Published: January 13, 2026
The next day, before heading into battle, His Majesty gave a speech to boost the soldiers' morale.
"Brave knights of the Kingdom!" His Majesty’s words stirred the ranks, and watching the lower-ranking soldiers gradually become more motivated, I finally understood what charisma means.
Well, it didn’t really resonate with me since I just wanted to hide away in my territory.
"By the end of today, all preparations will be complete! Elite soldiers! Today, we shall gather our strength and prepare for departure! Tomorrow, we’ll give Yelinetta a good smack across the face!"
At the very end, His Majesty deliberately used a rough and wild tone to encourage everyone, flashing a fierce grin. The soldiers responded with loud cheers. Having expanded the territory through warfare, he was clearly experienced in handling troops.
"Alright! Til, it’s your turn."
"Yes!"
At the signal, Til responded loudly and stepped forward. Behind her stood girls wearing the same maid uniforms, moving in pairs and scattering in different directions.
Along the road were the ignition stands arranged earlier, one by one being lit. The red flames illuminated the dusk-falling avenue at regular intervals, creating a somewhat magical scene.
Those who knew what was going on, like His Majesty and the nobles, watched silently, but the soldiers who hadn’t been told were visibly confused.
In the Kingdom of Scuderia, before going to war, there was a custom called the "war prayer ceremony," which involved a lavish meal. Though the methods were quite different, it seemed like part of a deployment ceremony.
However, since it was held just before battle, the usual fare was simple meals at forts or campsites, with only one cup of alcohol per person.
Since we had come all the way to Seato Village, I thought I might as well help Van-kun make some memories by cooperating with the war prayer ceremony’s meal provision. So, I personally suggested providing the food.
"...Can we really prepare enough food for tens of thousands of soldiers in such a small territory?" Jarpa asked.
I simply answered, "Leave it to me."
After all, there was an excess of demonic beast meat that had to be discarded. There was a limit to how much could be dried and stored long-term. This was a good chance to clear out the stock.
Having done this dozens of times, the barbecue preparations went smoothly. After confirming this, I gave instructions to Kamushin.
"Get the meat ready!"
"Yes!"
Like Til, Kamushin replied firmly and stepped forward. Behind him were members of the Seato Village knight order pulling carts piled high with demonic beast meat.
Carts loaded with meat hurried along both sides of the road. The soldiers’ eyes grew wide as they watched.
Once everyone was in position, meat was placed one after another on the barbecue stands, and a delicious aroma began to spread.
Not only the soldiers but even the nobles must have struggled to hold back their drooling. After all, they were grilling rare large demonic beast meat that couldn’t even be eaten in the capital city.
Furthermore, the seasoning included expensive salt and pepper, plus Van-kun’s special barbecue sauce. It was a pity that bread was served instead of rice, but with alcohol available, it was no problem. Large quantities of developing whiskey, wine, and beer were provided. There was also enough liquor supplied by Mary Trading Company and the commerce guild.
By the way, Van-kun’s barbecue sauce was made by mixing the original meat sauce with wine, garlic, apple-like fruits, black pepper, onion-like vegetables, salt, and other seasonings. I thought it had become quite a good barbecue sauce in my own way.
While everyone was captivated by the steadily progressing barbecue preparations, I received reports from Til and Kamushin that everything was ready.
"Your Majesty, preparations are complete."
When I said this, His Majesty nodded deeply and addressed everyone.
"My knights! Today’s war prayer ceremony is more special than usual! Normally, we can only distribute preserved foods, but today, Baron Van has provided rare supplies! I want you all to eat your fill!"