Chapter 24: The Duke’s Daughter’s Responsibility

Chapter 24:
The Duke’s Daughter’s Responsibility

 

I SAT BY THE WINDOW under the moonlight. The view from that spot looked so different in the pale light versus in the bright sunshine. It took on a new beauty. Everything was quiet, so quiet it was hard to believe that somewhere in this same kingdom, a war was raging, even though it was far away.

All of a sudden, I turned my gaze to the flowerpot next to me. The bugles I’d planted were blossoming wonderfully.

“Oh, how darling! Ma’am! What kind of flower is this?”

I smiled as I wondered how many months had passed since I asked the lady at the market that question and bought those seeds. So much had happened since then. Many seasons had passed, and the bag of seeds I’d bought that day had grown into these beautiful flowers, which had then dropped seeds and grown into flowers themselves. How many generations past those original seeds were the flowers I now looked at? I reached out to gently caress the soft, delicate petals. Despite the darkness (or perhaps because of it?) they looked even more beautiful than usual in the moonlight.

“I just wish…”

I suddenly recalled his voice. What had the look on his face been behind the gale of flower petals that day? What had he wanted to say, but didn’t? I looked at the open book in my lap, thinking there was no use in wondering now. Just then, there was a knock at the door.

“Excuse me, my lady… My lady?” Tanya entered and gave me a suspicious look. “Why are you sitting over there?”

“I was taking a break and wanted to look out at the view for a bit.” I knew her worried expression probably wouldn’t improve if I kept sitting there, so I got up and sat at my desk. She looked at the book I was holding, and her expression clouded slightly. “I thought I’d fit in as much as I could,” I told her with a light smile. I was reading a book about the kingdom of Acacia. Whenever I found the time, I took the chance to read the books on foreign kingdoms that we kept in the mansion’s library. Of course I had no intention of going to Acacia until the war was over, but when would that be? In any case, I had deferred my response to the prince’s proposal because of the turbulence in Tasmeria.

“Is that right…? At any rate, I’m here because there’s something I think you should know.”

“Oh? Well, let’s hear it.”

“Detailed news about the war hasn’t yet reached the capital, but I’ve received word that hostilities have indeed broken out.”

So, it’s finally begun, I thought as I let out a deep sigh.

“Lord Messi and General Gazell are leading a brave front to defend the kingdom, but it seems that the enemy’s numbers are great…”

“From what I remember, Grandfather took a smaller number of troops than usual so he could get there quicker, and the second regiment will meet up with them later.”

“Yes, that’s right. Did you hear that from your lady mother?”

“Yes.”

“I see. Well, the second regiment has already departed. They should reach the battlefield within one or two days.”

“That’s a relief. Grandfather may be strong, but we can’t ignore the fact that we’re currently outnumbered.”

“This is just between you and me,” Tanya said, “but apparently Tweil hasn’t just dispatched soldiers. Ordinary citizens are fighting as well.”

“Ordinary citizens? If they’re not properly trained, how in the world could they do anything?”

“You’re precisely right, my lady. What I mean is that even though we’re at a disadvantage with regard to numbers, the tide of battle moves in both directions. However, reportedly the citizens’ thirst for battle is extremely high, so it remains to be seen how long we can maintain the balance…”

“The average citizens are that eager?” I’d assumed they’d been conscripted. Learning that they actually desired to fight was extremely strange.

“Yes. Apparently there was a famine last year in Tweil.”

“I do remember hearing that, now that you mention it. I see, I see… So it’s their last stand, as it were.” The people of Tweil had no food, and with the future looking bleak, they had two choices: grow weak and lie down to die alongside their kingdom or fight and die in a war in hopes of winning rich, fertile lands for their family, something to leave a speck of hope. If they withdrew, all that awaited them was hell. If they advanced, hell still waited. They had been forced to choose between foul fates.

“I might be overthinking this, but what if Divan is specifically leveraging the famine to his advantage?” I just couldn’t shake that feeling. If the only choice the survivors had was death, it was human nature to cling to even the slightest glimmer of hope. Or they would try to find the reason for it all.

“Surely he wouldn’t…”

“It’s just a theory.”

“But my lady, why would someone refuse defeat only to trap themselves in an even more difficult situation?”

“Is that what it is? When people are under extreme pressure, how long do they retain their ability to reason?”

“Ah…” Tanya was speechless.

“Their land is barren. Moreover, they’re still suffering under the financial burden of losing the last war. How long will it take to cultivate new land and see the fruits of that labor? Public order is worsening due to the poverty and famine. Tweil has grown over with discontent and insecurity. How long can people put up with living under those circumstances?”

Especially when right next door lay Tasmeria, the land of sweet fruit and endlessly fertile lands. Wasn’t it only natural for Tweil’s downtrodden to grow jealous and think, “Why did this have to happen to our kingdom?” or “Why is life so unfair?” That would only stoke the feelings of discontent and insecurity.

“It’s entirely possible that the kingdom’s rulers used the unrest to their advantage, thereby diverting the ire away from themselves and toward us.”

“That’s why the citizens want to go to war?”

“The world flows just like a great river. If two drops of water decide to go in a different direction, they can’t fight the larger current. That’s the way of it. Even if some speak against the war, they can’t fight the greater current of the popular sentiment. At some point, they’ll turn in the same direction and change their opinions, telling themselves ‘This is the only way’ or ‘I have no other choice.’”

