Chapter 36: Triumphant Return

As we crossed the border of the Burk Kingdom, the knights' castle came into view.

Along the road, all the kingdom's knights were lined up in formation. This was the Burk Kingdom's triumphal ceremony - the traditional way soldiers who had won a great battle were welcomed, with the knights who had protected the border castle standing in rows on both sides of the road to receive them.

Lord Kirschner, the castle's lord, came to greet them. "Lord Kirschner, you have admirably defended the nation's protection." "Lord Schwartz, I am delighted that you have accomplished such a weighty mission."

After firmly shaking hands, Kirschner solemnly stepped back and gestured for Schwartz to proceed first. Schwartz gave a light nod and signaled to the entire army. "The king has ordered us to conduct the triumphal ceremony." "We will now proceed with the triumphal ceremony. Entire army, advance in order."

With Schwartz at the head, the entire army advanced methodically. Along the way, all the knights of the castle were lined up on both sides of the street. They were all wearing armor polished to a shine, holding gleaming spears, standing completely motionless. The fifteen thousand soldiers of Schwartz's army marched between these lines. Until the entire army had finished marching, the knights remained absolutely still, like statues - for this was considered the highest form of respect for victorious warriors.

Participating in this triumphal ceremony was considered an honor for warriors, and those who participated were awarded a triumphal medal.

Those who held this medal were held in very high regard within the military.

Passing through the knights' castle, they marched toward the royal capital in the kingdom's northern region. The news of their triumph had already spread, and they were welcomed enthusiastically everywhere.

The story of Viscount Victoria avenging her parents' enemies had already spread throughout the kingdom, as had the tales of Viscount Edel and Lord Schwartz, and the entire country was in a state of excitement.

Moreover, the miraculously low number of casualties in this war had also spread, and Lord Schwartz's popularity seemed to reach the heavens, being praised as a legendary commander. People along the road scattered flower petals to honor the triumphant army.

"Long live Lord Schwartz!" "Long live Lord Edel!" Edel's not even here. I'm not being celebrated at all. I did contribute something, though. Oh well.

"It's nice, isn't it, returning to such a welcome," Hans looked at me happily. "Neither of us are being celebrated." "Well, don't be sulky. We made it back without injury, and that's something. Besides, Hans-sama was crucial in logistics. Most people don't understand logistics." "You're right. Should I hope for a logistics reward?" "We've won the war and are triumphant, so let's just be happy." "You're right." I never expected to be consoled by Hans. I still have a long way to go.

The army disbanded at Lord Schwartz's castle, with the main members and escort heading to the royal capital.

We entered the royal capital.

The entire capital was in a festive mood, and as we marched down the main street, flower petals and confetti continuously rained down. Waving to the capital's residents, we entered the royal castle.

Everyone lined up in the king's hall. King Friedrich sat on the throne, with Baron Grosser standing beside him. On both sides, the capital's generals and officers were arranged in formation.

"Schwartz, you've accomplished great deeds. I knew you would do it." "Your words are too generous. The subordinates who accompanied me were capable, and I am no more than their instrument. I would like you to offer words of praise to them." "You remain as humble as ever." "While I acknowledge the achievements of my subordinates, it would be strange if the commander who would bear full responsibility for any failure is not recognized for success. Achievements should be acknowledged as achievements. What do you think?"

Schwartz looked at the king as if suddenly struck by something. His face was filled with emotion. "Absolutely correct. I acknowledge that I have fulfilled a certain task. And I am proud to be your subject."

"Very well. Schwartz will receive rewards later. Meet my expectations." "I am most grateful."

"The second merit goes to Silvia Edel, though she is not present. She is permitted to leave the kingdom and work for the Land Kingdom."

"The third merit is awarded to Lord Otto. His remarkable capture of the enemy's castle gates during the Londium siege was spectacular. Considering this battle's conclusion, his achievement is significant. He can expect rewards." "I am most thankful." Lord Otto Eugen had been praised for his brilliant strategy in the final battle and was now immensely popular among the noble ladies for his good looks. How enviable.

"The fourth merit is awarded to Count Hans. His maintenance of logistics, ensuring food, fodder, and equipment was praiseworthy. It was remarkable that not a single person went hungry."

"Furthermore, your subordinate Hans's innovative siege weapons were outstanding. Considering they reduced casualties, his achievements are immense."

"Lord Hans, would you be interested in becoming a noble? Any reward is yours." "Absolutely not. I came to Hans-sama precisely because I don't want to be a noble. I'm fine as I am. If you're dissatisfied, give me money. I'll take any amount for research funding." "Hahaha, just as the rumors said. Fine, I'll provide a research grant. Is that acceptable?" "That's perfect. Thank you very much."

"Everyone may leave now. Count Hans, please stay. I have questions about the war expenses." "Yes, sir."

Everyone except me bowed and exited.

"Count Hans, is this report accurate?" "Completely true. We managed food supplies almost entirely from the knights' castle's reserves. We purchased some vegetables and meat, but it was minimal. We had nearly no deaths, and injuries were only in the dozens, with correspondingly tiny compensation costs. I've calculated everything on the high side, but I believe the amount is correct."

"You managed this entire war with such a small amount?" "Yes, exactly." "Grosser, what do you think?" "I've examined it carefully, and I found no issues. This amount seems appropriate."

"This war has made the Land Kingdom a friendly nation. We likely won't have conflicts for decades. Our eastern border is now secure. The northwestern border was already stable. The southwestern border, being mostly wasteland, shouldn't pose problems. In other words, we've secured the country's peace at minimal cost. I have good subordinates." King Friedrich looked up to the heavens, seemingly overcome with emotion. His eyes were glistening with tears. How nice. I really do like this king.

"Grosser, how much should we charge the Land Kingdom for war expenses?" "At this point, we could even forgo requesting expenses." "That seems uninteresting. What if we did something like this?" I proposed an idea to the king.

"Hahaha, that's good. Let's do it." The king laughed heartily and accepted my suggestion. "Grosser, make it so." "As you command."

Two weeks later, a bill arrived from the Burk Kingdom to the Land Kingdom. It read:

Requesting one gold coin from the Land Kingdom.