(Third-person perspective)
Now that Rep and his companions are free, the conflict situation in the Three Sisters has changed dramatically. These powerful allies have effectively cut off the Three Sisters ' supply and reinforcement lines. Any ship that dares to approach the islands will be met with a relentless and uncompromising blockade. Under Rep's leadership, the aquatic creatures have sprung into action, preventing any ships from reaching the blockaded Longsister.
In this coordinated operation, Po and Erebus played a crucial role in maintaining the effectiveness of the blockade. Their aerial reconnaissance ensured seamless coordination between the sea and air, guaranteeing that no ship could slip past Aermir's familiars.
Aermir and his confidants gathered around a large table, upon which lay a meticulously detailed map of Longsister. The map depicted the entire island, with small coordinates representing the Vale forces strategically placed on it. Each piece symbolized a detachment of soldiers, their numbers and positions clearly marked, visually illustrating the unfolding situation. Aermir had obtained real-time information about the enemy forces through his familiar.
Aermir's face was etched with calculated determination as he leaned over the large table, his eyes fixed on the small fragments of a map representing the Vale forces. This was a pivotal moment for their war council, as they sought to devise a strategy to further consolidate their control over the island.
Aermir explained, " The Vale Lords control almost all the beaches on the western side of the island, and they have sentries stationed all around."
Eddard Snow interjected. "The reason they're focusing on the west is because there are important Citadel there, making the defenses there much stronger."
A slight smile played on Aermir's lips as he continued, "Now that we have effectively weakened their naval capabilities, we will employ tactics of concealment and nighttime cover. We will land on the east coast, then use our men in the vanguard for small-scale battles and encirclements."
He turned to Harrick and ordered, "In these small skirmishes, deploy the North Lord's forces on the flanks and rear, far from the front lines, and let them enjoy their glory on empty stomachs."
A flicker of confusion crossed the faces of Aermir's advisors, prompting Jory Flint to voice their collective question, "Sir, wouldn't it be wiser to take the lead alongside them to minimize our losses?"
Aermir's answer would reveal the underlying strategy in his mind, a strategy his council had not yet fully grasped. Aermir shook his head slightly, his eyes reflecting a deep-seated determination.
"No, initially, the information won't reach the enemy's main force. I'll stop it, allowing us to engage them in small skirmishes and skirmishes. In these early battles, the Sword Saint and I should be enough to hold off their vanguard. However, as we approach their main force, continuing this approach will become increasingly challenging. By then, the North Lords will be more eager to take the vanguard position and claim a share of the spoils. They will eventually side with the Sword Saint, thus minimizing our losses."
Although the plan was logical, Jory and Harrick had an uneasy feeling, a feeling that did not escape Aermir's keen observation. He gave them a knowing smile and then asked gently, "Is there something about this plan that makes you uneasy?"
Harrick and Jory exchanged a glance, and Jory spoke first, his voice tinged with worry. "It's a good plan, sir, but... aren't they our brothers and allies?"
Aermir kept his eyes fixed on the two advisors and continued to explain his point of view.
"They are indeed our brothers, but allow me to ask a question, and please answer me honestly. Do you believe that 2,000 North can defeat 2,000 Three Sisters people?"
Jory answered confidently, his voice unwavering. "Of course, sir. On land, those pirates have no chance at all. Two thousand North could easily defeat four thousand of them."
Aermir nodded, agreeing with Jory's point of view. "On this point, I share your opinion. Now, I'll ask you another question. Do you think 2,000 North can be compared to my 2,000 soldiers?"
This question made Jory pause, causing him to hesitate. He had witnessed firsthand the rigorous training and discipline of the Aermir army. Having trained in the forge, he knew their capabilities all too well. Sensing Jory's uncertainty, Harrick interjected. "No, sir. If they are sword saints, 200 sword saints could slaughter them. Our five hundred knights alone could defeat them, and our thousand soldiers could outnumber two thousand North. Our soldiers are on a completely different level."
Aermir nodded in agreement, affirming their assessment. "That's exactly my point of view. Although they are our brothers and allies, our troops are incomparable to theirs. They are worlds apart, so I cannot compare their lives to those of my own men."
As Aermir and his fleet sailed toward Longsister, nearing the island's eastern side, his reverie was suddenly interrupted by the echo of Boer's voice reverberating in his mind.
"Father, you have been discovered by a coastal outpost."
Aermir's reaction was immediate and intense. He demanded an answer, his thoughts conveyed through their spiritual connection, filled with rage. "What! How could this be?"
Poe quickly explained the unfortunate turn of events, "They had a scout stationed on the shore, hidden in the dense canopy. He was equipped with Myr scope. Unfortunately, we failed to spot him in time; by the time we found him, he had already lit the beacon."
Aermir's frustration was palpable. He slammed his hand on the table in front of him, drawing astonished glances from those around him. Caygan, puzzled by his sudden outburst, asked, "Sir, is everything alright?"
Aermir was lost in thought, considering the situation before him. After a moment's consideration, he conveyed his plan. "Take Jilim and head to that coastal outpost. Ensure the inhabitants are under your control. You and Erebus will establish a strict blockade, preventing any birds or messengers from escaping. Once they leave the outpost's line of sight, carefully eliminate them. I want them to believe that reinforcements are on their way. How many do they have?"
Aermir's voice and his strategic instructions clearly reflected the urgency and seriousness of the situation. After circling the cabin and peering through the windows, Bo spoke.
"Approximately 500 people."
Aermir turned to Caygan and said.
"Turn the boat around. We're going to land on the first beach. We've been spotted."