News of the victory reached the royal city, and at first no one could believe it was true!
They did not doubt the bravery and fighting spirit of the Guards cavalry, but they did not believe that the pirates did not escape after encountering the Guards!
To be honest, even the most honest and honest people shook their heads when they heard the news, even if they were not drunk. Besides, no one knew beforehand that the pirates were going to land at Apodoli.
However, there were already several groups of fast horses carrying the news. The red flag planted on the horse's back and the joyful expression of the rider made all Apodoli's subjects no longer doubtful.
The Guards have won! The pirates have been completely wiped out!
The news of victory rang through the sky with the sound of bells and spread throughout the streets and alleys of the royal city of Babkole. People poured into the streets to cheer for the warriors of the Guards. Daddy Blueberry's tavern was full of happy and crazy people, drinking to their heart's content, for His Majesty the King, for His Royal Highness the Prince, and for the Guards. Of course, even more cheers for their friends.
Blueberry Daddy's tavern is almost ready to catch up with the excitement of the Harvest Festival. He opened his mouth from ear to ear with joy and kept shouting: "Today, for our friends Trinville and Grain, for their heroic battle and the victory they brought to Apodoli, I want to give each of you a gift." A big glass." The roar of laughter of the drunkards even drowned out the cheers of victory in the streets.
The blacksmith Rabbi had already drank several glasses of wine. He said with a red face and a smile: "Daddy Blueberry, why don't you wait for Trinville to come? He will be unhappy if he knows that we have forgotten him while drinking."
The little old man Blueberry also smiled and said: "Don't worry, my good blacksmith. When our hero comes back, I will offer him my best wine! Three large glasses - he will never leave me unless he is drunk." Tavern.”
The Guards returned to the camp and were busy caring for the dead and treating the wounded. Suddenly, there were thousands more prisoners, which became a headache for a while.
The victory is glorious, but the price is heavy. When everything calmed down, the physical pain suffered by the soldiers was still secondary, and the loss of their comrades made them even more heartbroken. Compared with the loss of those precious lives, the glory received by those who survived is still lamentable even if everyone expects it.
Glenn thought that maybe his mother and Althea already knew the news of his victory, and maybe they were still worried about him. He really wanted to go home as soon as possible and see his mother and Althea so that they could feel at ease. However, after the fierce battle, his soldiers also needed him and their captain. He stayed in the camp for the time being, burying his longing for his relatives in his heart. They will understand. Because that was the whole meaning of him and the soldiers fighting to the death.
The head of the pirate Babaya is passed between the royal city and various cities. Wherever he went, people praised the Guards and their commander, Prince Charles. People began to long for a life without pirates. Even the Holy City and the Holy Alliance got the news, and they all praised and congratulated Apodoli for his victory.
The destruction of the most powerful pirates, the "Black Shark" pirates, also means that the pirates who once roamed the seas and ravaged the mainland have suffered a devastating blow. Even though there were still some pirates who fled, they were scared away from the coast of Apodoli by the threat of the Guards. In addition, without a strong leader, it is far away and impossible to regain the strength of the people like Baba Ya.
As a result, even the most distant countries on this continent will praise the victory and glory of the Guards.
A few days later, Glenn received an order to meet the king at the palace. Captain Philo personally conveyed the king's edict to him. After the battle on the beach, Grayne and he had been busy and hadn't talked in detail yet. Walking on the road, Philo accidentally showed that he was full of thoughts. Glenn knew that his leader must have something to say to him.
Sure enough, he said: "I am not surprised at all by the king's edict. The whole country is reveling in the victory of the Guards, but the real protagonist who dominated this victory is not known. I believe that your Majesty It was not that he meant to suppress you, he had no reason to do so. In fact, wasn't it the king himself who, against all odds, brought you to the Guards? It was God's will - it was you who made the decisive decision to go deep and burn the enemy's ships alone. Only by cutting off the return route of the pirates can the Guards achieve this great victory. Your Majesty should be the happiest person for your great achievements. But..." He hesitated.
"These days, I find that some people are talking behind the back about the regimental commander's strange behavior on the battlefield. Glenn, this is not a good sign! The reason why the Guards are famous all over the world is not just for their bravery. Of course you know why—because you showed me in this battle, that's what you do. Yes, the source of the Guard's true strength is unity and trust."
