Chapter 187: There was a Letter from Elves?
Chapter 187: There was a Letter from Elves?
Colonel Brandt stepped into Vincent's office, the door closing softly behind him. Vincent, seated at his desk, glanced up from the holographic display that still showcased the mineral data from the R&D team's recent analysis. He gestured for Brandt to take a seat, his expression lightening as the colonel settled into the chair opposite him.
"It's been a while, Brandt. How've things been?" Vincent asked, his tone casual as he leaned back slightly in his chair.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om
Brandt allowed a small smile to break through his usual serious demeanor. "Busy, as you'd expect, sir. But things are running smoothly. We've been implementing the changes you requested, making sure the new R&D initiatives align with the overall strategy."
Vincent nodded in approval. "Good to hear. The team did excellent work with the minerals. We're on the verge of some serious breakthroughs that could change the tide of this war. But I'm sure you didn't come just to discuss the R&D department, did you?"
Brandt shifted slightly, his face growing more serious. "Actually, sir, I've got something you need to see. We received a letter from the Elven Kingdom-specifically from Princess Elara." Vincent raised an eyebrow. "The Elven Kingdom? I thought their alliance with us was still more... tentative."
"It seems recent events have forced them to rethink that," Brandt said, handing over a sealed envelope. "The demons have launched several attacks on their territories recently. It's shaken them more than they'd care to admit."
Vincent broke the seal on the letter, his expression unreadable as he began to read the flowing script written in elegant Elvish. His eyes quickly scanned over the contents, but as he reached the heart of the message, he stopped, his gaze lingering on the words.
"Marriage?" Vincent asked, the surprise evident in his voice. "Princess Elara wants to form an eternal alliance... through marriage?"
Brandt nodded. "That's right, sir. The letter is formal, but the intent is clear. Princess Elara is proposing a union between you and her to strengthen the bonds between our forces and theirs. With the demons attacking their territory, they seem to believe this is the best way to ensure lasting cooperation."
Vincent placed the letter down on his desk, leaning back in his chair as he considered the implications. "An eternal alliance through marriage... I didn't expect that from the elves. They've always kept their distance, even though we've been working together against the demons."
"They must be feeling the pressure," Brandt replied. "The demons are hitting them hard, and they know that your forces have become a key factor in keeping their borders secure. An alliance through marriage would tie them to us in more ways than one."
Vincent remained silent for a moment, his mind racing. While an alliance with the elves would undoubtedly strengthen their position, the idea of a political marriage was far from something he had considered. He wasn't one to be swayed by tradition or ceremony, and yet, this offer from Princess Elara wasn't just about tradition-it was about survival.
"Elara herself sent this letter?" Vincent asked.
"Yes, sir," Brandt confirmed. "It came directly from her. She's the one proposing the marriage, not her council or advisors."
Vincent stared at the letter again. Princess Elara was known for her wisdom and strength, a ruler who commanded respect both within and beyond her kingdom. For her to make such a bold offer showed just how dire things had become.
"What do you make of this?" Vincent asked, glancing back up at Brandt.
"I think it's a calculated move, sir. Elara sees the strength of our forces and the potential in our technology. She knows that by allying herself with you, it ensures the protection of her kingdom from the demons. From a military standpoint, it's a sound strategy. And politically, it would solidify a strong bond between our people."
Vincent nodded slowly. "You're right. It makes sense from every angle... but I need to think this through. This isn't just a military decision-it's personal as well."
Brandt's expression softened. "I understand, sir. But you should also know that the elves have been good allies so far, even if they've been hesitant. This offer shows that they're willing to commit fully to the alliance. That could be the difference between victory and defeat in the battles to come."
Vincent sighed, running a hand through his hair as he considered the proposal. "This will change everything. An alliance with the elves is one thing, but marriage? It's not just about politics anymore."
Brandt stood, sensing that Vincent needed time to think. "Whatever decision you make, sir, we'll be ready to act. The letter also mentions that Princess Elara is willing to meet with you in person to discuss the terms of the alliance further."
Vincent nodded, his gaze drifting back to the letter. "Tell them I'll meet with her. We'll see what comes of it."
Brandt saluted and turned to leave the office, leaving Vincent alone with his thoughts. As the door closed behind him, Vincent stared down at the letter once more, the weight of the decision settling in. Forming an eternal alliance through marriage wasn't what he had envisioned when he started this campaign, but the stakes had never been higher.
His forces were strong, and the technology at their disposal had given them an edge. But an alliance with the elves would bring magic, ancient knowledge, and a deeper connection to the land itself. And with the demons growing stronger by the day, Vincent knew they needed every advantage they could get.
Princess Elara's offer wasn't just about survival. It was about securing the future-of his people, of the elves, and of the world.
But could he really accept such a proposition?
Vincent set the letter down, determination hardening in his gaze. He would meet with Princess Elara, hear her out, and weigh the consequences carefully. But one thing was clear- this alliance, whether through marriage or war, would shape the future of both their
kingdoms.
And he was ready to face whatever came next.