Knight: Becoming King of the World

Henry was already aware that his actions had alarmed the surrounding nobles and might have even gotten on Count John’s nerves.

But he didn’t care.

By the end of the first month of the new year, Henry had already finalized his administrative plans for the next six months.

Spring planting, trade, construction, defense—each was meticulously planned.

Henry ordered the introduction of a batch of new plows and harrows from Amperela. Carefully crafted by blacksmiths, these tools were more robust and durable, capable of turning the soil more effectively in preparation for sowing.

Using these new implements, farmers could complete their fieldwork faster, saving a great deal of time and labor.

The new seeds were imported from the Makabe region. They were drought-resistant, had a short growth cycle, produced a high yield, and were well-suited for the grasslands.

Henry also ordered large-scale repairs and expansions of the canals and reservoirs within his domain.

Silt was cleared and reservoirs were reinforced to ensure a stable water supply. During the dry season, the irrigation system would play a crucial role, guaranteeing that crop growth would not be affected by water shortages.

The new pastures would not only provide meat and dairy but also supply farmers with manure, improving soil fertility.

With the current agricultural and artisanal development in Westwood Laine, the domain’s environment also required new regulations for improvement.

New residences, markets, and Workshops... These facilities and buildings would provide residents with greater convenience and comfort, and thus could not be overlooked.

Westwood Laine’s two great patrons, the financiers Nasu and Buer, had begun gradually moving their industries to Westwood Laine after the New Year’s festivities.

Westwood Laine’s potential, combined with Henry’s bright future and formidable power, gave them the confidence to increase their investments.

They believed Henry’s foresight and vision would lead the domain to a glorious new height.

Therefore, they decided to increase their investments, pouring more of their businesses and resources into Westwood Laine.

In the coming year’s examination for Civil Servants, they even planned to dispatch some of their marginal family members to try and land a government post under Henry.

’So it’s true,’ Henry thought. ’The ultimate goal in life is a stable government job...’

Henry had already relayed this raft of plans to the officials of various departments. They would be responsible for their execution, making necessary adjustments and additions along the way as the situation required.

Henry stood in his study in the castle, his gaze drifting out the window to the distant, bare fields still covered in large patches of snow.

The air was starting to warm. It was no longer stifling to wear armor. ’Perfect weather for a war,’ he thought.

The moment Henry’s six companies of the New Recruit Team completed their training, the clouds of war began to gather.

A large map was spread across the table in Henry’s study. Marked on it were the fourteen Independent Knights he planned to sweep aside in the first half of the year.

"Bain, you will take four companies of the New Recruit Team, two companies of archers, and two companies of Grassland Warriors to attack Mace’s newly claimed territory. Leon, you will go as his second-in-command."

"Yes, my lord!"

After receiving their orders, Bain and Leon immediately left the study to make preparations for the campaign.

Leon was even more excited than Bain.

’I can’t believe it! After missing the chance to earn some glory putting down the rebellion on the west coast, another war has broken out right after the New Year!’

Henry had given careful thought to his decision to send Bain and Leon to take Mace’s lands.

Although Mace had been developing his territory for some time, his military strength was not formidable.

His army consisted mainly of local Militia and Mercenaries who lacked sufficient training and combat experience, and the Personal Guard unit gifted by Count John was too small to be a concern.

Nevertheless, Mace himself was a brave Warrior and could not be completely dismissed.

As the Knight’s Squire who had followed Henry the longest and fought in the most battles, Bain’s strength and experience were more than sufficient for this mission.

Bain’s Martial Arts were formidable, and his command abilities on the battlefield had earned Henry’s approval.

This independent command was both a test and an opportunity for him to prove his capabilities.

’It’s time for Bain to grow up,’ Henry mused. ’He needs the experience and capability to take charge on his own.’

Besides, the force Henry had assigned them was considerable. ’If they still manage to lose,’ he thought dryly, ’they can resign themselves to being nothing more than glorified grunts for the rest of their careers.’

This time, Leon’s role as Bain’s second-in-command was equally important. Truth be told, his courage on the battlefield wasn’t nearly as impressive as his talent for strategy and logistics management.

Before they departed, Henry summoned Bain and Leon to his study for some final words of counsel.

"Bain, Leon, this mission will be a challenge, but I trust you can accomplish it. While the enemy’s army is not a formidable opponent, you must not underestimate them." Henry’s gaze conveyed his confidence in the two men.

"My lord, rest assured, we will give it our all," Bain and Leon replied in unison.

"Remember, your mission is to conquer Mace’s territory and drive him out. Then, you are to settle the fifty tenant farmers and three hundred serfs accompanying the army there."

Bain and Leon nodded. At Henry’s command, they led the army out.

Claude stood beside Henry, watching the army recede into the distance. "Still worried, my lord?" he asked with a smile.

Henry shook his head with a smile. "It’s not that I’m worried, it’s just... well, it’s their first time."

Claude chuckled and asked, "Why not send Philip with them?"