The Girl Who Eats the God of Death
Chapter 18 - Food In The Royal Capital Must Be Delicious

Belta Castle, is in a hurry of repairs.

The meeting room inside the castle, the opinions of the generals and the officers' staff were completely split in two, which one quick war plan–soon made Canaan surrender and hurried to take control of the Royal Capital, the capital, and the only safe– plan takes control of the southern region while moving to Canaan. The people supported by their successive victories confirmed that they should aim for the Royal Capital as soon as possible.

"I want you all to remember what our great purpose is. Freeing the Royal Capital from the hands of despots is our mission. Then why should we take a detour. I don't understand at all."

"That's fine. As we twirl our thumbs, people suffer. It is also clear that the enemy has surrendered. Moreover, because the Empire had also declared war. This detour from which we are moving away to bring down the southern region of the Kingdom is not necessary."

Altura has not expressed his own opinion. Until he hears the views of each member, he will not give his judgment. The decision is equally important. The lives of all the Liberation Army soldiers are at stake.

When Altura directed her gaze at Diener, she coughed softly and began to speak.

"......I don't think we should be rash. Time is on our side. The more we wait, the more profitable it will be for us, and the more detrimental it will be for the Royal Army. And also, a harsh winter is coming soon. Canaan was not that weak to the point of falling in such a short period of time."

There were people who showed bitter expressions hearing Diener's opinion. They are people who belong to the opposition faction, who do not consider it good about increasing Diener to stand out. They were members of the Salvadoran faction for a long time, which had accompanied Altura since he had assembled an army. The reinforcements coming from the Empire were also included in this faction.

Or, they were from the Belta faction, the surrendered soldiers who were halfway through had agreed with Altura's motive and gathered.

Surely the people closest to Altura were mostly people from the Salvadoran faction. But, the numbers are small, they are outnumbered by the Belta faction, and thus their opinion cannot be ignored.

Altura is in a complicated position. When he leaned in any direction, it would cause dissatisfaction. That dissatisfaction would accumulate and continue to accumulate, and then explode, just like the current Kingdom.

“Gosh, I didn't expect Mr. Diener who excelled in intelligence to get those words out. In the battle a few days ago, the one who sent 5,000 soldiers to pursue to Canaan, wasn't that you? They were expelled without any result. I'm not gonna tell you that you've forgotten all the blood you've shed."

Critics of Ghamzeh, a staff officer from the Belta faction, and other members agreed.

“That is what befalls soldiers who are driven without thinking. Of course, it was you, Mr. Diener, who brought down Belta. It's because of your skills. But the ones who did so were the officers and soldiers of the Liberation Army, and especially the militias who risked their lives to take part. I'm afraid you forgot that it was the effort of everyone with the same ideals.”

".....Then, does Ghamzeh's Staff Officer have any plans to conquer Canaan?"

"of course. I made plans to conquer it. I have many connections with feudal lords in the territory of the Royal Capital. We've exchanged messages saying that they will actually rebel as soon as our Liberation Army invades the territory of the Royal Capital."

Ghamzeh took out a secret message from his breast pocket. In the letters, the names of the feudal lords of the regions passing through the Canaan Region are written there. He had improved his connections ever since he was affiliated with the Royal Forces and implemented this plan.

What the feudal lords sought was a guarantee of security. It's an easy job for Ghamzeh. After that, he would monopolize the achievements on the Belta faction, and would have to make a foothold to seize power after gaining control of the Royal Capital. The Empire's puppet regime was a very real threat. At this rate, the Empire would take advantage of the civil war and act at will. This was the fear that the people of the former Royal Army had.

The one who gave rise to this fear, was the Diener Tactician. He is a suspicious character close to Prince Alan who was sent from the Empire, and his birthplace is unknown. He was a thorn in the flesh for the Belta faction, and they waited vigilantly, like a ferocious beast hunting its prey, waiting for the time to overthrow him. He had never shown much of a mistake before, but the defeat on the chase a few days ago was an opportunity they had been waiting for a long time.

"Mr Ghamzeh. I'm sure I asked about the conquest of Canaan. Mastering the Royal Capital should be a conversation for later."

"Don't be confused, Mr. Diener, I'll explain in detail from here on out. From my subordinates, there are many who know about the geography of this region in detail. ......Please look at this."

