March, the thawing snow in Paris has been replaced by the swollen river waters.

Perhaps aware that civilians are enduring the hardships of war, this year's water level remained below the warning line, only reaching the chest of the Zouave soldiers, allowing all Parisian citizens to breathe a sigh of relief.

As evening fell, several planes landed at the Paris Flying Club amidst the roar of engines.

The guards were on high alert, having driven away the surrounding journalists an hour prior, even apprehending a few hidden reporters attempting to take secret photos on suspicion of being "spies."

Charles was the one who alighted from the plane.

He was aboard a modified "Aphro," equipped with a more powerful engine and a recently developed enclosed glass cockpit, enhancing both speed and comfort.

This was Dorne's suggestion, who believed that as a commander required to frequently travel between major cities, a top-tier "Aphro" was essential for Charles.

The increased speed could save Charles' precious time, ensuring safety at a speed of 150 kilometers per hour, and reducing the air time of escorting "Camel" fighter planes.

The more comfortable cockpit would allow Charles to rest during flights, thereby improving his work efficiency.

During the flight, Charles distinctly felt his uniqueness.

He might be the first person in the world to enjoy an enclosed cockpit, with top designers straining to ensure his safety and conserve his time and energy.

Though Charles greatly desired "equality for all," at this stage, the fact was that he was different from ordinary people, regardless of the perspective.

Lauren was the one who came to meet Charles.

By now, he had been promoted to Major.

"This is because of your factory expansion in Davaz, General." Major Laurent skillfully handled the steering wheel, slightly turning his head to explain to Charles:

"Artillery factories, laboratories, and recently, added a tank production line."

"General Gallieni believes an infantry battalion is no longer sufficient to ensure Davaz's safety, so it was expanded to a regiment."

"Naturally, I was promoted to Major."

Lauren then joked about himself: "Perhaps I am the only one to gain promotion because of factory expansion. I am very fortunate, don't you think?"

Charles laughed: "You seem eager to see the battlefield?"

Lauren shrugged: "Indeed, that thought has crossed my mind, including among my troops, many of whom share the same desire."

"Why?" Charles asked, puzzled.

"Many of us have family and friends who have died on the battlefield." Lauren's expression grew solemn: "Or they were wounded and are now unable to do anything. We remain unscathed, which gives us a feeling that we owe them."

Charles fell silent.

Many civilians indeed think this way, hoping to face hardships like others, even at the cost of their lives.

Because this would ease their guilt and not live in constant remorse as they do now.

However, Charles wondered if they had considered the many capitalists who naturally enjoy the rear, treating the fighting troops and soldiers on the front lines as mere toys, or even tools for promotion and wealth.

So-called fairness is merely a lie that capitalists use to deceive civilians.

The car stopped in front of the City Defense Headquarters.

Under the streetlights, the weary guard seeing Charles alight from the car, suddenly stood straight and saluted as if injected with a stimulant.

Charles did not trouble them, returning the salute simply before stepping onto the stairs.

...

The lights were dim in Gallieni's lounge.

He was holding a file before his desk, comparing it with the map to study the River Somme battle situation. Seeing Charles enter, he put away his glasses and placed them on the map.

"Do you know what I want to discuss with you?" Gallieni asked.

Charles nodded: "Is it about the British collapse at the River Somme?"

Gallieni hummed, passing a file to Charles: "The British lost tens of thousands at the River Somme, advancing only ten kilometers in months, while the Germans erased all their gains in just three days, and it could worsen."

Charles sat before Gallieni: "The British hope my troops can rush to reinforce?"

Gallieni nodded again:

"It's in our best interest, Charles."

"We cannot stand by while the British Expeditionary Force collapses before us."

"Otherwise, not only would the British be defeated, but our alliance would also perish. We could be defeated by the Germans one by one."

Yesterday, Haig hurried to Paris to lobby the French Government, spending over two hours discussing with Gallieni.

He knew Gallieni was magnanimous and influential over Charles.

Charles spoke calmly: "I completely agree with you, General. What I oppose is commanding my troops under Haig's leadership. As you might know, even the British Prime Minister lacks trust in Haig leading the troops."

Charles was stating facts.

After losing 100,000 lives at the River Somme with little progress, British Prime Minister Lloyd George had lost confidence in Haig's so-called "military talents," especially as Haig's outcomes sharply contrasted with Charles' achievements.

(Above image shows British Prime Minister Lloyd George during World War I)

However, Haig belonged to the British old aristocracy faction. His wife was a close friend (chief bridesmaid) of Queen Alexandra. Due to this relation, King George trusted Haig's military talents implicitly. Coupled with Kitchener's heavy usage, Haig's command in the British Expeditionary Force remained unshakable.

"That is the result of bureaucratic inefficiency." Charles spoke with contempt:

"It is the choice of the British old aristocracy, not of war nor of frontline soldiers."

"And the British Expeditionary Force is paying the price."

"If I compromise, my troops will be 'wasted' by this butcher on the battlefield!"

Gallieni quietly waited for Charles to finish before answering: "If that is the only concern, I think you can be assured. I have already discussed with Haig; he is merely a nominal commander. He will offer you relatively free command and decision-making power."

"Then," Charles answered, "my decision is 'no reinforcement'."

Gallieni frowned: "I understand your dissatisfaction with British interference in our country, even trying to control it, and I share this sentiment. But Charles, this is about France's survival..."

"I am serious, General," Charles replied:

"British command at the River Somme battlefield is very chaotic. Their troops include the African Legion, New Zealand, Australian Corps, and Indian Army."

"If they add the French Army, what do you think will happen?"

"We won't even be able to tell which army is our own!"