Counterfeit Hero

The retrofit review concluded without controversy, and the Holy Knight Company emerged as the biggest winner, especially Christina, who not only received Reinhardt’s approval but also had the opportunity to join the Mythical Army directly.

Although she would only be a civilian researcher, it was enough! Reinhardt’s respect and care for technological talents were well-known, especially those directly under the Mythical Army. Moreover, protecting a retired General who spent his days reading newspapers in his study was a piece of cake for Reinhardt. He held an exalted position, and although he wasn’t friends with Gordon, they were definitely not political enemies!

The purge that was launched wasn’t due to James’s bloodthirstiness; it was the best way to maintain the purity of the Military Department. Russell had managed the Military Department for too long. To eliminate his influence, a purge was necessary. Of course, James would never personally give the order. All it took was a hint, and many people would scramble to do this bloody work.

James was very clear that Gordon wasn’t one of Russell’s men. If he were to carry out the purge himself, Gordon certainly wouldn’t be within the scope of those purged. However, this matter had to be handed over to someone else, usually the successor of the Military Department. To control the Military Department, some bloodshed was inevitable. It was best to eliminate the predecessors that could be cleared away; it was the simplest method.

Furthermore, Gordon had lost the Newton Star System. James might not agree with removing him, but this didn’t mean James would prevent it. After all, in wartime, the Military Department needed only one voice.

The current situation was very delicate. The Military Department and the Royal Family had a deep rift. Russell had defected, Gordon had been dismissed, Hailig had been sidelined, and the Military Department had lost its soul almost overnight. The newly appointed Stephen hadn’t fully grasped control over the Military Department because he hadn’t yet shown enough achievements to win over others. Regardless of Stephen’s achievements, whether James handed over the Military Department to him or decided to control it himself, the purge wouldn’t be carried out by these two royal members.

So, the most likely person to be ordered to carry out the purge was Reinhardt. Because of his high status, he could command the most respect and had the most trust from the Royal Family. He would, according to the Royal Family’s requirements, make the Military Department spotless, paving the way for Stephen or James to take over.

Even if Stephen took control of the Military Department or personally carried out the purge regardless of future repercussions, Reinhardt would still be able to convince James to keep Gordon. Stephen would also have to consider the notoriously protective Reinhardt’s feelings. With Russell’s defection, Reinhardt was now the foremost figure in the Gazalin Empire Military; no one could compare to him, not even Stephen.