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IBHJ Chapter 157
🕑 Added 2023-03-17 23:26:25 +0000 UTCThe magical beasts moved in unison with the flying wyverns, dancing as one. The air was filled with the sound of cannons firing magical energy, creating a deafening clash of power. It was evident that the invaders did not rely on human forces to attack, but solely relied on these creatures from the Age of Gods to carry out their assault.
The soldiers on the fortress were all occupied with their respective duties.
Shirou stood on the city wall for a long time and then returned to the castle. At this moment, he couldn't do anything on the city wall. The only thing he could do was to believe in them.
The first battle raged on for a grueling day and night. Rather than sending troops, the enemy relentlessly deployed wave after wave of beasts, strategically exhausting Shirou's side.
The ability to hold their ground was not solely due to human efforts, but rather owed to the fortifications of Caerleon Castle and the strength of its defensive barrier.
Following the conclusion of the first wave, Shirou came to the realization that there were issues with the configuration of his army.
Shirou's army consisted of cavalry, infantry, and archers, all of which were versatile in their own ways. However, the lack of a logistical support force and a proper rotation system was a major problem. To address this issue, Shirou established a rotation system for defense and encouraged the people of Caerleon to set up a supply line. Eventually, this responsibility was passed on to the more suitable Bedivere.
In addition to setting up a supply line, Shirou also resorted to extorting a substantial amount of food and supplies from the nobles of Caerleon. Moreover, many people voluntarily contributed materials for the cause. All of these materials, including those already present in Caerleon's storage, were then handed over to the steward Aggravain for proper distribution.
It was later discovered that Aggravain's math skills were still inadequate. Although he was an improvement over the previous steward, mistakes still occurred from time to time.
Given that this was a defensive battle and proper logistics dispatch was critical, there was simply no room for error. Therefore, Shirou assigned Aggravain the specific task of supply distribution, while personally overseeing strategic planning to ensure the success of the operation.
Despite Shirou's efforts, the situation remained far from optimistic. The enemy had come well-prepared, having looted and amassed an abundant supply of resources on their way from Orkney. It was even possible that they possessed more supplies than Caerleon.
The most critical aspect of the conflict was the tireless attacks of the magical beasts and the relentless bombardment of powerful magical cannon. Despite Caerleon's defensive bounded fields, they had their limits. Once breached, the castle was doomed.
Morgan expressed her frustration, "If only my workshop was here instead of in Orkney, you wouldn't have to worry so much, Arthur!"
Shirou tried to console her, "Sister, I am well aware of your capabilities."
He gently stroked her messy hair, causing her to brighten up a bit as she replied, "Well, I'm glad to hear that."
Following a series of defensive battles, it became apparent that Kay's lack of experience was becoming a liability. Shirou, being someone who didn't believe in shouldering everything himself, understood that as a leader, he needed to delegate responsibilities effectively. As such, he appointed Lamorak as the overall defense commander and made Kay his deputy.
Although Kay initially agreed to the arrangement, he struggled to come to terms with his demotion and Lamorak's promotion. Shirou understood Kay's feelings and took the time to privately talk to him, reassuring him that this was a sign of trust and that he was being cultivated for greater things. He urged Kay to study hard and improve himself. After their conversation, Kay became overjoyed and more motivated to perform his duties to the best of his ability.
Through this experience, Shirou once again realized the enormity of the responsibilities that came with being a king. He had to be able to maintain a broad perspective, make promises, navigate deception, reconcile conflicts, inspire people, and possess the ability to effectively delegate responsibilities. Furthermore, he had to be skilled in ideological work, capable of persuading and reassuring those around him to maintain their trust and support.
Despite his heavy burden, Shirou realized that he could not rely on others to comfort or reassure him. As the leader, it was his responsibility to provide comfort and support to those around him, and he could not expect the same in return. He understood that it was part of his duty to bear the weight of his own struggles and to lead by example, inspiring and motivating others through his own actions.
Despite holding out for five days, the enemy had yet to launch a direct attack. However, due to the relentless bombardment of magic cannons and beasts, Caerleon's defensive formations were gradually weakening. It was clear that if they continued to defend in this manner, it was only a matter of time before they would be overwhelmed.
