Chapter 280:

Chapter 280:

“On the 26th, our scouts reported the sighting of Kent family’s army moving towards us. However, based on the intelligence gathered, they were about 5,000 strong, while we had the upper hand with over 8,000 troops. The vast difference in numbers made everyone believe that victory in the upcoming battle was inevitable.”

In the reception room of the Lord’s Manor, Viscount Derrick Heller was recounting the details of the previous battle to Paul.

Also present were Chief of Staff Schroeder, Intelligence Chief Cecil, and others.

“We arranged our formation and slowly advanced towards the enemy. Upon encounter, their numbers were indeed far smaller than ours. However, unlike before, the Kent family’s army was equipped with a large number of specially made bows—longbows. These were probably the mercenaries hired from the south by Marltz, considering that training longbowmen isn’t something that can be achieved in just a month or two.”

“As dusk approached, neither side intended to fight, and both camps settled down for the night. During the evening, we sent a challenge letter to the enemy, agreeing to a decisive battle the next day. Although it rained heavily at night, the morale of our entire army was high, filled with confidence in the next day’s battle.”

“On the morning of the 27th, both armies finally faced the judgment of fate. The enemy arranged most of their forces in a horizontal line formation, with the vanguard on the right flank and the rearguard on the left. Archers were positioned in gaps within each formation, with the majority on both wings, forming a slanted line without any apparent reserve forces.”

“We too had a battle plan. Count Malron and Viscount Johnston were to lead a cavalry charge against the enemy’s archers on both flanks, while I led another cavalry detour to the enemy’s rear camp to attack their supply wagons. Count Parker and other generals would lead the infantry to attack the enemy’s center.”

“If the plan had been executed smoothly, the enemy would undoubtedly collapse under the simultaneous attacks from our multiple units.”

At this point, Derrick’s face showed a mix of resentment and unwillingness. He took a large sip of wine to steady himself.

“However, the consecutive victories in the previous days had clouded the judgment of many. Numerous noble-born officers, due to their similar status, refused to yield to each other. The well-ordered plan was thrown into disarray by these nobles vying for glory. As a result, many units ended up in inappropriate positions, leading to a series of tragedies once the battle commenced.”

“Oh, Derrick, it’s unfortunate that things turned out this way. Have you come to me seeking help?”

Derrick looked eagerly at Paul: “Yes, Count Grayman, you’re the only one who can turn our fortunes around now. Bring your muskets and cannons back to the battlefield. Only those firearms can counter the enemy’s longbowmen.” Paul frowned deeply: “Derrick, as you know, my territory has been somewhat unsettled recently.”

“Haven’t the riots been suppressed for quite some time now?”

“There could still be rats lurking in the shadows...”

“You’ve punished so many people, they wouldn’t dare to start a second uprising so soon.”

Paul finally said, “Alright, Derrick. But I need to discuss this carefully with my generals.”

Derrick expressed his gratitude: “Thank you, Count Grayman. But please, act quickly. Also, if possible, could you sell us a batch of firearms? Even if they are ones you’ve phased out, we’re willing to pay a high price for them.”

Paul hesitated, “I’ll have to discuss this with my people as well.”

In reality, at that moment, Paul had already made up his mind; he did not wish to be part of a failing alliance.

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