Chapter 564: Cavalry Clash
Neplon, seeking clarity, asks, "If that’s the case, why not just appoint me directly? What is Your Majesty’s purpose in seeking me out?"
Howard succinctly outlines his plan for coordinating with Frederick, emphasizing the necessity of such an alliance.
He notes that the Oli Kingdom, fighting solo, stands little chance against the numerous forces of the Osland Kingdom.
This campaign demands a delicate balance in maintaining a tactical distance with Phrus’s troops.
The strategy is to occupy enemy territory in a methodical, gradual advance while ensuring constant communication and support between the two armies.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, Neplon acknowledges, "Understood. Since Your Majesty is accommodating Phrus to this extent, I will endeavor to avoid conflicts with Frederick."
Howard, though satisfied, feels a tinge of imperfection in his plan.
Not daring to command personally, he resigns to the current strategy.
In a moment of introspection, Howard experiences the psychological burden often borne by monarchs criticized for incompetence.
He understands the frustration of having ideas but lacking the prowess to execute them independently, leading to a reliance on others.
This dependence generates a sense of powerlessness, coupled with the inability to fully trust even the most competent ministers.