Knight Lord: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 533 Grand Military Parade and New Map: The Five Provinces of the Border Prince's Territory

With the defeat of Litanel and the sinking of Mudcrown Castle, the will to resist in Greenmoss Marsh completely collapsed. The army of Blacksem swept through the entire territory of the Marshland with overwhelming force. The border war, which had lasted for months, finally ended in a complete victory for Blacksem.

The results of this victory are unprecedented!
In terms of military and territory, the territory of the Blacksin Territory has been greatly expanded to the west and north, and has formally annexed all the areas originally controlled by the Swamp Territory, including strategic locations such as the Green Moss Swamp, Blackwater Whirlpool, Dragon Bone Shoal, and the Pale Cave on the edge of the Twilight Mountains.

Thus, the vast lands stretching from the original borders of the Black Forest Territory to the east of the Cloud Crown Mountains were all brought under Su Li's rule, completing the de facto unification of the northern provinces of the border princely territory.

In terms of spoils and people, the ongoing battles and the final mopping-up operation brought massive spoils to the Hessen territory.

In addition to the conventional weapons, armor, and provisions salvaged from enemy corpses and abandoned camps, the wealth accumulated by Litanel and the Swamp Devils over many years was also recovered from some of the remaining underground warehouses in the Green Moss Swamp—including an astonishing amount of gold and silver coins, unpolished gems, and some magical materials containing dark energy. The tens of thousands of captured human soldiers (after screening and "purification") and civilians forced to live in the swamp greatly alleviated the sparsely populated plight of the vast Blackforest territory.

Although Project Heart of the Tide was not fully implemented as planned in its later stages due to the enemy's desperate counterattacks and tactical changes, its partial implementation, coupled with the continued pressure from the Black Forest army, had already caused irreversible changes to the ecological environment of the Green Moss Marsh. Large areas saw rising water levels and altered the terrain, making the previously perilous swamp less insurmountable. While this came at the cost of ecological destruction, it also fundamentally eliminated the potential for future enemies to exploit the area.

Inside the central command tent, Erstein and Hilde presented Suli with their final report on the battle results.

Marshal Erstein's voice boomed, brimming with the pride characteristic of a soldier: "Sir, our army has fully taken control of the newly occupied territories, and the main resistance forces have been eliminated. Preliminary statistics show that the various supplies captured in this battle are sufficient to support our army's expansion needs for the next year. We have received and captured over 40,000 people, and the area of ​​fertile arable land has increased by nearly 50%!"

Hilde's report focused more on the strategic level: "As per your orders, Litanel's head has been embalmed and will soon be sent to Maleburg along with our battle report. The division of the new territory and the initial establishment of the administrative structure have also begun to be planned. Now, our army has reached the foot of the Cloud Crown Mountains."

She paused, a hint of barely perceptible excitement in her voice: "Once we cross this last natural barrier, the golden plains to the west of the foothills will be laid out before us, and at the end of the plains... lies Maleburg."

After reporting the results of the battle, Hilde did not leave immediately. She stepped forward and offered Su Li a suggestion that demonstrated remarkable strategic insight:

"My lord, our army has just won a victory, and its morale is high. Our territory has also expanded to a new frontier. I suggest that our army hold a grand military parade on the western foothills of the Yunguan Mountains, at the edge of the Yaqi Plain."

Her gaze was sharp, and she clearly explained the pros and cons:
"The primary purpose of this move is to boost the morale of our troops, to show all soldiers the strength of the Hessen Territory today, and to let them witness firsthand the vast territory they have won through their battles. This will surely further unite the troops."

“Secondly,” she shifted her tone, pointing westward toward Maleburg, “this is also the most direct and powerful declaration to Maleburg. We want them to see with their own eyes who ended the swamp territory threat that has plagued them for years, and whose flag has now been planted on their doorstep. This is not only a display of military might, but also a declaration of sovereignty and power.”

Su Li nodded slightly, signaling her to continue.

Hilude's tone became increasingly pragmatic and firm: "Moreover, sir, this is not merely a bluff. After the parade, our army will have a real presence here. We will set up tax checkpoints and inspection posts on the main trade route to Maleburg."

She explained in detail: "From this day forward, all caravans carrying goods entering or leaving the city from the south or east of Maleburg must pay transit taxes to our Hessian territory and be subject to our inspection. This will officially declare that the area east of Maleburg is now under the jurisdiction of the Hessian territory, and its traditional sphere of influence and taxation rights have been substantially severed by us."

She paused briefly, then added a realistic consideration: "Currently, the only passage connecting the Black Mountains to the north is difficult for us to completely block due to its complex terrain, and the west passage involves complex political forces. However, controlling the passages to the east and south is enough to significantly impact the economic lifeline and the flow of goods in Maleburg, forcing them to acknowledge our presence and negotiate with us."

