Chapter 11: Hybrid Discipline

Edmund watched with a sense of satisfaction as Sir Cedric Thorne Vallis, though only a viscount with the fourth rank of nobility, worked tirelessly to implement his vision for the military. Despite his modest title, Cedric's efficiency, intelligence, and work ethic quickly dispelled any doubts about his capabilities. His dedication to the task was evident, and Edmund couldn't help but admire the man's resolve.

With Cedric now fully briefed on the new military structure, Edmund sat with him once again in his office. The large map of the kingdom was spread across the table, covered with pins marking various strategic locations. Edmund pointed at the map as he outlined the next phase of his reforms.

"I've established the framework for a military hierarchy. I want this to be clear: the strength of a kingdom lies in its structure, and our soldiers must understand their place within it," Edmund explained. He then listed the new chain of command: "A Platoon will consist of 30 soldiers, led by a Lieutenant. Three Platoons make up a Company, with a Captain in charge. A Battalion consists of three Companies, totaling 300 soldiers and led by a Major. Finally, a Regiment will consist of 1,000 soldiers and be commanded by a Colonel."

Cedric absorbed the information quickly, but there was an unmistakable surprise in his eyes. "Such a hierarchy… we've never had anything like this. We simply had soldiers grouped by experience, not rank. But this…" He paused, excitement flickering across his face. "This will work, Your Majesty."

Edmund nodded. "I'm glad you see the merit. I also want you to select experienced soldiers to serve as Sergeants, individuals who can take charge of small squads within Platoons. They'll train the soldiers in discipline and combat techniques." He looked Cedric in the eye. "This is about building a strong foundation. It will take time, but we can't afford to delay."

Cedric's face was alight with enthusiasm. "I'll begin selecting Sergeants immediately, Your Majesty."

"Good," Edmund said. "And one more thing—form a council of trusted Generals and Strategists. Their input will be crucial in shaping the direction of our military. We'll need them to assist me with decision-making, particularly as our forces grow stronger."

Cedric bowed. "I'll assemble a council at once."

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Two weeks later, Edmund visited the training grounds where Cedric had begun implementing the new structure. It was an enormous open space in the wastelands, perfect for large-scale training. The army, now split into three distinct groups—1,500 soldiers assigned to the borders, 500 stationed in the kingdom to maintain peace, and 1,000 in training—was being shaped into a new force. The 1,000 soldiers in training were split into smaller units, and each was led by a Lieutenant, Major, or Colonel from Cedric's chosen leaders. Edmund had insisted that the training of these groups be done in full view of the others, so that the techniques and formations could be passed down.

The sun was beginning to set as Edmund arrived on the training grounds. Cedric met him there, his uniform immaculate despite the grueling drills he'd been overseeing. "Everything is proceeding well, Your Majesty," Cedric said, motioning to the soldiers. "We've begun with the basics, and the men are adapting quickly to the new methods."

Edmund nodded, his eyes scanning the soldiers. "I want to begin with the Phalanx formation. It's crucial that the soldiers learn how to work together as a single, unyielding unit."

Cedric gave a sharp nod, signaling for fifty soldiers to step forward. They formed a tight line, shields raised and spears at the ready. Edmund stepped forward, explaining the importance of formation. "The Phalanx is about unity," he said, his voice commanding attention. "Each man must rely on his brothers in arms. Your shield protects not only yourself but also the soldier next to you. Focus on thrusting with your spear, aiming for the enemy's legs, torso, or any exposed area."

He watched as the soldiers practiced the thrusts, moving in unison, their shields creating an impenetrable wall. Edmund was impressed by how quickly they adapted to the formation. The soldiers had their own rhythm, and they responded to his instructions with discipline.

"We must be steadfast," Edmund continued. "Keep your formation tight, always ready to defend one another. If one falters, the whole unit falls apart."

After several hours of practice, Edmund was pleased with the results. The soldiers were beginning to understand the critical importance of teamwork. But there was still more to be done.

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One week later, the soldiers were ready to advance to the next step. Edmund had Cedric lead them through the Testudo formation—an advanced tactic designed to protect the unit from missile fire. The soldiers formed the familiar phalanx, but this time, the rear ranks raised their shields above their heads, creating a nearly impenetrable "tortoise" shell.

Edmund stepped forward to explain. "The Testudo is a defensive wall, but it must be used in combination with the Phalanx. The first two ranks maintain the thrusting formation, while the rear ranks provide cover. When missile fire rains down, the Testudo is our shield."

He paused, letting the soldiers get a feel for the formation. "Flexibility is key. You will need to be able to switch between the Phalanx and the Testudo quickly, depending on the situation. In battle, you will have to think fast."

The soldiers practiced switching between the two formations, moving from the aggressive thrusts of the Phalanx to the defensive shield wall of the Testudo. The soldiers learned how to move in perfect synchronization, each transition seamless and swift.

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Two more weeks passed, and Edmund returned to the training grounds. He watched with pride as the soldiers drilled tirelessly, adapting to the new formations. Cedric had done an excellent job—every soldier now understood the value of teamwork and discipline. The drills had instilled a sense of unity that Edmund had hoped for.

With the new training methods, the soldiers were becoming a well-oiled machine, ready for any challenge. But Edmund knew the next step was to ensure that their equipment matched their discipline. He had already prepared blueprints for a hybrid design, combining the best aspects of Spartan and Roman military styles.

"These designs," Edmund said as he handed the blueprints to Cedric, "will make our soldiers formidable." 'I've combined the long thrusting spear of the Spartan Dory with the Roman Pilum for throwing. The shield merges the best parts of the Spartan Aspis and Roman Scutum for superior protection. Their armor will offer the perfect balance between flexibility and defense, and the sword—a hybrid of the Spartan Xiphos and Roman Gladius—will serve as a powerful secondary weapon.'

Cedric studied the blueprints intently. "It's revolutionary, Your Majesty. I'll get to work immediately. The blacksmiths will need time, but we will have the first batch ready in three weeks."

Edmund smiled. "I've allocated 200 gold coins for the funding. Let's make sure we have enough to equip every soldier in the coming weeks."

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The next few months would be crucial in transforming the army into a force that could defend the kingdom and project power beyond its borders. Edmund had made significant progress, but there was still much work to be done. The kingdom was on the cusp of a new era, and Edmund's vision of a strong, disciplined military was beginning to take shape. The foundations had been laid, and the kingdom would soon have an army capable of defending its future.

End of chap.

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