The Final Blow

"Alas!"

Returning to the old city of Cairo, Governor Adolf felt as though a lifetime had passed. The thousands of words in his heart all condensed into a single sigh.

Egypt was now a complete mess. Naturally, no one was rushing to take the blame for such a disastrous situation, so Adolf still had to continue carrying out his duties as governor.

Governor in name, perhaps, but in reality, his orders could no longer leave Cairo. Beyond the city walls lay the insurgents' sphere of activity, and all contact with the outside had long since been cut off.

Ever since news of the defeat arrived, the governor's residence, once bustling with traffic, had suddenly fallen silent.

Even when reporting for duty, people came and went in a hurry, as though lingering here for even a moment longer would bring the plague upon them.

Spotting a familiar figure, Adolf asked in confusion, "Fidos, why are you here? This isn't exactly a good place now. If you get dragged into this, don't regret it later."

Those were sincere words. Though a collapsing wall was pushed by everyone, Adolf, as governor, still had a few trusted confidants who had remained loyal to him.

Only after losing them did he realize their value. To avoid dragging all those connections down with him, Adolf had taken the initiative to draw a clear line between himself and his subordinates.

He did not know how effective that would be, but saving one was better than saving none. So long as even one of those he saved appreciated it, it would not be a loss.

Fidos shook his head with a bitter smile. "Governor, given the current situation, as one of the military commanders, do you think I can stay untouched?"

This defeat had been far too humiliating.