The central provinces were now firmly under Crescent control, trade flowing freely, and local lords pledging loyalty. Yet Eugene's gaze turned southward, where fertile plains and bustling river cities promised economic wealth and strategic depth—but also a coalition of skeptical lords wary of outside authority.
**[System Alert]:] Southern provinces detected: Estimated resistance: moderate to high. Terrain: river deltas, plains, and fortified cities. Recommended action: simultaneous diplomacy, selective military demonstrations, infrastructure control, intelligence-led integration.
Eugene stood atop a hill overlooking the southern river delta, the wind rustling the edges of his cape. He analyzed river networks, fortified cities, and village clusters, already calculating the optimal placement of troops, supply lines, and envoy routes.
Hiroshi tightened his grip on his axe, excitement sparkling in his eyes. "Finally! Southern provinces… real cities to crush!"
Eugene's calm voice cut through the anticipation. "This is not a war of brute force alone, Hiroshi. Diplomacy, perception, and strategic pressure are as lethal as any blade. We will win without unnecessary bloodshed, yet resistance will be met with decisive authority."
Aiko, reviewing intelligence reports, added, "Three main powers dominate the south: Lord Shigenobu overseeing the eastern delta, Lady Kaede in the central plains, and Lord Ryota controlling the western river cities. Each holds loyal forces and regional influence that must be carefully addressed."
**[System Advisory]:] Recommended action: tailored approach for each southern lord, combination of diplomacy and controlled military presence. Probability of successful southern integration: high with precise execution.
Strategic Deployment
Eugene divided Crescent forces into coordinated units:
Eastern River Patrols: Infantry and light cavalry to secure river delta trade routes under Lord Shigenobu.
Central Plains Command: Spears and archers stationed in key towns near Lady Kaede's influence to demonstrate authority without provocation.
Western Fortified Cities: Cavalry and Spear units securing passes, bridges, and fortified city perimeters under Lord Ryota's domain.
Rapid Response Reserves: Mobile units positioned to intervene in case of rebellion or uprising.
**[System Log]:] Deployment complete. Probability of peaceful integration: 85%. Operational readiness: optimal.
Eugene addressed his generals, "Control of trade, infrastructure, and morale is paramount. Each lord must see the Crescent Empire as both protector and inevitable authority. Resistance must be discouraged before it arises."
Hiroshi muttered, "So… scare them just enough without actually swinging axes?"
Eugene's eyes were steady. "Not fear, Hiroshi. Respect, inevitability, and logic. Each lord and village will understand the advantage of allegiance over opposition."
Alliance with Lord Shigenobu
Lord Shigenobu ruled the eastern delta, controlling trade routes, fishing ports, and river access. He prized economic prosperity and stability but feared external interference. Eugene dispatched envoys with gifts, proposals for trade, and assurances of autonomy under Crescent governance.
Aiko noted, "Shigenobu values wealth and security. Demonstrating control over river traffic and preventing bandit interference will convince him faster than threats ever could."
Eugene prepared a personal message for maximum effect:
"Lord Shigenobu, your rivers and trade sustain your people and wealth. The Crescent Empire can protect these lifelines, ensuring prosperity, commerce, and security. Cooperation guarantees your legacy, influence, and autonomy within the empire's framework."
A strategically timed naval patrol along key waterways reinforced the message, demonstrating Crescent control without direct confrontation. Shigenobu's trust was secured, integrating the eastern delta peacefully.
**[System Update]:] Eastern southern provinces integrated peacefully. Probability of resistance: minimal. Operational advantage: increased.
Hiroshi grinned, "Finally… some action without bloodshed. Guess that works too."
Eugene nodded. "Efficiency preserves lives while achieving strategic goals."
Observing Lady Kaede
Lady Kaede controlled the central plains, a politically savvy ruler surrounded by minor allied clans. Intelligence suggested she could be persuaded, but her loyalty to neighboring powers made her cautious. Eugene deployed light cavalry and scouts to monitor villages, trade routes, and key towns.