Upon hearing this, Su Li's eyes flashed with approval. Hilder's suggestion was farsighted, quickly translating military victory into tangible political and economic advantages. Bringing troops to the city gates was not merely a display of military might, but a means to choke the enemy.

“Excellent!” Su Li immediately decided, “Do as you say! Start preparing for the military parade immediately. We must let the people of Maleiburg see clearly that this land has changed hands. From now on, the rules here will be set by our Hessen Territory!”

With the order given, the efficient war machine of the Hessian Territory was set in motion once again.

A month later, Surrey, accompanied by Hilde, Orstein, and a squad of elite guards, ascended the last peak on the eastern side of the Cloudcrown Mountains.

As he stepped onto the rocks at the summit, his vision opened up dramatically. Below him stretched a range of undulating mountains, marked by the banners of the Black Forest, while to the west, beyond the last ridge, the vast golden plains stretched to the horizon like a giant green carpet. At the edge of his vision, on the horizon, the outline of a magnificent city was faintly visible in the dawn light; its towering towers and sturdy walls, even from this distance, exuded an aura of grandeur and the weight of time.

That is Maleburg. The jewel of the entire border princely territory, a key hub to a wider world, and the last and most fortified stronghold of the old imperial forces here.

A cold wind swept across the mountaintop, ruffling Su Li's battle robes and hair. He gazed silently at the distant city, his eyes deep and serene.

After years of hard work, accumulating wealth through farming, building up the military, engaging in diplomatic maneuvering, and waging bloody battles, he finally stood here. The banner of the Hessian Territory had been planted throughout all the land east of Maleburg.

At this moment, his military might was unstoppable.

Unifying the north was only the first step in his ambition. Next, he and his Hessian territory would face a more complex and dangerous arena—a direct confrontation with Maleburg, as well as a struggle against the empire's vast bureaucracy and potentially hostile electors.

Standing atop the Cloud Crown Mountains, feeling the power of the vast territory and elite legions behind him, Su Li was filled with unprecedented confidence.

He stretched out his hand, pointing to the distant Maleiburg, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable power:
"Look, that's our next stop."

The wheels of history turned dramatically at this moment. The northern part of the border princely territory welcomed its new master, while an even greater storm sweeping across the entire region was quietly brewing under the watchful eyes of the mountaintops.

Subsequently, on the western foothills of the Cloud Crown Mountains, along the newly demarcated border, a grand military parade, signifying the change of power and the rise of strength, officially commenced under the personal organization of the legendary Saint Lily Knight, Hilde.

On the edge of the vast Golden Plains, backed by the desolate Cloud Crown Mountains, the elite forces of the Black Forest Territory are arrayed.

As far as the eye could see, the army stood majestic and imposing, like mountains and peaks. Countless battle banners embroidered with bauhinia flowers and sword-and-hammer emblems fluttered in the wind across the open field, resembling a surging ocean of steel and fabric. The morning sun shone down, illuminating countless polished plate armors, chainmails, and knight's helmets, reflecting a continuous, dazzling golden and silver light—truly a sight to behold, armor gleaming in the sun, a spectacle of awe-inspiring grandeur!

Hilder stood proudly at the forefront of the makeshift parade platform, wearing her signature magnificent chosen armor, her scarlet robes billowing behind her.

She didn't deliberately release her pressure, but the sharp aura belonging to a legendary powerhouse naturally soared into the sky, merging with the murderous aura of the tens of thousands of troops below, forming an invincible and majestic momentum.

Even more astonishing was the intangible influence of her [Heart of the Holy Lily]. All the knights in formation, from the chosen knights at the front to the perfectly aligned ordinary knights at the rear, seemed to have an extremely faint, pure golden glow flowing over their armor. This glow wasn't dazzling, but it imbued the entire formation with an indescribable sense of resilience and holiness.

Their gazes were more resolute, their ranks more solid, as if no wavering or fear could erode this army in the slightest. This was the manifestation of the strategic blessing brought by Hilder's presence—the Oath of the Holy Lily—making the knights of Blackforest seem protected by an invisible, sacred barrier.

Su Li and Marshal Orstein stood behind Hilde, looking down at the powerful army they had built.

First to sweep across the parade ground was the Black Forest Territory's proud aerial force. Leading the charge was Lord Su Li's mount, the massive, ancient green dragon, Eliria, whose long, slender form cast an awe-inspiring shadow, exuding draconic might. Parallel beside her was the crimson dragon, Morkana, who had distinguished herself in battle; her deep red scales shimmered like burning lava in the sunlight.