"You are right, Commander Philo. Although I have joined the Guards for less than two months, in the eyes of many people, I am not even a real Guards soldier. During my travels When we were in mainland China, legends of the Guards were spread everywhere. Because the legendary Guards came from my hometown, I was always proud of it. It is loyalty to the country, love to relatives and friends. Love creates the invincible Guards."
"But now, because of you, Glenn, there is some little trouble in the Guards."
Glenn paused and said, "Captain Philo, I don't understand what you are referring to?"
Philo sighed, until he was sure that Glenn's gaze was sincere, and then slowly said: "Of course it refers to what happened on the beach. People have seen it, and if you hadn't anticipated the enemy's opportunity, it would have happened before. Many times, the battle with the pirates that humiliated the Guards may happen again. No, it will definitely happen. And the losses will definitely be more severe.
Never before has nearly 10,000 pirates invaded our territory. Although it is not clear why Babaya went to such great lengths, if they were allowed to succeed, the image of the Guards in the minds of the people would be seriously damaged. It is all because of you that we have saved more people's lives and wealth, and also saved the honor of the Guards. No matter what kind of reward I can give you, it is not an exaggeration. Believe me, many people in the Guards think so. "He said, looking at Glenn meaningfully,
"Here's the problem. I have been following His Highness since he joined the Guards. I know Prince Mars very well. Under his serious face is the most just and kind heart. So, he can do Even I don’t know why something like that happened. Now, rumors are circulating among the Guards against the legion commander—saying that he was unfair and deprived a warrior of the honor he deserved. As a loyal subordinate of His Highness the Prince, I will not allow his authority to be challenged, and I will not allow his reputation to be tarnished.
So I try to stop these rumors before they turn into a scandal. It's not that I'm old and stubborn, it's just that no matter what happens, I firmly believe that our commander has his reasons for doing what he does. So, Grain. If your Majesty asks you about this when I ask you to visit me, I hope you can answer appropriately and not let your Majesty and our soldiers down. "
At this point, Greene had completely understood the implication of the Guards veteran's words. And that's what he definitely doesn't want to see.
He said calmly and solemnly: "I am a Guards soldier. Of course I know how to safeguard the interests of the Guards. Commander Philo, please trust me."
Captain Philo nodded with satisfaction, then he sighed again and said with a wry smile: "Many people still don't understand - bearing humiliation and bearing the burden is such a great and beautiful quality. But, how many people can do it? "
While they were waiting in the palace hall, they knew that Prince Mars was already meeting with the king. They looked at each other tacitly and waited silently.
Not long after, they saw the legion commander approaching. His face was ashen and his expression was stern, which was intimidating. It is conceivable that his meeting with the king must not be pleasant.
Philo stepped forward to greet him, but he just nodded and walked to Glenn.
He had no expression on his face and said coldly: "Captain Glenn, is this what you have been waiting for? A warrior who was born as a commoner will become the most popular hero in this country in the blink of an eye. I can see it. How smart you are. As long as His Majesty appreciates you, everything the world expects will become natural to you. I bet you are already slowly getting used to everything you are going to get."
His domineering arrogance made everyone present feel at a loss. But Glenn was unmoved.
Even if Captain Philo is not present, he will not contradict Prince Mars. He just felt a little lost and sad in his heart. He had never really had the friendship of Prince Mars, but he still missed the time they spent together as children from time to time. He stared silently into the eyes of Prince Mars without saying a word.
Captain Philo wanted to break the awkwardness between the two of them, but before he could speak, Prince Mars spoke again, "I admit that it was never my intention to keep you in the Guards. However, when I came to the palace, I thought about it again on the way, luckily I kept you." After saying that, he turned and left without looking back.
Although Prince Mars' rudeness made him a little sad, his last few words seemed to confirm his excellence and deeds to Grein. He smiled and said to Captain Philo: "Soon, the king will summon us."
They walked into the king's large study, and King Orzins stood in the middle of the room, waiting for them with a smile on his face.
