Chapter 39: The Counterattack Plan
Kael stood at the head of a long table, the massive map of the surrounding territories spread before him. His generals were gathered around, each one studying the map intently. Ashira, Varon, Kaelen, and Lethos all knew that the time had come for Kael to lay out his next move. The Southern Warlords had tried to break through Ironhold's defenses and failed. Kael was confident in his defenses, but he knew that the enemy would not give up easily.
"The enemy is not as weak as they appear," Kael said, his voice cold and commanding. "They failed to break through our defenses, but that does not mean they won't try again. And we can't afford to wait passively for their next move. We will take the fight to them."
Ashira, ever the tactical mind, raised her hand. "My lord, if they fail to breach our walls, they may try to starve us out, or worse, cause chaos from within. Should we double down on our defense or take the fight to them immediately?"
Kael's eyes narrowed. "We cannot afford to be complacent. If they cannot breach the walls, then they will try to cause disorder. We cannot give them that chance. But I also don't want to rush into a battle that could leave us vulnerable. We will adopt a two-pronged strategy."
Varon, who had been listening intently, leaned forward. "What do you propose, my lord?"
Kael's fingers traced the map, focusing on the enemy's positions. "We will hold our position and continue reinforcing our defenses, but we will also begin preparing a force to strike at the heart of their power. We will target their command structure. The warlords are not as cohesive as they seem. They have divided interests and rivalries. If we can disrupt their coordination, we can force them into disarray."
Lethos, the ever-cautious general, spoke up. "A risky move, my lord. The enemy is formidable. Their forces are spread out, but they could still rally and counterattack."
Kael turned to him, his gaze unwavering. "I am aware. But we cannot wait around indefinitely. Every day we remain inactive, their numbers grow, and their resolve hardens. We need to strike first, before they can regroup."
Ashira nodded, her eyes alight with the thrill of battle. "We will split our forces into two groups. One will continue reinforcing the walls and preparing the defenses, while the other will form an elite strike force. This will be a hit-and-run operation. We'll aim for their leadership, creating chaos within their ranks."
Varon grinned. "I like the sound of that. We can use our cavalry to create havoc behind their lines, cutting off their communication and preventing reinforcements from reaching them."
Kaelen raised an eyebrow. "But how do we get past their main forces without risking too many lives?"
Kael smiled, a cold, calculating smile. "We won't need many. Ashira, you will lead the strike force. Take only the most elite of our soldiers—those who can move quickly and silently. We'll hit them hard and fast, targeting their leaders and disrupting their strategy. Once we've done that, we'll retreat before they can organize a full counterattack."
Ashira bowed her head. "It will be done, my lord."
Varon continued, "What about our main force? Should we begin preparations for a larger confrontation?"
Kael's gaze shifted to Varon. "Yes. While Ashira's team moves in, we will reinforce our defenses and remain ready for a full-scale conflict. If the enemy begins a full-scale siege or attempts another assault, we will be ready. Our walls are strong, and we have the resources to withstand an extended battle."
Lethos still looked skeptical. "I understand the plan, but we must not underestimate them. If the enemy rallies and strikes in full force, they may still be able to break our defenses, especially if they get desperate."
Kael nodded, acknowledging the concern. "That's why we will keep the element of surprise on our side. If they fail to breach our defenses, they will not expect a counterattack. And if they do strike, we will hit them where it hurts."
The generals fell silent for a moment, each of them contemplating the plan. Kael knew it was a bold strategy, but it was their best chance to maintain the initiative.
"Prepare your forces," Kael commanded. "The moment they make their move, we will be ready to strike back. No hesitation, no mercy. We will take Ironhold's enemies down before they can rise again."