Strengthening the Forces

Elias and his team returned to the campsite, where Frenn awaited them.

“The extermination was a success.”

Upon hearing the report, Frenn nodded in satisfaction. With no further delays, the team began packing up, and by midday, they departed from the mountain.

Their journey back to the fort was uneventful, and upon arrival, Elias immediately reported to Lord Nork.

After reviewing the details, Nork acknowledged their success and then asked,

“The two knights who fought in this operation… the ones you’ve taken an interest in.”

“Yes?”

“How did they perform?”

“Both of them gained invaluable experience. More importantly, I believe it has bolstered their confidence.”

Nork mused for a moment before continuing,

“I see… I intend to use them as the foundation for a broader training initiative to strengthen the entire garrison.”

“Understood. I’ll prioritize their training within the fort.”

“Good. I’m counting on you… Now, regarding the magician, Jemmy.”

“I brought her along since the mission was completed, but…”

“If possible, I’d like her to remain here—indefinitely, if necessary—to provide magical instruction to our soldiers.”

This unexpected proposal took Elias by surprise.

“Wouldn’t it be possible to summon a court magician from the capital?”

“That’s a luxury reserved for the frontlines. The best we can do is rely on whatever talent we can secure ourselves.”

“I see… I believe she would be open to the idea, but is it viable within the fort’s operational framework?”

“Funding is not an issue. Strengthening not just our knights but also our magic corps is crucial for increasing our overall combat readiness.”

Nork’s tone was heavy, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Elias nodded.

“Understood. I’ll speak with Jemmy. I doubt she’ll object, so we can proceed under the assumption that she and I will oversee the training together.”

“Excellent. I’ll leave it in your hands.”

After leaving Nork’s chambers, Elias immediately sought out Jemmy.

“Looks like you’ve got a job offer—this time, from Lord Nork himself.”

Jemmy raised an eyebrow.

“Oh? What kind of job?”

“He wants you to train the fort’s mages for an unspecified period. And since it’s officially requested by command, you’ll be able to work freely.”

Jemmy smirked.

“Sounds like a good deal. While I’m at it, I’ll use this opportunity to gather information on the northern region.”

“Frenn has already begun compiling relevant data. We can’t disclose military-sensitive information, but you’ll receive whatever aligns with your pay.”

“That works for me. Having access to solid intel will keep me motivated.”

Satisfied with the arrangement, Jemmy readily accepted the proposal.

With that settled, Elias met up with Frenn in the strategy room to discuss their next steps.

“The foundation for strengthening our forces is now in place,” Elias said.

“Luke and Reina gained valuable real-world combat experience, and using them as a central pillar to train others will significantly bolster our defenses.”

Frenn nodded in agreement but then hesitated.

“That said… will you continue with investigations as well?”

“When I have time, yes.”

“Between ongoing reconnaissance and training new knights… it will put an increasing burden on you. Perhaps it’s time to recruit additional personnel from the eastern territories?”

Elias frowned thoughtfully.

“Would Nork even approve of that?”

Frenn tapped the table lightly, considering the political angle.

“If you frame it right, I believe he might. Instead of requesting a high-ranking officer, why not ask for a skilled but lower-ranked knight? Someone experienced in battle but without the authority to disrupt command structures.”

Elias chuckled knowingly.

“Frenn… You already have someone in mind, don’t you?”

Frenn feigned innocence.

“Do I?”

“There’s only one knight in the eastern territories who fits that description perfectly. You’re talking about Gauche, aren’t you?”

Frenn smiled slightly.

“Gauche has the skills, no question. He’s incredibly strong in combat, but completely useless when it comes to strategic planning. He wouldn’t pose a threat to command, and he’s not one to scheme or play politics.”

Elias leaned back, thinking it over.

“The real question is—can this garrison handle his… personality?”

The fort’s soldiers were mostly reserved and disciplined. By contrast, Gauche was… wild.

“I don’t think it’ll be an issue,” Frenn countered.

Elias sighed.

“The bigger concern is whether Nork will approve the request… and whether Gauche himself will agree.”

Frenn folded his arms.

“If he comes, it will drastically change our ability to engage monsters in direct combat.”

“True. Having Gauche in future operations would be a massive asset.”

Elias scratched the back of his head, already mentally preparing for the bureaucratic nightmare of getting approval.

“Alright… I’ll see what I can do.”

Frenn nodded.

“In the meantime, I’ll resume information gathering. And I’ll prepare a filtered version of that data for Jemmy as well.”

“Thanks. That’ll help.”

With that, their strategy was set.

Elias would focus on securing additional reinforcements and training the knights.

Frenn would oversee intelligence operations.

For now, they could afford to take things slowly.

After all—

The next major battle was still on the horizon.