September sun spread across the earth, the rainfall noticeably decreased, becoming sporadic. It was the beginning of the harvest season. Under the warm tropical climate, the early-ripening pumpkins had already been harvested, the mature cowpeas were about to be reaped, and the blooming corn swayed in the fields. A gust of wind swept past, leaving the mountain wilderness lush and verdant, scattering the ripe aroma of various fruits. Yet, when it reached the banks of the Lerma River, all that could be seen was desolation and solemnity.
The main force of Annatri’s fleet, along with a large contingent of reinforcements, had arrived, with the new batch of the Capital City’s food supply accompanying them.
Eight thousand Spear Legionnaires disembarked at the port in succession, gathering in squad formations. The Militia were fully armed, donning Paper Armor, tightly fastening their Rattan Helmets, carrying shields on their backs, and tightly clutching bronze spears in their hands as they curiously surveyed both banks of the great river. Guzman did the same, as a miner and farmer since childhood, he had never ventured beyond fifty miles from his hometown. On this unfamiliar land, he stood subconsciously straight, sticking close to his comrades. His gaze intently followed the approaching banner of His Highness and the Legion Commander who was hastening forward to salute.
Xiulote smiled as he lifted "Monkey" Kuluka from the ground, patting his shoulder affectionately.
"Monkey, it’s been a long time, you’ve become much sturdier. You did very well with the last bronze mine purchase! How has the Spear Legion’s training been this time?"
Kuluka nodded respectfully, his eyes bright. In the presence of His Highness, he subconsciously scratched his head and replied with a smile.
"Respected sovereign, I have always missed your teachings, never daring to forget your commands for a moment. These days, I have been practicing with the Legion, sometimes even joining the ranks to feel it. Over the months, the Spear Formations can now quickly disperse and form. The formations move and change direction at a slower speed to maintain their shape. As for the column charge you mentioned in your letter, I’ve tried it a few times and will continue to explore it with the Adjutant Ezpan."
Xiulote nodded. He looked at the orderly new troops gathering on the riverbank, his smile growing more pronounced. Then, turning to Ezpan, who was kneeling in salute behind Kuluka, he cracked a joke.
"Ezpan, now we are on your turf. A fish back in its pond might slip away before you realize... You’re more familiar with the local culture and geography here, you’ll have to give me more advice!"
Hearing His Highness’s words, Ezpan didn’t hesitate, prostrating himself on the ground. Then, he raised his left hand, missing parts of his little finger, and spoke earnestly.
"Your Highness, the Chief Divine as my witness, my loyalty to you is unwavering, willing to give my life at any moment! The fish has landed, and from now on, it is the wolfhound following the King. I am ready to give my all for the expedition westward!"
Xiulote watched Ezpan’s expression for a while, then also laughed as he lifted him up, praising him loudly.
"Excellent! This is your vast realm where you will make a great impact!"
Afterward, Xiulote looked again at Kuluka, who had gathered closer.
"Monkey, how is your cooperation with Ezpan?"
With a moment’s thought, Kuluka replied with a clear smile.
"Sovereign, Ezpan is an outstanding deputy commander, the most critical pillar of the Legion!"
Only then did Xiulote nod again. He smiled and asked about another matter.
"Where is the Mayan merchant Tikalo now? How is the situation?"
After pondering, Kuluka gave a bow and reported.
"According to the reports from those close to Tikalo, he is now being directed by the Royal Family’s Intelligence Officer, serving as the communication channel between the southern Weytamo state and the Alliance. The Alliance has already sent two envoys, and the Chieftains of Weytamo have been persuaded by the terms of the Alliance to remain neutral in the war. The trade of the bronze mine continues, but the management rights are now in the hands of the Royal Family."
Xiulote pondered for a moment, then slightly nodded. . The bronze mines, as the most crucial strategic resources, surely needed to be managed directly by the central authority. Now it seems that the Royal Family line was resolved to secure the bronze mines of Weytamo.
While they conversed, the Spear Legion had completely disembarked, followed by tribal Hunters in plain clothes, carrying Longbows.
Xiulote looked towards the riverbank. These mountain Hunters moved with steady strides, nonchalant about the rough weather they faced along the way. Being accustomed to fishing and hunting, most were familiar with boating. At this moment, they gathered by tribe, following the calls of their Chieftains, somewhat disorganized but busy without chaos.
"Black Wolf" Toltec strode forward with his head held high, marching towards the banner of His Highness. With a few steps, he knelt on one knee.
"Your Highness, Toltec greets you! May your conquest be smooth, and may you have enduring martial fortune!"
Xiulote laughed heartily, pulling Toltec up from the ground, and asked with a smile.
"My Black Wolf, how is the state of the forces? Has the journey been smooth?"
"Your Highness, we had favorable winds and rain all the way, refreshingly so! We are ready to fight at any moment and bring you the hearts of our enemies!"
Toltec spoke with confidence, and then confidently glanced at Kuluka.
Xiulote observed everything, patting his beloved commander’s shoulder and giving a quiet command.
"Well done! Toltec, bring your books and come to my tent tonight."
Toltec was momentarily petrified, speechless. Kuluka quickly glanced at him, a slight smile on his face.
Xiulote turned his gaze back to the riverbank; the Militia had all disembarked, followed by ships loaded with food. With all sides gathered, he now had a Mexica army of thirty thousand at his command! Twenty thousand were Samurais from various places, plus ten thousand elite Militia. In the end, there was also an Otomi Legion whose combat effectiveness was halved.