Translator: Cinder Translations
...
Jaius's expression was stern as he gazed at the walls of Biddeburg. The situation was proving to be more troublesome than he had anticipated.
With the advantage of strong defenses, the coalition forces were holding the fortress tightly. His troops launched attack after attack, only to retreat each time.
In addition to the treacherous terrain and solid fortifications, another key reason for the protracted siege was the new weaponry in the coalition's arsenal—hand grenades. When his soldiers approached the walls, they were met with these black objects hurled down by the defenders, which exploded upon impact.
The grenade explosions sent shrapnel and iron nails flying, causing widespread casualties among the attacking forces. While the grenades were not deadly, they dealt a severe blow to the morale and enthusiasm of the attackers. It was like being stung by a bee—painful but not fatal, and no one wanted to provoke a swarm.
However, the greatest loss was inflicted by the four Thunder Hammers—officially known as cannons. The siege engines Jaius had brought were systematically destroyed by concentrated fire from the defenders. The stones fired by the siege engines were unpredictable, whereas the accuracy of the Thunder Hammers was far superior.
The Thunder Hammers were even more terrifying due to their effect on the attacking infantry. When his soldiers were still far from the fortress, the defenders used solid shot, which could cause severe injuries or death with just a near miss. Moreover, solid shot didn't just end upon hitting the ground; it would bounce and continue to cause damage, making it a relentless source of harm. Jaius had witnessed a hundred-man unit advancing in column formation, only for a single cannonball to hit them. Despite his battlefield experience, the sight of the devastation left him shaken. The soldiers' morale crumbled, and Jaius had to call a halt to the siege for a day to allow them to recover.
When the attackers got closer, the defenders switched to scatter shot—a horrifyingly effective method. With the roar of cannon fire, countless small pellets flew out at speeds too fast for the eye to track, creating a metallic storm that could decimate large numbers of soldiers.
After enduring several bombardments from the Thunder Hammers, no one in Jaius's ranks was willing to continue attacking in tight formations.
Adding to Jaius's concerns was the fact that the Thunder Hammers' firing rate had greatly increased since the last battle at Biddeburg. The sound alone indicated that these fearsome weapons were continually being improved. He shuddered to think what they would be like in the future.
He turned to the mercenary captain beside him. "Do you have any good ideas?"
The mercenary captain shook his head. Military manuals suggested that only an attacking force ten times the size of the defenders could successfully lay siege. Such battles were typically a matter of attrition, with no real solutions available.
Otherwise, why would the attacking forces often engage in looting or even massacres after breaching the walls? It was both to fulfill promises made to the troops and to provide an outlet for their frustrations over the massive casualties sustained during the siege.
Jaius was displeased and turned his gaze back to Biddeburg. He wanted the mercenary troops to join the assault, but it was clear that the mercenary captain was unwilling.
The agreement with the mercenary force had only covered field battles, and he regretted not adding more clauses.
Rumor had it that these mercenaries cared only about money and had no sense of honor.
"Lord, urgent news from Emden!"
A knight rode up urgently and shouted to Jaius.
Jaius was startled. "What happened?"
Emden was his hometown, and the presence of the Alden troops in the northern part of Emden made him uneasy.
As expected, the knight leaned in and whispered, "The Alden army has launched an assault, using Thunder Hammers to bombard Bailan Fortress. Moreover, they are attempting to fill in the moats around the fortress. It seems they are serious about this."
Jaius's grip on his reins tightened, then loosened. "Does anyone else know about this?"
The knight shook his head. "The messenger I received has been confined. You are the first to be notified."
Jaius's expression softened. "Good. Have the messenger return to Bailan Fortress with my orders: I cannot send reinforcements immediately, but Valentine must hold the fortress at all costs."
The knight nodded. "I will send him back immediately."
Jaius added, "Do not let him contact anyone."
After a reassuring "You can count on me," the knight spurred his horse and departed.
Jaius watched his retreating figure in silence. The movements of the Alden army were worrisome, and although Bailan Fortress was exceptionally strong, the enemy this time was also "extraordinary."
Unable to reinforce Bailan Fortress, Jaius was torn. If he led his troops north, what would happen to the enemies at Biddeburg? Would he have to return with his army? It felt like being led around by the nose.
He frowned and summoned his subordinate. "Issue the following order: The first warrior to scale the walls will be made a baron. The next ten warriors to scale the walls will be made knights, and those who already have titles will be promoted one rank. The first 100 to climb the walls, whether noble or commoner, will each receive 1,000 gold coins!"
The command was met with great excitement among the troops!
...
While the battle at Bailan Fortress and Biddeburg raged on, the Alden army that landed at Fishtail Town began advancing south.
In five days, they crossed into the territory of the Carter family. Viscount Soro Carter had clearly overestimated the resolve of his family members. Under the Alden army's advance, his relatives either fled or surrendered. There was some sporadic resistance, but key towns in the viscount's domain quickly fell to the Alden forces. One could only wonder if the imprisoned viscount would be infuriated to the point of spitting blood.
On June 10, the Alden army entered the direct territory of the Northwestern Duke. Reconnaissance units discovered a large army approaching, numbering between 5,000 and 6,000 troops.
Clearly, the enemy had also detected the Alden forces. Their movements slowed, and they began sending out scouts to harass and gather intelligence. Chief of Staff Schroeder immediately had the advance units set up camp and stand guard while waiting for the main forces to catch up.
The troops now landing were not just the initial two battalions. The navy had made several trips, bringing not only supplies but also 600 militia to maintain order and guard key locations in the newly occupied areas. Additionally, 300 naval personnel landed to assist the army, bringing with them firearms and cannons from the ships.
Another great battle was about to begin.
(End of the Chapter)
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