The Immortal Genius Spearman

Chapter 153

The diplomatic meeting had progressed with remarkable efficiency.

Matheurs Jankoff offered his solemn condolences to the envoy from the Artian Kingdom.

"I’ve heard of the tragedy that struck your nation. I trust the fallen soldiers have found their place by the gods’ side."

"Thank you. However, we must now focus not on those who have departed, but on those who remain."

"I share your sentiments," Matheurs said with a nod.

The envoy from the Artian Kingdom continued, "Our kingdom seeks to form a swift alliance with the Baroque Kingdom to put an end to the Empire's ruthless campaign of conquest."

"The Empire will not relent easily," Matheurs replied. "Their offensives, which extend to nearly all surrounding kingdoms, are unrelenting and fierce."

Realistically, even defending their own kingdom against the Empire’s advances was a daunting challenge. Offering aid to others seemed an impossible task at the moment.

Yet, the envoy from the Artian Kingdom stood from his seat and addressed the gathered officials.

"Which is why we have devised a strategy. May I have your attention, please?"

The envoy gestured subtly to his aides.

Creak.

They unfurled a large map of the continent on the wall of the conference room.

Using a baton, the envoy pointed to the map and began his explanation.

"Currently, the Empire is advancing on the Baroque Kingdom through the Spanian Kingdom, while simultaneously launching naval invasions against the Artian Kingdom."

The Empire clearly understood that to unify the continent, they would need to subjugate both the Baroque and Artian Kingdoms.

"Crucially, the Empire has revealed the presence of three Aura Masters in their forces."

First, there was Piaren, leading the Rose Knight Order.

Second, Galveron, commanding another division.

And finally—

"The second Aura Master, Calon Xanthos, is leading the invasion into the Artian Kingdom."

That left only one Aura Master, Alexandro Falcoz, stationed within the Empire.

"With just one Aura Master remaining, it would be impossible for them to defend the entirety of the Empire’s vast territory."

"True, but the Empire’s military remains formidable even without an Aura Master. A poorly planned offensive could leave us vulnerable to counterattacks, which would be disastrous," Matheurs said, and the other officials nodded in agreement.

While the Artian Kingdom had the protection of the sea, the Baroque Kingdom bordered the Empire directly, separated only by the unstable Spanian Kingdom. Any misstep would expose the Baroque Kingdom to severe risks.

"That is correct," the envoy acknowledged. "Which is why the Artian Kingdom requests the deployment of 50,000 troops from the Baroque Kingdom, as well as permission to use the passage through your territory to advance into the Empire."

"Fifty thousand troops and access to the passage?"

The Artian Kingdom needed either naval transport or passage through the Baroque Kingdom to reach the Empire.

"…Granting a passage without mutual trust would be difficult," Matheurs replied cautiously.

Opening their borders without assurances was a risky proposition.

After all, the Artian Kingdom’s recent invasion by Calon Xanthos’ forces raised the possibility of collusion with the Empire.

The envoy nodded. "You are correct. Thus, we propose sending members of the royal families from both kingdoms to each other’s courts as honored guests."

Matheurs fell silent at this.

The so-called “honored guest” arrangement was essentially a hostage exchange.

The mere suggestion demonstrated the Artian Kingdom’s unwavering resolve to forge this alliance.

Still, as Chancellor, Matheurs lacked the authority to make such a decision.

"How large of a force does the Artian Kingdom intend to deploy?" Matheurs asked after clearing his throat.

"The planned deployment is a force of 70,000 troops. Furthermore…"

The envoy’s eyes gleamed.

"General Celestine Favela, our Aura Master, will accompany the forces."

"Celestine Favela?!"

Matheurs nearly jumped from his seat.

The envoy’s statement was nothing short of groundbreaking.

Celestine Favela was the Artian Kingdom’s second Aura Master—and the only female Aura Master on the continent. Her exceptional skill was unmatched, making her a national treasure for the Artian Kingdom.

The envoy continued, "I will now explain the proposed strategy."

He confidently gestured with his baton as he elaborated on the joint plan.

The Baroque and Artian Kingdoms, alongside the Tirkan and Iren Kingdoms—both recently devastated by the Empire—would each contribute 20,000 troops.

This combined force of 160,000 would be split into two armies, advancing simultaneously on the Empire’s eastern and western fronts.

Such a maneuver would force the Empire to divide their Aura Masters.

Even with strong fortifications, it would be difficult for the Empire to repel two 80,000-strong armies.

"The Empire must face consequences for their actions. They must learn that it is impossible to dominate this continent with their strength alone."

Concluding his speech, the envoy addressed Matheurs.

"With the Tirkan and Iren Kingdoms already committed, once the Baroque Kingdom agrees, all preparations for a full-scale war against the Empire will be complete."

Matheurs remained silent.

