Two Weeks Later

    Despite his promotion to lieutenant colonel, Daniel’s duties hadn’t changed much.

    Aside from gaining access to more classified information, his role as operations officer remained intact.

    For Daniel, who was wary of getting entangled in strange incidents, this was a relief.

    Enjoying the continuation of his peaceful routine, he resolved to keep a low profile for as long as possible.

    But his decision proved meaningless when a summons arrived from the Imperial Palace.

    To be precise, it was a message from Selvia, the heir to the throne.

    “If you have some free time, please visit the palace.”

    The note had been personally delivered by one of Selvia’s attendants at the end of Daniel’s workday.

    Although he found the sudden request absurd, it was clear that Selvia had something important to discuss.

    Daniel notified the attendant that he would visit immediately and followed her out.

    Outside the General Staff headquarters, Daniel saw a luxurious sedan parked and waiting.

    It was a royal vehicle, undoubtedly sent by Selvia, who knew Daniel couldn’t refuse.

    Letting out a dry laugh, Daniel got into the car, which promptly set off toward the palace.

    Upon arrival, Daniel exited the sedan and followed the attendant into one of the palace’s side wings.

    The building, though labeled a “side wing,” was as large as the main palace, forcing Daniel to rely on the attendant’s guidance through the maze-like corridors.

    Eventually, they arrived at a grand indoor garden.

    The air was warm and filled with the vibrant colors of ornamental plants and flowers. Lavender and rosemary added a subtle fragrance to the atmosphere.

    It was a veritable paradise, built with vast resources and manpower—a testament to the royal family’s wealth and influence.

    Daniel marveled at the display of power until he froze.

    In the clearing ahead, Selvia knelt on the ground, playing with a dog.

    “Good job.”

    Selvia gently patted the dog’s head.

    It was a Doberman with sleek black fur and a strong, muscular build—a sharp, imposing presence.

    ‘Since when did Selvia have a dog?’

    As Daniel stepped closer, the Doberman turned its head toward him.

    Growl—

    It bared its teeth and growled, clearly on guard.

    Noticing this, Selvia glanced sideways and spotted Daniel.

    Smiling faintly, she stroked the Doberman’s head.

    “Don’t be alarmed. He’s a friend.”

    Amazingly, the Doberman stopped growling as if it had understood her words.

    Intrigued, Daniel finally spoke up.

    “He’s remarkably well-trained.”

    “Dobermans are a loyal breed. They’re intelligent, agile, and good-looking, which is why they’re so popular lately. That’s why I decided to get one myself.”

    Ever since Count Caledra had publicly called for nations to rise against the Empire two weeks ago, the international community had steadily turned its back on them.

    It was inevitable.

    No country wanted to see the rise of a hegemonic power that could overshadow them.

    And with the Empire still at war, its potential dominance only fueled fears of becoming the next target should the Allied Nations fall.

    Fear breeds war.

    The major powers had no choice but to arm themselves and strike before the Empire grew any stronger.

    “The Empire won’t be able to avoid a world war.”

    By now, the military, ministers, and bureaucrats in the palace must have sensed the shifting tides.

    Even ordinary citizens of the capital had likely begun to realize, through the news, that the Empire was slowly becoming isolated.

    Many were probably still in shock at the prospect of facing the entire world in battle.

    But Selvia, as the Empire’s heir, remained calm amid the turbulence.

    Thanks to Daniel, she had been prepared for this outcome in advance.

    “In that case...”

    Selvia’s gaze sharpened as she fixed her eyes on Daniel.

    “We need to start preparing for the world war now. Waiting until the Republic and Federation join the conflict will be too late.”

    “Do you have a specific strategy in mind?”

    “Not a perfect one. But we need to do everything we can. First, we’ll raise taxes to increase the budget—but not excessively.”

    The prolonged war had already begun to wear on the public.

    If taxes were raised too steeply, trust in the government could collapse, potentially leading to riots or even civil war.

    “Since taxes are limited, I plan to issue war bonds. The problem is convincing the public to buy them.”

    “Many citizens don’t want the war to drag on any longer.”

    “Exactly. That’s why we need to pair the bond issuance with a powerful speech explaining why the war must continue. What do you think?”

    Daniel nodded without hesitation.

    “It’s a solid plan. Public trust is key to the success of war bonds, and a compelling speech can secure that trust. The speaker, then, is critical.”

    “That’s my concern as well. Who do you think would be a good choice?”

    “If I may offer advice, look for someone with recent military or political achievements—someone whose name the public can immediately recognize.”

    Selvia nodded thoughtfully.

    “And?”

    “A speaker with a favorable appearance would help. I don’t mean conventionally handsome, but someone with a pleasant and trustworthy image. People tend to believe those who look polished and reliable.”

    Leaning forward slightly, Selvia rested her hands on the table.

    “Hmm. Any other suggestions?”

    “To project authority and charisma, consider choosing someone from the military—preferably with combat experience. Even if the speech includes some embellishments, people are less likely to doubt the words of a soldier.”

    As he finished speaking, Daniel suddenly paused.

    Now that he had laid out the requirements, the most suitable candidate for the role became painfully obvious.

    ‘No way...’

    Selvia’s piercing gaze made it clear. She had intended this all along.

    Sweat began to form on Daniel’s brow as Selvia tilted her head slightly, her voice turning silky.

    “Lieutenant Colonel Daniel.”

    Her tone sent chills down his spine.

    With a playful but predatory glint in her eyes, Selvia parted her lips.

    “I can’t help but think you meet every single requirement.”

    Daniel wanted to scream.