**[System Advisory]:] Probability of compliance: moderate. Suggested action: diplomacy combined with controlled demonstrations of military presence.
Aiko observed, "Lady Kaede respects foresight and strength. Ensuring the security of her lands while respecting her authority will likely win her allegiance."
Eugene approved the strategy. "We show strength without threat, opportunity without coercion. Cooperation must appear as the logical and inevitable choice."
Western Fortified Cities and Lord Ryota
Lord Ryota's territory encompassed western river cities, fortified and well-defended. Resistance was likely if diplomacy failed. Eugene dispatched reconnaissance units to map fortifications, access points, and trade routes. Patrols were established to demonstrate controlled authority without provoking rebellion.
**[System Advisory]:] Probability of peaceful alliance: moderate. Probability of controlled engagement: high with precise planning.
Hiroshi's grin widened. "Finally… maybe some actual fighting in the western cities!"
Eugene's eyes gleamed with calculation. "Even if engagement occurs, it will be measured. Discipline, timing, and pre-planned maneuvers will ensure minimal casualties and maximum strategic gain."
Aiko added, "Maintaining control while preserving lives will cement the Crescent Empire's reputation as both powerful and just. Psychological dominance ensures long-term compliance."
Securing Trade and Infrastructure
Trade routes, rivers, and infrastructure were secured, ensuring uninterrupted commerce and communication. Minor hostile factions and bandits were swiftly neutralized. Crescent presence was visible but disciplined, reinforcing perception of authority without oppression.
**[System Update]:] Southern trade and infrastructure secured. Operational efficiency: high. Probability of disruption: minimal.
Eugene addressed his generals, "Control of commerce and supply lines is as critical as battlefield victory. Prosperity, order, and security reinforce authority and encourage voluntary loyalty."
Hiroshi muttered, "So… roads and trade are weapons too?"
Eugene nodded. "Precisely. Strategy is not limited to swords. True authority is established through foresight, control, and perception."
Psychological and Political Pressure
Controlled demonstrations of Crescent efficiency occurred near key villages and fortifications. Small skirmishes with isolated bandits highlighted Crescent coordination, impressing local leaders without provoking full conflict.
**[System Advisory]:] Probability of compliance under psychological influence: high. Operational readiness: optimal.
Aiko noted, "Perception is critical. Local lords and villages understand opposition is futile and cooperation is advantageous."
Eugene agreed. "Integration is achieved by demonstrating inevitability and benefit. Every province added strengthens the empire and accelerates unification."
Consolidation of Power
Crescent administrators were installed, key towns fortified, and local leaders pledged loyalty. Gifts, infrastructure projects, and ceremonial recognition within the Crescent hierarchy solidified allegiance.
**[System Log]:] Southern provinces prepared for integration. Probability of successful consolidation: 93%. Operational stability: high.
Hiroshi laughed. "So… we basically take control without swinging swords? Again?"
Eugene's calm gaze reflected satisfaction. "Control without unnecessary conflict is the most efficient form of victory. Every province integrated strengthens the empire and ensures stability for future campaigns."
Foreshadowing the Next Phase
Intelligence suggested minor unrest in distant villages and observation of neighboring southern territories by external lords. While minor, these factors indicated potential challenges in future expansion.
**[System Advisory]:] Southern consolidation complete. Next operation: continued monitoring, reinforcement, and preparation for eastern and central southern campaigns. Probability of smooth transition: high with strategic oversight.
Eugene's gaze swept the southern plains, river deltas, and fortified cities. "The southern provinces are now secure. Trade, governance, and loyalty are established. The next challenge lies in maintaining stability and preparing for integration of the eastern territories. Every decision, action, and alliance must be precise."
**[System Log]:] Southern expansion and consolidation complete. Strategic advantage: overwhelming. Next operation: eastern provinces integration, continued unification of the Rising Sun Empire.
The sun set over the southern river deltas, bathing fertile plains and bustling towns in golden light. Crescent banners waved proudly, signaling authority, order, and inevitability. The Rising Sun Empire's expansion continued, and Eugene's brilliance guided the empire toward full unification.