I Reincarnated as a Prince Who Revolutionized the Kingdom

April 5th, 1693 – Loretto, Corse

The afternoon sun bathed the royal palace of Loretto, now repurposed as Prince Bruno's military headquarters, in a warm golden glow. A flag bearing the royal crest fluttered in the breeze atop the tallest spire. Inside the council chamber, Prince Bruno and his advisors awaited the arrival of a diplomat from the Kingdom of Greater Germania.

"Are we certain about this man's credibility?" Captain Vallier asked, adjusting the cuffs of his uniform. "Diplomats rarely act without hidden agendas."

"We're not naive, Captain," Bruno replied, his gaze focused on the large doors at the entrance. "Greater Germania is at war with the Republic, just like we are. They wouldn't bother sending a representative unless they had something significant to offer—or demand."

General Berthold nodded. "Still, it's wise to be cautious. They've been eying our territories for generations. Whatever assistance they offer will come at a cost."

Before anyone could say more, the chamber doors swung open. A tall, imposing man dressed in a formal diplomatic coat entered the room, accompanied by two aides. He had sharp features, with an air of practiced authority and confidence. His long military overcoat bore the sigil of Greater Germania's royal house.

The herald announced him. "Presenting Lord Maximilian von Reichenbach, envoy of His Majesty King Wilhelm of Greater Germania."

Maximilian gave a respectful bow. "Your Highness, Prince Bruno of Elysea. It is both an honor and a necessity that we meet today."

Bruno stepped forward and extended his hand. "Lord Reichenbach, welcome to Loretto. We appreciate the effort you took to come here during such dangerous times."

"Thank you, Your Highness." Maximilian shook Bruno's hand firmly before stepping back. "I bring urgent matters from my king. Greater Germania stands with you in opposition to the Revolutionary Republic of Elysea. As you know, we have been engaged in hostilities along our western border. Their expansionist ideology threatens the stability of all monarchies in the region."

Bruno gestured for Reichenbach to sit at the long table. Once the diplomat and his aides were seated, Bruno took his place at the head of the table, flanked by Vallier and Berthold.

"I understand your concerns," Bruno began. "The Republic has made it clear that their goal is not just to control Elysea but to inspire similar uprisings across Europe. Your support in this fight could shift the balance of power in our favor. However, I'm curious about your king's intentions. What does Greater Germania seek in exchange for aiding my cause?"

Reichenbach nodded approvingly. "You are direct, Your Highness. I admire that. Yes, there is a matter of strategic interest we must discuss. One hundred years ago, your kingdom annexed the region of Alsace during the War of Succession. That territory has been a point of contention between our nations ever since. If we are to provide full military and financial support for your campaign, we will require Alsace to be returned to Greater Germania once you have reclaimed your throne."

Bruno's expression remained neutral, though his mind raced. Alsace... the territory rich in coal and iron. If I give that up, I'll lose critical resources for rebuilding the kingdom and sustaining future conflicts.

"I see," Bruno replied calmly. "Alsace is indeed a strategically important region. It has been under Elysean rule for a century now. To relinquish it would weaken our kingdom's industrial capacity and economic future. I cannot agree to such terms."

Maximilian leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Your Highness, I do not wish to pressure you, but you must understand the reality we face. The Republic has already fortified its western front. If we do not act together, they may strike a crippling blow to both your cause and ours. We offer you a powerful alliance—troops, weapons, and access to our supply chains. All we ask is the return of what was historically ours."

Captain Vallier clenched his fists. "Historically yours? Alsace has been part of Elysea for generations. That region is vital to us. Asking for it in exchange for help is no different than demanding our capitulation."

Maximilian did not flinch. "Captain, this is not a matter of sentiment. It is geopolitics. Greater Germania cannot afford to commit its forces without securing its own interests."

Bruno raised a hand to silence Vallier, his voice calm but firm. "I understand your position, Lord Reichenbach. You have your own people to protect, just as I do. But you also understand that I cannot compromise the future of my kingdom by ceding one of its most valuable regions."

Reichenbach sighed, leaning back in his chair. "You drive a hard bargain, Your Highness. Very well. Let us be clear with one another. Whether or not you agree to our terms, we have no choice but to continue fighting the Republic. Their aggression threatens every monarch in Europe, including my king. If we fail to contain them, the revolutionary fire could spread to our borders."

Bruno seized the opportunity. "Then we are in agreement on one thing—our enemy is the Republic. I suggest we focus on mutual cooperation without territorial concessions for now. If our alliance succeeds, there may be other ways to resolve the Alsace dispute diplomatically."

Maximilian studied Bruno carefully. "You propose that we aid you without demanding immediate compensation. That is a risky gamble."

"It's a gamble we both must take," Bruno countered. "If the Republic gains full control of Elysea, they will not stop there. Supporting my cause now increases our chances of victory on both fronts. If we are divided, we will both fall."

The room fell into a tense silence. Finally, Maximilian smiled faintly. "You speak like a king, Your Highness. Very well. I will convey your proposal to King Wilhelm. In the meantime, you have our commitment to provide military advisors, intelligence, and logistical support. We will coordinate our efforts to weaken the Republic on multiple fronts."

Bruno extended his hand once more. "Then we have a temporary understanding. Together, we will bring down the Republic."

Reichenbach shook his hand firmly. "Indeed. I look forward to the day when both our nations are free of revolutionary influence."

As the diplomatic party departed, Bruno gathered his advisors to discuss the meeting's outcome.

"They're playing a dangerous game," Vallier muttered. "They'll wait until we're desperate and then push the Alsace issue again."

"I know," Bruno replied. "But for now, they need us as much as we need them. We'll accept their help but remain vigilant. Our priority is to retake the mainland and rally the people. Once we're in a position of strength, we'll renegotiate from there."

Berthold nodded. "Agreed. We can't afford to lose Alsace. The resources there are too valuable for our long-term survival."

"Then it's settled," Bruno said, his tone resolute. "Prepare the fleet and finalize our battle plans. The Revolution's days are numbered."