As tensions rose between the factions advocating offense and defense, Gawain and Gaheris proposed a preemptive strike, while Lamorak and Kay favored a defensive strategy and requested aid from Camelot.
Despite the disagreement between his advisors, Shirou knew that the final decision rested on his shoulders.
Shirou had always made choices in life that affected only himself. As such, he never hesitated to make his decisions, fully aware that he alone would bear the consequences.
However, everything had changed now that he was the King. Every choice he made would have a profound impact on a large group of people - those who had entrusted their lives and futures to him. He felt the weight of their trust, and knew that the fate of many depended on his choice.
Gawain and the others looked at Shirou, awaiting his decision.
Shirou had previously spoken in front of thousands without fear, calmly accepting questions and hostility from the crowd.
However, now, with only a few pairs of eyes fixed on him, their weight felt as heavy as the burden of the world, pressing down on his shoulders.
He was consumed by an infinite fear. He was terrified that the decision he made would be the wrong one.
Despite his fear, he knew that he had to make a decision. The people who had entrusted their fate to him were waiting, and he could not let them down. In this moment, he was no longer just "Fujimaru Shirou," a lone individual; he was a "king" who bore the fate of countless others.
The weight of the responsibility was suffocating, making it difficult for Shirou to even speak. The next decision he had to make was terrifying, but he knew he had to face it head-on.
To be a king is to lead a nation and be its highest authority. Throughout history, whether in ancient times or modern day, it has been the responsibility of the king to hold up the sky when it falls.
Shirou drew a deep breath and turned to the person he considered to have the strongest military strategy at his side. Surprisingly, it was not Gawain, Tristan, or Artoria, but rather Merlin.
He asked, "If we were to initiate a preemptive strike, what are our odds of success?"
Merlin answered, "Approximately thirty percent."
Shirou followed up with, "And what if we request aid?"
"Unfortunately, Camelot has no reinforcements to offer."
"Why not?"
"The pressure on Barton Fortress is heavier than it is here."
Shirou fell silent, deep in thought.
"Are there no other options?" he eventually asked.
Merlin considered for a moment before responding. "Actually, there is one. The kings of Hadrian's Wall have already taken notice of the situation and contacted Camelot. They are currently surrounding Barton Mountain with fairies. If they can repel Vortigern's forces, we may be able to receive aid."
"Request aid? I'm afraid they'll be breached faster than us!" Shirou sneered.
Following a moment of silence, Shirou glanced around the room before announcing, "Prepare for a preemptive strike!"
Lamorak looked concerned and spoke up, "Your Excellency Arthur, Merlin has informed us that the chance of success with a preemptive strike is only thirty percent. Are you sure this is the right course of action?"
"Thirty percent is enough. I have faced death before and emerged victorious. I know what it takes to win, and I am willing to take that chance."
Lamorak was still hesitant and wanted to express his concerns, but before he could say anything, Shirou added, "and any objections will be treated as an act of rebellion."
Lamorak let out a sigh and conceded.
Shirou surveyed the room and issued his orders. "Return to your respective positions and gather the troops. We'll rendezvous outside the city walls."
Everyone nodded in agreement and made their way out. Lamorak, still uneasy about the decision, turned to leave as well.
But before he could leave the room, Shirou called out to him. "Lamorak."
Lamorak turned to face Shirou, waiting for him to speak.
Shirou sensed Lamorak's unease and sought to reassure him. "I understand that you value the lives of your soldiers greatly. But sometimes, we must take risks and fight for what we believe in. Avoiding conflict indefinitely will only lead to a more tragic outcome. It's better to take a chance and fight for our cause. Remember, the rainbow comes after the storm."
Lamorak remained silent, but his frustration visibly eased as he nodded slightly in acknowledgment of Shirou's words.
As everyone filed out of the room, Shirou turned to Merlin and asked, "Merlin, can you lead the troops?"
Merlin shook his head and replied with a smile, "As a court mage, my duties lie elsewhere."
"Very well," Shirou replied curtly, waving his cloak as he departed.
As he strode purposefully towards the door, Shirou's demeanor exuded a sense of power and confidence. But deep down, he couldn't help but question the decision he had just made. Would it truly lead to victory and bring hope to everyone?
