Ch. 57 – The Crimson Wolf's Preparations
Fenrir stood atop the training grounds of Eisenwald, the sun dipping low over the marshlands. The air carried a mix of damp earth and the faint tang of iron from the blacksmiths nearby. His troops, now fully assembled, formed neat lines, their armor reflecting the fading light. Fenrir's crimson aura pulsed like molten lava around him, a visible manifestation of his presence, stirring both fear and determination among his soldiers.
"Today, you fight not an enemy—but yourselves," Fenrir called, his voice cutting through the murmurs of anticipation. "Every movement, every strike, every decision matters. Observe and execute my strategies!"
Strategy from a Past Life
Drawing on the tactical knowledge he had acquired in his former life, Fenrir outlined the maneuvers he intended to train with:
1. Pincer Maneuver
Execution: Two infantry divisions would encircle the "enemy" from both flanks, while cavalry awaited the perfect moment to strike from the sides.
Detail: The infantry pressed forward steadily, shields raised. Once the opposing unit became concentrated in the center, Fenrir signaled the cavalry to charge, creating panic and disarray.
2. Decoy Maneuver
Execution: Archers and artillery would create a hotspot on one side, drawing enemy focus, while scouts and assassins moved unseen along the flanks.
Detail: Some soldiers feigned retreat, luring the "enemy" into a pre-planned zone. From hidden positions, scouts and assassins struck, disrupting formations and logistics.
3. Terrain Advantage
Execution: Simulated enemy units were positioned in swampy zones. Fenrir stationed tough infantry on dry patches to force opponents to traverse the bog, slowing them down.
Detail: The marshy ground hindered enemy movement, while Eisenwald troops positioned on higher, stable terrain launched arrows and maintained superior formations.
4. Layered Assault
Execution: Troops divided into three layers—initial engagement, reinforcement strikes, and a reserve unit of cavalry and special forces to close gaps and envelop the enemy.
Detail: The first layer engaged, drawing attention. The second struck from flanks. The third, held in reserve, waited for the perfect moment to collapse upon the enemy, exploiting disorganization.
Fenrir blew his whistle, and the army sprang into action. Infantry advanced steadily, archers and artillery fired volleys, and scouts crept along the edges of the field. Cavalry maintained their positions, ready for the decisive strike. Fenrir's crimson aura radiated over the field, intensifying morale and courage among his soldiers.
Review and Feedback
After the exercise, Fenrir gathered his division commanders—Viktor, Selene, Garrik, and Lyra.
"The exercises reveal both strength and weakness," Fenrir stated. "Our infantry moves well, but scouts must approach closer without detection. Cavalry cannot strike prematurely. Adjust accordingly."
The commanders noted his instructions carefully. Fenrir emphasized that mastery of tactics demanded more than memorization—it required understanding timing, terrain, and unity.
Exercise Results
Infantry: Coordination improved by 15%
Archers: Accuracy improved by 10%
Cavalry: Responsiveness to commands improved by 20%
Scouts/Assassins: Detection and infiltration success 90%
Fenrir allowed a brief smile. The troops, though inexperienced, had demonstrated immense potential. Every gesture and maneuver had been observed, every command evaluated.
"Remember this," Fenrir murmured, scanning the training grounds. His crimson aura slowly faded, yet the embers of determination burned brightly in the hearts of his soldiers. Eisenwald's army was no longer just a militia—it was the foundation of a force that would shape the future.
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