Chapter 55: Into a Civil War (2)

Milton marveled at her meticulousness. He himself would not have been able to discern her identity if not for his peculiar ability.

Princes Leila continued her explanation as Milton remained awestruck.

But the stakes have changed in recent times. Even if the Second Prince were to be eliminated, we cannot stop the civil war.

How so?

The Hildess Republic has already nosed their way onto our stage before the Second Prince declared the civil war. The Republic proposed that they would mobilize their troops to help a fellow brother if the Second Prince advocated for Republicanism.

How could something like that

It seems there is perhaps a rather capable individual serving the Hildess Republic. Its almost as if they had been waiting for this moment to begin their interception. As far as I was able to discern, its too late to stop them.

.

Milton realized this situation was much more complex than what it appeared to be on the surface. At face value, this was a civil war; but in reality, the Republic was commencing an invasion with the Second Prince at the front as a figurehead.

Finishing her explanation, Princess Leila locked eyes with Milton.

I swear on my honor. I certainly desire the throne, and Ive spent the past seven years for this cause. But

She spoke flatly.

I am not so blinded by power that I will spill the blood of innocent subjects of the kingdom for my goal.

Milton stared straight into Princess Leilas unshaking pupils and thought to himself.

She looks like shes telling the truth.

She still did not seem to be a particularly good person but at the least, she was not entirely trash that neglected her moral compass and chased power.

I am sorry I affronted you with my doubting. I respectfully apologize.

Your apology is accepted.

With the mood lightening up slightly, Milton continued.

If the Hildess Republic is what lies behind the Second Prince, they must be waiting with bated breath until a decisive moment.

That is correct. So you must also wait until that moment arrives, Count Forrest. And when it arrives, please save this country.

Milton sighed at her words.

It is easy to say, but, even if all the strength of the South is gathered, I cannot assure you that we will win against the Republic, Your Highness.

Unlike the soldiers of the Lester Kingdom that were fattened and slow from their long-lasting peace, the troops of the Hildess Republic had been forged in the fires of constant war. Milton knew this first-hand, having fought against them at the Western Front of the Strabus Kingdom.

Do not worry, Ill also be lending you some of my strength. For now, Count Forrest, you should endeavor to gather as much of the Souths strength as possible. I will help in the departments which are lacking.

As usual, I suppose that assistance will not be free?

As I said before: we are allies. We will help each other, and aid each other in achieving our respective goals. Is that not so?

It is.

Miltons cogs were turning as he answered.

A hero saving a kingdom in peril, huh Ive never wanted to have that sort of honor.

Nonetheless, it seemed that he would have no choice anyhow from the way things were s