"Decen 18, 1849 Bernun, the capital City of Gernmania, at the General Staff Office."
"Very sorry to interrupt your conference!" The soldier approached General Schmidt, his footsteps echoing through the room as he swiftly made his way to the distinguished figure. With a sense of urgency, he leaned in and whispered something into General Schmidt's ear, his voice barely audible amidst the hushed atmosphere of the conference.
"Thank you for that, gentlemen," General Schmidt acknowledged, his voice commanding the attention of the room. A brief pause followed, allowing the significance of the soldier's message to sink in. The news of successfully defending Poskian brought a sense of relief and accomplishment to the gathered generals,.
"That's great news, General Schmidt," With the army of Freidstein decimated, their capital won't have enough defenders to hold it. Victory is within our grasp."
"But we should not let our guard down, General Weber. While they may not have enough men to defend the city walls, we must remember that the Walls of Garzia are impenetrable. No cannons or artillery can destroy those formidable defenses, not even the mighty Romanum Empire
"I concur with General Müller's assessment. If their walls are indeed impregnable, a traditional siege strategy may not be effective. However, we can employ alternative means to weaken their defenses over time. By cutting off their food supply and implementing a relentless blockade, we can exploit their vulnerabilities and force them to surrender. It's a calculated approach to overcome their seemingly impenetrable walls."
"I understand the urgency, General Anders, but we must also consider recent developments," General Gantz said, his tone filled with a sense of gravity. "The Emperor informed me this morning that the elves are planning to assist Freidstein, and other countries are attempting to intervene in this war. Our resources are already depleted, and time is not on our side. Considering these factors, we must expedite the end of this conflict. A traditional siege might not be advantageous in this situation and may not yield favorable results."
General Gantz's words resonated in the room, prompting the other generals to contemplate the implications of the new information. The atmosphere grew tense as they acknowledged the need for a swift and decisive course of action in light of the external pressures and dwindling resources.
"So, how will we breach the walls?" General Anders inquired, his voice filled with a hint of frustration. "Should we consider using a ladder to scale the walls, even if it means potentially causing more casualties?"
"Are you a fool, General Anders?" General Gantz retorted sharply, his voice tinged with incredulity. "How did you even graduate from the General Academy? The walls of Friedstein's capital are heavily guarded by their elite marksmen. They possess the ability to unleash devastating explosive spells that would decimate our troops before they even reach the inner walls. As I mentioned before, we must approach this strategically, taking into account the potential risks and consequences. Engaging in a direct assault without a solid plan will only cause problems. We are already grappling with depleted resources and the looming threat of intervention from other countries in this conflict."
"Who are you calling a fool, General Gantz? Should I cut your head off for that insult?"
"Well, if you insist!" General Gantz responded defiantly, his tone unyielding. The tension in the room escalated as both generals reached for their swords, their intent clear. Chaos ensued as the General Staff found themselves in a precarious situation, witnessing two high-ranking officers on the brink of engaging in a deadly confrontation.
The atmosphere was charged with a mix of shock, concern, and a shared understanding of the dire consequences that could unfold. The other generals, aware of the potential catastrophe, scrambled to intervene and restore order, their urgent actions aiming to prevent the clash between General Gantz and General Anders from spiraling out of control
"Gentlemen, relax! There's no need for unnecessary violence," General Schmidt's authoritative voice resonated through the room. The sound of his clapping filled the air, commanding the attention of the other generals. General Schmidt's reputation as the empire's most brilliant strategist instilled both fear and respect in his peers, silencing the escalating conflict.
"Gentlemen," General Schmidt continued, addressing the room. "We have a solution to the problem at hand.
What is General Schmidt Please proceed,. I'm eager to hear the solution you have in mind.General Müller Asked
"Tactical Weaponry and Artillery Research Institute reported to me yesterday," General Schmidt began, his voice confident and assured, "that they have successfully developed a new type of artillery called Feuerdonner. It is equipped with a 150mm shell and boasts an impressive range of 4600 meters. This artillery surpasses our current cannons in terms of power and effectiveness. With this formidable weapon in our arsenal, any country would hesitate to challenge us."
"Are you certain that this new type of artillery can destroy the walls of Grazia?" General Müller inquired, seeking reassurance.
"Yes, I have personally witnessed its capabilities," General Schmidt replied, his tone unwavering. "The artillery was tested on a metal structure resembling the composition of the walls in Grazia, and the results were impressive. It caused significant destruction, giving us confidence in its effectiveness against the formidable fortifications. As we speak, the preparations are underway to deliver this artillery to General Weiss, who will lead the charge. I, too, will be present in the upcoming battle to witness firsthand how the walls of Grazia will crumble under our new weaponry."
As General Schmidt's words echoed in the room, the generals absorbed the weight of his confidence and the significance of the upcoming battle. A moment of silence followed, allowing each general to reflect on their thoughts. Finally, General Müller spoke up.
"I have no complaints," General Müller declared firmly. "This development provides us with a significant advantage in our quest for victory. General Schmidt, your presence in the battle will inspire our troops and serve as a testament to our unified commitment to the Emperor and Germania."
The other generals nodded in agreement, their expressions reflecting a shared sense of determination and purpose. The doubts that had previously lingered had been assuaged by General Schmidt's assurance and the promising capabilities of the new artillery. They were ready to face the challenges ahead.
With no further objections, General Schmidt concluded, "If there are no other complaints, then this meeting is adjourned. I will make my preparations for my departure to Poskian. Gentlemen, long live Gernmania and the Emperor!"
The room filled with a resounding chorus of "Long live Gernmania and the Emperor!" as the generals rose from their seats, their minds set on the impending battle and the united pursuit of victory for their fatherland.
