I Don’t Need a Guillotine for My Revolution - Chapter 53: Revolutionary Period - The Pledge

Translated by – Mara Sov

༺ Revolutionary Period – The Pledge  ༻

Germania’s Empire Headquarters.

Following Wilhelmina’s grand magic, the elite mages accompanying her collapsed, their mana depleted.

Some reacted even more strongly, by emptying their stomach contents until they blacked out.

“Fufufu-. Splendid! My masterpiece! To think I’d be able to witness this miracle with my eyes-! Ahhh~! I’d love to see the faces of those stuck-up fools from the Magic Kingdom if they also bore witness to my baby!”

Despite her pale face and trembling body, Wilhelmina continued to smoke on her pipe, admiring the natural disaster she had just unleashed.

The Grand Duke, however, was flabbergasted.

“Was it really necessary to reveal such crucial magic when the enemy was retreating?”

For a man like Leopold, this was beyond the realm of what he perceived as ‘magic’.

Should he try to categorize this, then the disaster unleashed today could only be called a ‘miracle’.

But, was it wise to use such powerful magic, capable of granting certain victory over an entire army, against a retreating enemy?

Truthfully, Leopold himself was amazed to witness the ‘Saintess’ of Francia block all attacks from the Imperial Mages, but even for a man ignorant of magic like him, it was clear to see that she was already well past her limits once they began their retreat.

Furthermore, any pursuit became almost impossible due to the Witch turning the plains into a muddy swamp.

From a tactical standpoint, the Witch of the Storm’s attack was utterly pointless.

But Wilhelmina continued to smoke her pipe as if mocking the Grand Duke.

“Tell me, Grand Duke, do you know how many magic crystals were used to amplify this magic?”

A man like him would never be able to know, nor would he care about such exoteric things.

The Grand Duke’s expression was telling as Wilhelmina chuckled as she continued.

“The cost of those crystals is probably more than the Empire’s annual revenue.”

The Grand Duke’s mouth split open. His jaw crashed into the dirt.

“Fufufufu-! Now that’s a good face you have there!”

While the Grand Duke’s face soured, the Witch continued to crackle.

“I didn’t expect their retreat so soon, alas, I’ve spent a fortune on this so I couldn’t let it go to waste, you know? Once a mage starts casting his magnum opus, he must see it through!”

“F-Frau Wilhelmina Von Weinfeld! Those crystals….How many are left?”

“Hmmm, enough for one more use I wager. My cute little minions will need some days of rest though.”

At this point, the Grand Duke was ready to blow a gasket.

“Then that’s all the more reason for you to consult with me before unleashing that absurdity! You just burned a guaranteed win for us! Not to even speak about the costs of this useless demonstration!”

But of course, Wilhelmina couldn’t care less about his arguments.

“I think you’re misunderstanding something, Grand Duke. I’m not your subordinate, but a sage under contract by the Empire. And the Empire in question promised such wonderful research funds! They even gave me the perfect opportunity to enhance my reputation on this little battlefield. And how I choose to spread my name is none of your concern, is it?”

The old Witch chuckled at the Grand Duke’s expression.

“If I use all my resources here and the Empire still needs my assistance, then they will buy more, with the treasury’s funds of course.”

Having said her piece, Wilhelmina turned her gaze back to the catastrophe she had conjured up and began to smoke leisurely as if she was done saying all there was to say.

The mages of Holland were such outdated creatures, wasting their entire lives inside their decrepit spires, clinging to their own research instead of actually using the power they’ve acquired. Indeed, it was a common belief for them to consider foolishness the demonstration of magic to those whom they considered ‘ignorant barbarians’.

However, Wilhelmina had a different opinion.

What was the use of having such grand magic, if one never used it?

Because they didn’t even realize the power resting at the tip of their fingers that those ‘ignorant barbarians’ dare to think all humans are born equal.

Those fools who can’t understand the depth of the truth, the overwhelming difference between their existences, these displays of power were the only language those fools would ever understand.

Regardless of the outcome of this war, the grand magic conjured today will engrave her name in the annals of history.

Even those hardheaded scholars of the Mage Kingdom who preached their ‘oh-so-great neutrality’ would be forced to change their minds after witnessing this.

Indeed, for Wilhelmina, the decision to leave that boring place and join the Empire was a good one.