Ghamzeh began to explain while pointing with his finger at the map that was unfurled.

"If we are to make a frontal attack, we must take control of this main road that connects to the Royal Capital. However, this road was surrounded by steep mountains. A castle could be here, and then there's Roshanak Fort. If they were to set up a battle formation in this mountainous region, they would be hard to attack, wouldn't they?"

"Right, our opponents can fight while utilizing strategic and natural positions, while on the other hand, we should continue to fight on flat ground."

Altura. Diener listened in silence.

"Exactly. If we decide to attack rashly, we will lose a large army. ...... Here, let's change the conversation for a moment. Outside of the Canaan Mountains are three fortresses. The first one is our target, the Capital of the Blanca Kingdom. To the southeast is Sayeh Fort. And what's about to be finished is Fort Cyrus in the southwest."

He pointed at the place one by one. From Belta, the nearest one is Fort Cyrus in the southeast.

As soon as they crossed the road, they headed west towards Cyrus and east towards Sayeh. Then right between the two fortresses was the royal capital of Blanca that could be seen. The defense of these three branches, assuming they crossed Canaan, would be the last stronghold of the Kingdom.

"That would be a troublesome enemy for us since it's almost done huh."

Behrouz observed as he rubbed his white beard. When they are in the middle of attacking a fortress, they will definitely be attacked from behind. To deal with that, inevitably they had to divide their forces.

“Stay, I concluded that it was not as dangerous as it is now. As it was almost finished, the guards were still not placed. There are only citizens gathered as laborers, inspectors, and a small number of guards. ......Well for us, we're lucky, because we have guidance from the stars."

While talking about the information obtained from his spies, Ghamzeh proudly tapped on the map.

Diener told him to continue.

"Then what does this luck mean?"

“In the Canaan mountains, there is a gap known only to the locals. Of course, it wasn't on the map. No stranger was told about it either. Passing this shortcut, is the back of Fort Cyrus.”

From the scene of the attack they had planned, he pointed out an area further west. It was a steep mountainous area called Golbahar Hill. Ghamzeh said he had to cross this hill, take Cyrus, then move to the Royal Capital Territory.

“However, is this harmless? You won't be able to avoid annihilation if you're isolated. For me it's not an easy place to send reinforcements."

Altura showed his concern, and Ghamzeh shook his head, saying there was nothing to worry about.

"For that reason I drew up a plan with the feudal lords around Cyrus. People who have passion will definitely work with us. I want to borrow 3,000 light infantry as the starting unit and 5,000 for the rear guard. With that amount, we can hold out until the end. Soon the winter reached its peak, and if it was snowy, it would be impossible for a large army to move. During that time, we'll be pressing Canaan from the front and back."

"Diener, what do you think?"

"....If this worked, Canaan would probably have died without much effort. We can cut off their supply lines. As a consequence of the unproductive Canaan, it would be very difficult to meet the needs just by relying on local production. The supply from the Kingdom was their main buffer. But, chances are 50-50, I guess."

Diener showed some misgivings, but Ghamzeh brushed him off. He had already made preliminary preparations up to this point. Despite his own judgment on the basis of the feudal lords, he had expended not a little money. He won't back down after everything he's done. He knelt down, lowered his head, and appealed his own resolution. It is not a lie that he did it for the victory of the Liberation Army.

“Princess Altura. Danger always accompanies any plan. But, the Liberation Army wouldn't have gotten this far if they feared danger. I beg of you, please give me orders. Surely, I will definitely present success to you!"

After pondering for a while, Altura made a decision.

"......Entiendo. Ghamzeh, I'm handing over command of the operation to you. However, simultaneously we will move to take control of the southern region. Dieners. You immediately plan an operation to the south of the Kingdom. Behrouz. You'll lead the soldiers and go with Diener."

"Ready-rush!"

"Understand!"

The Liberation Army has decided on their policy. As the First Division, 30,000 soldiers would be deployed to Canaan and set up camp. They will hold the opposing defense forces. They would refrain from attacking, and just confronting was their main goal.

Then, the Second Division, 30,000 soldiers would cut off the Canaan supply line, aiming for the Royal Army to self-destruct. If the enemy retreats. They're gonna push Canaan.