On the same day, in the Poskian Plains, occupied territory of Gernmania, the aftermath of the battle painted a grim picture. The lifeless bodies of fallen soldiers were scattered across the battlefield, their faces frozen in expressions of pain and despair. The air was heavy with the stench of blood and gunpowder, a haunting reminder of the violence that had unfolded.
As the remaining soldiers solemnly commenced the task of digging a mass grave, their shovels pierced the earth, disturbing the eerie silence. Each strike of the shovel echoed like a mournful dirge, a somber melody accompanying their grim duty. It was a heartbreaking scene, a testament to the high price paid in the pursuit of victory.
"Three, two, one!" Alaric whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "Phew, this is horrible—dead bodies everywhere. How did we come to a point where it's considered acceptable to kill one another?"
Frederick, his face etched with weariness, stood beside Alaric, surveying the devastating aftermath. He sighed, his voice heavy with resignation. "Well, Alaric, this is war. In this dark realm, the lines between right and wrong blur, and the act of taking lives becomes legally sanctioned, justified in the defense of one's country or the protection of one's loved ones. It's a cruel reality we find ourselves in."
Alaric's voice quivered with a longing for a different world, a world untainted by violence and suffering. "But why can't we strive for a world where peace reigns? A world free from the shackles of slavery, war, and discrimination against other races. Is it too much to ask?"
Frederick's response carried a sense of realism, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "Well, it seems impossible to achieve, you know. After all, we are living creatures capable of thinking and talking. We have free will to do things, and throughout the history of humanity, violence, greed, envy, and hatred have been inherent aspects of human nature. It appears to be an unbreakable cycle, an eternal struggle that makes the creation of a world where peace prevails seem like an elusive dream, a utopia beyond our reach."
Alaric sighed, his voice filled with a mix of hope and desolation. "Yeah, I understand, Frederick, but I can't help but hold onto the dream of a world where compassion and understanding triumph over conflict and animosity. A world where swords are turned into plowshares, and unity prevails."
Interrupting gently, Frederick added, "Well, if we can successfully capture the city of Friedstein, there is a possibility that the war may come to an end. It could be a step towards the peace we yearn for."
Alaric's response held a hint of skepticism, his eyes scanning the somber landscape before him. "Maybe it will end, Frederick, but another conflict may just take its place. The cycle of violence and repetition seems unyielding, leaving us trapped in a never-ending spiral of turmoil."
Suddenly, a private approached the two soldiers, his expression urgent. "Captain Frederick, General Weiss has requested your presence at the camp."
Curiosity sparked within Frederick's eyes. "Why, Private? What does the general need?"
"He mentioned that there's an important matter he wishes to discuss with you," the private replied, his voice carrying a sense of anticipation.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Frederick turned to Alaric, a fleeting smile on his lips. "Well, Alaric, it seems the general requires my presence. We can continue our conversation later. Take care, my friend, and see you soon."
Alaric
nodded understandingly, his gaze filled with a mixture of concern and support. "Alright, Frederick. Attend to your duties and the general's call. We'll catch up later to delve deeper into these thoughts. Stay safe, my friend, and may fortune favor you."
With a final nod of acknowledgment, Frederick swiftly made his way through the makeshift camp, weaving between tents and groups of weary soldiers. The atmosphere was thick with a sense of tension and weariness, each individual bearing the weight of their own experiences on the battlefield.
Arriving at the command tent, Frederick pushed aside the heavy canvas flap and entered, greeted by the sight of General Weiss deep in thought, studying a map spread across a table. The general looked up, his face lined with the burdens of command but his eyes still holding a glimmer of determination.
"Captain Frederick, I'm glad you've come," General Weiss said, his voice a low rumble. "Please, have a seat."
Frederick took a seat opposite the general, his expression attentive. "What urgent matter requires my presence, sir?"
"Since all of the commanding officers of the Marksman Regiments are here, I received a letter from General Schmidt today. He mentioned a new type of artillery called Feuerdonner. It has a 150mm shell and an impressive range of 4600 meters. According to him, it surpasses our current cannons in terms of power and effectiveness. With this formidable weapon, we may have a chance to breach the walls of Friedstein's capital. Also, he mentioned that he will be joining in the upcoming battle.
"General Schmidt himself will be joining us?" Frederick asked, his voice tinged with admiration, as he knew General Schmidt to be the greatest general of Germania. "His expertise and leadership will undoubtedly bolster our chances of success. What is the plan, General Weiss?"
General Weiss leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with a renewed sense of purpose. "General Schmidt has shared with us a strategic approach that could provide us with a decisive advantage. According to his plan, we will deploy the Feuerdonner artillery to target specific sections of the walls, weakening their structural integrity. This will create breaches and openings through which our forces can advance. The mission of the Marksman Regiment is to eliminate the marksmen on the walls of Garzia, ensuring that our new artillery can be used effectively and protecting our advancing forces."
"General Weiss Sir, I have full confidence in our regiment's ability to fulfill our role," one of the commanders affirmed, his voice steady. "We will provide the necessary cover and support, ensuring the safety and progress of our advancing troops. With General Schmidt's guidance and the destructive power of the Feuerdonner, we will breach the walls of Garzia and bring this long-standing battle to a decisive end."
General Weiss smiled, a rare display of warmth amidst the gravity of their situation. "I share your confidence, men. Our forces have endured great hardships, and the sacrifices made on the Poskian Plains will not be in vain. Now, gather your men and relay the plan to them. We will commence preparations immediately. The battle for Garzia awaits, and victory is within our grasp."
That's all, men. Glory to Germania. Adjourned.
With a salute to General Weiss, I exited the command tent, recalling the words of Napoleon Bonaparte: "God favors the side with the best artillery."