The Toscano Empire''s First Division was, as usual, undergoing intense training. Leo, a mere sergeant, found himself unable to resist the grueling pace and was just trying to survive.

    “Ninety-nine! One hundred! Ugh!”

    He was practicing thrusting with a six-meter-long spear, repeating the motion over a hundred times with exact precision. By now, his limbs ached, and all he could think about was eating and resting. However, he doubted his meal would be anything better than the usual rotten herring or rock-hard bread. He felt defeated by the circumstances that forced him, a low-born man, into a life of military drudgery.

    As Leo considered his miserable state, the squad leader called out, “Alright, training’s over! It’s time for chow! Form up in four columns!”

    Despite the promise of food, the soldiers knew better than to get their hopes up. They slowly assembled, accustomed to the poor-quality meals, but the squad leader’s next words caught their attention.

    “The Pereira Trading Company, which has been serving us rotten meals, has been replaced by a new supplier. I’ve heard the new logistics officer has put a lot of effort into improving our meals, so we should get something decent today.”

    Hearing this, Leo and the other soldiers quickened their pace, hope finally stirring within them.

    As they made their way to the mess hall, Leo’s comrades speculated. “Sergeant Leo, do you think we’ll really get something good this time?”

    The effects of improved meals and the simple donut were immediate and immense. Morale soared, and the soldiers threw themselves into their training with renewed vigor. During a routine inspection, Leo encountered Fabio, the logistics officer himself, and snapped to attention.

    “Sir! Sergeant Leo, reporting!”

    Fabio, unlike most officers, acknowledged the salute with respect. “At ease, Sergeant. How’s service treating you?”

    “Much better now, thanks to you, sir. My squad and I are grateful for the meals.”

    But Fabio corrected him. “You’re mistaken, Sergeant. It’s His Majesty who’s responsible for your well-being. I’m just his tool, carrying out orders.”

    Leo’s eyes widened with surprise as Fabio emphasized loyalty to the Emperor, downplaying his own role. It was a masterful way of cultivating loyalty without overshadowing the Emperor’s authority.

    Fabio nodded to Leo, acknowledging his hard work. “Thank you for your service and dedication, Sergeant. Carry on.”

    After that encounter, word spread quickly throughout the First Division, and it wasn’t long before soldiers could be heard shouting praises to the Emperor during drills. Fabio’s influence was undeniable, and morale reached new heights in the division.