Chapter 36

The meeting continued, with Tatsuo, Hui Cheng, and Rota Uno now focusing on the battle report and the list of prisoners. Reeldos provided a detailed account of the conflict, highlighting the strategic decisions made and the resulting casualties.

"The battle commenced with a coordinated assault on the main and east gates," Reeldos began, his voice measured. "Rota Uno's battalion successfully breached the main gate, while Commanders Edald and Rudy's forces engaged the defenders at the east gate. Simultaneously, the Lion Cavalry, under Grand Duke Shouwie Shun's command, launched a devastating assault from the west, overwhelming the city's outer defenses."

Casualties:

Tatsuo's Brigade:

Killed in action: 150 soldiers.

Wounded: 300 soldiers (of which 50 are severe)

Lost equipment: various swords, spears, shields, and some siege equipment.

Lion Cavalry:

Killed in action: 10 riders.

Wounded: 25 riders.

Lost equipment: some light armor and weapons.

Blackrose City Defenders:

Killed in action: 1,200 soldiers.

Wounded: 800 soldiers.

Captured: 500 soldiers.

Lost equipment: almost all weapons, armors, and siege equipment.

"The Lion Cavalry's swift and decisive assault played a crucial role in minimizing our overall casualties," Reeldos explained. "Their superior mobility and combat prowess allowed them to break through the enemy's defenses quickly, reducing the intensity of the fighting."

"Our brigade suffered moderate losses during the gate assaults," Reeldos continued, "but their bravery and determination ultimately secured our victory."

He then presented the list of prisoners:

Prisoners:

Count Valerius Blackrose:

Rank: Earl, Commander of the Blackrose City Garrison.

Affiliation: Blackrose Family.

Commander Damien Blackrose:

Rank: Commander, Second-in-Command of the Blackrose City Garrison.

Affiliation: Blackrose Family.

Major Vivian Blackrose:

Rank: Major, Commander of the Blackrose City Calvary.

Affiliation: Blackrose family.

General Markus Horned:

Rank: General, Commander of the Blackrose City Army.

Affiliation: Blackrose City Garrison.

Commander Lyron Fane:

Rank: Commander, Commander of the Blackrose City Archers.

Affiliation: Blackrose City Garrison.

Various Noblemen and Officers:

Approximately 50 individuals, including minor nobles, officers, and key personnel from the Blackrose City administration.

Blackrose City Soldiers:

Approximately 445 soldiers of varying ranks.

"We have also identified several individuals who may possess valuable skills or knowledge," Reeldos added. "These include blacksmiths, engineers, physicians, and administrators."

Tatsuo studied the list, his expression thoughtful. "We must handle these prisoners with care," he said. "Count Valerius and his family, as well as the high-ranking officers, will require special attention. We will need to determine their level of cooperation and decide on their fate."

The meeting continued, with Tatsuo, Hui Cheng, and Rota Uno now turning their attention to the final section of Reeldos's report: the information on important people in Blackrose City. This section detailed key figures within the city, providing insights into their influence, skills, and potential value to Tatsuo's administration.

Reeldos presented the information with his usual precision:

"Your Lordship," he began, "we have identified several individuals within Blackrose City who hold significant influence or possess valuable skills. These include nobles, merchants, influential citizens, and those with specialized knowledge."

Here's a breakdown of the key figures:

Nobles:

Lady Seraphina Blackrose: Wife of Count Valerius Blackrose. Known for her intelligence and social influence.

Several other minor nobles: These individuals hold varying degrees of influence within the city's social structure.

Merchants:

Master Eldrin Thorne: A wealthy merchant who controls a significant portion of the city's trade. He has connections with merchants in other major cities.

Mistress Lyra Faelar: A skilled businesswoman who manages a successful trading guild. She is known for her shrewd business acumen and her extensive network of contacts.

Other prominent merchants: Several other merchants who control various aspects of the city's economy, including trade, manufacturing, and resource distribution.

Influential Citizens:

Elder Theron Vale: A respected elder who holds significant influence within the city's community. He is known for his wisdom and his ability to mediate disputes.

High Priestess Anya: The leader of the city's most prominent temple. She wields considerable religious and social influence.

Other community leaders: Several other individuals who hold positions of authority or influence within various community groups and organizations.

Individuals with Specialized Skills/Knowledge:

Master Belar: A renowned blacksmith known for his exceptional craftsmanship. He is capable of producing high-quality weapons and armor.

Master Kaelen: A skilled engineer with expertise in siege warfare and fortifications. He possesses knowledge of the city's defenses and potential weaknesses.

Master Jaxon: A talented physician with extensive knowledge of medicine and healing. He is respected for his skill and compassion.

Other artisans, craftsmen, and scholars: Several other individuals who possess valuable skills or knowledge in various fields, including construction, agriculture, and education.

"These individuals represent a valuable asset to our administration," Reeldos concluded. "Their knowledge, skills, and influence can be leveraged to benefit the city and our overall goals."

Tatsuo listened intently, his mind already formulating plans on how to utilize these individuals. "This information is crucial," he said. "We must reach out to these key figures and establish a working relationship with them. Their cooperation will be essential in ensuring the city's stability and prosperity."

With the discussion of the city's key figures concluded, Tatsuo turned his attention to the matter of the Blackrose family. "Reeldos," he commanded, his voice firm, "bring Count Valerius Blackrose and his family to my office."

A few moments later, the Blackrose family was ushered into the office, their expressions a mixture of apprehension and resignation. Count Valerius, his wife Lady Seraphina, their son Commander Damien, and their daughter Major Vivian stood before Tatsuo, their fates hanging in the balance.

Tatsuo addressed them directly, his voice clear and unwavering. "Count Valerius, Lady Seraphina, Commander Damien, Major Vivian," he began, "you stand before me as prisoners of war. However, I am willing to offer you a path to redemption."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "I propose that you pledge your loyalty to the Empire and renounce your allegiance to the Skylance Kingdom. In return, you will retain your nobility status and be granted positions of service within my administration."

He outlined his terms: "Count Valerius, you will serve as a 1st Class Clash Commander in my army. Your son, Commander Damien, will serve as a 2nd Class Rare Commander. Your daughter, Major Vivian, will serve as a Chief Major and become my aide. And Lady Seraphina, you will assume the role of mayor of Blackrose City."

He then delivered a stark warning: "Remember, you pledge your loyalty now, or I will send your heads to the Blackhorn Duchy. Think carefully."

The Blackrose family exchanged anxious glances, weighing their options. The choice was clear: surrender or face execution. Count Valerius, recognizing the futility of resistance, bowed his head in submission.

"Starting today," he declared, his voice firm, "the Blackrose family will serve the Ryujin family, not the Blackhorn family."

His family followed suit, each pledging their loyalty to the Empire and to Tatsuo. The transition was complete, the Blackrose family now bound to the Ryujin cause.