The Second Son of The Marquis Runs Away from Home ~ Lacking Talent, He Abandons Everything and Becomes an Adventurer ~ - 19

Chapter 19: The First Battle

“Berg-sama!”

It had been three days since arriving at Gomon, and Hinowa and Ameri called out to me in a fluster while I trained with the soldiers.

“What’s wrong?”

“Ozma’s troops are advancing! According to reports, they number five thousand, with four thousand of them said to be Yomi soldiers, according to Lady Philneria!”

The soldiers around us visibly tensed upon hearing the report. Gomon had a total of six thousand soldiers, but facing them directly would result in significant casualties.

“Do we know the enemy’s position and speed?”

“Please look at this map. They’ll reach the fortress on the border in about two days.”

“What about Aria and Shurin?”

“They’re already on reconnaissance. Until Berg-sama arrives, they’ll continue scouting.”

I strategized mentally while looking at the map. Thanks to Shurin’s reconnaissance over the past three days, planning the operation became easier.

“Understood. Lord Raigou, how long until we’re ready for battle?”

“Thirty minutes, and all within the castle can be mobilized.”

“What’s the garrison size at the fortress?”

“It’s of considerable size, with about a hundred stationed regularly. Two hundred would be the maximum.”

“If it were me, I’d use around two thousand troops and leverage the terrain to repel them,” Raigou added, pointing on the map.

“…Alright.”

I explained the plan that came to mind to Raigou, who pondered with a hand on his chin, a hint of lingering doubt in his expression.

“Is such a thing possible?”

“If you’re unsure, I’ll leave the army’s organization to you, Lord Raigou. If my strategy fails, we’ll switch to yours.”

“…Understood. I’ll begin preparations immediately.”

With that, Raigou gave orders to the soldiers, who promptly began moving.

Hinowa and Ameri followed closely behind as we moved to prepare.

“You two are coming too?”

“Yes, Lady Philneria ordered us to accompany you.”

“…It’s the head of the household’s decision.”

“Understood. Then, tell me what we can do while we move.”

And so, with two thousand soldiers, we marched toward our first battle at Hizuchi…

—

(Ameri’s Perspective)

I still dream about it.

The days when Father taught me swordsmanship, when he ruffled my hair and praised my good form.

Those days were abruptly taken from me, fueling the fire in my heart on that day.

To avenge Father… and to fight Ozma, I’ve endured rigorous training.

And when Mother told me to go with my sister, my clenched fists grew stronger in secret.

(But…)

I see Berg and Rakul, foreigners from another country, riding black horses before me.

I know they are strong, but I can’t help but doubt these outsiders who my sister and mother trust so much.

(Why do Sister and Mother…)

I’ve heard of their exploits and achievements, but rumors alone aren’t proof of their trustworthiness.

If they were to harm my family…

(At that moment, I…)

I tightened my grip on the sword at my waist, silently increasing my vigilance.