Twelve dwarven Warhammer helicopters formed a disciplined formation, their rotors roaring like war drums. Following closely behind were a vast array of horse-eagle riders, agile griffin riders, nimble pegasus and giant eagle riders, and the formidable Swan Knights. Their banners, held taut at high speed, formed a magnificent, flowing curtain across the sky, a testament to the grandeur of the parade.

The arrival of the ground troops caused the earth to tremble. First to pass the reviewing stand were the heavy infantry formations; the bauhinia and mace emblems on their thick plate armor gleamed a crimson gold in the sunlight, like flowing sun and flame, symbolizing the authority and power of the Black Forest Territory. Their steps were synchronized, their shields linked, like a moving steel wall.

Then came the torrent of cavalry. Besides the well-equipped Imperial Knights and Blacksin Guard Knights, the most striking were the enormous, eagle-headed, lion-bodied, flightless half-griffin riders. These powerful hybrid beasts were clad in heavy horse armor, and the riders on their backs wielded extra-long lances. Every step they took was full of power, and their deep roars were chilling, making them an unstoppable force on the battlefield.

Next came the distinctive elite legions: the Ironbreaker Warriors, clad in heavy armor and vowing to stand firm as mountains; the Amethyst Ironclad Army, their armor gleaming with an eerie purple light and their formation meticulously arranged; and the Iron Stomach Warriors, exceptionally burly, wielding massive battle axes or warhammers, seemingly born to break through enemy lines. The phalanxes of the dwarven allies brought a sense of imposing grandeur, their neatly trimmed beards, gleaming armor, and heavy weapons slung over their shoulders earning them the respect of the spectators on the reviewing stand.

But what truly drew everyone's attention were the roaring, steel-clad war machines that stood before and behind their ranks.

First to pass were war wagon fortresses pulled by two exceptionally strong warhorses clad in heavy plate armor. These sturdy mobile fortresses resembled small wheeled bastions, their bodies constructed of thick steel plates and hardwood. Above the fortresses, a short, stubby, and deadly mortar raised its muzzle, with two experienced dwarf gunners standing at attention beside it. One was responsible for loading the cannon, while the other held a matchlock, their sharp eyes scanning the distance as if ready to unleash devastating shells at the distant enemy at any moment.

Following closely behind the war machine was an even larger artillery column. Rows of dark cannons and even larger mortars were mounted on sturdy carriages, guarded by dwarven artillery crews and propelled forward by the dwarves themselves. The muzzles of these steel behemoths gleamed coldly in the sunlight; they were silent, yet their power to proclaim destruction spoke louder than any shout. They were weapons for conquering cities and fortresses, iron fists tearing apart enemy lines.

Behind these dazzling core elites lies the cornerstone of Black Forest Territory's profound war potential—a massive armed retinue and provincial legions.

Though not as dazzling as the knights ahead, they were equally disciplined and well-equipped. Over three thousand armed squires and provincial soldiers formed several massive square formations, marching with steady and resolute steps. They wore uniform dark-colored robes dyed in the black of the Black Forest coat and studded leather armor, carrying standard spears, swords and shields, and powerful crossbows. Under the sunlight, the tips of their spears gleamed with a cold, icy light, like a moving forest of metal.

Even more spectacular were their raised banners! Countless flags, representing various provinces, legions, and entourages, fluttered in the air, their colors vibrant yet orderly, resembling a surging sea of ​​flags. Embroidered on the flags were different coats of arms and numbers, symbolizing the vast and well-organized military structure of the Blacksem Territory.

The endless sea of ​​flags, combined with the synchronized footsteps of thousands and the clatter of armor, created a powerful and imposing presence, greatly enhancing the overall military might and vividly demonstrating the vast manpower and war prowess that Black Forest Territory could mobilize—far exceeding even its core elite forces. They were like solid earth, bearing the sharp spearheads, together forming Black Forest Territory's unshakeable war power.

The entire parade was orderly and imbued with a palpable sense of discipline and strength. Each unit that marched past was not only well-equipped but also radiated the confidence and high morale of battle veterans. They saluted Su Li and his commanders on the platform with the utmost solemnity, their eyes filled with fervor and loyalty.

This military parade was not only a grand event to boost morale and inspire the troops, but also a direct and powerful declaration of force to the outside world, especially to the magnificent western city of Maleiburg. Under the sunlight, the Hessian Legion, with its impeccable formation and soaring spirit, proved to the world who truly rules this land, now and in the future.

Hilde turned to face Su Li, clenched her right fist, and slammed it heavily on her breastplate. Her clear voice echoed across the platform: "My lord, the Black Forest Army is in full battle formation. Please inspect!"

Her figure seemed to merge with the invincible army behind her in the sunlight, radiating brilliance.

