A Brighter Future (Kuroinu) - Volume 1 Chapter 28: Using Mercenaries as Cannon Fodder

Claudia’s comforting words made Grave rub his forehead, feeling that the situation wasn’t quite right for such reassurance, though he didn’t mind her comforting Rhodes. He felt she should have waited until he had finished speaking.

“…In a way, Claudia is not wrong. If you’re unsure, it’s better to consult someone experienced. That’s far better than recklessly deciding on a course of action,” Grave said, despite his conflicted feelings. “In this case, the dark elves are trying to trigger a war prematurely to control the situation. This puts us on the defensive, forcing us into a battle we’re not prepared for. So, we must not act hastily or disrupt our own ranks.”

“So, General Grave, are you suggesting we completely ignore the black orcs’ actions?” Rhodes asked, his brow furrowed. From Celestine’s explanations, he knew the horrors that the black orcs could inflict on the towns they pass through.

“Sometimes sacrifices are necessary. Remember, a kind-hearted person cannot effectively lead an army,” Grave wanted Rhodes to understand this harsh reality.

“However, we won’t completely ignore this situation either, as it would severely damage morale. So, we’ll need some cannon fodder to handle it.”

“Cannon fodder?”

“Yes. We’ll issue a commission or direct order under the name of the Seven Shields Alliance to certain groups. Mercenaries, especially those who operate in the grey areas, are perfect for this. They’re dirty scoundrels who’ll do anything for money. They can take action for us, thwarting the dark elves’ plans while we prepare to fight them in our best condition.”

“As for the mercenaries… well, if they die, they die. If they can be of some use, even better. They’ll be contributing to the world in their way.”

After hearing Grave’s explanation, Rhodes nodded in understanding.

“As for choosing the right person, we already have a suitable candidate,” Claus said, bringing out prepared documents.

“Walter, leader of the Black Beast Knights mercenary group, in his 30s with excellent command abilities and strong personal combat skills. However, his character is questionable. He loves war and plunder, known in the mercenary circles as the ‘King of Mercenaries.'”

“King of Mercenaries, huh? Such a man is indeed fit to be cannon fodder.”

After hearing Claus’ description, Grave felt Walter was a perfect choice for the task. If Walter survived, he could continue to be used in future plans.

“I understand. I’ll arrange for someone to contact him and persuade him to take on the task,” Claus said, experienced in handling such matters. Grave nodded silently in agreement.

“That’s the situation, Rhodes. Do you understand?”

“I understand somewhat,” Rhodes replied. Grave wasn’t surprised by his response and planned to familiarize Rhodes with such matters gradually.

“Good. I’ll discuss these kinds of issues with you in the future. You need to get acquainted with them quickly. I hope you won’t disappoint me.”

“I understand,” Rhodes acknowledged.

Claus, observing the interaction between his father and Rhodes, felt a flash of envy, but it quickly disappeared. He knew that since he had chosen the path of a civil servant, his relationship with his father had irreversibly changed. Even now, as he moved towards becoming a warrior, it made no difference. Rhodes’s talent far surpassed his.

Lost in thought, Claus glanced at Rhodes, who was still in Chloe’s embrace. As Grave stood to leave, Claus followed.

Soon after, a messenger from the Seven Shields Alliance found Walter in a mercenary tavern. Walter, in his 30s, had a rugged, strong appearance, and his ambitious, desirous eyes were evident. The messenger, clearly disgusted by the tavern’s raucous and foul atmosphere, approached Walter and placed a commission on the table.

“Walter, here is a commission from the Seven Shields Alliance. Our conflict with the dark elves is escalating, and they are now using black orcs. We want you to deal with these orcs. Successful completion will earn you a generous reward.”

“A commission from the Seven Shields Alliance,” Walter mused, intrigued by the offer, especially after seeing the described reward, feeling a strong temptation.

However, Walter sensed something off about the generous reward for merely dealing with black orcs, especially with dark elf involvement. As a seasoned mercenary, he trusted his instincts but wouldn’t back down from a challenge. His experience told him that despite the risks, such missions often presented opportunities for greater gain. So, he accepted the task, seeing a chance to benefit amidst the chaos.

The envoy from the Seven Shields Alliance, relieved to conclude the arrangement, hastily left the distasteful tavern.