Trench Bolts and Magic

Chapter 198 Pack 200 roasted pork knuckles for me.

The expressions on Billow and Ludendorff's faces froze once again.

Meanwhile, Morin continued speaking:
"On the first day I realized something was wrong, I sent a messenger back, and he sent me a field artillery battalion. For the next two days, I didn't receive any other support."

"Send me a battalion to take on an army group? Fine! Even if Charleroi can only deploy a division at most, that's still a force difference of more than 1:10!"

"Generals, have you two lost your minds?"

Morin's barrage of questions rained down on the two generals like a storm.

He was practically pointing his finger at my face and cursing me.

So this time, they could no longer maintain their composure and calmness.

General Bilo's face turned pale and then red, his lips moved but he couldn't utter a single word.

Finally, he could only turn to Ludendorff beside him for help.

Ludendorff felt a cold sweat on his head; he felt incredibly stifled in his role as deputy chief of staff of the army group.

He took a deep breath, and after a long while, frowned and spread his hands with some excitement:
"Charleroi keeps calling me to provide support, but how am I supposed to go? The main force of the Second Army wants my battle group to hold off the Fifth Infantry Division of the United Kingdom of Flanders, and they also have stragglers attacking our battle group."

"The army group already didn't allocate many trucks to our combat group, and I also have to use them to haul supplies from Liege. There's really no room left for more mobile forces to transport troops!"

"If the support troops are sent on foot, their arrival time will be about the same as the two infantry battalions that arrived last night!"

Listening to Ludendorff's 'nonsense,' which indeed seemed to come from the bottom of his heart, Morin remained silent.

He knew that what Ludendorff said was probably mostly true.

The deployment of the Second Army Group did not go smoothly. Its main force was tied up by the Namur Fortress Complex, which resulted in the entire battle line being stretched too long and the troops being dispersed.

As a forward mobile force, the Ludendorf battle group faced immense pressure as it had to both block the enemy and protect its flanks and logistical lines.

With limited manpower and transportation, even if there's a slight reason for his actions.
However, understanding is one thing, accepting it is another.

"General, I understand your difficulties."

Morin's voice softened somewhat, but it still carried a hint of coldness.

“However, this is not a reason for you to put my troops to death.”

"You said you didn't have trucks to transport troops, so why was it that when I sent a convoy, you were able to immediately load it with two battalions of reinforcements and double the amount of ammunition?"

"You see, there are always more solutions than problems, aren't there? The key is whether you are willing to think of a solution and whether you are willing to pay the price for it."

Ludendorff opened his mouth, but for a moment he didn't know what to say.

Yes, why is it that as soon as Morin's convoy arrives, he can conjure up reinforcements and ammunition?
Because Morin made it very clear in his letter that if they didn't receive support, the training assault battalion would be wiped out.

He was cornered and had no choice but to squeeze out some of his already meager troops and supplies.

Ultimately, it all comes down to a matter of priorities.

Even though he had realized the value of training the assault battalion during the previous battles, as Morin said, his mindset hadn't quite shifted yet.

Therefore, the priority of training assault battalions has not yet been raised in the battle.

"Alright, alright, all of you, shut up!"

Seeing that the atmosphere was getting a bit tense again, General Bilo quickly stepped in to smooth things over.

He stepped between the two men and separated them.

“Ludendorff, your command certainly has its flaws. Captain Morin, please be understanding. The situation on the front lines is complex, and no one can guarantee that every decision is 100% correct.”

He first gave both sides equal blame, then changed the subject and spoke sincerely to Morin:
"Captain Morin, our Second Army Command does indeed bear responsibility for this incident."

Then, General Bilo said a lot of nice things, completely lacking the demeanor of the commander-in-chief of the Second Army.

However, Maureen also knew when to stop while she was ahead.

My goal wasn't really to break ties with these two big shots.

Instead, we must strive to ensure that the training commando battalion receives the treatment and respect it deserves, so as to prevent similar situations from happening again in the future.

Now that the anger has been vented, the reasoning has been explained, and the two generals have 'realized their mistakes,' it's time to get down to business.

Morin's tone softened somewhat as he began to speak:
"Generals, I do understand the meaning of 'with great power comes great responsibility.' The combat effectiveness of the training assault battalion is evident, so it's understandable that they undertake some challenging combat missions."

He paused, then changed the subject, his expression turning serious again.

"However, in order to avoid similar tragedies from happening again, I think it is necessary for us to reach some consensus on the correct way to use the assault battalion."

Bilo and Ludendorff exchanged a glance, both seeing a hint of helplessness in each other's eyes.

They knew that this kid wouldn't give up until he got what he wanted today.

“Well, Captain Morin, just say what you have to say,” General Bilo gestured for him to speak.

"it is good."

Without any hesitation, Morin began the lesson right in front of the two generals.

"First of all, what is the role of the training assault battalion? It is a 'training' unit and an 'assault' unit!"

"Our mission is to test and improve new tactics and equipment in war, and to pave the way for the modernization reform of the entire army!"

"Our core value lies in 'assault,' in using our powerful firepower and mobility like a sharp knife to tear through the enemy's defenses and carry out key missions such as infiltration and attack!"

