System: Build My Own Territory Chapter 910 - 278: All-Out War

Godfrey remained quiet upon hearing Lawrence’s nonchalant statement. Suddenly, the sound of rapid footsteps approaching filled the air, catching the attention of both men. Danke, attired in the uniform plate armor of the Ducas Clan Sword and Shield Corps, hurried over to Godfrey and Lawrence. He began to bow, preparing to speak to Godfrey first. However, a recent memory flashed through his mind, causing him to alter his approach. “Lord Lawrence, Commander Godfrey,” Danke said, his tone shifting. “The resistance from the garrison within the alleyways of Spirit Reef Port has been fully subdued and eradicated. Crucial points within the city, such as the warehouses, barracks, and strategic high grounds, are now under our control. Furthermore, we are conducting a thorough inventory of the city’s population, resources, and properties. Official notices have also been posted, outlining Marquis Duca’s internal policies and clarifying the army’s objectives. Order should be fully restored within a day or two, allowing the residents to resume their normal lives.” Lawrence nodded in approval at Danke’s report. “Excellent work! Ensure Spirit Reef Port is guarded constantly by our personnel to prevent any further surprise attacks. Also, deploy sentries to patrol key roads and elevated positions outside the port. Report immediately if any significant enemy forces are sighted. Moreover, the fallen soldiers should be buried on-site to prevent any disease outbreaks. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we will be occupying Spirit Reef Port for the foreseeable future!” Danke glanced at Godfrey, who stood silently. Seeing no reaction from the Commander, the former promptly responded to Lawrence, “Yes, Lord Lawrence.” He hesitated for a moment before stepping back to depart. Godfrey’s deep voice cut through the air, “Have the casualties among our fallen soldiers been accounted for?” Danke halted his movement upon hearing Godfrey’s question. Looking at Godfrey’s solemn expression, he replied hesitantly, “They… they have been tallied…” Godfrey instructed, “Let us hear the numbers.” Lawrence’s gaze also turned to Danke, clearly expecting the report. Feeling the weight of both men’s scrutiny, Danke felt a wave of pressure. Without delay, he stated, “Esteemed Lords, the defending force at Spirit Reef Port consisted of three thousand fully armed soldiers. In this engagement, over two thousand enemy combatants were eliminated! The remaining thousand disarmed and surrendered, becoming prisoners of war.” Lawrence raised an eyebrow at this news, a flicker of satisfaction in his eyes. “As for the casualties within the Sword and Shield Corps… the total number of fallen is over three thousand!” Godfrey’s eyes widened instantly, as if anticipating the figure. “Three thousand?” he exclaimed, his voice carrying a slight tremor. Danke quickly confirmed, “Yes, Commander, sir! The wildfire that erupted directly engulfed the foremost ranks of our Sword and Shield Corps soldiers. Although their standard plate armor offered maximum protection against enemy arrows, it could not withstand the intense heat of the wildfire. Due to the complexity of wearing the standard plate armor, they were unable to remove it before being incinerated… their very corpses fused with their armor…” Lawrence, who had maintained a composed demeanor, conjured the horrific scene Danke described in his mind. His expression shifted dramatically, his eyes widening, his mouth agape. A churning sensation arose in his stomach, but he managed to suppress the discomfort with great effort. After a pause of about thirty seconds, Lawrence, having regained his composure, addressed Danke in a low voice. “Tally the deceased soldiers and, in accordance with the Ducas Clan’s established policy, distribute pensions to their families.” Danke responded once more, “Yes, Lord Lawrence.” After his reply, Danke glanced at Godfrey again. Seeing that the Commander had no further inquiries, he bowed slightly and withdrew. As Danke descended the city wall, Lawrence turned his gaze back to Godfrey and inquired, “What? Commander Godfrey, do you still believe there are issues with the tactics employed in this campaign?” Before Godfrey could answer, Lawrence continued, “Regardless of your personal opinions, I will state that there was nothing wrong with this offensive campaign! We have conquered Spirit Reef Port and secured victory in this war. The Ducas Clan is now the rightful owner of this city! Do you observe the docks along the Seine River in the distance? As long as we maintain control of Spirit Reef Port, we possess a significant harbor!”