Chapter 208 - Side Story 8

HELHEIM SCANS

[Translator - Angel Dust]

[Proofreader - Prototype]

Side Story 8

When war breaks out, it's the citizens of the Empire who bear the greatest burden.

Some are conscripted as soldiers and sent to the front lines, while others transport military supplies or dedicate themselves to various tasks in support of the war effort.

Even the women and children are not spared.

They spend sleepless nights praying and shedding tears, hoping for the safe return of their sons, husbands, and fathers.

That's why the nobles of the Empire always did their best when war broke out.

They knew that if they made any missteps and incurred public resentment, their positions would be in jeopardy.

Fulfilling their duties as nobles was not only a matter of honor but also a survival strategy.

"Most of the junior officers have expressed their desire to be deployed to the front lines."

"I hear they're already gaining combat experience in the South."

"What about the Lasker and Avileshti front? If you're short on warhorses, let me know. Our family still has some in reserve."

"If you're considering a naval route, we can provide warships."

"Our family has secured a large quantity of magic stones for large-scale magic. We can provide them immediately if needed."

Some might see this as a purely political move, a calculated action driven by self-interest.

They might view it as an attempt to use the war as an opportunity to showcase loyalty and climb the ladder of power.

But if someone were to ask if that's necessarily a bad thing,

"It's fine."

"Things are going well."

"Aren't they offering more?"

"They will."

Shulifen, Wilhelm, Alexander, and Joachim.

These four would retort with a smirk, 'On the contrary, it's a brilliant opportunity!

"First, we should separate this portion and send it to the reservists who followed Karl."

"Will this be enough? Shouldn't we give them more?"

"Let's see how it goes. We're a bit tight on funds after putting a significant amount into military expenses."

While selfless acts are noble, they often lack the power to motivate people as effectively as actions driven by self-interest.

People are naturally drawn to things that offer rewards, rather than those that offer no compensation.

Just look at the pension fund they've established.

It started with pure and good intentions.

But as more noble families joined, it gradually changed.

The compensation for veterans is substantial, and no one dares to touch those funds.

However, some families use it as an opportunity to promote their names.

And those who contribute to the same fund form a kind of group.

"This war won't last long. After all, Karl is directly involved."

"I heard the Church has already gathered volunteers and sent them to the South."

"The Healing Priests have also formed a group and reached the vicinity of the Great Forest."

"Ugh, we still need to support them, so it'll cost more money."

The four didn't try to stop it. As long as the methods and results were beneficial, it was enough.

They gained honor, and the soldiers received compensation for their sacrifices.

As long as this cycle continued, they could turn a blind eye to such things.

After another meeting about the pension fund, they leaned back in their chairs with a cup of tea each, taking a short break.

"How are things going? Heard anything?"

"Someone from the Ministry of War said the South is almost over."

"Don't get too complacent. We're dealing with elves."

However, they weren't completely mindless, as they avoided the Imperial Army.

Instead, they attacked the relatively weaker Hyzens defense lines.

As a result, Karl and his reserve regiment were once again caught in the crossfire.

"Hold the line! If we get pushed back here, we’ll be in trouble!"

"Just hold on a little longer! Our juniors are steadily taking care of them from behind!"

Arrows and bullets flew back and forth, and magic spells exploded all around.

It reminded him of the old days, but it wasn't a sight he missed or wanted to see again.

It was...hell. A hellscape he had desperately hoped to never witness again.

"Sergeant Karl! Hyzens is asking us to fall back!"

"What nonsense are they spouting? Can they hold out if we retreat?"

"They say it's their duty to defend this place, and we don't need to sacrifice ourselves any further..."

They seem to have plenty of time to spare, spouting such nonsense.

Karl ignored the messenger and reloaded his rifle with gunpowder and bullets.

"Go tell them that we have never abandoned a comrade on the battlefield."

"B-But, Sergeant!"

"Damn those elves! Tell them to fight instead of worrying about their pride!"

At Karl's fierce shout, the messenger yelled, ‘Yes, sir!’ and ran off.

Those guys always did this when they needed help.

Karl shook his head and started reloading again, but he didn't fire the gun.

"Here, take it."

Karl had been diligently reloading. Unfortunately, his shooting skills were still the same.

* * *

"Ugh!"

"Casey!!"

Casey, who had been fighting valiantly, suddenly staggered and collapsed.

His comrades nearby quickly grabbed him by the shoulders and dragged him into the trench.

"Hey, hey! Where are you hit? Find it!"

"Hold on tight! Stop the bleeding! Hold it tight, damn it!"

"Shit, Casey! Wake up! Hey!!"

Despite his comrades' calls, Casey didn't open his eyes.

Crimson blood seeped into his uniform, staining it with a growing warmth.

"Damn it, damn it! Hey! You fucking bastard!"

One of his closest comrades desperately called out Casey's name.

"Don't die, don't die! Damn it! Don't make me carry your coffin in front of your wife and kid!!"

It was unclear whether it was anger or sorrow, a shout or a plea.

But Casey didn't respond. His body seemed to be growing colder.

"Hey, hey, Casey."

"..."

"Please, man. How am I supposed to face your wife and kid? Please..."

"Get your foot off me."

Startled by the low voice, the man gasped and grabbed Casey's hand.

"Are you... are you awake?"

"I was just lying still because it hurt. So stop stomping on my arm, would you?"

"Oh, uh, right."

Only then did the man realize he had been stepping hard on Casey's arm.

HELHEIM SCANS

[Translator - Angel Dust]

[Proofreader - Prototype]