With millions of gold lanns and reinforcements gradually arriving, Duke Horace finally felt a slight sense of relief. After a series of negotiations with the major nobles, particularly the reluctant support from Marquess Eric and Marquess Melus, he now had the capability to mobilize sufficient resources. Although it required numerous deals and promises, the current dire situation made such support indispensable.
Standing before a large table covered with troop deployment maps and logistical plans, Duke Horace reviewed the charts intently. Beside him stood Minister Herman, arms crossed behind his back, a hint of mockery on his face.
"My lord, it seems these nobles have finally grasped the harsh reality," Herman sneered, his tone laced with disdain. "In the face of your military might and General Oscar's forces, these so-called aristocrats have no choice but to bow their heads. They may play their petty power games, but when real pressure is applied, they inevitably submit to your strength."
Duke Horace nodded slightly, his eyes reflecting a cold determination. He was well aware that the loyalty of these nobles was driven solely by self-interest and their desire to maintain power. Regardless of their words, what truly compelled them was the presence of overwhelming military force and the promise of ample resources.
"Herman, you're right," the duke said in a measured tone, his gaze fixed on the maps before him. "But we cannot stop here. These funds and reinforcements are not just to sustain Leon's frontlines. They are also a message to the aristocracy—that if they fail to contribute to the survival of the realm, they risk losing their positions. If Leon falters in this war, the internal dynamics will shift irreparably."
Herman understood the underlying strategy. His sneer faded, replaced by a more serious expression. "I see your point, my lord. This move isn't just about securing victory on the battlefield; it's about ensuring future support from the nobles. But we must keep an eye on their responses, especially Marquess Melis and Marquess Eric. While they've agreed to provide aid, their true intentions remain uncertain."
Duke Horace remained unshaken, his resolve evident. "These nobles are unreliable, Herman. All we've done is leverage the resources they've been forced to share in this war. Their attitudes will not change. These funds and reinforcements will secure victories on the battlefield. And once victory is ours, gaining their support will become significantly easier."
Herman pondered for a moment before nodding. "You're right, my lord. Once the war concludes, their attitudes will shift naturally. Until then, we must remain vigilant to ensure smooth resource allocation."
Duke Horace gazed out the window, a flicker of complexity in his expression. "I am less concerned about the nobles, Herman. What worries me is whether we can maintain our advantage as the war drags on. After all, the enemy will not sit idly by."
Herman's expression grew stern, fully understanding the duke's concern. The movements of Marquess Eric in the north, the troop allocations of Marquess Melis in the south, and the potential interference of other hostile forces all posed immense challenges. Their task was not simply to rely on support and resources but to ensure that the country's military and supplies were effectively deployed to the frontlines.
At this moment, Duke Horace turned to General Oscar and commanded, "Oscar, take your forces to the eastern front immediately. Use these funds to purchase the necessary arms and supplies. Ensure that the frontlines do not falter due to a lack of provisions. I will personally oversee the deployment of troops and resources from other regions to complete the logistics as swiftly as possible."
General Oscar's sharp eyes betrayed his readiness for the task. This was a mission that could not afford failure; any mistakes would inflict irreversible damage on the frontlines. Without hesitation, he saluted and swiftly left to carry out the orders.
Duke Horace, meanwhile, returned to his strategic map, discussing the finer details of the allocations with Herman. Deep down, he knew that this war was merely a surface-level confrontation. The greater battle—the one that would shape the future of the realm—was just beginning.