Holy war 28

"You expect me to just hand over 10,000 of my soldiers?" Christine's voice was steely. "Do you take us for fools?"

"Oh, not at all," the demoness replied, her tone casual yet persuasive. "Think of it as a trade. You give me what I need, and I give you back what you've lost. It's a small price to pay for the reclamation of such a significant territory and the promise of a ceasefire."

Christine's eyes narrowed, suspicion evident in her gaze. "What do you intend to do with 10,000 human soldiers?"

The demoness chuckled softly. "That's for me to know and for you to trust. But rest assured, they won't be harmed... not immediately, at least. Consider it a temporary exchange. Besides, with the eastern border back in your control, you'll be able to strengthen your defenses and perhaps even turn the tide of this war."