But as of now, it seems as if only Wilhelmina herself felt this way.

‘These godforsaken mages.’

The Grand Duke clicked his tongue and turned away, only to be confronted with a most unwelcome figure.

“Ah, the might of the Germania Empire is boundless! This King is amazed by such a grand display! With this, victory is within our grasp!”

“Indeed, Your Majesty! With the Hero of the Empire and a Sage who can stand in our way? No one, I say!”

The Grand Duke fought the urge to slap his forehead as he heard the spiel from King Louis and Duke Lorenne.

And of course, since Wilhelmina was busy appreciating the havoc she caused, the Grand Duke was condemned to deal with those buffoons on his own.

–

Reims Fort – Republic Headquarters.

Because of the retreat, and the loss of Vauquois, the morale in the army was nonexistent.

Casualties numbered roughly a thousand.

Considering the damage inflicted on the Imperial Forces by our artillery and Valliant’s infantry, we may have lost some territory, but it wasn’t a total defeat.

Ironically, any attempted pursuit from the Germania Empire was halted thanks to the muddy terrain resulting from the Witch of the Storm’s spell.

However, even if our engagement wasn’t a total loss, as we inflicted some damage to the Empire, the soldier’s morale crashed under the unnatural display of power from the Witch of the Stor; such magic was no different than a natural disaster.

Amid this gloomy atmosphere, the Northern Chief-of-Staff, Alexandre Berthier spoke up.

“Let’s go through the confirmed facts.”

Berthier raised his index finger.

“First. We can assume that this ‘Grand Magic’ used by the Witch of the Storm requires expansive materials.”

When the Witch of the Storm began casting the magic, every Knight and mage – if our mages could even be called that – on the battlefield felt an electrifying sensation through their bodies.

According to Christine, who confirmed this information with the Mage Kingdom, this is a phenomenon that can occur when multiple mana crystals are used in a small area.

And the price for these mana crystals used to amplify a spell is astronomically high.

“So we can assume that they won’t be casting this magic indiscriminately. However, this is merely the best-case scenario. Still, the fact that this magic has a long cast time is also good for us.”

Berthier then raised his middle finger.

“Second. It took roughly three hours from the start of the spell to the manifestation of the storm. Judging from the fact those mages were also helping and the gigantic magic circle, it’s reasonable to assume that she can’t move while casting.”

Finally, Berthier raised his ring finger.

“Third. Based on my talks with the Marquis and other mages. A sage should be able to use the mana of this spell to also protect her body. This will slow the casting time, but it will also make it difficult to take her down with artillery fire.”

So, to summarize.

The magic is not discreet at all, costs a fortune, and takes about 3 hours to cast, but we cannot stop it with our cannons.

“Once the magic is cast, a thunderstorm and pouring rain will come. The initial downpour will render our gunpowder weapons useless, therefore, even if we disregard the lightning, should this magic come to fruition it will be our loss.”

Whispers echoed in the meeting.

“Damn, how do we even fight something like that?” said the brash Jerome Morelle.

“Give me the order, sir! My unit is not afraid of taking this mission!” remarked the passionate Nicolas Nera.

“The current morale is concerning. This magic has crushed the soldiers’ will to fight……” pointed the prudent Louis Desaux, while Sir Gaston, the ever-serious Knight kept silent by his side.

“……They wouldn’t accept a truce, would they?”

The last to speak, Damien De Millbeau cowered under the scathing gazes of those present.

After a moment of silence, Valliant opened his mouth.

“That woman just messed up the sacred place a battlefield is! War is the time for men to show off their tactics, not this cowardly magic!”

Even our greatest strategist couldn’t help but express his…anger?

After some thought an idea came to mind.

“If our Knights can launch a surprise attack when she begins casting her magic, we could deal with the Witch…Somehow…”

But Valliant shook his head.

“Our opponent is the Grand Duke. As long as his hussars are acting as scouts, there’s no way we can surprise the enemy. You are well acquainted in countering a Knight Charge, aren’t you, General Lafayette?”

With a bitter smile, I recalled the way I dealt with the Duke of Bretagne and his Knights.

If I could do that, then the Grand Duke would be capable of something even more terrifying.

In the silence that followed, Valliant raised his head.

