Chapter 172: Departure of the Silesie Fleet
At the port of Pervert, the fleet underwent repairs and prepared for the impending decisive battle. Surprisingly, there were no enemy reprisals as anticipated during this time.
Perhaps they realized that launching an assault here, where the full might of the Silesie fleet had gathered, would be futile.
Without being forced into a defensive position, we could focus on replenishing supplies and bolstering our forces. The enemy’s strategy of dividing their strength for individual strikes no longer posed a threat.
Our plan remains unchanged: with the entire Silesie fleet, we will track down and engage the enemy’s invincible armada. If they choose to avoid a direct confrontation, we have the option to systematically capture their ports one by one.
Regular reconnaissance patrols keep us informed of the enemy’s movements, albeit vaguely.
Their strategic objective remains fixed on Britannia’s capital, Lond. Meanwhile, the Castilia forces in the partially destroyed city of Grace, having lost command, are attempting to rebuild. To aid them, they plan to send additional transport convoys.
Naturally, the Britannian navy seeks to disrupt these supply routes, prompting the invincible armada to sweep them clean and secure naval dominance.
In essence, by patrolling predetermined enemy routes, we can anticipate their actions and naturally lead them into a decisive naval battle.
As preparations for the fleet showdown near completion, reinforcements arrive from Silesie’s homeland. In the makeshift command room at the harbor tavern, I received a report from Prime Minister Nicola.
「Your Excellency King General, I, Prime Minister Nicola Laertios, has arrived with two thousand volunteer troops.」 「Your efforts are appreciated.」
Leading the reinforcements of volunteers and mages is none other than Lyle-sensei’s father, Prime Minister Nicola. It feels like only yesterday we fought together in the Battle of Silesie’s capital.
「Seems we have more troops than planned.」
「Indeed, King General. The additional forces consist not only of soldiers but also two thousand sailors entrusted to us by General Mainz.」
General Mainz, in the midst of purging the remnants of the New Germania Empire forces after the loss of Emperor Dyson, managed to gather and send sailors from the restored Germania port towns. We had been unable to provide reinforcements to the Germania front due to our focus on the Silesie navy, and I felt apologetic about it.
However, without any words exchanged, General Mainz understood our situation and graciously sent the much-needed crew members our way.
Truly, the seasoned General Mainz possesses a broad perspective, and his resourcefulness is commendable. We were facing a shortage of sailors for the urgent construction of the Black Cedar fleet’s second and third ships, as the talent pool in Pervert had already been exhausted.
With these two thousand reinforcements, we can now operate both ships and address the chronic shortage of sailors. Our crew worries are alleviated.
Additionally, the land forces capable of operating cannons are invaluable, but the arrival of Prime Minister Nicola’s contingent of mages is equally appreciated.
Among them are five intermediate-level mages specializing in Dispel Magic. Their organized large-scale counter-magic fields will be crucial for neutralizing the two advance mages likely aboard the invincible armada.
Ideally, I would have welcomed Lyle-sensei as well, but such luxury is not feasible. It’s unthinkable to involve her, especially in her current pregnant state. I find solace in the fact that she rests peacefully.
Although Prime Minister Nicola’s mage unit typically safeguards the capital, this late in the game, a direct assault on the inland city is nearly impossible, so there’s no need to worry about that.
「Also, Sherry, the Minister of Finance, and… I have a missive from Lyle.」
「Is that so?」
When mentioning Sherry, he can’t help but smile like a benevolent grandfather. But when it comes to Lyle-sensei, my expression turns slightly bitter. Their parent-child conflict persists, even though Lyle-sensei is currently unwell due to her pregnancy.
Prime Minister Nicola is also my father-in-law, making him a sort of family. However, due to Lyle-sensei’s presence, it’s difficult to address him too familiarly.
