"For all his faults, no one can deny that he's a master of warfare."
The mention of Maximilian Grand Duke darkened Guinness's expression. He hesitated, then forced a sycophantic smile.
"Ha-ha, but Geneviève, you must remember that he declared his retirement after the last royal council. He explicitly said he wished to sever all ties with worldly affairs. To summon him now would damage the royal family's dignity…"
Geneviève cut him off with an exasperated gesture.
"Then will you lead the army yourself, dear brother?"
Guinness fell silent, shrinking into his chair. Satisfied with his silence, Geneviève sighed heavily.
"I don't want to resort to this either. But what choice do we have? Alphonse is still a child, and I am but a 'weak woman.' If there's no hero willing to lay down their life for this kingdom, what are we to do?"
