Side Story 108: The Two Strategists (15)

Unlike the opening meeting, dinner proceeded in an atmosphere that welcomed Rudek and the Empire with open arms.

Perhaps it was because Ozald had kept his promise and persuaded the anti-Fezaris faction, but more than that, the battle we'd just fought seemed to have convinced them that we were people they must not anger.

Indeed, the smiles of those who seemed to belong to the anti-Fezaris faction were remarkably stiff and strained.

We had succeeded in our original plan of demonstrating the military might of both countries, so I decided to consider it a success. ...Though we had ended up intimidating even our friendly nation.

King Aarsel remained in high spirits throughout. Though perhaps it would be more accurate to say he was excited.

It seemed this had been King Aarsel's first time standing on a battlefield, and throughout dinner he enthusiastically praised the exploits of each commander.

"As expected of the mighty power of the North! If we establish friendly relations with both countries, Aarsel will be secure!"

King Aarsel's words struck me as overly simplistic, but there was no need to pour cold water on his enthusiasm.

There was one concern, though: Ing might move to retaliate after we left. Still, Doran would surely have considered countermeasures as part of his plan.

He had even captured one of Ing's commanders. We had done more than enough by playing along with Doran's plan this time. Now all that remained was to see how he handled things...