第１０１７堀：軍の状況確認と作戦会議 (Part2)
"Why?"
"The First Army under my command has no issues. We are ready to sortie at any moment. In fact, thanks to the supply of materials from Weed, we have been able to further bolster our armaments to the point where we can even provide support to the other armies."
Ah, right.
I recall the Emperor of Eupia saying he would lead the First Army personally.
So that wasn't just for show—he’s actually leading them.
Well, I don't imagine he’s handling the nitty-gritty of field command, but for an Emperor to lead from the front? It really is like the Warring States period.
"Follow me," he says.
In a world where levels exist, that’s an incredibly effective way to fight.
A powerful Emperor carves through the enemy ranks, pushing forward, while the units following behind expand the breach.
When it comes to clashes between organized infantry, that is the fundamental tactic.
"Thank you. Next, the report from the Second Army."
"Yes. The Second Army is currently still in the process of reorganization, but we expect to be ready in time for the next operation. In terms of combat strength, we will be more powerful than before, thanks to the support from Weed."
The one reporting is Vol, commander of the Second Army, the man who conquered the Kingdom of Gsdo.
It’s strange that he still holds his position after such a crushing defeat at Aurelia, but then again, there aren't many people with the talent to manage an army of this size. And since he eventually reconciled with Weed, I suppose that’s why he was kept on.
Well, complaining about Zrable’s personnel decisions isn't my job.
The reports continued in that vein. There are four armies in total.
The First Army, led by the Emperor of Eupia, is essentially a domestic defense force.
The Second Army, led by Vol, is the force tasked with attacking the Highn Empire from the southern coast.
The Third Army is the force pushing from the north—or rather, the center—opposite Vol’s position. However, this Third Army apparently relies on the main force of monsters borrowed from the First Army. Therefore, the degree of reinforcement in the First Army is directly reflected in the Third.
Well, that makes sense. Even if they are his trump card, there’s little point in keeping the Wyvern units tied down to the Emperor’s personal domestic defense force.
Regardless of affiliation, if you want to use them effectively, it’s better to rotate them to support other armies.
And the Fourth Army seems to be less of an army and more of a peacekeeping force. Shou seems to be in charge of this one, using it to govern and maintain order in the conquered nations.
After all, for the Zrable Empire, which wants to strip the Highn Empire of its military power, it would be disastrous if the surrendered nations and their citizens didn't cooperate.
Now, based on the current explanation, the main forces invading the Highn Empire should be the Second and Third Armies, but...
"Hmm. So, the reorganization of the Second Army under Vol is not yet complete."
"I apologize."
"No, I am not blaming you for that. Besides, your punishment has already been dealt with. So, the only force that can move immediately is the Third Army?"
"That is correct. The Third Army is currently on standby near the border and can invade as soon as the order is given."
"I see. You have been diligent there. However, attacking with only the Third Army is a delicate matter."
"Yes. Enemy forces could gather from all over the Highn Empire. It would be better to disperse the enemy's strength as much as possible. Therefore, I believe it is best to keep them on standby until the reorganization and redeployment of the Second Army are complete."
"I am the one being asked to wait, so perhaps I shouldn't be the one to say this, but according to Yuki-sama, General Wave has returned to the Highn Empire. If we take our time, won't they have a chance to prepare countermeasures?"
The Emperor of Eupia and Shou seem to think it’s best to make thorough preparations, but Vol is of the opinion that they should strike before General Wave can consolidate the enemy's defenses.
I can understand both sides.
If you take your time, you can strengthen your own forces.
However, there is also the possibility that the enemy’s strength will increase as well.
At this point, it’s impossible to tell which path offers a higher win rate.
"Hmm. I understand Vol's point. However, you also understand that if we take the time to prepare our forces, the chance of defeat decreases, do you not?"
"Yes, I understand that. But I do not believe we have the luxury of being leisurely. If my Second Army and the Third Army move with a staggered timing, the effect would be the same—or rather, if the Third Army can act as a diversion, the Second Army’s win rate will increase, and the enemy will be thrown into disarray."
"Indeed... The Third Army drawing the enemy in would be an effective strategy. However, let us first spread out the map and examine it. We should think carefully about where and how to strike."
At Shou’s signal, a soldier standing by quickly spread a map across the table.
It was one that clearly marked the locations of the dungeons as well.
Now, the real work begins.
A strategy meeting for the invasion of the Highn Empire.
Will this be where a legendary tale is born?
The snowman always did love approaching things with cold, hard logic.