Chapter 8: The Crow Fortress (3)

So, that is.

Thats how Kerber started to talk about the internal situation of the Strabus Kingdom.

The Strabus Kingdom tried to get the aristocrats to participate in the constant war of attrition with the Republic. One method to increase participation was to have nobles who committed crimes join the war as low-ranking commanders.

Youre telling me, criminals are joining the war effort as officers? Milton asked with a dumbfounded look.

Normally, when a criminal joins a war, they were forced to join as convict soldiers. However, these people joined as officers to have their crimes forgiven.

Well, theyre still nobles. This is offered to nobles with minor crimes and not when the crimes are serious.

I see. So, what crimes have those three committed to be stationed here? Milton asked.

Kerber made a bitter smile.

Marez Cardia and Butland Rigor were delinquent on their taxes. At least thats whats been stated, but the reality is closer to embezzlement.

I dont feel so bad for them.

Right. As a result, they have been conscripted to this fortress for five years.

How about the other one?

Louis Walker, even I dont know what crimes he has committed. However, seeing as how he has a life sentence here, it must have been somewhat serious.

Hmm I see.

Yes. Thats why they show enmity to people like us who voluntarily joined the war effort. Unlike them, we can leave whenever we want.

So, thats how it is.

Honestly, Milton wasnt in any position to freely depart whenever he wanted either.

I still have my debt to pay.

Milton had his own internal struggles, but he was adapting well to life at the Crow Fortress. He completed all his regularly scheduled reconnaissance missions without any issues. Even during his downtime, he constantly trained under Jeromes guidance. Such hard work was looked upon favorably by all the bystanders.

Is Viscount Forrest training again today?

Hes such an impressive person. How can a commander be so diligent?

Such hard work from