He first greeted Captain Philo. Although the king has a reputation of being approachable, Grayne has never seen such a harmonious and approachable monarch. The king asked him about the decision-making before fighting the pirates and the whole process of the battle.
"Of course, I have heard something from your legion commander. Now, I want to hear what Commander Philo has to say."
Captain Philo said respectfully: "Your Majesty, what you heard from me must be no different from what you heard from His Highness the Prince. If you must listen to me, an old man, say it again, what I want to say is , the legion commander's advance arrangements were impeccable, and the command on the battlefield was calm and calm. Also, without the prompt decision of Squadron Leader Green, we would never have achieved this unprecedented but long-lost victory.
Therefore, I would like to say that Glenn's ability to join the Guards is due to His Majesty's discernment and is also a blessing to the Guards. Also, His Highness personally shot and killed the evil-doing pirate leader Babaya, causing the largest pirate group to collapse, which was a great achievement. "
The king smiled and said: "I have always believed in everything that Chief Philo said. It is the same today. However, I seem to have heard some different opinions." He turned to Grayen, "I heard that you have You captured Babaya, but Prince Charles took away your reputation as the 'Pirate Terminator' out of thin air. Is this true?"
Glenn bowed and replied: "Your Majesty, no one will refuse everything they have worked hard for. The same goes for me. Therefore, if I can catch Babaya, with the honor of the Guards, I will not Give my prisoners to anyone, including my commander. Therefore, it is absolutely true that Prince Charles shot Babaya. Everyone on the battlefield can see it."
The king smiled and nodded. He held Gray's hand and said, "Since you said that, it's a different matter. Gray, you have established a new honor for Apodoli on the mainland and set a new benchmark. The queen and I are both Proud of you. Your mother will also be proud of having such an outstanding son like you."
Glenn said humbly: "Thank you for your majesty's love. Everything I have done is for the country and your majesty. If I have made some contributions in this battle, it is entirely the duty of a soldier. Moreover, No matter how great a person is, without the heroic fighting of the Guards, such a great victory would never have been achieved. Therefore, the real heroes are those unknown soldiers. I am just an ordinary member among them."
The king nodded and praised: "It is very valuable to take credit without being arrogant. Glenn, I know you will not misjudge the person. However, if you do not reward your achievements, I am sure that Captain Philo just called me " 'Wise King', if I am indifferent to your contribution, he will definitely regret ever giving me such a high hat. To be honest, compared to your achievements, the highest rewards in the kingdom will pale in comparison."
Philo and Grain were pleased by the king's relaxed tone.
The king changed the topic and said: "However, the matter is not simple. At the royal meeting, some people raised their doubts about what kind of reward Grain should receive, or even whether he should be rewarded. The reason why there are opponents, It is because it is said that when you set out to burn the pirate ships, your soldiers asked the residents of Mazir Town to prepare in advance. It is best to evacuate Mazir Town so that the citizens can be reduced when the pirates attack. Loss of life and property. But, you refused.
You refused to tell the peaceful residents of the news you had received, leaving them exposed to the threat of the Babaya Pirates. Captain Grein, though I trust you to make the right judgment based on the circumstances at your disposal. However, the ministers in the Imperial Council are old guys who are difficult to deal with, and they will not let you go easily. There have been proposals to remove you from your post and expel you from the Guards. If you can't give me a convincing reason, it will be difficult for me to convince the stubborn opponents. "
Philo apparently just learned that Glenn had made such a decision. He couldn't help but worry about Glenn, and said hurriedly: "Your Majesty, I believe that Captain Glenn made such a decision for a reason."
The king waved his hand and interrupted him. He looked at Glenn and said, "Don't you have anything to say yourself?"
Glenn's voice was low but firm. He said: "Your Majesty, please believe that I did not hesitate when I made that difficult decision. However, the situation at that time made me hesitate for a moment. The pirates secretly came ashore and ambush in several towns such as Mazier. Nearby. If the people of Mazir are notified and evacuate first, the pirates will surely realize that their intentions have been exposed. In that case, they will not be able to stay where we want them to be.
