Chapter 197: It’s Going to Be a Sleepless Night (2)
A simultaneous attack from different military branches towards a single target is fundamentally impossible.
If you send cavalry into an area where infantry have charged, you risk trampling your own troops. And if you order archers to attack where the cavalry is charging, you’ll be called a madman.
A good commander must control the timing, allowing the first attack to successfully penetrate and disrupt the enemy formation before launching the second attack to effectively crush the enemy forces.
Sending infantry into the breach created by the cavalry without delay, or utilizing infantry to pierce the enemy while archers provide suppressing fire, are very basic combined arms tactics.
These are common-sense tactics, you could say. However, I tend to enjoy breaking common sense.
I had already sent the cavalry in behind the infantry who were engaging the enemy at the front, pushing them forward simultaneously.
A simultaneous cavalry and infantry charge.
This tactic could lead to serious confusion among our own ranks, but I considered the superior mobility of both the cavalry and infantry. That’s why I gave this order:
Once the operation begins, the infantry will advance in battalions, no matter what. The cavalry will gather in platoons and pass through the gaps between the infantry.
A cavalry charge aims to break through the enemy’s weak points, wreak havoc, and then exit through the most vulnerable area. Any cavalry commander can find such a path.
In other words, it means being able to find the ‘gaps’ in a large concentration of enemy troops and exploit them.
The gaps intentionally created between the infantry formations and the cavalry’s mobility, which is several times greater than that of the infantry, translates to a continuous attack by both infantry and cavalry, reducing the time difference to almost zero.
To be honest, it’s not a simultaneous attack, but it’s certainly enough to give that impression.
The Imperial forces, exhausted from waiting for reinforcements, must have sensed that today’s attack was different from usual. However, by the time they realized it, the Kingdom’s cavalry would have already penetrated their ranks.
Archers cannot be utilized in a melee. Bows can be used as a means of attack, but not as a military branch. And right on the heels of the cavalry, the infantry surges forward like a raging wave.
Even until now, we’ve been keeping the Imperial forces on their toes, but today, we’re not just keeping them on their toes; we’re completely overwhelming them.
The high-density, deep defense line that was established has been completely shattered.
The Imperial army went to great lengths to stop the cavalry, but the infantry, who had charged in like lightning before the cavalry arrived, neutralized all their efforts.
The barricades were broken, the stakes with ropes were pulled out and scattered, and the walls that had intricately twisted the path to the encampment were uprooted, leaving a rather depressing sight.
The soldiers who had been harassing the Imperial forces for the past few days and studying the structure of their defenses would have been able to grasp their weaknesses.
I’m really curious how the Imperial forces are feeling, having to deal with the sudden shift to a melee and the unbelievable situation of their commanders falling one after another. I wonder if Aila and Levidian are doing well.
“We’ve spotted Imperial forces retreating from the rear! The 18th Legion of the Imperial Capital is buying time against our forces! Some have already formed defensive lines, while others are retreating and setting fire to their supplies!”
“Ignore those who are retreating! For those who surrender, give them a good smack on the head and put them to work extinguishing the fires! Send the 3623rd Legion to deal with the 18th Legion!”
“Yes, sir!”
I can understand the Imperial army’s perspective.
I don’t know who first thought of the idea of burning their supplies rather than handing them over to the enemy, especially the supplies they’ve accumulated and planned to use in the future, but they surely would have received a medal.
With the tide of the battle turning against them, the Imperial forces have begun to retreat.
This is a very desirable situation. Although it was planned to go this way from the beginning, today’s operation is significant in that it minimizes the number of casualties.
The areas where the cavalry had trampled through were literally in ruins. Traces remained of the heavy cavalry pushing through, the light cavalry widening the gaps, and the infantry’s raging charge.
Although it wasn’t a pleasant sight, with corpses trampled by horses and fallen cavalrymen scattered everywhere, it’s also true that a significant number of Imperial soldiers surrendered, overwhelmed by the sheer number of our forces.
