“On the 26th, our scouts reported the sighting of Kent family’s army moving towards us. However, based on the intelligence gathered, they were about 5,000 strong, while we had the upper hand with over 8,000 troops. The vast difference in numbers made everyone believe that victory in the upcoming battle was inevitable.”
In the reception room of the Lord’s Manor, Viscount Derrick Heller was recounting the details of the previous battle to Paul.
Also present were Chief of Staff Schroeder, Intelligence Chief Cecil, and others.
“We arranged our formation and slowly advanced towards the enemy. Upon encounter, their numbers were indeed far smaller than ours. However, unlike before, the Kent family’s army was equipped with a large number of specially made bows—longbows. These were probably the mercenaries hired from the south by Marltz, considering that training longbowmen isn’t something that can be achieved in just a month or two.”
“As dusk approached, neither side intended to fight, and both camps settled down for the night. During the evening, we sent a challenge letter to the enemy, agreeing to a decisive battle the next day. Although it rained heavily at night, the morale of our entire army was high, filled with confidence in the next day’s battle.”
“On the morning of the 27th, both armies finally faced the judgment of fate. The enemy arranged most of their forces in a horizontal line formation, with the vanguard on the right flank and the rearguard on the left. Archers were positioned in gaps within each formation, with the majority on both wings, forming a slanted line without any apparent reserve forces.”
“We too had a battle plan. Count Malron and Viscount Johnston were to lead a cavalry charge against the enemy’s archers on both flanks, while I led another cavalry detour to the enemy’s rear camp to attack their supply wagons. Count Parker and other generals would lead the infantry to attack the enemy’s center.”
“If the plan had been executed smoothly, the enemy would undoubtedly collapse under the simultaneous attacks from our multiple units.”
At this point, Derrick’s face showed a mix of resentment and unwillingness. He took a large sip of wine to steady himself.
“Another factor was the damned terrain. The heavy rain from the previous night turned the ground into a muddy mess, severely hindering our cavalry’s effectiveness. Due to both discipline and terrain issues, our forces couldn’t maintain a tight formation, while the enemy calmly awaited our attack.”
“The Kent family’s army had about 3,000 longbowmen. They raised their longbows and fired a barrage of arrows. The arrows fell like rain, so dense and fast. Their force was so great that they even penetrated some metal armors, piercing flesh and bone. Our troops were filled with the agonized screams of soldiers hit by arrows, and the terrified and injured warhorses neighed and thrashed wildly, out of control. Our ranks were in complete disarray.”
“Wave after wave of arrow rain and the muddy ground severely delayed our charge. The main casualties inflicted by the longbowmen were on the lightly armored followers. The well-armored knights were not significantly affected, but due to the muddy terrain, many dismounted to proceed on foot. Wearing heavy armor designed for mounted combat, the mud severely drained their strength and impeded their mobility. When they finally reached the enemy lines, many were easily killed by the enemy, who were more lightly equipped and wielded lead maces and daggers.”
“The first wave of the cavalry charge failed, but our main infantry force, shield in hand, continued to advance towards the enemy. When about 50 yards away, the enemy longbowmen no longer shot volleys into the air but aimed directly, causing the wounded in front to fall, tripping those behind. In this continuous struggle, our troops exhausted their strength.”
“Faced with such a situation, a reasonable countermeasure now seems to have been to engage at range, just like the enemy. However, at that time, our archers and crossbowmen were positioned behind the infantry and cavalry, beyond the range to effectively target the enemy. If they had rashly fired, they would have risked hitting our own front lines.”
Derrick Heller spoke with a mix of shame and regret: “And so, our assault failed. Count Parker had no choice but to order a retreat, and the enemy seized the opportunity to pursue us. Our men were terrified by the enemy’s longbowmen. During the retreat, there was utter chaos, and we couldn’t organize an effective resistance.”
“After that battle, of our army of over 8,000, only about 3,000 remained. Once again, the advantage swung back to the Kent family. We regrouped the scattered troops and engaged the enemy in another battle, but we were defeated again. The enemy’s longbowmen were too formidable, instilling deep fear in the hearts of our soldiers.”
Derrick Heller covered his face with his hands.
“Just like that, we retreated all the way back to Fort Bidou—the place from where we had initially set out. We lost all the lands to the Kent family that we had gained over a month.”
After listening to Derrick’s narrative, Paul shook his head in sympathy.
“Oh, Derrick, it’s unfortunate that things turned out this way. Have you come to me seeking help?”
Derrick looked eagerly at Paul: “Yes, Count Grayman, you’re the only one who can turn our fortunes around now. Bring your muskets and cannons back to the battlefield. Only those firearms can counter the enemy’s longbowmen.” Paul frowned deeply: “Derrick, as you know, my territory has been somewhat unsettled recently.”
“Haven’t the riots been suppressed for quite some time now?”
“There could still be rats lurking in the shadows…”
“You’ve punished so many people, they wouldn’t dare to start a second uprising so soon.”
Paul finally said, “Alright, Derrick. But I need to discuss this carefully with my generals.”
Derrick expressed his gratitude: “Thank you, Count Grayman. But please, act quickly. Also, if possible, could you sell us a batch of firearms? Even if they are ones you’ve phased out, we’re willing to pay a high price for them.”
Paul hesitated, “I’ll have to discuss this with my people as well.”
In reality, at that moment, Paul had already made up his mind; he did not wish to be part of a failing alliance.
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