess quietly expressed her opinion.
She had mentioned studying quite a bit during that time, and indeed, she seemed to have developed a keener perception.
“Your Excellency. If, by any chance, the enemies decide to retreat instead of breaking through, how should we respond?”
“Even if that were the case, our grand strategy wouldn’t change significantly. We’ll aim to keep as many Dedorant troops as possible in this region. If the enemies begin to retreat, we’ll mobilize the reserves in the rear to launch a powerful counterattack.”
As our Empire has done, if you wish to retreat, you must pay the corresponding price.
And that price will naturally involve part of Dedorant’s core forces.
“But as I keep emphasizing, it would be more beneficial for us if they chose to launch another assault on Setongrad instead of retreating. Thus, the deception strategies of the 5th Legion and the Eastern Allied Forces become even more crucial. We must minimize the feeling of our defeat and make it clear that this is the last chance.”
At that, the commander of the 5th Legion and Bethel from the Eastern Allied Forces began to tense up gradually.
It was only natural since they each had taken on the most important tasks.
“The Eastern Legion and Southern Legion are just as important. You must familiarize yourselves thoroughly with the terrain to prevent any delays in the advance.”
“We’ve already deployed scouts extensively around the area, and each commander has been instructed to be well acquainted with the nearby geography.”
“The soldiers have also undergone rigorous training, so they should be able to withstand a rapid march to some extent. However, the supply support is essential…”
“That part will be handled separately with reserves and transportation units to support each legion. They’ll be responsible for maintaining the supply lines, so you can focus on speeding things up.”
Dedorant has been ruthlessly hammering away at Setongrad.
No matter how elite they are, the situation differs from our Empire’s soldiers, who have been resting thus far.
In cases where both sides are relatively equal, it often comes down to a fleeting moment of miscalculation.
Just then, as I was about to receive reports on the preparation statuses of each legion, a messenger approached the aide beside me and whispered something in his ear.
As I was pondering what was happening, the aide came to me with surprising news.
“Your Excellency. A short while ago, we received word from the camp that a messenger from His Majesty the Emperor has arrived.”
*
Shortly after the meeting paused, a messenger bearing the Emperor’s crest entered.
And that messenger. The person summoned by the Emperor was none other than Kael.
“Imperial Chief of Staff and Acting First Commander of the Imperial Army, Kael Clausewitz. All titles bestowed upon you are hereby revoked from this moment.”
Huh? At the unexpected announcement, several individuals sharply raised their heads.
Isabelle, Charlua, and Kaya. Along with other legion commanders who were with Kael.
Their expressions were filled with disbelief as they seemed to question whether they had misheard.
While not as shocked, other prominent figures also had expressions of surprise.
This was sudden. To revoke all titles from Kael?
Could there have been some sort of incident? Was there some kind of internal move to constrain Kael?
A myriad of questions followed in quick succession.
With grand battles set to commence soon, how could Kael, who had planned and prepared everything, suddenly be sidelined?
Would a new figure take over as the First Commander now?
Can that person fulfill their duties with the same authority that Kael had?
If they were to suffer a defeat, it would be difficult even for the Empire.
However, in the end, all of that turned out to be nothing but mere worries.
“Simultaneously, I hereby appoint Kael Clausewitz as the Second Chief of Staff. He shall be granted full authority over the Imperial First Army, reinforcements dispatched from various nations, and any reserves and non-combat units that may be organized in the future.”
Chief of Staff. Upon hearing that title, I finally understood the Emperor’s intention.
As Chief of Staff, there’s no need to act as a substitute for the First Commander.
The position of Imperial Chief of Staff was, in fact, created solely for Kael.
“Upon receiving this directive, Kael Clausewitz, fulfill the duties that only you can perform. As you have always done, contribute yet another grand victory to the Empire.”
The messenger who delivered the Emperor’s will bowed courteously before Kael.
“Congratulations on your appointment, Chief of Staff. Please bring glory to the Empire and His Majesty the Emperor.”