「Those are the reports from our side. Is there anything else?」
「No, nothing in particular. You’ve traveled a long way, Prime Minister Nicola. Accommodations have been arranged. Rest well until the operation begins.」
I observe the Prime Minister’s formal bow and feel a tinge of melancholy. If only our child—his grandchild—could be born safely, perhaps he’d soften toward her as he is to Sherry.
I read the letter entrusted to me by the Prime Minister.
Sherry’s missive is succinct. Confident of our victory, she provides instructions regarding the reparations to be extracted from Castilia after the war.
It’s not just reparations for Silesie. The predetermined amounts owed to Transylvania and the United Kingdom of Britannia are staggering—reaching a total of one hundred thousand platinum coins.
Even the reparations from the Germanian War amount to fifty thousand platinum coins. It’s as if they’re pushing the limits. With such demands, could Castilia survive?
Then, the letter takes an unexpected turn: 『If funds fall short, we can collect the equivalent value through maritime resources—military ships, merchant vessels, exotic goods, and more. Castilia has substantial reserves. And if that’s still insufficient, we’ll seize the rights to colonial port facilities. 』
The final line, underlined twice as if to emphasize its importance, reads: 『Not a single cent shall be spared! 』
What’s the term for this? Counting one’s chickens before they hatch, perhaps.
It’s as if they want me to catch the proverbial raccoon and skin it for its fur.
Meanwhile, Lyle-sensei’s letter delves into the impending decisive battle. She has meticulously gathered intelligence on the inner workings of the Castilian Kingdom using our spies in the capital.
The Castilian invincible armada is bolstering its naval strength by converting all merchant ships in the country’s ports into warships. They are prepared for a fleet showdown. Additionally, Castilia has embarked on gunpowder production across various regions.
Originally, knowledge of gunpowder existed in Castilia as well. The western empires are advanced alchemical nation and possessed information on manufacturing gunpowder, naphtha, and distilled tar. Although this knowledge was limited to a select class of scholars, historical records indicate that these substances were used in siege engines and incendiary weapons. What was lacking, however, was the strategic mindset to effectively employ them.
While it’s unlikely that Castilia can immediately prepare high-performance cannons, there are indications that they are developing some form of decisive weapon involving gunpowder.
The letter continues with a Zen-like aphorism: 『Know your enemy and know yourself, and you will not be imperiled in a hundred battles. 』
Then it adds: 『Your new tactics, Takeru-dono, were impressive. However, the enemy learns from such innovations. Always prepare to surpass your current self. Otherwise, you cannot continue winning. 』
Indeed…
While it’s easy to say, Lyle-sensei’s comprehensive view involves resting in the capital while utilizing scout spies to analyze the situation meticulously and succinctly convey a clear strategy. Truly, as a military strategist, she stands apart from Kaara.
「Nation’s Father, did you have something to say?」
「Well, I haven’t spoken it aloud, but…」
As I read Lyle-sensei’s letter, Kaara emerges from the shadows.
Well, I had you in mind, too.
「A letter from the human strategist, huh? Interesting…」
「What do you think after reading it?」
Kaara peeks at the letter and chuckles.
Her crimson lips curve into a smile as she shakes her head.
Despite her apparent rivalry with Lyle-sensei, Kaara seems unusually composed today.
She looks more dignified and dependable than ever before.
「Indeed, it’s time for me to serve by your side, Nation’s Father. Our forces are well-prepared, and our patrol boats are ready to track the enemy fleet’s movements. After exhausting all strategies, it seems a direct confrontation in battle is our only option.」
「True, that makes sense.」
In the end, we cannot predict the enemy’s actions. Rather than overthinking, we should diligently prepare and await destiny.
And now, the decisive fleet showdown is imminent.
※※※
「The invincible armada is approaching.」
「At last!」
Reports came in, stating that Castilia’s invincible armada was advancing southward toward us. The patrol boats stationed off the coast of Galley Village in Silesie detected their movement.
