Chapter 17: The Winter Battle 5

After receiving the results, a war council was held in the main headquarters tent.

"Dover Castle has been captured, and all 10,000 enemy soldiers have perished. It's a great victory for our army." "Our casualties were minimal, just a few cases of frostbite, no deaths. We can call this a complete victory." "But I think the enemy casualties are too excessive," Edel said with a grave expression. I couldn't remain silent either. "I request permission to speak. I enhanced our winter equipment to reduce our own casualties, not to inflict such devastating losses on the enemy. This seems far too cruel to the enemy."

"This is war. We suffered no losses and annihilated the enemy. I think we should be proud." "No one is blaming you, Han. If anything, you're the hero. You should hold your head higher," the veteran Anger consoled me. "That's right, you've done nothing wrong. If anyone is to blame, it's Lord Schwartz," Edel glared at Duke Schwartz.

"I never imagined it would be this severe. I promise not to do it again, so please forgive me," Lord Schwartz bowed his head to me. He seemed somewhat shaken as well. No one could have predicted that the entire enemy army would freeze to death. "When you put it that way, I have nothing more to say," I bowed my head and stepped back. "Very well, today is a great victory. I permit a feast tonight, and tomorrow we return to our homeland."

Cheers erupted from those around us. I couldn't muster any enthusiasm and left the tent. Only Baron Edel's concerned look provided me any comfort.

Ten thousand people died. One could say it's inevitable in war. In my previous life, there were battles where even more people died. But this time, the enemy froze to death because of my strategic recommendations. Of course, I understand that Lord Schwartz bears the responsibility. But I was involved too. I simply cannot shake this guilt.

Inside Dover Castle, large bonfires were lit everywhere, with huge quantities of meat roasting on stone hearths. In the field kitchens, soup filled with meat and vegetables was being prepared in large batches.

All available alcohol was served. Today was a night when rank was set aside for celebration.

I was concerned about frostbite cases if people got too drunk, but the temperature had been rising since today, so frostbite concerns were minimal.

"Commander, why so gloomy? We won the battle, let's celebrate!" The drunken Stein approached me. Alcohol had been served and the night had turned into a feast. Ah, how nice it must be to live as carefree as him. "Important people have it tough. Leave him alone for a bit."

"Alright, alright, I understand. I'll go get some meat then." Stein staggered off toward the food. "Commander, I'm here to listen if you're troubled," Ryu was always thoughtful. "Thank you, but I don't even know how to sort through my own thoughts." "I think I understand what's troubling you, but you shouldn't blame yourself too much." "I know that, but..." "Sometimes it takes time for the heart to find peace." "Yes, thank you for your concern. I'll think about it a bit more on my own."

Ten thousand lives. Ten thousand men. Ten thousand husbands. Ten thousand fathers. Ten thousand sons. Ten thousand futures. Ten thousand happinesses.

All frozen to death on that plain.

My heart remained frozen as well.

The next morning, leaving 300 guards at Dover Castle, the entire army broke camp and set out on the journey home.