At those words, Kael instinctively responded, a hint of bewilderment visible on his face.
Of course, he had been involved in almost every aspect of the Imperial Army until now.
Though they called him Imperial Chief of Staff and acting in the capacities of others, everyone knew he was essentially the Chief of Staff.
Yet, most of that was carried out through suitable cooperation and requests.
But from now on, it would be different. He was to command close to 500,000 troops.
From the First Commander down to each legion commander, even to individual field officers.
Kael had now become their superior and the one holding command authority.
With a mere gesture from him, the next actions of hundreds of thousands would be decided.
Once orders were given, he would resolutely rise, arm himself, and charge toward the enemy.
“…I shall do my utmost, Your Majesty the Emperor.”
Kneeling before the directive bestowed upon him, Kael made a solemn vow.
As you have expected of me, I will surely bring about a brilliant victory.
Simultaneously, I will do my utmost to safely return those entrusted to my hands back home.
After a brief storm passed, the operation meeting resumed.
A young individual, not yet thirty, had ascended to the highest position one could reach in wartime.
So, he could have allowed himself to feel a bit pleased or at the very least show a hint of joy.
“Let’s continue. Starting from the flanks, we’ll identify connection points within Dedorant and close the siege—”
As Kael continued, Isabelle smiled as she gazed at him.
In daily life, he is truly a good person. Kind-hearted, meticulous, and considerate of others.
But once he stands in his position, he completely transforms and exudes a cold demeanor.
Particularly, he appears to show not an ounce of hesitation when it comes to deceiving and manipulating the enemy.
Regardless of what they might think of him, he was a strategist who worked solely for the victory of the Empire.
“Chief of Staff.”
At that moment, Charlua cautiously raised her hand.
“Though I lack insight, I believe that Dedorant must inevitably launch another all-out attack on Setongrad. The difference between whether they do or not will be significant. What are your intentions regarding this matter?”
Hearing that question, the commanders all nodded, seeming curious about it.
For the pace of closing our siege net to lag behind Dedorant’s retreat, it must absolutely happen.
But Dedorant had already dealt a blow to the Empire with their large-scale siege.
They couldn’t possibly have forgotten about that possibility, so how could we make them forget?
“That…”
Kael, who was about to say something, let out a small sigh.
As Isabelle watched him, she couldn’t help but exhale a sigh of her own.
Kael’s expression and demeanor showed signs of remorse and turmoil.
While others might not feel the same, she definitely could.
“…that’s likely to boil down to one method, isn’t it?”
*
Perhaps the Emperor expected this very thing when he appointed the Chief of Staff.
In times like this, when facing such circumstances, he likely wished for Kael not to feel too tormented or guilty.
In war, such happenings are always commonplace. Even when the likelihood of death is known, someone must inevitably proceed.
[ First Legion Commander, received. Chief of Staff. ]
“What’s the situation there?”
[ Dedorant’s offensive has slightly eased. It seems discussions about retreat are likely beginning again. ]
“Understood.”
Even now, as they fight tooth and nail, I must once again express my regrets.
In that situation, what might be a little less troublesome, a request or an order?
It seemed that the Emperor had opted to leave me the latter.
“First Legion Commander.”
[ Speak, Chief of Staff. ]
“I fully understand the tremendous effort you all have put forth. However, for the grand strategy of the Empire, Dedorant must launch another large-scale attack on Setongrad.”
[ Understood. ]
“…I apologize, Legion Commander.”
At my words, the commander across the magical communication device shook his head.
[ Please don’t apologize. Just issue your orders. No one doubts that it will ultimately lead to the Empire’s victory. Therefore, Chief of Staff, a single word from you will suffice. ]
Seeing the commander smile, I too tried my best to smile back.
Though the reflection of my own expression was oddly out of sorts.
“Keep the Dedorant forces tied up around Setongrad.”
[ Orders received, Chief of Staff. ]