Lucy, observing the Imperial soldiers who had been taken prisoner and isolated, said,
“Prisoner containment is going to be a problem. It’ll require a considerable number of guards. We can’t use them for anything right now.”
“We’ll send them back to the homeland. I’ve already given orders to build a suitable POW camp near Impel로드. Guards and transport units should arrive soon.”
“Hmm, how many prisoners do you expect?”
“Around 30,000 for now. There will be some who have escaped. We estimate the retreating Imperial forces to be around 120,000 to 130,000. Their objective is to conserve their strength and quickly join up with reinforcements.”
There’s a river south of this plain. It’s not very wide, so there are bridges in several places. We need to push the Imperial forces across the river by today.
Once the Imperial forces retreat to a suitable distance, we’ll regroup the cavalry and push them across the river. They won’t want to fight with their backs to the water, so they’ll cross the river easily.
For now, the plan is to confront Artshever with the river between us. I have a special plan in mind for him, and personally, I didn’t want to set foot on the same ground as him.
Once we push the Imperial forces out of this plain, there will be two remaining military strongholds.
The city of ‘Pelasion’ across the river to the south, and the Imperial Capital.
There are three or four fortified cities between Pelasion and the Imperial Capital, but they have virtually no military value.
They might be able to withstand a siege thanks to their well-built walls, but they are situated on wide-open terrain, making them easy to surround in less than two hours.
In the end, there are only two major battles left.
“I will capture the Imperial Capital within this year.”
“Artshever as well?”
“Yes, within this year.”
“You seem to be rushing the decisive battle. Of course, the sooner it ends, the better. That’s the nature of war. But wouldn’t it be alright to take our time? While it’s good to strike while the iron is hot, isn’t it also bad to be too hasty?”
“You’re right. But we can’t stop now. We’re like a carriage hurtling down a slope. We can only slow down and stop after we reach the bottom. If we try to stop now, we’ll overturn. Besides, the war with the Empire hasn’t exactly been progressing rapidly. This is the third year.”
“Ah, I see. Three years is enough time to destroy a nation. Perhaps it feels rushed because we rested during the winter and resumed the war in spring?”
Lucy scratched his head, and I smiled faintly.
To be honest, we’ve been pushing forward at a rather breathless pace. The Herduke Kingdom is still suffering from the aftermath of capturing Narvilt, and it’s also relatively depleted due to the wars of the past two years.
That’s why we need to end all wars within this year.
We can’t burden the newly established nation any further. If we miss this opportunity, we’ll have to wait until the country regains stability, which means waiting for several more years.
During those years, Artshever will be plotting again. He might even directly target Grenoian.
This war has brought me and him considerably closer. Once the Herduke Kingdom army pushes into the Imperial Capital, the distance between us will finally become zero, and we’ll be able to confront each other.
If we miss this opportunity, we don’t know how long we’ll have to wait. That’s why we’ll bring down the Empire within this year.
“This area seems to be cleared. Shall we move further ahead?”
“Hmm, it doesn’t seem dangerous. Let’s do that.”
“General Snail Dog, wouldn’t you like to advance a little further?”
“Yes! All forces, advance!”
Lucy and I walked through the battlefield as if we were taking a stroll, accompanied by the 3093rd Legion. If we move forward, we should be able to meet Levidian or Aila. By the way, where are all these people? I can’t even see a single strand of hair.
“Yahoo-! Risel-!”
At that moment, Aila proved herself to be a little tiger cub. How does she appear right after I think about her?
Aila was approaching, jumping and weaving between the soldiers of the 3093rd Legion who surrounded me. There was some confusion among the soldiers, but the commanders who knew her managed to calm them down.
I watched her trajectory for a moment, and just as she finally jumped towards me, I grabbed Lucy’s arm and pushed him forward. The ultimate defense, the Lucy shield!
“My dear, into my arms!”
Lucy reacted spontaneously, spreading his arms, and Aila’s scream followed.
