Accept Military Independence

The silence between them was suffocating. Isabella could feel the weight of Serrano’s words pressing down on her, as if the entire room had closed in. The General sat back, his features hard, his presence overwhelming. She had wanted to stand her ground, but Serrano's pain—his passion—made it clear he was a man who would stop at nothing to achieve what he believed was necessary for Montesoro, even if it means deposing her father's heir.

Isabella exhaled shakily, breaking the quiet. Her voice, though soft, carried a note of **** resolve.

"Fine, General. You shall have your autonomy."

Serrano's eyes snapped to hers, a flicker of surprise passing across his hardened expression.

"But let me make myself clear," Isabella continued, her tone sharpening like a blade. "You may lead the army without interference from the Ministry of Defence, but you will answer to me. The military serves Montesoro, and I am Montesoro. If you ever act against my interests, if you ever use your power to undermine me, I will see to it that you and everyone who follows you are held accountable. Do not mistake my concession for weakness."

Serrano's jaw tightened, but he gave a slow nod. His fiery demeanor dimmed, replaced by a hint of respect—or perhaps a grudging acknowledgment of her strength.

"I accept, Presidente," he said, his voice steady. "The military will act decisively to protect Montesoro, but you have my word—our loyalty remains with you, as it did with your father."

Isabella’s shoulders relaxed slightly, but her gaze remained locked on Serrano. She couldn’t afford to appear **** now. "See that it does, General. I expect my faith repaid in full."

For a moment, they sat in silence. The tension between them had eased, but a lingering undercurrent remained, an unspoken understanding that this was only the beginning of a precarious partnership.

Finally, Serrano spoke again, his tone more measured. "If there's nothing else, Presidente, I'll leave you to prepare for the transition. There is much work to be done, and little time to do it. With your permission, I will begin immediately."

Isabella gave a curt nod. "You are dismissed."

With that, Serrano rose from his chair, snapping a salute before turning on his heel and exiting the room, leaving her alone with her thoughts.

As the door closed behind him, Isabella let out a shaky breath, the weight of their conversation settling heavily on her shoulders. She was still unsure if she had made a mistake, letting slip the dogs of war. But there was no going back now. She had made her choice. Now, she must live with the consequences.

She rose, and left for home, feeling more burdened than ever before.

Lose [Military Faction], Gain [Sovereign Armed Forces]