Chapter 41: prewar
Cedric Avar, the butcher king. The king of Avarya. They gave him the nickname "Butcher King" because he killed all four of his wives. Besides, he was a man who had killed or tortured many others. The people knew him as the "Butcher King" for that reason. Cedric Avar had gained a reputation as a dark and cruel ruler of the Avarya Kingdom. The killing of his four wives showed his cruel and ruthless character. He gained a reputation as a leader who oppressed his people and took ruthless measures against his enemies. Therefore, a situation such as making peace or signing a ceasefire with someone like Cedric was out of the question. In fact, King Richard also had no desire for peace. Knowing that the people of Avarya Kingdom did not love their own king, Richard only needed to defeat King Cedric's army to take over the entire Avarya Kingdom.
And now, before King Richard, the raider soldier was saying that Cedric's army was just a few days away. This was an opportunity not to be missed. If Cedric had stayed in the capital and fought a defensive war, it would have made things more difficult for the Asina Kingdom. However, Richard now had a significant chance to take advantage of the situation.
"But sir, I must mention that the number of soldiers in Avarya Kingdom's army is not to be underestimated," said raider soldier.
The Raider Corps was an elite force in the Kingdom of Asina. This unit consisted of mounted cavalry and wore light armor. This unit had no different role in battle from regular mounted cavalry. After the battle, raiding forces could enter enemy territory and pillage villages. Also, one of their tasks was to detect nearby enemy armies and inform the king if there was an army.
"How many troops did they have?" asked King Richard. "They were too many to count, Your Majesty," said raider soldier. The others present in the room heard these sentences. Duchess Theodora asked with curious and worried eyes, "So, were they larger than our army?"
"I don't know, sir. Frankly, I saw the Avarya soldiers from a high hill, but the only thing I can say is that they were as numerous as us," said the raider soldier.
"That's why that mad king dared to leave his capital," said one duke.
Ethan stepped forward and asked his question to raider soldier"What is the situation of this army you're talking about? For example, which units were predominant?" Everyone in the room looked at raider soldier with curiosity, wondering about the answer to the question. "Actually, now that I think about it, at least half of the army I saw consisted of mounted cavalry. I initially thought they were ahead because they were faster, but after waiting there, I saw that the number of mounted cavalry was terrifyingly high," he said.
"You're saying this now, you idiot!" Richard angrily got up from his seat and threw his cup at raider soldier . Although the cup hitting his head left a deep mark on the raider soldier, he said nothing and stood still. His trembling from fear was visible even from afar. "Get out, you imbecile," Richard said. Despite trembling legs, the raider soldier quickly left the room.
"Now what shall we do, Your Majesties? Should we fortify the castle and defend here?" asked General Gideon.
"Using our entire army in this castle is nothing but a waste. This castle is quite small for our army. Besides, the castle is already in a state of disrepair, and repairing it will take time," said Duchess Theodora.
"Then we have no choice but to fight, do we? Let's show them the power of the Asina Kingdom," said Prince Henry.
"Yes, I suppose so." everyone, especially Henry and Isabella, looked at the speaker with a surprised expression. Ethan, somewhat of a rival, had approved his brother Prince Henry. This was a rare occurrence among the contenders for the throne.
"Are you suggesting that we fight an army with at least 15,000 mounted cavalry in a pitched battle, Prince Ethan? I thought you were pragmatic and intelligent," Duke Eddart said. As he was Karl's uncle, he was not very well-disposed towards the other princes.
"Firstly, if I didn't have a plan, I wouldn't have spoken, Duke Eddart. Furthermore, only a fool would dare to call me stupid, given the significant success I've achieved in taking this castle." Ethan's words increased the tension in the room and there was silence for a few seconds.
"You've misunderstood me, Prince Ethan. I'm merely a patriotic citizen who desires correct decisions to be made in such a crucial battle. If we lose this war, our country will be in ruins," Duke Eddart replied.
"Are you afraid of losing the war, especially while King Richard is still alive? Duke Eddart, or do you no longer trust my father?" Isabella interjected.
"Enough of this argument. Now, son, will you tell us what the plan is?" King Richard said, raising his voice.
Ethan stood up and used his sword at his waist to point to the map spread out on the table.
"Firstly, it's crucial that we choose the battlefield ourselves. If we fight here and position our archers like this..."
For about 10 minutes Ethan explained his plan, impressing many people present, including Duchess Theodora.
"Why am I staying in the castle?" Henry asked angrily.
"Because an emotionally driven commander like you will lead us to defeat. Especially if we're using my plan." Ethan replied.
"I'm siding with Prince Ethan on this. Making a mistake in this plan will ruin everything," Duchess Theodora said.
"What!? Father, aren't you going to say anything about this?" Prince Henry protested.
"Since the plan belongs to Ethan and what he said makes sense, you'll need to stay in the castle. Unless, of course, you have a better plan, my son," King Richard said calmly.
Henry sat back down in frustration. Ethan's plan was too good, and he couldn't think of a better one. So, for now, he had no choice but to accept his defeat. 'This time, you've won, brother.'
A minute later, everyone scattered to their rooms and Ethan followed Duchess Theodora.
"Do you have something to say, Prince Ethan?" she asked, turning around.
"Your senses are quite sharp, Duchess. I just wanted to ask why you're helping me. Is there something you want in return?" he said.
"Hahaha. Why don't you think I'm helping you simply because your idea made sense to me?" she replied.
"I am too sensible to believe such things, Duchess Theodora." Ethan said.
"I suppose you're right; you've grown quite well. I have two reasons for helping you. The first one let's keep what I'm about to say between us, but I don't like Prince Henry. Secondly..." The Duchess leaned in close to Ethan and whispered in his ear.
"I'm aware of my daughter's feelings towards you. From now on, you have my full support in the succession battle. All I ask is that you make my daughter happy," she said, stepping back and looking at Ethan.
"I understand. You can trust me to do everything in my power to make your daughter happy," he replied.
"Then, goodnight, Prince Ethan."
"Goodnight, Madam Theodora."