“……In the end, the only chance we have is for the Knights to deal with the Witch.”

“Is that even possible, General?”

Valliant sighed at the question of his aide, Berthier, before replying.

“It won’t be easy. But we have no other alternative. If we retreat now, they will have Reims, and then….The capital will be within their reach. And what will we do if that woman uses her magic in the Capital? Do we abandon the Capital as well?”

“Didn’t you just say that any surprise attack by the Knights would fail?”

Valliant contemplated over my question, and only after a long period did he look at me and say,

“We won’t be trying a surprise attack. Instead, we will attempt a frontal assault. They won’t risk bombarding us with their troops in the midst.”

“A frontal assault, huh? The Grand Duke is no fool, he will position some heavy guards for the Witch. Besides, is it even possible to break through his lines and reach the Witch in less than three hours?”

The only one who could attempt this feat was the ‘Blue Knight’, but that’s because King Louis was also an incompetent trash.

“……I have a plan. I really, really hate relying on this as a tactician, but we do have a trump card they can’t remove. Once we make an opening for our Knights, they will lead, followed by a complete offensive with all forces.”

Our trump card, he could be referring to our Knights, who are of a higher skill than normal, or the cavalry who have some Knightly training.

Or….He could be referring to Eris.

“Regardless of how many reserve troops we have, or what we could save, the moment the Witch of the Storms completes her magic, it’s over for us. Total loss. So we have no other choice but to bet our everything in this battle.”

Desaux, who had been listening, spoke up.

“That’s all good, but do you think the soldiers will follow such a desperate plan after what they have seen?”

Honestly, I’m also concerned about that. After all, who in their right mind would charge into the enemy lines knowing they could die the very moment the Witch’s magic was done?

Even the seasoned Knights present looked reluctant, and I could count it as a win if they didn’t outright desert.

Valliant then looked at me with a grave expression as he opened his mouth.

“That’s why we need someone to set an example and lead the charge into the enemy lines. Someone that all soldiers respect and are willing to follow. Someone with enough strength and charisma.”

–

Inside a tent where the sun didn’t reach.

The darkness meant to envelop the place was being driven back by a soft golden light.

I watched as Eris poured her blessings into an arrow.

The same trump card used to kill the Royal Guard Commander – Stephane D’Artagnan.

Her Divine Power infused in this arrow, alongside my mana, would allow the arrow to pierce any magic barriers with ease.

However, I’m still doubtful about this plan.

-Honestly, If you and your Knights were to refuse this plan, I wouldn’t blame you. I would take this burden if I could, but someone needs to command our troops from the rear. And besides, my presence in the frontlines will only be a hindrance.

While Damien and my Knights protested this plan, since we were being sent into an actual suicide mission, Valliant’s words continued to echo in my ears.

-However, if we lose this battle, we are all doomed anyway. This might be difficult to understand but, whether we die here, or get executed by King Louis later, it’s all the same, isn’t it?

He’s not wrong.

But does this even justify leading my men into certain death?

“Marquis.”

Eris looked at me as she spoke.

“What?”

“……Are you still doubtful?”

“Yes.”

Before this battle, my path was clear.

Since we had become irreconcilable enemies of King Louis, and siding with foreign powers would only result in a purge, my reasons to side with the Republic and defend this land were evident.

Because I wanted to survive. I wanted a better future for my people.

But what if that was impossible?

Would Francia survive after my death?

If the Country’s collapse is certain, shouldn’t I take Christine and flee to somewhere safe?

We had enough money. Should we seek asylum in the Holy Theocracy, even King Louis or the Germania Empire wouldn’t be able to do a thing against us.

……But I won’t be able to save everyone I cherish.

I looked into those mesmerizing purple orbs illuminated by a soft golden glow.

Eris became a Saint because she trusted me, and she would never choose to forsake the people of this land and flee.

Even if I give up on this country, people like Baron Domont, the people of Toulouse….they would never abandon their roots.

Like Count Lionel who chose death over giving up his family’s honor.

After forcing my people to shed blood for the Republic, how could I turn my back towards them now?

I clenched my fists as I remembered the words I once said to someone.

-If Your Excellency falls short, I guarantee that it will be me who the people think of when they hear the name ‘Lafayette’ and not the supposedly great ‘Blue Knight’

The words I once said to my father, the ‘Blue Knight’ as he left for his last battle have become chains shackling my being.