If Babaya's pirates abandon their original plan and escape early, their best chance of annihilating them will be gone. On the other hand, if we can launch a successful raid, the pirates will definitely turn around and seize their ships. That was the fundamental reason why they settled down and roamed the sea. Maybe they had no time to attack the pre-set targets. Because of the above judgment, I had no choice but to make that decision. I want to say that I am not indifferent to the lives of residents just to achieve so-called meritorious deeds. Although it couldn't alleviate my inner uneasiness, I could only do that at the time. "
Philo nodded frequently after hearing this. The king stood up and paced the room. After a while, he stopped and looked at Glenn. "But, Captain Glenn, have you ever thought about it, if your plan goes wrong and fails? Or if Babaya makes a desperate move and does not look back to save his ship. Then you can imagine the plight of the residents of Mazur Town. Got it."
Glenn whispered: "Yes, Your Majesty. After hearing what you said, I realized that I was indeed careless. Even if something more terrible happens, I am willing to take all responsibility and accept any punishment imposed on me. "
Philo was a little anxious, and he couldn't help but said: "Your Majesty, this is unfair. If Glenn is punished for his great achievements, the soldiers of the First Squadron and other Guards will be disappointed."
The king smiled instead: "This is really a head-scratching trouble. Come on, come on. The winner should not be wronged because of some people's pedantry. Glenn, I support you. I am very happy. You have realized that all victories will not be easy. To do big things, you need to have a spirit of adventure. Moreover, sometimes, even if you make the right choice, you may not be free from uneasy conscience. . Now, let us think of a way to keep you in the Guards and make those old guys stop making noise. This is the only way." He said,
"Suffering a little injustice may not be a bad thing for a hero like you. It is an expedient. I will neither punish you nor reward you. The credit you established in the battle to eliminate Babaya is as good as yours." The crime of disregarding the safety of people's lives is equal to the crime. Your name will not appear in the kingdom's reward order for those who have meritorious service in this battle. What do you think?"
Glenn said sincerely: "Thank you for your majesty's magnanimity. I have no complaints about it."
Captain Philo was content as long as Grayne could stay in the Guards. He said loudly: "You are indeed a wise Majesty. I admire you very much."
The king smiled and said: "Isn't it true that flattery from an honest person is more pleasant to the ears than flattery from a duplicitous person?"
He was silent for a while and then asked: "Have you heard anything else from the pirates? I'm interested in any news."
Glenn hesitated for a moment and replied: "No. Your Majesty."
The king nodded thoughtfully. After a while, he waved his hand and said: "You can go back. It won't be long before the kingdom's reward order will arrive at the military camp. Go ahead and celebrate your victory."
He stood on the balcony, watching the two figures disappear from the steps of Arni, and murmured: "What a pity."
Even if someone heard it, they wouldn't be able to guess what he was talking about. Maybe he thought he was feeling emotional for the injustice that Glenn had suffered.
King Orzin led all members of the Supreme Imperial Council to an unprecedented appearance at the Guards camp, and issued reward orders on the spot to those warriors who had made meritorious service in the battle to annihilate the Babaya pirates. All members of the 1st Squadron received the Corps' highest honors. Trinville's military exploits were particularly outstanding, and he was promoted to one of the six team captains as he wished, so he was naturally overjoyed.
Although military honors reminded them of similarly heroic and sacrificial soldiers, they would never see this day again. However, victory has become history, but the Guards need to move forward forever. They temporarily forgot the sadness in their hearts and accepted it happily.
However, there was one person whose name was not even mentioned in the entire reward order. The soldiers of the First Squadron were all unhappy with their captain. However, as long as Grein took it calmly, the soldiers would stop talking even though they were whispering to each other.
Finally, the king personally congratulated the commander of the Guards. He said: "The commander of the Mars Army planned strategies, defeated the enemy, killed the enemy on the battlefield, personally used bows and arrows, gave the enemy chiefs their heads, and established the Guards Army with unparalleled achievements. The holy city was moved, the alliance congratulated, and the mountains looked up. , all the people jumped for joy, this is the greatest achievement since the founding of the country."
The mountains in the Guards camp shouted long live, and the ground shook.
He stepped forward and hugged Prince Mars warmly. "My son, I'm so proud of you."
Prince Mars held his sword in his hand and looked full of energy. The cheers of the soldiers echoed through the sky. Glenn also nodded secretly.
