Of course, alongside his relief, he couldn't help but sigh:
"I once had dreams, too. I dreamed that my first campaign for my country, my first time leading troops into battle, would bring me distinction and launch a brilliant, glorious life. I dreamed of becoming one of the greatest Dragon Kings in history, standing shoulder to shoulder with my ancestors. My birth gave me the chance to make that possible, and I did everything I could to make it happen. But there's always a huge gap between dreams and reality."
Truthfully, he was being a little too modest. Even someone in their early twenties with a higher education and rigorous training would have a hard time doing a good job as third mate on a cargo ship.
Still, King Solen did an excellent job of command. He had a good grasp of planning, decision-making, and knowing when to compromise, which put him well above average. Even the Dawn royal family, which produced plenty of geniuses who matured early, couldn't have asked for more.
"After all, a genius like Sister Brin comes along only once in a century. It's important to know your own limits. If I can spend the rest of my life being a good, dependable hunting dog, then I'll have done my part." Though still young, King Solen had already adopted the air of someone who accepted his fate with equanimity.
The elderly chief of staff glanced at the young elected king, his gaze complicated. It was hard to tell whether he thought his new sovereign lacked too much spirit.
He opened his mouth as if to say something, but at the last moment, all he did was give a silent, wry smile. Then he reported, "Marshal Ikenroga requests that the entire fleet stand down and rest, but