"Instead of being treated like ordinary line-filling infantrymen and left to hold one place to the death, as we have done this time, that would be the biggest waste of our time!"

Morin's voice was strong and resonant, echoing in the tent.

“Every soldier in the assault battalion is a treasure! They have all received the most rigorous training, mastered the most advanced tactical concepts, and are the seeds of the future Saxon army! To waste them in meaningless positional warfare is a crime!”

Billow and Ludendorff listened silently, their expressions complex.

They had to admit that Maureen was right.

That was indeed the original intention behind the establishment of the training assault battalion.

However, in actual warfare, it is foreseeable that due to their powerful combat capabilities, they are often subconsciously used as a 'fire brigade', ignoring their true strategic value.

Morin looked at the two generals and began to state his demands.

"Therefore, I hope that in the upcoming battles, the command can clearly teach the assault battalion the principles of use."

"First, we must be given enough time to rest! My troops have just gone through a fierce battle, and the soldiers are exhausted both physically and mentally, suffering heavy casualties. I hope to be given at least two days of rest, during which time we can replenish our weapons and ammunition and our manpower!"

Bilo and Ludendorff exchanged a glance and nodded.

This request is reasonable, and they have no reason to refuse.

"can."

General Bilo immediately agreed:

"I will immediately order the logistics department to prioritize meeting all your needs."

"Thank you General!"

Morin nodded and continued:
"Secondly, regarding the nature of the mission, the training assault battalion can continue to undertake high-risk assault missions similar to this 'key location capture'! However, there is a prerequisite!"

He held out two fingers.

"During the mission planning phase, the army group command must allocate and reinforce a portion of our regular troops in advance, based on the specific circumstances of the objective."

"These troops will be under the unified command of the training assault battalion. Their main task is to take over the defense and consolidate the position after we capture the target area, thus freeing us from the heavy defensive tasks!"

"We are the spearhead, not the shield! We are only responsible for stabbing in, not standing still and taking hits!"

This request is actually a bit excessive.

In the rigidly hierarchical Saxon army, it was unprecedented to allow a captain to command other battalion-level or even regimental-level units.

Ludendorff frowned again; he was starting to worry once more that Morin was getting a little too cocky.

Unexpectedly, General Bilo pondered for a moment, then slowly nodded.

"This request, while unconventional, is reasonable from a tactical perspective."

The veteran finally made his decision: "I agree in principle. We can discuss the specific operational details later."

He knew very well that the value of the training assault battalion had been fully demonstrated after the Battle of Charleroi.

Trading casualties in conventional troops for the preservation of the combat effectiveness of this elite force is a worthwhile trade-off no matter how you look at it.

He also wanted to see what kind of brilliant battles this young captain, who always brought him 'surprises,' could fight when commanding a larger force.

Morin breathed a sigh of relief when he saw that Bilo had agreed.

He knew the hardest part was over. “Third,” he continued, “the issue of fire support.”

"I hope that the 77mm field artillery battalion that was temporarily reinforced for us and stationed outside the northern city of Charleroi will be officially placed under the command of my training assault battalion! We need an artillery force that can provide us with direct fire support at any time!"

"no problem."

General Bilo readily agreed this time; it was just a field artillery battalion, so he gave it to him without hesitation.

In addition, Morin made one last request.

It is essential to publicize the Battle of Charleroi, emphasizing how the training assault battalion held firm in the city despite being outnumbered and outgunned.

They also applied for military merit for the soldiers of the training assault battalion and made proper arrangements for the families of the fallen soldiers.

This request seemed rather strange to Billow and Ludendorff.

After all, even without Morin's reminder, the Second Army would definitely have done a lot of publicity, as this was a battle that would greatly boost morale.

Therefore, Bilo and Ludendorff naturally did not refuse the request and said they would relay the message back to the rear as quickly as possible.

After the battles of Liège and Charleroi, they had a clear understanding that the combat effectiveness of the training assault battalions was far superior to that of ordinary troops.

"do not worry."

Finally, General Bilo solemnly spoke:
"I assure you, with the honor of a General in the Saxon Army, that I will do everything you just said!"

"All the warriors who sacrificed their lives in the Battle of Charleroi will receive the highest level of compensation from the Empire! Their names will be forever engraved on the Saxon Wall of Honor!"

"I will also personally petition the General Staff and His Majesty for commendation for you and your training assault battalion!"

With both sides reaching a consensus, the tense atmosphere in the command tent gradually dissipated.

General Bilo's smile became much more genuine, and his gaze towards Morin was no longer merely that of a rebellious subordinate, but rather held a heartfelt appreciation.

Although this young captain was a bit of a troublemaker, he was brave, resourceful, and daring, and his professional skills were extremely strong.

More importantly, he is an officer who has received much attention and is under the special care of His Highness the Crown Prince, and his future prospects are limitless.

Just then, the adjutant who had left earlier walked in 'perfectly' carrying a huge plate of food.

"General, Captain Morin's dinner is ready."

The adjutant carefully placed the plate on the table in front of Morin.

