William, Heimerdinger, and the others exchanged worried glances upon hearing Aurek's decree.
William took a deep breath.
"Your Majesty, your will is the empire's direction."
"However, while the imperial treasury is still full, maintaining a standing army of a million is already at the limit."
"To further build it into a well-equipped and well-trained legion would require resources that are astronomical enough to drain the empire."
His words were filled with caution and concern.
"You need not worry excessively about resources."
Aurek's gaze was sharp, like that of an eagle.
"My decision is final: the imperial standing army must be expanded to three million on the current foundation!"
His voice was not loud, yet it thundered in the ears of the ministers.
The faces of William and the others instantly changed.
Heimerdinger could not help but speak, his voice filled with urgency.
"Your Majesty, please reconsider!"
