The Empror's Trap

Ch 8 - A Strange Request

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Deep down, Kenji really wanted to seize this chance. As a transmigrator, the opportunity to reform an entire nation's army was priceless in his eyes.

But one question held him back: Did Pluvia genuinely want him involved in this?

The answer was obvious. Her Majesty had only agreed to this plan because the reform would happen among troops she personally controlled, boosting the fighting power of her own forces. That was a golden opportunity for her. If Kenji insisted on stepping in, he would only make her dislike him more.

He really didn't want to make that mistake in a matter this big.

Besides, he felt it was unnecessary. Let's say he had tried to fight for it; even the old Duke Anos probably wouldn't have squared off against her here. Reworking an army is a long, gradual process, and as the all-powerful Grand Marshal, Kenji oversaw all military affairs anyway. Simply put, no matter what these generals wanted to do, they still needed his authorization.

Yes, the emperor could give them a green light, but as the highest-ranking official in charge of national defense, Kenji wouldn't be left in the dark. He might not be hands-on, but no one could hide the direction of these reforms from him.

Once Kenji saw those details, he could quietly apply them to the forces he controlled. Besides, as a modern person, he held certain advantages she didn't. Whatever they cooked up, Kenji could absorb the information, refine it, then use it on his own troops.

He did want to be a loyal subject, but mostly for survival. He'd preserve his edge while raising the emperor's trust in him as much as possible.

That approach left Pluvia a little baffled.

"In that case, I thank the Grand Marshal for his confidence." General Balinos cupped his hands in gratitude.

Kenji just smiled. Balinos was polite to him because Kenji, as Grand Marshal, was in theory his superior, even if Balinos was older and more experienced.

Fine, Kenji thought, might as well accept it. The old man had done enough for the empire that he probably deserved a higher rank already, but his low background kept him from advancing further. Kenji wanted to recommend someone so capable.

He nodded. "Thank you for your kindness, Governor Lius. I'll thank you on my sister's behalf."

"No need for thanks."

"Governor, I appreciate how you've gone out of your way. If you ever need my help, please let me know."

Kenji swept his eyes around the table.

Clearly, the other guests didn't look too pleased by the governor's sudden maneuver, he'd cornered the market on politeness, and they found themselves with nothing left to say.

"Sir... I..." The old governor glanced around, then clenched his jaw and bowed low. "I have one request, Lord Anos. I'd like my unfilial daughter to enter the palace and find a position... even if it's just a humble one..."

A brief silence followed.

"Huh?"

Not just Kenji, everyone else at the table felt baffled by that request.

In the late emperor's time, that sort of petition wouldn't be unusual. Serving in the harem was a core strategy for many noble families.

But the current emperor was a woman.