Chapter 12: The Evolution of the Army

Chapter 12: The Evolution of the Army

Edmund pushed his soldiers' training to new heights, integrating more complex techniques and strategies into their routines. He focused on sharpening their skills with both the lighter, mid-range throwing spear (inspired by the Roman pilum) and the longer, melee-oriented spear (like the Spartan dory). Soldiers drilled relentlessly, practicing accurate throws, precise thrusts, and efficient transitions from spear to sword in close combat.

Edmund also incorporated Roman shield-bashing techniques to teach soldiers how to break enemy lines during melee skirmishes. He introduced individual maneuvers that enabled soldiers to defend themselves when temporarily isolated. To ensure the army could respond to varied battlefield scenarios, he simulated situations like holding a defensive line in the Spartan style and advancing under missile fire in the Roman style. Soldiers also practiced forming unconventional shapes, such as semi-circular or wedge formations, to counter flanking maneuvers effectively.

Recognizing the importance of leadership, Edmund directed Cedric to train unit leaders extensively. They practiced battlefield commands and coordination to ensure that formations remained intact under pressure. Leaders were taught how to manage transitions between formations, such as moving from a phalanx to a testudo or into guerrilla-style combat when necessary. This adaptability would make them formidable in a variety of conflicts.

To reinforce these skills, Edmund pitted groups of 100 soldiers against one another in competitive drills, rotating between offensive and defensive roles. This honed their ability to adapt to real-world scenarios, including flanking maneuvers, counter-strategies against cavalry, and engaging archers. Soldiers were also trained to reform formations quickly after breaking apart for smaller, guerrilla-style attacks.

Three months later, the army was transformed into a disciplined and hybrid force. Soldiers exhibited Spartan-level endurance and unity, combined with Roman precision and flexibility. Their seamless transitions between formations and ability to adapt to battlefield scenarios set them apart as a powerful military force.

With the training phase complete and the blacksmiths finishing the 3,000 sets of hybrid equipment, Edmund turned his attention to balancing the needs of training and defense. He divided the army strategically:

1,500 soldiers were assigned to border protection.

500 soldiers were stationed within the kingdom to maintain peace.

1,000 soldiers remained dedicated to intensive, specialized training.

To ensure smooth rotation and comprehensive training for all, Edmund implemented a system where troops rotated every two to three months. He also instructed Cedric to establish dedicated camps near strategic locations where soldiers could train without leaving critical areas undefended.

Edmund introduced measures to maintain control over the nobility and prevent rebellion. A Royal Military Council was formed, allowing nobles limited input while ensuring that they did not directly command troops. To strengthen logistics, he funded the construction of supply depots and roads with 2,000 gold coins, improving movement and resupply during campaigns.

To attract recruits and ensure loyalty among the soldiers, Edmund provided regular pay, benefits for their families, and rewards for exceptional service. These measures cultivated a sense of pride and dedication within the ranks, further solidifying the army's cohesion and strength.

Satisfied with the progress of his forces, Edmund turned his thoughts toward the next step in his military evolution: developing archery units inspired by the Mongol style. The innovations for his hybrid force were only the beginning of his grand vision for the kingdom's defense.

End of chap.