Su Li took a step forward, standing at the forefront of the high platform. His figure seemed to blend into the vast mountains and steel legion behind him in the sunlight. He did not speak immediately, but his gaze slowly swept over the boundless army below. His gaze, imbued with the power of the dragon bloodline and the majesty of the chosen one, made every soldier who met his gaze involuntarily straighten their spines and feel their blood boil.

Finally, his steady and powerful voice, aided by magic, clearly reached the ears of every soldier present, resonating in their hearts like the beating of war drums:

"Soldiers of Hessian Territory! Loyal citizens!"

"Today, we stand here, atop the Yunguan Mountains, on the land we irrigated with our blood and glory! Our banners have been planted across this vast land beneath our feet!"

He first raised his arm, pointing to the blazing sun in the sky, his voice filled with solemnity and gratitude:

"First, let us give our greatest glory to Violet, the Goddess of the Sun! It is her light that guides us through the fog; it is her protection that safeguards our souls from the corruption of darkness; it is her teachings that give us the conviction to defend the purity and dignity of humanity! Without her divine guidance and grace, we could never have defeated powerful enemies time and time again and stood here!"

A thunderous cheer erupted from the ranks of soldiers, who excitedly pounded their breastplates or raised their weapons to salute the sky.

Immediately, Su Li's gaze returned to the soldiers, and his voice suddenly became impassioned, filled with affirmation and praise for their achievements:

"However, divine grace must be exercised by the brave! True glory belongs to you—to every fearless warrior of my Black Forest Territory!"

"It was you who, with swords and shields in your hands, shattered the Green Dragon Legion's ambitions! It was you who, with unwavering faith, crushed the Mannan monsters of Blue Mirror Lake! It was you who, with resolute steps, traversed the treacherous obstacles of the Swamp Territory! It was you who, with fearless charges, buried Litanel and his monster allies in their self-righteous lair!"

With each word he spoke, the cheers below grew louder, and the soldiers' eyes gleamed with pride.

"Your names are engraved on the monument of the Black Forest Territory! Your achievements will shine as brightly as this northern province that we have unified with our own hands! Every inch of this vast territory, from the Twilight Mountains to the foothills of Cloudcrown Mountain, is soaked with your sweat and blood; they are your well-deserved medals!"

Immediately afterwards, Su Li swung his arm sharply westward, pointing towards Maleburg, his voice like a drawn sword, carrying a resolute determination to cut through everything:

"But soldiers! Our steps will never stop here! The guidance of the blazing sun has never dimmed, and the might of the Black Forest Territory will never be sheathed!"

"Look there—Malayburg! That so-called jewel of the border, the last bastion of the old imperial order here! It, and the vast border princely territory behind it, composed of five provinces, are our next target!"

His voice was like thunder, rolling across the plains:
"The unification of the North is just the beginning! Our swords will be pointed at all lands that have not yet submitted! From the Northern Provinces to the Roaring Coast, from the Desolate Lands to the Southern Frontier, and even to the final Sorrowful Lands of Mount Oka, the five provinces of this border princely territory will ultimately share only one master—that is us, the Blackseth Territory!"

Su Li's eyes burned with a fierce fire, and his tone became wild and unyielding:
"The Electors' Council doesn't recognize our status? So what?! How can their rotten documents bind the wings of an eagle?! If they dare to obstruct us, then we will use our blood-stained swords to crush the obstacles they set up, along with any enemy who dares to block our way!"

He clenched his fist tightly, his voice rising to its peak, roaring as if making a vow:

"We will carry the bloodied heads of our enemies and kick down their shabby, outdated doors! We will stand in the halls of Terra and ask those high and mighty figures for the first time—"

"Who else?!"

The last three words, like three thunderbolts, resounded deep within everyone's soul.

After a brief period of deathly silence, a massive, overwhelming surge erupted!
"For the Lord!!"

"For the Black Forest Territory!!"

"For the Goddess of the Sun!!"

"Fight! Fight! Fight!!"

The soldiers pounded their shields and brandished their weapons frantically, the sound waves rising higher and higher, sweeping across the entire plain like a tsunami.

Especially the young middle and lower-ranking officers and elite knights, their faces were filled with the sharpness of conquerors and an almost fanatical belief, their eyes burning, as if they could not wait to follow their lord to trample on all the old order and create an era that belonged to the Black Forest Territory!
This vigorous and unstoppable youthful spirit coalesced into a terrifying fighting will that soared into the sky, seemingly dispelling even the clouds on the horizon with its invisible power.

Su Li stood on the high platform, looking down at the boiling ocean that he had personally ignited. He knew that the soul of this army had been completely forged.

They were no longer warriors guarding their homeland; they had become a torrent yearning for conquest, convinced that they would dominate everything. And the next target of this torrent was already locked on the western horizon.

(End of this chapter)