Returning to the harbor, I received the report. Rising from my seat at the tavern, I swiftly equipped myself, donned my cloak, and headed for the port.
「Most likely, they’ll stop at the Port of Portland before proceeding southward to Britannia’s main island. Their destination is likely Grace Bay, although it appears they have mostly combat ships and few supply vessels. It’s an invitation to a fleet showdown.」
「Coming straight at us. The enemy is well-prepared. How intriguing!」
While it’s inappropriate to find war interesting, I appreciate their willingness to engage in an honorable, head-on battle. Only by giving our all can we determine the victor and finally end this prolonged war.
「Nation’s Father, all preparations for departure are in order. May victory be with you.」
As Kaara whispered in my ear, she vanished into the shadows. Oddly enough, she prefers to remain hidden even when she could appear nearby. Perhaps she’s overly cautious.
Replacing Kaara, Louise and Are arrive, flanking me. Apparently, they intend to serve as my guards. Are, the dragon maiden, with her flamboyant appearance, certainly startles the harbor residents more than the demon Kaara ever could.
As I gaze out at the sea, the Silesie fleet bustles within the bay, already engaged in the movement of troops and supplies. With well over a hundred ships, the harbor is teeming with vessels extending beyond its boundaries. The mere act of setting sail is a monumental task.
Before the flagship, the Black Cedar warship where I am to embark, staff officers and numerous soldiers have gathered, standing in formation, awaiting my presence.
「King General, give ’em a rousing speech!」
Says Drake, the white-bearded admiral who now looks every bit the naval officer in his black uniform adorned with gold buttons and a captain’s hat. I chuckle; it seems another speech is in order. Given the influx of new comrades, reaffirming the purpose of our fight is essential.
Stepping forward, I address the assembled group. After all these years of being thrust into roles like hero or general, I’ve grown accustomed to speaking in public.
「Listen up, everyone! This battle will go down in history. Armed with the might of our cannons, we shall shatter Castilia’s invincible armada. The world watches our struggle.」
Hmm, the response isn’t quite as enthusiastic as I’d hoped. They all stare silently, assessing me. Considering Drake’s pirate past and the recent additions like Mearid, who were once desperate pirates themselves, it’s no wonder my words don’t resonate as they would with seasoned soldiers.
Still, there’s no avoiding it—I must address these volunteer fighters.
「Listen well! Castilia hoards the world’s wealth. You know that victory means riches beyond measure—gold, silver, and treasures aplenty! While the invincible armada is formidable, winning this battle will earn you ample rewards.
But it’s not just about money! Those who wish can join the Silesie navy permanently. No more hunger or shivering in the cold. I promise you victory—without a doubt!
And once you’ve replaced the cannon fodder called invincible armada, you’ll be the world’s mightiest navy! No one will point fingers at you anymore!
Survive this battle, and wealth, fame, and status—all shall be yours.
Please, lend me your strength just this once! Believe in me, the hero of Silesie, and lend me your lives!」
The thunderous cheers erupted, drowning out the crude shouts and whistles of the pirates. It didn’t matter; pirates thrived on desire and ambition.
Etiquette and morality were luxuries reserved for those who had already amassed wealth. Such considerations would come later, tailored to their newfound status.
For now, victory was paramount.
The cannon fire would be handled by the valiant volunteers boarding the ships. As for the pirate crew, their task was simple: keep the ship afloat as instructed.
They needed to decide the outcome before resorting to close combat.
「Great speech, King General! Almost makes you regret being a land-bound king. Maybe you should aim for Pirate King instead.」
Drake’s words weren’t exactly complimentary, but they elicited laughter. Within Drake’s perspective, the title of Pirate King held more prestige than any land-based monarchy.
But that spirit was what mattered. The Silesie Navy, born from pirates, had to defeat the Castilian Royal Navy.
Now, it was time for the ultimate showdown.
The ragtag fleet of Silesie, united by purpose, set sail from the port of Pervert, heading north.