The following morning, Tatsuo began organizing the 50 former Skylance soldiers who had chosen to join his forces. He understood that their loyalty was still fragile, and he needed to integrate them carefully.
"Captain Kelt," Tatsuo instructed, "I want you to take these men and assign them to manual labor. They will assist with the rebuilding of Greywall Town. This will serve as both a form of integration and a way for them to contribute to our efforts."
Kelt, a seasoned soldier with a pragmatic approach, nodded in understanding. "Understood, Commander. We will put them to good use."
With that task completed, Tatsuo decided to utilize his Dimension Gate skill. He needed to address a critical issue: the appointment of a trustworthy mayor for Greywall Town. The town's administration needed a stable foundation, and he knew just the person to help.
He activated his portal, stepping through the shimmering gateway and emerging in the familiar surroundings of Harbor Town's guild hall. Guild Master Anne Veatmoss, her eyes widening in surprise, greeted him with a respectful bow.
"Your Highness," she exclaimed, "what an unexpected pleasure!"
"Anne," Tatsuo said, his voice urgent, "I need your assistance. Greywall Town is under my command, but it lacks a proper administration. We need a mayor, someone we can trust implicitly."
He explained the situation, emphasizing the strategic importance of Greywall Town and the need for a capable leader.
"I need you to find someone, Anne," Tatsuo continued, "someone with integrity, intelligence, and a strong sense of community. Send them to Greywall Town. I will ensure they are given the necessary support."
Anne, understanding the gravity of the request, nodded solemnly. "I understand, Your Highness. I will find a suitable candidate and send them to Greywall Town as soon as possible."
"Thank you, Anne," Tatsuo said, a sense of relief washing over him. "Your assistance is invaluable."
With the task complete, Tatsuo activated his Dimension Gate once more, returning to his office in Greywall Town in an instant. He felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing that he had taken another step towards securing the town's future.
.....
Three months had transformed Greywall Town. The scars of battle were fading, replaced by the bustling energy of reconstruction and fortification. Every citizen, soldier, and even the former prisoners worked tirelessly, driven by Tatsuo's vision of a strong, prosperous town.
Tatsuo, drawing on his experience as a vice admiral in his past life, had implemented a rigorous training regime for his soldiers. Daily drills, combat simulations, and endurance exercises pushed them to their limits. He paid particular attention to the Agile and Range platoons of the Tatsuo Company, refining their skills with the newly acquired firearms. The 50 former prisoners, eager to prove their loyalty, endured even more brutal training, their resolve forged in the fires of discipline.
In his newly built office, located within the Command Center adjacent to the renovated Town Hall, Tatsuo reflected on the progress made. He recalled the arrival of the man Anne had sent, a merchant named Leon Veridian, whose family had deep roots within the Lion Flame domain. Leon, a man of medium wealth and quiet confidence, had addressed Tatsuo as "Your Highness" from their first meeting, confirming Anne's trust.
Their initial conversation had focused on Leon's candidacy for mayor. Tatsuo had been impressed by Leon's understanding of trade, logistics, and community development. He was also impressed by Leon's loyalty to the empire.
In the weeks that followed, Leon had campaigned tirelessly, his speeches resonating with the townspeople. Tatsuo, recognizing Leon's potential, had publicly endorsed his candidacy, lending his authority to the campaign. The election was a landslide victory.
Now, Leon sat across from Tatsuo in the commander's office, the two men discussing the town's future. Leon, even in this private setting, addressed Tatsuo as "Your Highness."
"Your Highness," Leon began, his voice calm and measured, "the town is making excellent progress. The fortifications are nearly complete, and trade is beginning to flow once more. However, there are still challenges to overcome."
He outlined the town's needs: improved infrastructure, a stable economy, and a strong defense. He spoke of establishing trade routes with neighboring towns, attracting skilled artisans, and strengthening the town's militia.
"We must also consider the long-term," Leon continued. "Greywall Town has the potential to become a thriving hub, a beacon of prosperity on the border. But we must plan carefully, invest wisely, and ensure the town's security."
Tatsuo listened intently, impressed by Leon's vision and dedication. He knew that with Leon as mayor, Greywall Town was in capable hands.
Tatsuo, in his relentless pursuit of Greywall Town's prosperity, continued his strategic planning with Mayor Leon Veridian. He understood that a strong economy was the lifeblood of a thriving community, and he was determined to lay a solid foundation.
"Leon," Tatsuo began, "I need you to contact Guild Master Anne Veatmoss in Harbor Town. Inquire about establishing connections with merchants and guilds throughout the Lion Flame Domain, and even in other domains and the Capital. We need to open trade routes and attract investment to Greywall."
Leon nodded, his eyes gleaming with understanding. "I will contact her immediately, Your Highness. We must make Greywall a hub for commerce."
Tatsuo then elaborated on his vision for Greywall's administration. "We will need to establish various departments to ensure the town's efficient operation. We will create departments for Engineering, Healthcare, Law Enforcement, Trade, and Judgement."
He then called for Captain Kelt, who belonged to the Reserve Platoon and reported directly to Tatsuo. Kelt, a reliable and disciplined soldier, entered the office with a crisp salute.
Tatsuo turned to Leon and said, "Leon, this is Captain Kelt. He is one of my most trusted guards, having been with me since Harbor Town."
He then addressed Kelt. "Captain Kelt, I am entrusting you with a crucial responsibility. You will be the Commander of Law Enforcement for Greywall Town, and you will assist Mayor Veridian in maintaining order and security."
Kelt's eyes widened slightly. "Your Highness, I am honored."
Tatsuo continued, "The Law Enforcement Department will be divided into three divisions: a Jail Division, a Patrol/Town Watch Division, and an Intelligence Division. The 50 men who served under you, the former prisoners of war, will join your ranks. Additionally, the town will recruit 50 more individuals to bolster your forces. You will have the authority to appoint captains to each division."
Kelt's face broke into a grateful smile. "Your Highness, thank you for your trust. I will not disappoint you."
Tatsuo then turned back to Leon. "Leon, I also need you to find suitable candidates for the other departments: Engineering, Healthcare, Trade, and Judgement. Seek out individuals with the necessary skills and experience, and present your choices to me."
In the following days, Leon worked diligently to fulfill Tatsuo's requests. He presented his choices for the department heads, all commoners with respectable names, to Tatsuo.
For Engineering, he suggested a skilled architect named Thomas Stone.
For Healthcare, he recommended a knowledgeable physician named Elara Green.
For Trade, he proposed a shrewd merchant named Samuel Gold.
For Judgement, he nominated a wise former magistrate named Walter Justice.
Tatsuo, after careful consideration, approved Leon's choices. He was confident that these individuals, along with Captain Kelt, would form a strong and effective administration for Greywall Town.