Diener and Behrouz were sent to capture the Southern territories of the Kingdom. It was decided that Altura would take over the entire command of Belta Castle.

That night.

Diener sent his agent who had been given a secret order to the Kingdom. If his taste is right, they are his guarantee. Although he was worried, there would be no problem. In that corrupted Kingdom, there must be people who are making use of the information they are spreading. The kingdom has become a field of secret activity. Not long after, his tree of honesty will wither. All that remains are rotten plants. Cutting those plants is an easy matter.

The Royal Army controls Canaan.

The Fort Roshanak Campground.

As they surrounded the campfire, everyone was eating, drinking alcohol, resting to relieve their fatigue, and talking. There was only a little entertainment for the soldiers. In a secluded place like this, there was no other entertainment. After obtaining outstanding war achievements and saving allied soldiers, the Schera Cavalry was considered a hero.

The soldiers of the Schera unit were very popular, and were asked, "Schera what kind of person is he?", and, "Are the rumors about his ability true?"

"So, is that right? About all of you and Miss Schera. Is not the God of Death only in fairy tales? As far as I can tell, she's no different from the village girls around here."

The guard crossed his arms while groaning in wonder. He felt that they were tough, but that was to the degree that he wasn't too sure. They broke through the siege of Belta, and then defeated the pursuing units. What kind of hero is that!? He wants to laugh. This is not a fairy tale.

"Major Schera, isn't he, maybe Lieutenant Colonel? The rumors are true to the original. He's only 18 years old anyway. If you see him fight, you can't tell me that it's a lie anymore."

A man from the Schera Cavalry said as he poured alcohol. The ten people around him, gathered full of excitement and listened carefully.

"According to the survivors, they said you also fought fiercely. Could it be that you were filled with a burning spirit as Miss Schera led you? Ahahaha!"

"You are also given a gift! It's not that I'm envious anyway, because we're not very useful huh."

"Maybe I will try to create a petition to change commanders as well, because with that I can get achievements and get promoted!"

Everyone was joking while laughing. The man from the Schera Cavalry said as he stared at the bonfire,

"....How I described it. When I was under that flag, fighting with Lieutenant Colonel, I didn't feel afraid anymore. I really don't fear death anymore. Even though I myself think it's weird."

"You guys are crazy. There are people who are not afraid to die."

"Rubber too. I'm full of fighting spirit, but I'm still scared to death."

"There is no dead word for the Schera Cavalry. We will never die. Even if we lose our flesh, always under the black flag bearing the crow's symbol, we will forever be with the Colonel. That's why the Schera Cavalry won't lose. We can never be defeated."

Everyone was speechless, just staring at the man who continued to speak with empty eyes. As if reading a book, the man was convinced of the truth of his belief. In his eyes was a fanatical light.

"W-Woi."

"Are you okay?"

The man jolted back to his senses, and looked around him. He laughed lightly, and straightened his drink.

"......Whataa? It's just a figure of speech. We fought with such enthusiasm. The lieutenant always fights on the front for us. We're just following him."

"Oh, okay. It's very reliable."

"Well, let's have a drink. If you don't drink when you can, you'll regret it."

"Y-Yeah! Come on, drink, drink."

After that, everyone continued to drink in silence. Like trying to disguise the fear of death. Like frantically taking their eyes off that feeling. Black flags fluttering over the fort. White crow– they pray that the crow does not come down to their backs. If they had been possessed by the white crow, they would have become like that.

–The man from the Schera Cavalry, full of joy gazing at the flag.

Roshanak Fortress, Officers' Dining Room

Schera was invited to eat by Yalder. Although Belta has fallen, for individual achievement, he gets a gift that no one else can compete with. Yalder was in a very good mood, and drank alcohol while laughing cheerfully.

"Major Schera. No, Lieutenant Colonel! I'm not wrong to recommend you!"

"Thank you very much, General."

"Ah– do not need to use formalities. Do not hold back, eat, eat. I heard from Sidamo that you like to eat more than anything. Isn't that so, Officer Staff Sidamo!"

"Ready-neck, you're not wrong."

After successfully returning from Belta, Sidamo nodded. He was injured, but it was not to the point that he could not move. He regained his position as Yalder's aide, and worked as an Officer Staff.

