Chapter 118: Battle Of Crecy Plains (3)
And then, a week later.
The Francois Republics 100,000-strong army appeared opposite the Imperial Army.
As I had predicted, they placed crossbowmen and mages at the forefront to disrupt our formation.
Then, they positioned knights behind them, forming a layout that hinted at their plan to brazenly break through our weakened infantry defense and seize victory.
Meanwhile, our Reich Imperial Army, anticipating the slow-approaching Francois, had already built small hills of earth at the front.
On these hills, we positioned crossbowmen and other long-range attackers, gaining an advantage in range by firing from a slightly elevated position.
If the hills were too steep or high, the Francois might come to their senses and not attempt a central breakthrough.
So, the slopes were made at about 10 degrees, and the height was kept very low, around 3 meters.
Even so, for us, who must withstand the charge of knights weighing over 500kg, this was much better than nothing.
Even this could reduce the speed of the horses by nearly 20%.
And our 12th Brigade was positioned at the very front among the three rows of infantry.
All our knights had been requisitioned by General Patton, deemed necessary for smashing the enemy infantry.
Ah, damn, no knights under my command? How is it possible that I dont have knights?
I exclaimed that, but no soldier or officer among the others responded to my words.
Twenty minutes later, Duke Balua, the commander of the Francois army, rode up to a daring distance, just out of our arrows reach.
Simultaneously, his army also approached us about 200 meters away, seemingly intent on threatening us, with the Duke at the forefront, shouting loudly.
As a Duke of the Francois Republic and a permanent member of the parliament representing everyone, I rebuke you, the treacherous soldiers of the Empire! How dare you excommunicate us innocents, causing our poor serfs and diligent citizens anxiety and inciting war?! As believers in Deus, how can you blind the eyes of His Holiness, the Pope!
Despite the close distance between him and us, and the lack of wind carrying his voice to where our infantry and knights were, none of our soldiers showed any sign of being intimidated or frightened by his words
they all looked at the enemy commander with expressions as if to say, Bark all you want. Well just let it go in one ear and out the other.
Even in a situation where we didnt react, it would have been far better for him to stop speaking and leave.
Although I didnt show any emotions, it was the strategy and outcome I had planned and expected.
Some of the soldiers and higher-ranking officers next to me seemed to be moved by General Pattons speech, their eyes beginning to redden.
Remember the warning of His Holiness to repent and return through the whip of excommunication. You must deeply reflect on your wrongdoings that led to excommunication and seek forgiveness and atonement from the Empire and His Holiness. Otherwise, you will surely pay fully for your sins!
This speech might have demoralized the enemy infantry to the point where they would lose all will to fight, shedding tears at the mere sight of our knights charging with lances.
Of course, they wouldnt scatter immediately with the adjutants and officers holding swords and monitoring them.
But given the slightest chance, they would try to flee without regard for what was ahead or behind.
Naturally, no one wants to die, and even more so, they fear going to hell if they do.
If you dislike that, then fine! Try to defeat our infantry with a charge of knights, just like the Division Commander Pompadour did in Hattin Forest! If we are wrong and you are right in the eyes of Deus, wouldnt He help you?
Having said that, General Patton quietly and gracefully retreated, while Duke Balua, visible even from a distance, was furiously cursing.
Deeply moved by General Pattons speech, the Imperial Army soldiers enthusiastically cheered as if they were about to applaud.
Long live the General! Long live the Empire! Long live His Majesty the Emperor!
Damn the Francois knights! Theyre not scary at all! We will win!
Deus, please protect us!
Having achieved an overwhelming victory in the initial war of words, Duke Balua led his troops 500 meters back.
The commanders of the mages, crossbowmen, and archers capable of long-range attacks in front of us quickly began their preparations.
Crossbowmen, mages, and archers, move forward and prepare to fire!
Take out all the arrows from the quivers and stick them in the ground! Its faster!
Approach the front of the hill and use Water Balls to wet the ground a bit! Make it harder for the mounted knights to climb the hill. Then well have an advantage later!
While we were all hastily preparing, the sound of a massive horn and the rumbling and vibrations of marching infantry came from ahead.
The real battle has now begun.
We will definitely win. So do not fear. Extend your spears towards the enemy and hold your ground. Then, we will win.
