Naval Development

Karl's words shifted naturally from adjustments to the army's defenses to another strategic shortcoming that Operation Hannibal had laid bare—one that concerned Carnford's future survival: the navy.

He leaned forward slightly, his fingers tapping unconsciously on the tabletop, his gaze sweeping over everyone present before finally landing on the azure stretch of sea on the map.

In a steady voice, he said, "Gentlemen, the success of Operation Hannibal depended not only on the soldiers fighting with their lives on land, but even more on the fleet's bloody struggle at sea and its precise reception!"

"This operation has made us clearly realize that without a powerful navy, Carnford is like an eagle with broken wings. Not only are we unable to effectively support our allies and protect our sea routes, we may not even be able to defend our own coastline! This time, the Sauron were weak at sea, and that was our good fortune—but there must never be a second time!"

He looked around the room, his tone turning firm as iron. "Therefore, we must immediately begin expanding the navy on a large scale! The era of being satisfied with a few Cogs and Caravels for coastal patrols and trade escorts is over!"

"What we need are true gunships—warships capable of blue-water combat, carrying heavy cannon, and standing unmoved even in storms! We need a fleet capable of fighting for command of the sea!"

Edgar, the steward of internal affairs, immediately picked up the thread. He had clearly done his homework long ago. "My lord, regarding our shipbuilding capacity, this subordinate has already verified matters with the Grimm Merchant Guild and the Shipwrights Guild we newly received."

"The addition of the craftsmen from the Iron Islands has greatly strengthened us. After their assessment, they believe that with the number of