I never planned it, but I ended up joining the military at a young age.
After regaining memories of my past life, I realized this world was actually inside a game. From that moment on, I fought desperately to survive.
〖 Demon of the Battlefield 〗
〖 Sharpshooter of the Magic Bullet 〗
〖 The Emperor's Mad Dog 〗
Those were the infamous titles I earned along the way.
I never asked for them, but I didn't mind either.
Who cared? The enemy feared me, and my allies praised me.
But even a loyal hound gets tired of being on a leash.
『 The Empire will fall to the Allied Nations. 』
That one line summed up the inevitable future I had foreseen—and it was already starting to come true.
Maybe that's why, in a strange way, I felt relieved when a crushing defeat finally forced me to stand before the Emperor.
If I was reprimanded, all I had to do was bow, apologize, and resign.
Then I'd change my name and vanish to some remote island. Problem solved.
"I've saved up a decent fortune. Worst case, I could even sell military secrets to the Allied Nations."
No more bloodshed. No more orders. A peaceful, carefree life awaited me.
The thought almost made me laugh—but in front of the Emperor, I had to wear a mask of guilt.
"Raise your head, Daniel Steiner."
At her command, I looked up.
Selvia von Amberg.
The Empress who ruled the Empire with absolute power. A cold tyrant who saw human lives as disposable insects.
Her personality was detestable—but her beauty was undeniable.
Even now, I couldn't help but be drawn in by those sapphire-blue eyes, like polished lapis lazuli, and her golden hair that shimmered like sunlight in spring.
"You returned to the capital after losing three divisions, including the Mage Corps, at the Battle of Skeolan. This is a devastating loss for the Empire—and a historic disgrace."
Good. That was it. All she had to do now was berate me.
Then I'd be free. I could finally start my new life.
"But taking into account the surprise attack, the breakdown in the chain of command, and the fact that your actions minimized the damage during retreat…"
She paused.
"…your leadership is commendable."
Wait, what?
"Therefore, I hereby award you the Empire's highest military honor: the White Dragon Medal."
What the hell? Why does it feel like she's not planning to let me go?