＜Henry’s POV＞
Time passed.
Henry returned to the royal capital.
Having won the first battle, he held a triumphant return.
He rode on an ornate carriage and marched through the city gate like in a parade.
He had part-timers he’d hired scatter flower petals from rooftops.
Thus, he stirred up the capital, announcing that they had won the first battle――――and by extension, spreading the news throughout Bernada.
By the way, Dione, who had been fighting the forces of the Lake Nation of Farnetta, also achieved victory.
Although it took a little longer, Dione defeated the Farnetta army and secured a win just like Henry.
With both the Galastone and Farnetta armies defeated, the capital erupted in celebration.
In a warrior nation like Bernada, winning a war is a tremendous honor and proof that the current king is strong.
So most of Bernada’s citizens strengthened their trust and loyalty to the reigning King Henry because of this victory.
Finally――――
Ten days after the war ended.
Clemuir returned to the capital.
Apparently, after being blown away by the tornado, she had fallen deep into the mountains and become completely lost.
After surviving a brutal, wild life and making her way back to civilization, Clemuir somehow returned to the royal castle.
As soon as she entered the audience chamber she charged at Henry, furious.
「You idiot Henry!! You abandoned me! I will kill you!!」
She attacked in a rage, but Henry beat her down and they ended up with him victorious.
Thus, the initial clashes with Galastone and Farnetta drew to a close.
-0-
Half a month after the war.
In the royal castle’s council chamber, Henry and the key figures of the kingdom had gathered.
Though it was usually a room for discussing national affairs, today it had the atmosphere of a war room.
More than twenty people were present, including ministers, the chancellor, and military officials.
Kaiton, Zess, Sarabelle, Clemuir, and Dione were also among them.
Standing before a board covered with maps and operation documents, Chancellor Timeria spoke.
「Let us first review the current situation.」
With that preface, Timeria began.
「Our Bernada army has achieved victory over the Galastone forces. We eliminated numerous soldiers, including their generals and battalion leaders. Furthermore, with His Majesty Henry’s defeat of the Spear Saintess Orika, it is safe to say it was a decisive victory. The Galastone army no longer has the strength to continue the war.」
Excellent.
As expected of His Majesty… murmurs of admiration filled the chamber.
Henry accepted their praise with a calm smile.
Timeria continued.
「As for the Lake Nation of Farnetta, that too ended in our favor. It may not have been an overwhelming victory, but the outcome is satisfactory. Our losses were minimal, while Farnetta suffered significant damage. Though they likely still have the will to fight, it is certain their military power has weakened considerably.」
Henry turned toward Dione.
「Dione deserves a reward. Think of what you want.」
「Ah, uh…」
Dione gave an awkward expression.
Knowing Dione’s modest nature, she probably didn’t have anything in mind that she wanted.
Well, if she ever did, Henry intended to grant it.
「As the reports state, our first campaign was a complete victory for Bernada. Though we faced overwhelming numbers, you all followed me without hesitation. I am grateful. You have done splendidly.」
Applause filled the room.
Before the war began, many had been uneasy about facing three nations at once.
But now, the ministers and elders all wore expressions of hope and confidence.
After witnessing the results of this campaign, they were convinced that as long as they followed King Henry, no enemy was beyond defeat.
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