Tatsuo, his expression softening, turned his attention back to the Blackwood family. "Lady Blackwood," he said, his voice gentle, "I believe this arrangement is now suitable for all parties involved."
He gestured to Proggor and Elara, who stood side-by-side, their faces reflecting a mixture of surprise and a burgeoning sense of acceptance. "Now," Tatsuo continued, "let us solidify this union."
He called Proggor and Elara forward, positioning them before him. He then began officiating their wedding ceremony.
The ceremony was brief but meaningful, a symbolic joining of two families, two destinies. Tatsuo's words, spoken with sincerity and authority, resonated through the room. When it was done, he smiled warmly at the newly wedded couple, a genuine expression of happiness on his face.
"Congratulations," he said, his voice filled with genuine warmth. "May your union bring prosperity and strength to Oakhaven."
He then dismissed the Blackwood family, giving them time to adjust to their new circumstances. Reeldos, however, remained in the room.
Tatsuo turned to Reeldos. "Reeldos," he said, "I need you to stay here for a while. I have a task for you."
He then addressed Lady Blackwood. "Lady Blackwood, you may now begin your leadership. Your first task is to appease the townspeople and speak with the remaining soldiers who served under your husband. Encourage them to join our ranks. We need every able-bodied man to defend Oakhaven."
Lady Blackwood nodded, her expression determined. "I understand, Your Highness. I will do everything in my power to ensure the town's stability and security."
With that, Tatsuo turned his attention back to the matters at hand. He gestured to the other Rare Commanders and Majors. "Gentlemen, Anya, let us continue our meeting."
The atmosphere in the room shifted, the focus returning to the strategic planning and military matters that demanded their attention.
Tatsuo, his mind already focused on the next phase of their campaign, addressed his officers. "Gentlemen, Anya," he began, his voice firm and decisive, "we have secured Oakhaven, but our forces are still not at full strength. We need to recruit more soldiers, until our brigade surpasses 2,000 men."
He emphasized the urgency of their task. "The Skylance Kingdom will not remain idle. They will likely attempt to retake this territory. We must be prepared for any counterattack."
"Therefore," Tatsuo continued, "we will dedicate the next month to intensive training. We will push our new recruits to their limits, ensuring they are battle-ready. The veterans will continue their rigorous training, honing their skills and preparing for the challenges ahead."
He looked at each of his officers. "Rota, Edald, Rudy, Anya, I want you to oversee this training personally. Ensure that every soldier is in peak physical and mental condition. We will not tolerate any weakness or complacency."
Tatsuo then outlined the priorities for the coming month:
* Recruitment: "We will expand our recruitment efforts. Send out messengers to the surrounding villages, offering fair terms of service and emphasizing the importance of defending their homes and families. We need to bolster our numbers quickly."
* Training: "Intensify the training of the new recruits. Focus on basic combat skills, formations, and discipline. The veterans will continue their advanced training, focusing on specialized skills and tactical maneuvers."
* Defense: "Strengthen the defenses of Oakhaven and Stonebridge. Reinforce the walls, establish patrols, and prepare for any potential attacks. We will not allow the Skylance forces to retake what we have won."
Tatsuo concluded, "We have a lot to accomplish in the next month. We must work together, with dedication and resolve. We must be ready for anything."
He then added, "Also, remember that our brigade now has three Rare Commanders: Rota, Edald, and Rudy. Utilize their experience and leadership to the fullest. They are valuable assets to our forces."
…..
A month elapsed, a period of intense activity and preparation within Oakhaven Town. Reeldos Umbra, ever the efficient intelligence gatherer, presented Tatsuo with a comprehensive report detailing the events of the past four weeks.
"Your Highness," Reeldos began, his voice low and precise, "the past month has been productive. Recruitment efforts have yielded significant results. Our forces now number over 2,200 soldiers, surpassing your initial goal."
He continued, "Training has proceeded as planned. The new recruits have shown remarkable progress, demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt. The veterans have maintained their high level of proficiency, and their skills have been further honed."
"Defensive preparations are complete,"
Reeldos reported. "The walls of Oakhaven and Riverbend have been reinforced, patrols have been established, and early warning systems are in place. We are well-prepared for any potential counterattack."
He then transitioned to the reports from other conquered towns. "In Riverbend, Commander Rudy reports that the town is secure and the populace is cooperating. Recruitment there has also been successful. Commander Edald confirms similar progress in Stonebridge. Both towns are now firmly under our control."
"However," Reeldos added, his voice taking on a more serious tone, "there have been rumors circulating in the surrounding villages. Whispers of a powerful commander leading the Tatsuo Brigade, a man of exceptional skill and strategic genius. But your identity remains unknown to the general populace, Your Highness. They see you as a powerful commander, but not as the prince."
"There have been no significant movements from the Skylance Kingdom," Reeldos continued. "Their forces remain stationed in Blackrose City, but we have detected increased patrols along the border. It is likely they are gathering intelligence and preparing for a response."
"Finally," Reeldos concluded, "Lady Blackwood has successfully integrated the remaining Oakhaven soldiers into our ranks. The townspeople are gradually accepting the new leadership, and trade has resumed. The town is stabilizing."