Compared to Vofors, the intensity of training conducted in Mezorin isn't that harsh. The kingdom is located right next to Ryntum. Military-wise, Naharog always imitates its neighbour at every single turn and follows closely behind. In addition, their proficiency in using firearms is far higher than Vofors.
Nonetheless, they are still lacking by Ryntum standards.
To increase Naharog's army professionalism, he purposely sent Ryntum Chief of the Army, Bain Lawrence to oversee the training process. He was a common-born seasoned soldier who fought alongside his late father during the war against the Gyalcakes and Naharog in the past. Aside from his experience, another reason he was chosen is because of his age. Bain is in his mid-thirties, an age where he's matured in thinking and conduct while at the same time retaining a flexible mind to adapt to new technology and tactics.
To Riz, appointing an old man as the head of the army is not appealing. Older folks find it difficult to adopt new ideas or technologies and prefer traditional methods.
Bain will act as a liaison between the two countries and sending him to Mezorin is also a symbol of the close relationship they had.
The reason why Riz cares so much about Naharog is because of the kingdom's location. Naharog is akin to a ribcage in the human body, protecting all the vital organs like the lungs and heart. If they fall, a wide gap would open on the east side of the kingdom where the enemy can move deep inside his territory.
Whatever it takes, Riz can't let Naharog fall so easily. The ideal situation for him is to hold the enemy within Naharog's territory, turning the entire kingdom into a battlefield. In this way, Riz can indirectly destroy his neighbour and initiate his hidden goal of annexing Naharog.
During his time at Mezorin, Bain had a relatively easy job. It only took him roughly two weeks to teach Naharog's soldiers tactics and formation.
Currently, he's standing straight on a high ground in a large open area near Lake Nevya, supervising the military parade in a line formation through a certain distance. Following his suggestion, the king permits to build a temporary training camp here. At least, the regular routines of the locals won't be hampered by the practice conducted.
Beside him was King Nelson who came to watch. Bain had contacted him beforehand to show the result of the training.
The sound of the soldiers' feet stomping the ground traverses through the area. Land animals nearby became alerted and birds suddenly fled the nest in fear of possible danger. Naharog soldiers lined up in a straight line, in three ranks, moving as one unit whilst exhibiting flawless discipline.
"I'd say you live up to your name as Ryntum Chief of Army. My soldiers' movement looks more synchronized now." Nelson praised Bain. King or not, he must show some respect to the pivotal figure of the Ryntum army.
Bain bashfully replied, "I'm simply doing my job, Your Majesty. There's not much I had to teach your soldiers in the first place. Naharog soldiers have a basic drill in their mind."
"Hahaha, good! Good! For high-rank military personnel, you are such a humble person." Nelson patted his back. He genuinely means it though.
When the defensive alliance offer came to his office, he was startled. As far as he could recall, the king of Ryntum is too stingy to be doing charity work. And as he expected, the offer didn't come for free. Naharog needs to bear the cost of material used during the training.
It does sound outrageous but the kingdom does need to revolutionize if they don't want to fall behind.
After consulting with his court, Naharog agreed to the term regardless of the strain it put on their finances. And that decision turned out to be beneficial to him.
Nelson was pleased by the result shown. However, this also means the end of the training session.
"I guess you have taught them everything, right?" Nelson solemnly asked. The past two weeks were pleasant to him getting known Bain. The Ryntum Chief of Army impresses him with his vast knowledge and unique view on future warfare. Anyone talking to him would mistake him to be a noble-born.
Once again, the king was amazed by the education quality provided at Ryntum. He made the right call by sending his children to Bideford.
"Yes, Your Majesty. I've fulfilled the part of the deal. What's left is for us to cooperate in times of emergency. It's an honour of mine to work with you." Bain replied with words of eloquent.
Nelson shrugged, "Sir Bain, why are you being so sentimental? It's not like this would be the last time we meet each other. Let's go to my palace. Although it's way past noon, my maids have prepared lunch for you."
"Then...I'll shamelessly take your offer, Your Majesty."
The two went back to the palace as Nelson refers to it. Bain wasn't sure if an extended mansion are qualified to be considered a palace. But, he'll just play along with the king and his logic. No need to purposely hurt the king's pride.
As they arrive, the food was waiting for them on the table. Bain noticed steam rises from it, indicating the food was freshly cooked.
"Please take a seat, Sir Bain," said Nelson, showing a seat on his right side to Bain.
Bain seat with his eyes glued on the food. He don't know what it is until the king told him it was called egg salad or something. Obviously, the origin of this appetizer comes from his home kingdom. Though he has never personally tried it. Frankly speaking, he doesn't quite understand why they had to separate appetizers, main course and dessert.
Bain digs in the food regardless. What else to complain about? Free food is food too.
To break the silence, Nelson begins a small talk. "So, Sir Bain, what's your plan after this? Are you returning to the capital?"
"No, I'm making a quick tour to Manfura."
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