Schera looked at Sidamo with a doubtful look and then returned to eating. His dishes were grilled fish he did not know, rabbit meat, mushrooms, wild plants, fruit. Perhaps this dish could be called a blessing from the mountains? Although the land was barren, these mountains themselves had harvests like this.

"M, um! Finally the Third Army can be resurrected, I plan to make the army of Lieutenant Colonel as the key. We will definitely regain the pride of the Steel Division that has fallen in the next battle. You got that, Sidamo?"

"Ready, I, Sidamo, will exert all my strength."

"Fine to hear! All right then, you should enjoy it slowly. Eat as much as you want. I don't mind. I'll go first. If there's anything, don't look for me."

"Understand!"

Schera saluted while eating, and Yalder left after a stiff laugh. His former haughty attitude had already softened.

Sidamo thought this was a good thing and nodded. As long as he is not arrogant, Yalder is a great commander. Although he was not arrogant, without a special relationship with the nobility, Yalder would not be trusted as the commander of the Third Army.

"Alright then, Lieutenant Colonel. Excuse me too. Good job because you survived and made it back. The instructions for you remain unchanged. If you want to die, die outside. Dying in the fortress was a waste to the cavalry."

"I understand, Officer Sidamo Staff."

"....Don't worry about Vander. One day we'll get him punished for being a traitor. This is not your job. Though you may have understood without me telling you."

"I will destroy the rebel army. I'll kill him with my own hands."

"A death sentence from the God of Death huh? Hmph, I wish I could make that person hear it."

Sidamo snorted and left.

Schera stuck his fork firmly on the rabbit's meat, and bit him.

–Esok.

The main force of the First Army led by Commander Sharov reached Roshanak Fort.

Sharov immediately summoned the generals and opened the war meeting. He had already sent the spy who had come here with him and understood his outline. Losing Belta was a serious blow, but he wouldn't cry over spilled milk. Nowow. They had to defend Canaan to the point of the last blood and prevent an invasion of the Royal Capital.

".....We have lost the Belta Region, but we still cannot allow an invasion of the Royal Capital. I've heard that the Fifth Army in the northwest is fighting well against their enemy, the Empire. If they continue like this, they may not fall before winter. When winter comes, what's about to fall is the Empire's army."

Imperial forces fought in the fortress region in the northwest. Amazingly, the soldiers of the Kingdom remained disciplined. If the Fifth Army were to face off against the Liberation Army, the northwestern region would most likely fall easily. But, to the inhabitants of the northwestern region, the Imperial Army was a great enemy. There is a long-standing hatred for killing each other. Therefore, it is impossible to forgive each other.

The people took the initiative, and stood up against the Imperial soldiers. As severe as the Kingdom is, it is still acceptable rather than giving up on the Empire, they thought. If the place was under the Empire's control, it was clear that they would suffer great pressure.

Men, women, old and young, everyone realizes that now is a crucial moment, and they all rise up and take up arms.

They met the Empire's main forces in the fortresses, and blocked the enemy's supply chariots along with units that lurked all over the place. Since the Royal Command unit had a terrain advantage that was its own territory, the Imperial Army was in a disadvantageous state. Repeating attacks in the most unexpected places and at the most unexpected times, citizens volunteered to help. Which is military and which is civilian, is no longer distinguishable. If they lose, his government will get worse.

And also, winter is coming soon. Supply will be a problem in itself, and movement will not go well. Plans of attacking the fort and targeting the Royal Capital have stopped. But for their honor, they can't back down. They will drag both sides into a useless war.

Starting the war in the autumn was the cause of all the problems the Empire was experiencing. They had underestimated, assuming that if they displayed military might, the region would soon fall.

"We have been informed that the enemy is deploying their soldiers to take Canaan. So we can be them anytime, we have to prepare everything appropriately."

"No, on the contrary, what if we launch a handle on Belta? If the enemy is drunk will triumph them and show loopholes."

Lieutenant General Barbora's proposal, but Sharov refused.

"Don't talk nonsense. If we suffer another defeat, it will affect the survival of the Kingdom. We must be wise when deploying troops. Refrain yourself from talking and acting rashly."

"S-Ready-! I'm sorry!"

