Chapter 26

Upon their return to Stonebridge, Tatsuo immediately set about reinforcing the town's defenses. He ordered his men to strengthen the walls, construct additional watchtowers, and dig defensive trenches. He also continued the rigorous training of his soldiers, ensuring they remained sharp and battle-ready.

Ten days later, the town buzzed with activity as new recruits arrived from Emberfall Town, Greywall Town, Stonebridge Town, and the surrounding areas. The influx of fresh faces, numbering around 150, filled the streets, eager to prove their worth. Tatsuo, wasting no time, began their training, pushing them to their physical and mental limits.

Five days after the arrival of the recruits, 1st Class Major Reeldos returned from his mission, accompanied by a contingent of 1,000 soldiers. He also carried a sealed letter from the Vanguard General. Tatsuo, his expression composed, accepted the letter and broke the seal.

The letter commended Tatsuo for his bravery and the successful capture of Stonebridge and Hollowtree Village. The general praised his strategic acumen and the efficiency of his battalion. More importantly, the letter contained new orders and a significant promotion.

"Commander," Reeldos began, his voice filled with respect, "the general has recognized your achievements."

Tatsuo read the letter, his eyes widening slightly. He had been promoted to 2nd Class Clash Commander, a significant leap in rank. The letter also stated that the 1,000 soldiers accompanying Reeldos were now under his command, along with a substantial supply train. Furthermore, the general had designated his forces as the Tatsuo Brigade, granting him the authority to command a full brigade.

"He also sent two 1st Class Rare Commanders," Reeldos added, gesturing to two figures standing nearby. "Commander Edald and Commander Rudy."

Tatsuo nodded, acknowledging the new commanders. "Excellent," he said, his voice firm. "This will significantly bolster our forces. We will need to reorganize and integrate these new soldiers into our ranks."

He turned to Reeldos. "Reeldos, begin the process of integrating the new soldiers. We will need to assess their skills and assign them to appropriate companies. Commanders Edald and Rudy, I will meet with you shortly to discuss your roles in the brigade."

He then read the letter again. A brigade. He now commanded a brigade. This was a significant step forward in his campaign. He began to think how he would use the new soldiers and the new commanders.

Tatsuo, recognizing the need to reorganize his forces into a proper brigade, sent a guard to Hollowtree Village with orders to bring 1st Class Major Ragnar back to Stonebridge Town for an important meeting.

The next morning, the war room of Stonebridge Town Hall was filled with officers and captains. Tatsuo, standing before them, began to outline the new structure of the Tatsuo Brigade.

"Gentlemen," he began, his voice clear and authoritative, "with the arrival of reinforcements and my promotion, we must reorganize our forces. We will now operate as a brigade, with three battalions under my command."

"Commanders Edald and Rudy," he continued, addressing the two 1st Class Rare Commanders, "you will each command a battalion. You will each receive 500 soldiers to organize your units as you see fit."

"Rota," Tatsuo said, turning to Senior Major Rota, "your exceptional service and leadership have earned you a promotion. You will now be 2nd Class Rare Commander and lead the Elite Tatsuo Battalion, comprised of the remaining soldiers."

This left a vacancy in the leadership of the Elite Tatsuo Company. "Ragnar," Tatsuo announced, "you will be promoted to Junior Major and assume command of the Elite Tatsuo Company."

To fill the gap left by Ragnar's promotion, Tatsuo addressed the half-giant siblings stationed in Hollowtree Village. "Ugren and Ugnun," he said, "you will be promoted to 1st Class Major Ugren and Senior Captain Ugnun respectively. You will remain in Hollowtree Village, commanding the Stonefist Company and continuing the training of the 70 recruits."

"Thoren," Tatsuo announced, "you will be promoted to Senior Major and serve under 1st Class Rare Commander Edald."

"Captain Sokzal," Tatsuo continued, "you will be promoted to 1st Class Major and assume command of the Stalwart Company, replacing Senior Major Thoren."

"Sir Kael Elmsworth," Tatsuo declared, "you will be promoted to Captain and take command of the Support Platoon, replacing Major Sokzal."

"Nard," Tatsuo stated, "you will be promoted to Junior Major and serve under 1st Class Rare Commander Rudy."

"Gust," Tatsuo said, "you will be promoted to Captain and take command of the Range Platoon, replacing Junior Major Nard."

"Commanders Edald and Rudy, Majors, Captains," Tatsuo concluded, "I grant you the authority to fill the remaining ranks within your respective units. Ensure that each soldier is placed where their skills and abilities will be best utilized. We will meet again in three days to review the finalized structure."

With that, the officers dispersed, ready to implement the new command structure and prepare for the challenges ahead.

Tatsuo, his gaze sharp and focused, received the final reports from Senior Major Anya. Though not formally promoted, Anya remained a vital part of his command structure, her loyalty and efficiency making her an indispensable aide. The Tatsuo Battalion, despite its growth, was still under Tatsuo's direct command, with 2nd Class Rare Commander Rota Uno, his steadfast knight, playing a key role in its operations.

A month had passed since the capture of Stonebridge and Hollowtree. Greywall Town, along with the other conquered settlements, was flourishing. Tatsuo, however, knew that their work was far from over. The war against the Skylance Kingdom was escalating, and he was determined to push deeper into Blackthorn Duchy territory.

During this month, Tatsuo had focused his efforts on brutal training. The veterans of the Tatsuo Battalion had become even more formidable, their skills honed to a razor's edge. The new recruits, once green and hesitant, were now decent soldiers, their movements disciplined and their resolve firm.

The three towns under Tatsuo's control worked together harmoniously. Mayor Leon Veridian, proving to be an exceptional leader, had overseen the rebuilding efforts and fostered a strong economy. Trade flourished, construction boomed, and the region began to prosper.

Now, it was time to move again. Tatsuo gathered his Rare Commanders and Anya in the war room, a large map of the region spread before them.

"Gentlemen, Anya," Tatsuo began, his voice decisive, "we will advance. It is time to press our advantage and strike a significant blow against the Blackthorn Duchy."

He pointed to two towns on the map. "We will launch a coordinated attack on these two settlements: Oakhaven Town and Riverbend."

He outlined the plan. "The Tatsuo Battalion, under my command, will attack Oakhaven Town. It is a strategically important location, and its capture will put us in a strong position to strike at Blackrose City, the heart of Earl Blackrose's power."

"Commanders Edald and Rudy," Tatsuo continued, addressing the two 1st Class Rare Commanders, "you will lead your battalions in the attack on Riverbend. It will serve as a diversion, drawing Blackthorn forces away from Oakhaven and weakening their overall defenses."

Tatsuo then detailed the specific objectives and strategies for each attack. He emphasized the need for speed, precision, and coordination.

"We will move out at dawn in three days,"

Tatsuo declared. "Ensure your battalions are prepared. We will strike with swiftness and force. We will show the Blackthorn Duchy the true might of the Tatsuo Brigade."