When Carlos received the letter, he felt a quiet disappointment settle upon him.
Having seen the German troops trained to such a high standard, he had allowed himself certain expectations—almost elevating them beyond reason, imagining they might break any enemy with ease. Yet war, as it revealed itself once again, was never so simple.
The Spanish Empire had not endured through weakness. It possessed both strength and resolve, and men like Carlos, who now sought independence, were in truth attempting to take a fragment of that strength for themselves. It was only natural that Spain's defenses would harden in response.
Amelia, who had been assisting Carlos with matters concerning the local elites within his territories, noticed the change in his expression. She set aside her papers and regarded him with mild curiosity.
"What troubles you?" she asked.
Carlos shared his thoughts, speaking plainly. When he finished, Amelia let out a soft laugh—not mocking, but measured.
