System: Build My Own Territory Chapter 911 - 278: Total War Declaration (10,000)_2

Godfrey’s lips parted, intending to speak up for the soldiers.

Yet, he ultimately sealed them shut.

It was a truth Godfrey plainly grasped.

Lawrence, having been raised amidst the affluence of high society since his youth, habitually approached matters from the perspective of those in command when contemplating issues.

As a Commander himself, he could scarcely fathom the immense sacrifices made by the common soldiers.

But Godfrey's background was different.

Even though he had recently been instated as the Commander.

He, much like the fallen soldiers of the Sword and Shield Corps, hailed from the most humble origins within Bordeaux City.

Driven by a deep admiration for the Ducas Clan and a fervent aspiration to pledge his allegiance to them as their devoted Lords.

Upon reaching adulthood, he had unhesitatingly enlisted as a soldier for the Ducas Clan, navigating a gauntlet of stringent selection and rigorous training.

Rising from a rank-and-file soldier, to a preceding Knight Commander, and now appointed Commander by Marquis Mark Duca.

He understood with absolute clarity the deepest desires of these soldiers.

Beyond their sworn fealty to the Ducas Clan.

They yearned for a transformation of their social standing and identity.

They sought to secure a more prosperous existence for their families.

The soldiers simply wished to survive, to return to Bordeaux City, and to be reunited with their loved ones.

But now.

They had been reduced to ashes by a raging wildfire, destined to remain here eternally.

Even as a measure to ward off potential disease outbreaks.

Their remains would be unceremoniously interred in mass graves.

Godfrey comprehended this disparity.

This was the stark difference in worldview between the ruling elite and individuals like himself, who emerged from the lower echelons of society.

The aristocracy perpetually fixated on the abstract notions of family power and ancestral glory.

Conversely, the common folk sought nothing more than an ordinary life, with the assurance of their personal safety.

Within Godfrey’s mind, the visage of that young, distinguished Lord unexpectedly materialized.

Despite his youthful appearance, his composure and profound wisdom far outshone those of his contemporaries.

When juxtaposed with the soldiers' current plight.

What truly resonated with him was the absence of oppression and exploitation within that Lord’s domain.

Where every individual toiled collaboratively, striving towards a brighter future.

He could vividly recall the expressions of genuine contentment and ease on the faces of the hardworking townsfolk.

Aside from that specific territory, such a haven was nowhere else to be found!

Unbeknownst to Godfrey, as these recollections occupied his thoughts.

A nascent idea had already taken root deep within his consciousness, rapidly flourishing.

Drawing a deep, steadying breath to quell the burgeoning emotions within his heart, Godfrey inclined his head towards Lawrence.

"Lord Lawrence, I am deeply grateful for your counsel."

Absorbing Godfrey’s words, which were laden with palpable respect.

Lawrence offered a nod, his expression conveying considerable satisfaction.

"Commander Godfrey, it is indeed best that you grasp this fundamental principle."

"There is one crucial point you must steadfastly remember."

"Although Mark bestowed upon you the title of Commander for this engagement."

"He simultaneously appointed me as his battlefield advisor?"

"Why do you believe that was the case?"

"It is simply because the Sword and Shield Corps will forever remain the loyal Sword and Shield Corps of the Ducas Clan!"

"They would never readily relinquish command to an outsider."

Upon hearing this declaration, Godfrey exhibited no surprise, lowering his posture even further in deference.

"This humble servant has been duly instructed."

Observing Godfrey’s submissive gesture, Lawrence acknowledged with a satisfied nod.

"The conflict at Spirit Reef Port has reached its conclusion, and so too has your appointment as Commander."

"Knight Commander Godfrey, the vital matters of deployment and garrison duties now rest solely in your capable hands."

"The strategic importance of Spirit Reef Port cannot be overstated for future military endeavors!"

"It is highly probable that Caesar Carolin will launch a retaliatory offensive!"

Godfrey responded with unwavering respect.

Lawrence’s gaze shifted inward, focusing on the expanse of Spirit Reef Port, as he continued to articulate his thoughts.

"Should any unforeseen circumstances arise, you may seek me out at Siren’s Nest."

"Long ago, when I resided in Bordeaux City, I recall hearing whispers about the brothel at Siren’s Nest in Spirit Reef Port, boasting courtesans known as 'Sea Sirens.'"

"Now that I find myself here, it presents an opportune moment to experience such alleged wonders firsthand..."

Godfrey affirmed, "Understood, Lord Lawrence."

As Lawrence's retreating footsteps gradually diminished into the distance.

The still-bowed Godfrey slowly straightened his form.

He watched as Lawrence departed the city walls, subsequently withdrawing his own gaze.

Directing his attention downward.

Below, under the diligent supervision of Danke, soldiers were meticulously relocating the charred remains.

Among them were bodies so completely carbonized that their blackened heads would detach and tumble away with the soldiers' movements.

Witnessing such a gruesome spectacle.

The harrowing memory of the recent assault involuntarily surged back into Godfrey’s consciousness.

A terrifying deluge of wildfire, akin to a cascading waterfall, had poured down from the ramparts.

The soldiers of the Sword and Shield Corps, densely packed in ranks nearly a dozen deep alongside the city wall, were instantly engulfed.

The burning embers and cascading flames further saturated the soldiers positioned further back.

Initially, they remained oblivious to the impending danger.

But as a noxious, acrid odor permeated the air.

As fiery torches rained down from the battlements.

As wave after wave of incandescent flames erupted and spread with terrifying rapidity.