But for some reason, no matter how much I resolve myself……The memory of holding Christine’s bloodied form….her pale skin…her cold body…it doesn’t leave my mind.

I wonder what she would say to me now……What would she do if she knew I was leading the charge into the enemy lines?

Should I wager both my life and the lives of my men in this desperate plan?

Gritting my teeth, I slowly went closer to Eris.

“Eri-No. Your Majesty. My one and only liege.”

Eris flinched, but she soon nodded her head.

“Is there any value, any meaning of me and mine risking our lives to protect this land?”

When I declared I would fight for this country no longer after Christine was attacked, I remember seeing Eris’s sorrowful expression.

Now, she looked like a person about to be crushed by a heavy burden.

“I…I don’t know. I’m not a Queen, not right now. So I have no way of knowing. But to me, this land…The people who live here, I…I should, I have to protect them. And yet…”

Eris hesitated before bowing her head to me.

“Still, I beg you. Please lend your strength to protect the people of this land. For I’ll offer my all as well.”

“……Your all?”

“Yes, whatever it takes.”

That was the resolve of a girl who disliked violence and only wished to do good for the people.

Yet, for those I care, for Christine’s sake….I would make even this Saint, no, this innocent girl stain her hands with blood.

“Please think this through, Your Highness. What we are about to do may not save anyone. It could very well be our doom. And now, I’m asking you to accompany me to this hell.”

Eris shut her trembling eyes as she bit her lip hard enough to bleed.

After a long minute, she opened her eyes. Now those purple orbs held a steel-like resolve within them.

“Do you remember what you said to me in Lionel County, Marquis?”

-There’s nothing wrong with a Saint wanting to save lives. It’s those who have to choose who lives and who dies who bear the burden……So leave that weight to me.

I recalled those words as I nodded my head.

“…I do.”

“Did you know? Those words were comforting to me….But after a time, when I reflected some more, I felt pathetic.”

Eris smiled.

“After all this time saying I care for this country, saying I wish to save the people of this land, I never once took upon myself to see this done. Deep down, I never wanted this responsibility, this burden. That’s why I always asked for your help, Marquis. And when you said I must become the Queen for this country’s sake, I believed, after all, the Marquis said so, so it must be true.”

I was the one who forced such a burden onto her.

“But that was wrong. The reason this nation has become like this is ultimately because those who were destined for the throne didn’t want to take the proper responsibility for it. I relied on you, Marquis all too readily, believing you would guide me on the correct path……Until you grew weary and disillusioned with this country.”

That fragile smile on Eris’ lips faded, replaced by a regal and royal composure.

“If we fall here, the only thing awaiting my subjects is more oppression and humiliation.”

Her purple eyes shone with her resolve.

“As a princess of this nation, I trust my subjects, I trust you, Marquis, and I shall stake everything on it. No matter the cost. No matter the sacrifices I must make. I don’t care if this body crumbles but hear my pledge. I will lead you to victory.”

The forgotten princess. The frail girl of humble birth. Now that same person held an unstoppable resolve that none of the previous Royals of this country had.

It was both something to admire and to disdain…

“That’s why Marquis, if you cannot trust this nation anymore……Then trust me.”

I knelt on one knee before Eris.

Then, I slowly seized her hand and kissed the back of it.

When I couldn’t find the resolve to make a decision, this girl, challenged her own beliefs and as my Liege, chose for me.

“If that is your will, then this servant will stand by your side on the battlefield.”

For a Saint who was willing to stain her hands with blood for the sake of this land, I would offer my unwavering loyalty and put my fate in her hands.

“I swear on my sword. I shall deliver you a certain victory.”

Author’s note.

You might wonder how a Revolution could happen when there are mages walking around, well it was never made public. The event of a Sage-level mage from Holland taking to the battlefield is something extremely unusual, something that hasn’t occurred in hundreds of years.

On the Imperial Mages of Germania. They are a unit created by pouring countless national resources into it out of desperation after the Empire’s defeat against Francia and Kraft. So this unit’s first debut happened now, that’s why it had no influence on the Revolutionary movement going on in Francia.

TL Note: She will never be found.

***

https://ko-fi.com/genesisforsaken