System: Build My Own Territory Chapter 952 - 285: Launching War (10K)
Previously on System: Build My Own Territory...
To face external dangers or to guarantee the territory’s own safety.
A proactive strategy against Jon Zuck was necessary.
As a Viscount, Jon Zuck had clearly acquired some intelligence concerning him.
This information likely originated either from the Ducas Clan or through prior espionage efforts targeting Morgan Town.
However, the intelligence he possessed was almost certainly not entirely accurate.
Much like himself, Jon Zuck was engaged in a mutual process of gathering information.
If it were otherwise.
With the military might of a Viscount and the backing of numerous allies.
Amassing a force of over seven thousand soldiers.
The army would surely advance towards the border.
The eradication of a Lord who had only recently begun to ascend would be remarkably simple.
Whether Jon Zuck was acting under orders from the Ducas Clan to dismantle his territory.
Or if he was motivated by the desire for the resources contained within his domain.
The most advantageous course of action for Jon Zuck would be to lead his soldiers in an assault on Morgan Town and its fortifications.
On the open plains surrounding Morgan Town.
He could deploy his formidable cavalry, numbering over a thousand heavy and light horsemen, to charge Jon Zuck’s converging forces!
Should they choose to attack his walls.
He could rely on the strength of the walls and Weng City for a steadfast defense.
As it happened, Colin had nearly completed the manufacturing of most of the substantial siege equipment.
An opportunity would arise to assess the effectiveness of this newly produced large-scale weaponry during simulated siege defense drills!
Naturally.
If Jon Zuck were to become aware of the fully equipped soldiers stationed within his territory.
And decide to fortify himself within Kakasong City, anticipating reinforcement from the Sword and Shield Corps of the Ducas Clan...
He could initiate a campaign to systematically subdue Jon Zuck’s confederates, one by one.
Vanquishing them sequentially!
By then, Jon Zuck would find himself in a precarious predicament.
Should Jon Zuck choose to support the Manor Lords he was targeting,
It would present an opportunity to unleash his cavalry against Jon Zuck’s own army.
Conversely, if he opted to maintain a detached stance and remain entrenched in Kakasong City.
Then he could proceed to eliminate all of his supporters.
Even with the formidable defenses of Kakasong City, Jon Zuck would be left to fend for himself!
Relying exclusively on the soldiers Jon Zuck currently commanded.
It would be utterly impossible to withstand the advanced large-scale armaments that had already been produced.
Catapults, ballistae, and other formidable siege engines could be employed for defensive purposes!
Simultaneously, they possessed offensive capabilities as well!
Nevertheless.
Given their considerable weight, their transport during a march would prove exceedingly slow.
Clearly, another possibility existed.
Jon Zuck, forewarned of his intention to attack the Manor Lord’s allies, might preemptively rally all the Manor Lords.
Consolidating them within Kakasong City, designating them as the primary defensive force within the city.
However, this scenario would ultimately prove advantageous to him.
The Manor Lords and their soldiers could indeed enter Kakasong City.
But their land, their provisions, and their peasant populace could not possibly be transported into Kakasong City!
He would then have the means to readily claim ownership of all the assets belonging to the Eight Great Manor Lords.
These Manor Lords commanded the allegiance of over ten thousand peasants and serfs, alongside a number of free individuals.
This influx could significantly bolster the population within his burgeoning territory!
Despite the fact that, in Lynn’s strategic mind, the comprehensive plan to counter Jon Zuck had been firmly established.
He still maintained a vigilant stance, refraining from any complacency.
This was due to the presence of a crucial unknown factor.
The potential military intervention from the Ducas Clan in support of Jon Zuck!
According to information provided by Samuel,
The Zak Clan had, at one point, been bestowed the title of Viscount by Marquis Duca himself!
This distinction suggested either a significant contribution rendered by the Zak Clan to either the Ducas Clan or the Karedi Empire.
Or, it indicated that the Zak Clan maintained a position of unwavering loyalty towards the Ducas Clan.
Marquis Duca, through some undisclosed means, had secured the Emperor of the Empire’s sanction to lawfully confer the Viscount title.
Irrespective of the underlying cause.
It presented a strong likelihood that the Ducas Clan would dispatch their elite Sword and Shield Corps to provide aid to Jon Zuck!
This unpredictable element absolutely had to be factored into any future military planning.
To effectively mitigate any potential unforeseen circumstances!
While Lynn was deep in contemplation, he had already arrived back at the castle's grand reception hall.
As was customary, Kuisi had meticulously arranged the evening meal, awaiting his presence.
Approaching the head of the dining table, Janet, who was positioned nearby, proactively extended assistance to Lynn by drawing out his chair.
As Lynn settled into his seat, Janet gently adjusted the main seat forward with her hands.
Lynn found himself perfectly positioned and comfortably seated at the head of the table.
During his tenure at Lynn Castle, Janet had grown accustomed to the routine of adjusting seats and pushing chairs for Lynn.
Of course.
These duties also encompassed the post-dinner massages and the ritual of warming his bed prior to slumber.
Kuisi presented a steaming bowl of chicken soup before Lynn.
Subsequently, she retrieved a carving knife and began expertly slicing the substantial portion of golden-brown roasted pork ribs intended for Lynn.
While engaged in the act of carving, Kuisi inquired,
"Sir, would you require a report on the current state of the territory?"
Taking a sip of his chicken soup, Lynn responded affirmatively, "Yes."
She then carefully placed the precisely cut pork ribs onto the plate before him, garnishing them with a sprinkle of pepper and salt.
Following this, Kuisi commenced her report, stating, "Sir, the developmental progress within the territory is proceeding without any significant issues."
First and foremost, Professor Clive and Professor Erin have successfully laid the foundation for the Territory Court, and the construction of its walls is now underway.
While enjoying his meal, Lynn acknowledged the report with a nod.
Kuisi further elaborated, "Furthermore, after the final group of townsfolk participated in the evening classes tonight, concluding their studies under the scholars' tutelage, the territory has successfully completed its inaugural literacy drive for all its inhabitants."