After hearing General Zhukov's words, Joseph remained silent for a long time, as though he were pondering them.
He had to admit that General Zhukov's words had shaken him profoundly. No one had ever dared speak to him like that before. Everyone had always gone along with his wishes.
As Buru's highest leader, Zhukov's will represented the will of the entire nation. He was always right, and no one dared oppose him. Zhukov had likewise been very satisfied with this state of affairs. He now possessed even greater power than the Tsar had ever held. Inevitably, this had made him arrogant, convinced that Buru would develop best only by following his own ideas.
But Zhukov's words had now brought him to his senses. He suddenly realized that if things continued according to his plans, Buru might truly be defeated this time.
No matter what, next year's war will be of vital importance to Buru. If we lose, Buru will cease to exist. And I will probably become a prisoner. By then, forget the power I hold now—even keeping my life may be exceedingly difficult. Therefore, Buru absolutely cannot lose this war! Joseph silently told himself.
A national leader like him enjoyed supreme power, but he also had to pay an enormous price. Once Buru was defeated, he would likely have no choice but suicide. Therefore, if he did not want to die, he had to win the war.
Originally, Joseph had believed that if they carried out his plans, they would certainly be able to defeat Germany. But now his confidence had wavered. He seemed to have already seen the possibility of defeat. This filled Joseph with fear from the depths of his heart. The more accustomed people were to wielding power, the more they feared death. They wanted to