Ch. 56 – The Rising Army of Eisenwald
Fenrir stood in the courtyard of Eisenwald Castle, surrounded by the fresh recruits streaming in from the surrounding villages and the small towns that had begun to flourish. Their cheers filled the air, though many looked apprehensive before the young baron known as the "Crimson Wolf."
"This is your chance to be part of something greater," Fenrir began, his voice firm yet warm. "Eisenwald is not just a territory. It is your land, your home. Our army is the people's army, for the people. Nothing is more important than safeguarding the safety and prosperity of everyone here."
The recruits stared at him—some nodded in agreement, some remained unsure. Fenrir knew trust wasn't immediate, but he believed actions would speak louder than words.
Over the following week, recruitment progressed rapidly. Fenrir utilized the network of the newly formed Administrative Council to distribute information, offering incentives to those willing to join: additional land, steady wages, and security for their families.
Throughout this process, he emphasized discipline, loyalty, and cooperation. Each new unit wasn't just trained in basic combat techniques, but also introduced to simple strategic principles, so that when a major war came, they wouldn't just follow orders—they would understand the reasoning behind every maneuver.
Current Military Structure of Eisenwald:
1. Infantry (Main Battalion) – 1,800 soldiers
Commander: Viktor Redmane
2. Archers (Ranged Unit) – 700 soldiers
Commander: Selene Aestra
3. Cavalry (High Mobility Unit) – 450 soldiers
Commander: Garrik Stormhoof
4. Scouts / Assassins (Special Unit) – 150 soldiers
Commander: Lyra Nightshade
5. Artillery / Heavy Weapons – 50 operators, 10 ballistae/catapults
Commander: Roland Ironarm
Total: 3,500 core soldiers.
Fenrir spent the following days overseeing combined exercises, ensuring coordination among all units. Archers practiced shooting while moving with the infantry formations, cavalry drilled flank attacks and securing the wings, while the scouts simulated infiltration and light sabotage.
During these exercises, Fenrir also began introducing strategic elements from his past life, demonstrating how certain formations could deceive the enemy, how enemy strengths could be predicted based on attack patterns, and how combining units maximized battlefield effectiveness.
By night, the recruits returned to their barracks exhausted yet inspired. Some had begun referring to Fenrir not just as a young baron, but as a true leader.
From the balcony of his castle, Fenrir gazed at the night sky. His crimson lava-like aura burned faintly, perceptible only to those close enough. He understood that this peace was fragile, and though Eisenwald thrived, threats from neighboring barons remained. Preparation wasn't just about numbers, but mental readiness and tactical excellence.
With the military now structured, mass recruitment completed, and intensive training underway, Eisenwald had begun to emerge as a formidable force. Fenrir smiled faintly, aware that his journey to becoming the "Crimson Wolf, feared and respected" had entered a new, crucial phase.
---
#wanD48