Chapter 37

With the Blackrose family now seated among them, Tatsuo proceeded to outline their specific roles within his administration. He began by addressing Countess Seraphina.

"Countess Seraphina," he said, his voice authoritative, "your first task will be the construction of a Prince's Castle. This will serve as my permanent residence and also function as the military command center for the region."

He continued, "You will also establish trade routes with the Flame Domain and other domains within the Empire. You will collaborate with Mayor Blackwood of Oakhaven and Mayor Leon of Greywall to ensure the smooth flow of goods and resources."

"Furthermore," Tatsuo instructed, "I want you to appoint Master Eldrin Thorne as the Master of Trade for the city. Elder Theron Vale will serve as the Master of Law. Invite Master Belar the blacksmith and Master Kaelen the builder to work under our administration to improve the city's infrastructure and defenses. Appoint Master Joxan as the Master of Healthcare and establish a small hospital to serve the citizens."

Turning to Count Valerius, Tatsuo assigned him a crucial task. "Count Valerius," he said, "your primary responsibility will be the recruitment of new soldiers to bolster our forces."

He then addressed Commander Damien Blackrose. "Damien," he said, "you will oversee the integration of the Blackrose City garrison into our army. Speak to the soldiers and inform them that they are now serving the Empire. Assist your father in the recruitment efforts."

Finally, he turned to Major Vivian Blackrose. "Vivian," he instructed, "you will assist Major Anya with paperwork and administrative tasks at the town hall. You will also assist my commanders in training the new recruits."

Tatsuo then addressed Hui Cheng, entrusting him with the crucial responsibility of managing the budget. "Hui Cheng," he said, "I place the financial management of the city in your capable hands. Ensure that resources are allocated wisely and that our treasury is well-maintained."

He concluded by addressing Rota Uno. "Rota," he said, "I want you to implement rigorous training for all our soldiers. Make it a 'Hell' for them, ensure they are in peak condition."

The Blackrose family, Hui Cheng, and Rota Uno acknowledged Tatsuo's commands, their expressions reflecting their understanding of the tasks assigned to them. They were now integral parts of Tatsuo's administration, their loyalty and skills crucial to the success of his endeavors.

With the assignments given and the meeting concluded, Tatsuo dismissed the Blackrose family, Hui Cheng, and Rota Uno. He then turned to Reeldos.

"Reeldos," he instructed, "I want you to conduct thorough scouting operations. We must be prepared for any potential counterattack from the Blackhorn Duchy."

He continued, "Also, please arrange for Knight Captain Valerius Stronghand and Rare Commander Alaric Stoneheart to meet with me in this office."

A short while later, Valerius Stronghand and Alaric Stoneheart entered the room, their expressions respectful as they greeted Tatsuo.

"Your Highness," they said in unison, bowing slightly.

"Thank you for coming," Tatsuo replied, gesturing for them to take a seat. "I am grateful that the Emperor and Grand Duke have provided you as part of my forces. We have much to discuss."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over them. "You are now under my command, and you will remain so until your retirement or death. I would like to request that you bring your families here, to reside within my county. It would be beneficial for you to have them close, and it would also contribute to the population growth of our territory."

Valerius and Alaric exchanged thoughtful glances, considering Tatsuo's request. They recognized the strategic advantages of having their families nearby, and they also understood the importance of strengthening the county's population.

"Your Highness," Valerius spoke first, "we understand your request. We will send word to our families and arrange for their relocation to your county."

Alaric nodded in agreement. "We will also inform our men and encourage them to bring their families as well," he added.

Tatsuo smiled, pleased with their response. "Excellent," he said. "Your families will be welcomed here. Now, let us discuss our plans for the future."

Tatsuo, Valerius Stronghand, and Alaric Stoneheart settled into a deep discussion, focusing on the crucial task of training the newly recruited soldiers. Tatsuo sought their expertise, recognizing their experience and skill in shaping a formidable fighting force.

"We need to implement a rigorous training regimen," Tatsuo emphasized, "one that will instill discipline, enhance combat skills, and foster unwavering loyalty. Your experience in training elite forces will be invaluable."

As they delved into the intricacies of training methodologies, a guard burst into the room, his voice urgent. "Your Highness! A squad of Wyverns is approaching the town hall!"

Tatsuo's brow furrowed in surprise. "Wyverns?" he questioned, his mind racing. "Did my father return?"

He, Valerius, and Alaric quickly made their way outside, their eyes scanning the sky for the approaching Wyverns. As the winged beasts drew closer, Valerius Stronghand whispered to Tatsuo, his voice filled with recognition.

"Your Highness," he said, "that is King Kazan Ryujin of the Massugo Kingdom, your uncle."

Tatsuo's eyes widened. He had not expected a visit from his uncle, the ruler of the Massugo Kingdom. The Massugo Kingdom was known for its powerful Wyvern Knights and its close ties to the Imperial Family. Kazan Ryujin was a renowned warrior and a respected leader, and his arrival was sure to be significant.

King Kazan Ryujin landed his Wyvern with a powerful thud, the force of his descent sending a gust of wind through the assembled crowd. An aura of immense power, characteristic of a late-stage Magisterial Court Realm cultivator, radiated from him, filling the area with a palpable sense of authority.

One of the Wyvern Knights, his voice booming, announced, "King Kazan Ryujin of the Massugo Kingdom!"

The assembled soldiers and citizens immediately bowed, showing their respect to the visiting monarch. Kazan, however, strode directly towards Tatsuo, a broad grin spreading across his face.

"My nephew!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with jovial warmth. "You've grown a lot!" He clapped Tatsuo on the shoulder. "Your father didn't tell me you were about to conquer a city. I only heard about it from your mother, my sister. So, I came here directly, but it seems you've already taken care of things."

He paused, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I also brought a Drake Battalion—1,000 Spear and Shield soldiers. I don't want to bring them back, so they'll stay here and serve you."

Tatsuo was taken aback by his uncle's sudden appearance and generous gift. "Uncle Kazan," he began, "I appreciate your support, but—"

Kazan cut him off with a wave of his hand. "No need for formalities, Tatsuo. I'm just happy to see you doing so well. Now, I must be off. Your aunt will be looking for me."

With a final laugh and a wink, Kazan Ryujin mounted his Wyvern, and the squad took to the skies, disappearing into the distance as quickly as they had arrived. The 1,000 Drake Battalion soldiers, left behind, stood at attention, awaiting Tatsuo's commands.

Tatsuo watched his uncle's Wyvern squad disappear into the horizon, scratching his head in bewildered amusement. "Well," he muttered, "that was unexpected."

He turned to Knight Captain Valerius Stronghand and Rare Commander Alaric Stoneheart, who were observing the departing Wyverns with a mixture of awe and respect.

"Gentlemen," Tatsuo said, "please escort the Drake Battalion to the garrison. Ensure they are properly integrated into our forces and given appropriate quarters."

He then turned his attention inward, calculating the growing strength of his army. "Let's see," he mused, "I had approximately 2,050 men in my brigade, plus the 500 Lion Cavalry, and now the 1,000 Blackrose City soldiers. And now, 1,000 Drake soldiers. That's..." He paused, doing the mental math. "...4,550 men."

A smile spread across Tatsuo's face. His forces were rapidly expanding, bolstering his ability to secure his territory and pursue his ambitions. With each addition, he felt a growing sense of confidence and determination.