“Kyaa! Pervert! Physical Skip! 3rd Class Limited!”
I can’t help but admire her ability to use her superpower even in this situation. Aila must have landed right in front of Lucy, as I could hear her panting. Lucy expressed his disappointment.
“Tsk. I thought I could finally hold a woman in my arms after all these years.”
“Eek! Risel, are you trying to ruin someone’s chances of marriage?!”
“Don’t you think it’s fine? He’s one of the few men among my friends I can confidently introduce.”
“Ahem!”
Lucy cleared his throat and puffed out his chest. It’s a bit sad that Lucy is the most sociable man I know, but that’s beside the point.
Aila glared at me, and I casually cleaned my ear and asked,
“So, what’s up?”
“Oh, dear. Don’t even ask. The Imperial army’s retreat is confirmed. They’re probably planning to return across the river. They’re retreating fiercely.”
“That’s good news.”
“Yeah. So I brought bad news too.”
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, but Aila’s use of the word “so” is a bit inappropriate in this context. Perhaps she wants to emphasize the rule that good news and bad news always come together.
I slumped my shoulders and asked,
“What is it?”
“The 2627th Division has been surrounded by the 18th Legion of the Imperial Capital. It seems they’re planning to drag the 2627th Division down with them. The 3623rd Legion is chasing after them, but it’s not enough.”
“What?! Since when?!”
“Well…… about 5 minutes ago.”
“Then why did you show up cheering?!”
“That’s my personality. Don’t you think you’re getting angry at the wrong thing?”
That’s not the point! Damn it! Al is stationed in the 2627th Division! What if he dies?! And that division is armed with the magic items I carefully provided! If those fall into enemy hands, it’ll be a huge headache!
I was about to yell at Aila, but I decided to take action instead. There’s no time for arguing!
“Damn it! General Snail Dog, prepare a horse! No, I’ll find one myself!”
I dashed forward, pushing through the soldiers. The 3093rd Legion followed me in a fluster.
As I ran a little further ahead, I spotted a cavalry platoon that had separated from the main force and was roaming around. They looked at me with bewildered expressions as I approached. I shouted at them as I ran up to them.
“The Grand General commands! Dismount!”
“Yes, sir!”
The cavalrymen, who had been stiff and bewildered, dismounted in unison, and I, without a word, snatched one of their horses. Lucy and Aila also silently mounted horses.
I grabbed the reins and said to the cavalryman whose horse I had taken, with a stern expression,
“Even though it’s the Grand General’s command, the crime of mishandling a horse, which is as precious as life on the battlefield, is unforgivable. However, considering your contribution to the Grand General’s urgent task, I will not pursue punishment. This will not be recorded.”
“Huh?”
“General Snail Dog, follow me and lead all the cavalry south! Hyah! Ha!”
“G-General!”
General Snail Dog’s voice faded away, and at the same time, I dashed forward, leaving behind the bewildered soldiers of the 3093rd Legion. I passed by our soldiers organizing prisoners, soldiers carrying the wounded, and Imperial soldiers clinging to corpses and wailing.
“It’s the Grand General! Make way! Not making way is a violation of orders!”
I shouted whatever came to mind in my haste, and the soldiers who turned around with bewildered expressions calmly threw themselves out of the way. Some soldiers followed me blindly, and the cavalry also caught up.
Before I knew it, a group of cavalrymen with various unit insignias and rank markings were following me. I decided to make use of the situation.
I drew my sword and pointed it forward.
“The 2627th Division has been surrounded by the 18th Legion of the Imperial Capital! Rescue our allies! Save our comrades!”
My words immediately spread to the hot-blooded soldiers following behind me.
“The Grand General has taken the lead! Protect the Grand General!”
“Protect the Grand General and save our allies!”
“Herduke Kingdom Army, forward-!”
Hooves pounded the ground.
Thud! Thud! Thud!
The sound of dozens of drummers beating their drums reverberated in my ears.