After glaring at Barbora, Sharov turned his gaze to Yalder, about his duty to defend Roshanak.

"Commander, I, Yalder, have made a mistake in Antigua, and have neither reputation nor honor. Nevertheless, I want to be given a chance to clean up this disgrace. In the next battle, please appoint me to be the vanguard! I will definitely finish off the rebel forces, I'll show you-!!"

Yalder exclaimed as her face turned red. Being the superintendent of Roshanak is not an easy thing. He became the leader of the army and defended Canaan. For Yalder, it's a role he wants to do at all costs.

"Yaldr. Until we arrive, you have protected Fort Roshanak well. You're recognized that far. –But, it seems you didn't listen to my instructions."

"What the hell is that?"

“‘Do not act rashly and avoid acting excessively.’ that is my command, Yalder. You are overwhelmed by what is in front of your eyes; how can you be responsible if the castle falls!? If the enemy sent a separate army, what would happen to Roshanak!? You will repeat the same mistake with Antigua!!”

Tegur Sharov, who was very angry. Yalder stuttered as she denied.

“Our escaped allies are being chased by the enemy! Is there any harm in helping them!!? I can't just ignore them-!!”

“......Yalder.you, it looks like you're not self-conscious. If you're here, Canaan's defenses will be in danger. Roshanak remains safe no more than sheer luck.”

"Commander Sharov-!!"

Seeing that, Barbora sniggered. He hassles that Yalder is reactivated and is given the big task of defending Roshanak. He could not stop laughing in his heart at the reprimand he did not expect from Sharov. He wants to clap. The urge will probably get bigger after this:

"Yalder, you're demoted to Lieutenant General. Take the soldiers from Belta and return to the Royal Capital. Your punishment will be given later. This is a written notice of your demotion. Tell this to Officer Sidamo Staff after this. Open your eyes, keep this in your head."

Sharov coldly said that to Yalder while showing her an envelope. Yalder's face turned pale, and she listened in a daze.

"P-commander. H-Hope to reconsider. I'm begging you, please, one more chance!"

"annoyingly. The order has been given. Somebody, take Yalder out. It looks like he's too tired and his legs can't stand."

Sharov's instructions, and Barbora approached with a smile.

"General Yalder, I mean, Mr. Yalder. This is not the place for you. You better get back to the Royal Capital."

"B-barbora! You-you-!" fuck!"

"Guard! Accompany Mr. Yalder back to his room! Lieutenant General is a little tired!"

Yalder thrashed, but she was subdued by the incoming guards, and taken out by force. Seeing him leave, Sharov let out a light sigh.

"......All right then, let's continue the war meeting."

Schera Office.

After receiving the report from Katarina, Schera nodded without interest. The Schera Cavalry that was part of the Fourth Army would be sent back to the Royal Capital. Former General Yalder was completely unwilling and looked like he was about to commit suicide. Sidamo says that lately, he doesn't even have the energy he used to have. Experiencing both the good and the bad, the former General seems to have a lot of problems as well.

‘Prepared for battle,’ Schera murmured softly. He might be thinking of something. Considering it was Schera, what he was going to do was not going to change, so he didn't really care. Katarina also seemed to be thinking about something, but she decided not to say it.

"Letda Catherine. Got candy?"

"Ready-moment, please."

Katarina is terrible candy from a bottle and presents it. Schera took it and threw it in her mouth. Schera put up a confused expedition because the candy tasted salty.

"......Letda Catherine. This is what the hell?"

"Hard sweets salted. I heard that its superiority is sweet and its salty mixes well. It's a nice item where you can taste sugar and salt at the same time."

"Oh. So, you tried it?"

"Not yet, of course I haven't tried it. I bought this for you, Lieutenant Colonel. It's a high-class item, sold in Canaan."

"I gave it all to you. Consider it a gift from me. Make sure you eat it all."

"S-Ready. Thank you very much."

Katarina pushed her glasses up.

While noticing that, Schera chewed on the candy rame. The last bite was very salty.

The capital of Blanca–Schera has never been there. Surely, it might be a very crowded place. He heard that there were many kinds of food. While imagining it, Schera slowly began to fall asleep. Katarina moved him to the bed. Everybody is tired. They always fight together. On a day like this, they should rest in peace.