Book 18: Chapter 5
“The North is currently recruiting soldiers. I must say that the North’s official military enlistment this time has been effective. Lots of young men have rushed to enlist. They are all but ordinary citizens; however, after they undergo training, they should be reliable soldiers.”
The vassals in the conference hall were silent for once. Though the general labelled as the most important report, nobody present dared to criticise it. If it wasn’t news from the North but any other nation, vassal state or even elves, who recruited military personnel, Rosvenor Empire would be jumping with excitement, for the reason that war was their only opportunity to make a name for themselves. This time, however, nobody dared to thoughtlessly speak up about the North. The reason for their reluctance was because it was King Troy’s nation.
The North still didn’t have a name. It was still referred to as “the North”. Troy didn’t like the idea of using his name to name a nation.
From behind the black veil, Elizabeth expressed, “Why are you all silent? Generals, the North will soon have their own military; I want to hear your opinions.”
Elizabeth’s voice was the same as usual. In fact, there was a tinge of pleasure in her tone that she derived from their misery. She was eager to know what her vassals thought of the North for her own pleasure.
The generals exchanged looks. Normally, they would sneakily ruin the enlistment in the North or watch over the North’s goals and training. At the same time, they’d try and plant spies in the army to acquire their military documents. Not this time, however. Not one of them dared to opine. All they did was look at each other.
“Since none of you are going to say anything, let’s move on. Oh, wait, we can’t just move on. Did any of you fight in the war ten years ago? Has anyone else fought in other wars? As you have war experience, gather some talented sergeants. Pack your luggage and prepare to assist with the North’s military building. While their morale is high, they can never fight if they lack experience. Instead of exchanging blood and failure for experience, it’s better to let you guide them. Don’t worry. All sergeants who go to the North can return after a year. I’ll handsomely reward them three hundred gold empire coins and grant them half a year vacation.”
Elizabeth was satisfied with their reactions. The generals, on the other hand, were absolutely stunned. If the North’s military was allowed to develop and expand as a result of Troy’s efforts, then they could understand. Howbeit, Elizabeth’s command was not to allow them to develop on their own but to assist the North. She just asked them to help turn a newly established nation rapidly grow into a powerful military. That wasn’t Rosvenor Empire’s modus operani, and it certainly wasn’t Elizabeth’s idea.
“Your Majesty, please forgive my bluntness. The leader of the North is Prince Troy, which is why I can understand your decision. Still, why do we need to help them establish a military? His Majesty’s relationship with the elves creates a lot more questions compared to his relationship with us. That is why we must be wary of the elves if not His Majesty.”