Human voices were drowned out in the midst of it all.
I passed by soldiers.
I jumped over fallen corpses.
I ignored broken flags.
From left and right, cavalrymen, somehow knowing where to go, joined me. Among them was one carrying the Kingdom’s flag, and I sheathed my sword and extended my hand. The standard-bearer handed me the flag.
My heart pounded. A feeling I hadn’t felt in a while welled up inside me.
Riding a horse at full speed, cutting straight through the middle of the battlefield, I raised the flag.
“Herduke Kingdom Army-!”
Even though my voice wouldn’t reach them, those who entered the battlefield sometimes acted in unison, sensing something indescribable. It could be a sense of unity, or perhaps a collective psychology.
Those who followed me shouted in unison.
Ha!
A simple shout. But that shout contained a multitude of meanings. From the simple unity of being one, to the expectation of overcoming the enemy no matter what.
And also, the joy of having the Grand General with them.
I could vividly feel their emotions in my heart, although perhaps I was the only one who felt that way.
Sitting in headquarters, observing the progress of the war and only receiving reports of the results, is more difficult than I thought. It’s something I started of my own volition, but I can’t see or feel anything.
I rushed out as soon as I heard that Al was in danger, but the sound of hundreds of drums beating in unison, the air of the battlefield seeping into my lungs, and the feeling of the flag fluttering in my hand clearly told me where I belonged.
The heart of the battlefield.
It’s not enough to just devise strategies, coordinate troops from behind, and listen to the results. There’s no meaning unless I personally step forward, experience it firsthand, and fight.
By becoming the Grand General, I gained the power of control I desired, but there was always a void in my heart. It felt like a vast, empty plaza in the center of my chest, with a hollow wind blowing through it.
Why?
I realized it only after I took action.
Manipulating from behind, observing the results, and then taking new actions, remaining as the mastermind behind the scenes…… that’s not my role.
I wanted to personally step forward and take control.
Taking the lead, acting directly, leading the soldiers not with words but with actions, controlling the situation with my own will.
I wanted to control while moving together with everyone!
If danger arises, I will be the first to face it. I will be the first to step forward and show the light to those who follow. I will be a reliable guide in the darkness.
My heart fills up.
I have been longing for the time when I traveled with my companions, struggled together, and fought together, a time that was fulfilling despite the hardships.
I didn’t want to be the only one moving forward.
I didn’t want to watch from behind and manipulate.
Whether it’s 1,000, 5,000, or 20,000 people, I want to lead them from the front, shoulder their trust, and sometimes grumble about the heavy responsibility, but I want that passionate time with those who stand shoulder to shoulder with me, those I can lean on when times are tough.
A sense of unity.
I’ve been lost until now. But being lost means there’s a place to go.
Yes. This is where I belong.
Advance. Spur your horses!
Now I can move forward!
I raised the flag. I could see the backs of the Imperial soldiers running ahead. The flag of the 18th Legion of the Imperial Capital came into clear view. And in front of it, in the middle, I could see the flag of the 2627th Division, signaling that they were still holding on.
A great sense of relief and a solemn determination arose within me simultaneously. Two completely different feelings intertwined.
I poured all those emotions into my shout.
“Forward-!”
It was the moment when a group of unidentified cavalrymen belonging to the Herduke Kingdom Army pierced through the rear of the 18th Legion of the Imperial Capital.
Cavalry loses its power if it can’t gain speed.
The 18th Legion attempted a flanking maneuver to counter the approaching Herduke Kingdom cavalry, while their rear turned to face them in a head-on charge.
If our speed hadn’t been so tremendous, or if the rear of the 18th Legion had had enough distance to charge, the battlefield would have instantly turned into a chaotic melee.
However, our speed was simply too fast, and the 18th Legion’s charge distance was too short.
The Herduke Kingdom cavalry pierced through the unprepared 18th Legion with the force of a tsunami engulfing a small boat.
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