The Second Son of The Marquis Runs Away from Home ~ Lacking Talent, He Abandons Everything and Becomes an Adventurer ~ - 46

Episode 46: Rematch

(Shion’s Side)

Three days later…

After completing the reorganization, I began my invasion of Gomon once again.

“Lord Shion, the vanguard has reached the base of West Mizu Castle.”

Upon hearing the report from the messenger, I stroked my chin, thinking for a moment before asking,

“Was there any sign of traps or fortifications in the area?”

“We conducted a full-scale search, but found no such traces from the base to the main camp. Additionally, we confirmed that the Gomon army has set up camps around West Mizu Castle and on the mountain’s backside.”

“…So they chose not to abandon the castle and instead decided to hold their ground. I expected them to sacrifice one of their forces given their numbers.”

While Higashiya Castle is protected by sturdy walls, West Mizu Castle takes advantage of the terrain. I had judged that they would base their defense at Higashiya Castle, which is easier to defend and retreat from even if surrounded, so I advanced towards West Mizu Castle.

Even though West Mizu Castle uses the terrain to its advantage, we have maps and scouts familiar with the area. Considering the potential for a prolonged battle, we need to capture the castle in order to request reinforcements from the homeland.

But contrary to my expectations, they are at West Mizu Castle. If they have camps behind the mountain, are they planning another field battle, despite the heavy losses they suffered last time?

“Or do they have some other strategy?”

To guard against the possibility of another landslide, like last time, I split my forces, sending one part up the mountain. Once the vanguard clears the way, the main force, led by Fudou and supported by Hiruko’s sorcerers, will storm the castle.

We’ve thoroughly scouted the area and are keeping a close watch on Higashiya Castle as well. Any movement or changes will be reported immediately, allowing us to respond quickly.

“This way, most strategies won’t work.”

Now, how will they respond?

—

(Berg’s Side)

“Perhaps I should say, as expected.”

Watching the Ozuma army enter the mountains from West Mizu Castle, I muttered to myself and then gave orders to the soldier beside me.

“Once they’ve advanced far enough, trigger the landslide we’ve prepared. Once it’s triggered, fire the signal flares as instructed.”

“Yes, sir!”

As I watched the soldier leave to deliver the message, I turned my gaze back to the Ozuma army. They were deploying to surround the base of the mountain.

…The soldiers of the Ozuma army are impressive. Not only are their regular troops strong, but their sorcerers and scouts are also highly skilled and numerous.

However, even with all that, their perspective is not the same as Shion’s. Because they are so capable, they cannot foresee this trap, which was prepared on a scale beyond their imagination.

“If everyone were like you, they might have noticed.”

I murmured this to myself and then contacted Aria and the others through the communication crystal.

“Proceed as planned. Once the signal flares go up, execute the operation.”

“Understood.”

“We’re ready as well.”

“We can go anytime.”

“No problem.”

Hearing the four responses, I gripped my black sword and uttered words of power.

“Military attire deployment: ‘Holy Army Clad in Black, Chaos Crusader’… ‘Eclipse Devourer.'”

Darkness enveloped me as I spread my wings. At that moment, the signal flares went up.

“Let’s have our rematch, Shion.”

With a powerful flap of my wings, I soared into the sky.