On the plate was a generous portion of Saxon roasted pork knuckle, its skin roasted to a golden brown and crispy, still sizzling with oil, accompanied by a large portion of sauerkraut and mashed potatoes, the aroma of which was irresistible.

Morin hasn't been eating well these days and doesn't have much of an appetite.

Before, I was holding my breath and wrestling with two big shots, but now that the deal is done, I can relax and my stomach immediately started growling.

He didn't bother with formalities, picked up his knife and fork, and started eating the huge roasted pork knuckle.

In no time at all, he devoured the entire roasted pork knuckle, skin and all, along with the pickled cabbage, leaving nothing behind.

Finally, he even picked up the plate and ate all the mashed potatoes mixed with the meat juices and sauerkraut soup, leaving nothing behind.

The way they ate left Bilo, Ludendorff, and the adjutant standing nearby speechless.

Can you really eat that much?

Maureen put down the plate, let out a satisfied sigh, and wiped her mouth with a napkin.

I have to say, the feeling of being full and satisfied is just so great.

He then stood up, preparing to take his leave.

Before leaving, he glanced at the adjutant who was clearing away the dishes and suddenly grinned.

"Sir,"

He walked up to the other person and said in a very sincere tone:

"Please tell your cook that the roasted pork knuckle at the army group headquarters is really delicious; it's the best I've ever had."

The adjutant was taken aback by his sudden praise and instinctively replied:
"Oh, really? I'm glad you like it."

"I like it. I like it very much."

Morin nodded repeatedly, then changed the subject, revealing a fox-like expression on his face.

"So, could you please pack another two hundred for me? I'll take them back and improve the meals for the brothers in our camp. They haven't had a proper hot meal in days."

"How much more?" The adjutant wondered if he had misheard.

“Two hundred,” Morin repeated, his tone as casual as if he were saying, “Give me two beers.”

"puff--"

Ludendorff spat out the mouthful of coffee he had just taken a sip of.

General Bilo's eye twitched, and he almost slipped off his chair.

The adjutant was completely dumbfounded.

What the hell?
Two hundred roasted pork knuckles?

What a joke!
This isn't just two hundred potatoes! The officers' mess at the army group headquarters only have a limited supply of roasted pork knuckles each day.

Let alone two hundred, even if it were just twenty, he would have to spend half a day arguing with the logistics officer.

If two hundred of these were actually sent to the training assault battalion, he could guarantee that for the next week, the entire Second Army Group, from generals to staff officers, would never see roasted pork knuckle on their tables again.

If this gets out, he, the adjutant in charge of logistics, will be killed by the officers' glares.
The adjutant looked at General Bilo for help, his eyes seeming to say, "General, help me! I really can't do this!"

General Bilo was at a loss for words, both amused and exasperated.

Looking at Morin's nonchalant expression that said, "It's only natural for me to ask for some benefits for my soldiers," he felt both annoyed and amused.

That kid, he really knows how to take advantage of people! I just gave him a little kindness, and he's already trying to take advantage of me!

However, upon further reflection, he realized that he really couldn't refuse this offer.

They had just used the enemy's troops as cannon fodder, almost causing their entire army to be wiped out.

Now that they've won a battle and are just asking for some food, it would be unreasonable for us not to even meet that simple request.

If this gets back to His Highness the Crown Prince's ears, let alone two hundred pork knuckles, he'll probably have to build a pigsty for them.

General Bilo cleared his throat and glared at the adjutant who was still in a daze.

"What are you looking at me for? Get back to getting ready!"

He waved his hand dismissively, "Captain Morin's request? Don't say two hundred, even if it's three hundred, you'd better get them for me!"

"Ah? Yes! Yes! General!"

After receiving General Bilo's approval, the adjutant felt as if he had been granted a pardon, and then, clutching the plate, ran out of the tent as if fleeing.

Bilo watched his adjutant's disheveled figure, shook his head helplessly, then turned to Morin and said, half-jokingly and half-seriously:

"You little rascal, you really know how to cause me trouble. Let me tell you, if you tell His Highness the Crown Prince that I wouldn't even give you a roasted pork knuckle, he'll come all the way back from the Fifth Army's front lines and chop me up with his saber."

Upon hearing this, Morin burst into laughter.

He knew that Bilo was joking with him, and also indirectly telling him—

Let's leave it at that and not escalate it any further.

"How could that be? General, you've been so kind to me, I'm more than grateful."

Morin smiled, straightened up, and gave the two generals a solemn military salute.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Generals! I won't disturb your command any longer. Farewell!"

After saying that, he turned around and left the command tent with light steps.

Watching Morin's departing figure, Ludendorff finally snapped out of his shock.

He stared at the plate on the table, which had been licked clean, and couldn't help but mutter to himself:

"This guy doesn't look fat, how come he can eat so much?"

General Bilo remained silent, staring blankly at the direction of the tent entrance, his eyes somewhat dazed.

After a long while, he slowly spoke, his voice carrying a hint of inexplicable emotion.

"As long as we can win the battle, let alone two hundred roasted pork knuckles, I'll find a way to pluck the stars from the sky for him."

(End of this chapter)