While he lacked the authority to approve such plans, he found the proposition intriguing.

"This is worth pursuing."

He hadn’t expected the Artian Kingdom to deploy someone as pivotal as Celestine Favela beyond their borders.

"Especially now, with Kalen injured… This bold move reflects their determination."

Matheurs rose from his seat.

"Thank you for making this long journey. For now, please rest. We will reconvene tomorrow to discuss this matter further."

"Understood," the envoy replied with a faint smile.

As the envoys left the room, one of the Baroque officials turned to Matheurs and asked, "Who is that man? His presence is… overwhelming."

The envoy who had dominated the room with his commanding explanations had left a lasting impression.

At the question, a secretary from the Baroque Kingdom chuckled in surprise.

"You don’t know who that is?"

"Am I supposed to?"

"That is none other than Henry Saint-André, the famed tactician of the Artian Kingdom."

"W-what?!"

The official gasped, glancing in the direction Henry had gone.

"That was Henry Saint-André?"

"Yes, the man hailed as the Artian Kingdom’s greatest strategist—their very brain."

For a long moment, the official stood there, staring at the corridor Henry had disappeared down.

***

Damian arrived in Valphate and headed straight for the unit without any delay.

As he entered the barracks, the soldier standing guard at the entrance was startled and shouted.

"Bu-battalion commander!"

"Have the training sessions been going well?" Damian asked casually.

"Of course, sir!" the soldier stammered before turning back toward the barracks and shouting at the top of his lungs, "The commander is here! The commander is back! Everyone, get out here now!"

A thunderous commotion ensued as soldiers poured out of the barracks, hastily forming ranks.

"Welcome back, Commander!"

"Did you return safely, sir?"

Their disciplined demeanor was striking.

It had only been a little over a month, yet their atmosphere had changed considerably. Scars marred their faces, hands, and arms. Some even seemed to have awakened faint traces of mana.

"What kind of miracle has he worked on them?"

Damian couldn’t help but chuckle.

"You’ve all worked hard. Judging by the state of your face, it looks like you’ve been through hell."

"Ha, don’t even mention it, sir."

"We thought we were going to die while you were gone!"

"Well, let’s head inside. By the way, where’s the instructor?"

"He’s out with the vice-commander at the moment."

"Out?"

Damian tilted his head in confusion. Leonhark wasn’t one to leave without notice.

Just then—

"The instructor is back!" shouted the soldier stationed at the entrance.

Everyone, including Damian, turned to look toward the entrance.

"What’s going on here? Why’s everyone gathered like this?" Leonhark asked, tilting his head at the sight of the assembled soldiers.

Then his gaze fell on Damian.

"Sergeant Damian!"

"Commander!" added Dianal, standing beside him.

Damian smiled lightly.

"I’ve returned."

"Ha-ha, you’ve done well. Did your visit bear fruit?"

"Yes, very much so."

"Ho… that much?"

Damian was known for never exaggerating. For him to describe his experience as "very fruitful" meant he had achieved something extraordinary.

However—

Leonhark broke into an uncharacteristically wide grin and clapped Dianal on the back.

"Vice-commander Dianal has also made great strides. You’ll be surprised."

"Really?" Damian’s eyes widened in surprise.

Leonhark was also known for his strict and honest evaluations. If he praised Dianal’s progress, it must have been remarkable.

It seemed a lot had changed during Damian’s absence.

He nodded in satisfaction, but then Leonhark’s tone shifted.

"Actually, I was planning to discuss something with you when you returned, and it seems fate has timed this perfectly."

"Did something happen?" Damian asked, noticing Leonhark’s sudden seriousness.

"Let’s talk inside," Leonhark said, leading Damian toward his office.

Although Damian was undoubtedly tired from his journey, the situation seemed urgent enough to disregard his fatigue.

Once inside, Damian got straight to the point.

"What’s going on?"

"Dianal and I had gone to the capital for a mission. While we were there, we received an urgent dispatch. It seems a large-scale military operation is being prepared."

"Large-scale… How large are we talking?" Damian asked, his expression sharpening.

"The exact numbers haven’t been confirmed. But one thing is clear—this war won’t be defensive. It will be an offensive operation."

Leonhark relayed the content of the dispatch from the royal palace.

Diplomatic efforts were underway to form an allied force with neighboring kingdoms.

"If things proceed as planned, the allied army will march directly into the Empire," Leonhark said.

"…The Empire," Damian murmured.

That name carried a heavy weight.

In his past life, he had suffered unimaginable humiliation at the hands of the Empire, yet he had never once set foot there.

Now, the prospect of stepping into its territory stirred something within him.

"Will the Caion Unit be participating?"

Leonhark nodded.

"Of course. This is an opportunity not to merely endure their blows but to drive a dagger into the Empire’s heart."

Damian’s eyes gleamed with determination.