I’d seen this many times in my past life. So many times, and in so many places, people had frantically tried to change the opinion of the majority during times of turmoil.

“If other people try to take advantage of such sentiments, they’ll push and push and push, and like a flood, they’ll break the dam. The world is overcome by a murky torrent, and everything in its path is caught up in the deluge. It doesn’t take long for the instigators to lose control of the situation.”

Had they purposefully shifted the target of the people’s discontent? Or had they only wanted war in order to avenge their previous losses? The instigators’ motives were as yet unclear. I didn’t think it was just because I was their enemy. Maybe they didn’t yet know what they wanted either. Perhaps their means had become their goal, and now they were fixated only on winning. Or perhaps it was simply that all other avenues were closed.

“Anyway, I digress. I’m sure this has made things difficult for Grandfather. Even though he’s been a general for so long, facing ordinary citizens on the field…”

“Indeed. I’m sure Master concluded quickly that he had no choice but to fight them.”

“Yes, I suppose… Tanya, thank you for the news. If you hear anything else, please come tell me.”

“Of course, my lady.”

After Tanya left, I returned to the window. I didn’t sit right away; I stood and glanced back and forth between the view and my own clenched fist.

War had begun. Now that the powerful, violent stream of the river had overflowed, how far would it travel? Where would it end? I looked outside, then down at my fist. I couldn’t allow myself to be swept up in the current. I couldn’t allow myself to be swallowed. If I fell, if I misstepped, I wouldn’t drown alone. I stood still for a while, as if re-examining my resolve.

 

***

 

“Hm?” Early the next morning, while I was working, one of the documents caught my eye.

“What is it, my lady?” Tanya asked from beside me.

“I need you to confirm something with Architetto. Why haven’t these buildings been demolished?”

“I’ll find out right away.”

The buildings in question were in the eastern part of Armelia. After the incident with the Boltik family, the duchy had seized the buildings the renegades used as their headquarters, and I had ordered them torn down. When I checked in with Glaus after the incident, he completely ceded his rights to several other properties as a sort of nuisance fee. Thereafter, those buildings had become property of the duchy. I’d deferred deciding what to do with them for a while, but upon re-evaluating the duchy’s infrastructure, I’d decided to demolish all the structures in that area to use the land for different purposes.

Now that I was checking the progress, I was shocked to see that there was no progress. In fact, they hadn’t been touched at all. Honestly, I felt rather pathetic that it had come to this point after I procrastinated on my decision. To be frank, we were in no position to worry about infrastructure.

An official from Architetto whom Tanya had summoned entered the room. “Pardon me, my lady. I’ve returned with the answer to your question.”

“Thank you. So, why has there been no progress on these demolition projects?”

“Yes, well… Due to the frequent comings and goings of people in the area, construction has been delayed.”

“I’m sorry—what do you mean by that, exactly?”

“Yes, well… When our workers checked who kept frequenting the sites, I was told it was the Boltik family.”

“That’s impossible. No one owns that land. The duchy seized it.”

“Yes, but the construction workers hadn’t confirmed that. Since they didn’t want to cross the Boltik family, they just let it be.”

“I see…” I made a mental note to contact Glaus. “All right, then. Thank you. I’ll follow up on this later with further instructions.”

After the official from Architetto left my study, I let out a deep sigh. Something about this issue nagged at me. In the grand scheme of things, it was low on my priority list, yet warning bells within my mind told me that I couldn’t put it on the back burner.

“Tanya, would you call Dida in here, please?”

“Of course, my lady.”

My mind was busy as I watched her go. Some people claiming to be the Boltik family were entering property that no longer had any connection to the Boltik family. If it was indeed the Boltik family, then Glaus had some explaining to do. Yet the day that I met him, I’d come away with the firm impression that Glaus wasn’t the sort of man to go back on his word. So, if I trusted my impression, and if this wasn’t happening on Glaus’s orders, then had more renegades appeared? Or, if these people had nothing to do with the Boltik family at all, what in the world were they doing entering these construction sites?

Either way, I had a bad feeling about this. Things were already tense in the kingdom; I couldn’t afford another catastrophe within the duchy.

“You called for me, Princess?”

“Yes. I’m so sorry to bother you, Dida. I know you’re busy.”

“I’m never too busy for you. What is it?”

For a moment, I asked myself whether it was a good idea to give Dida this order. He was one of the best men I had. Considering the current climate in the kingdom, I wanted him as close as possible. However, if this was an omen and I ignored it, it might spiral into an even greater problem. I wanted to avoid that at all costs.

After I mentally drew up a list of pros and cons, I ultimately decided to give him the order. “I want you to travel to the east with one of Tanya’s agents and look into something for me.”

“Under these circumstances?” Dida’s gaze grew sharp. I had to laugh at myself; I couldn’t blame him for that reaction.

“Yes. My mind is ringing with warning bells, and my gut tells me that we need to look into it immediately.”

“But Princess, like I said, right now? Under these circumstances? As your bodyguard, I don’t want to leave your side for a second.” Dida’s tone was as casual and light as usual, but not a hint of a smile reached his eyes. I’d made his gaze sharpen even more.

“I have Tanya’s agents in every one of our territories, so it wouldn’t take long to discern actions. The thing is, you’re the only one who can tell if Glaus’s words are true. So please, go and be my eyes and ears. Part of your job as my bodyguard is protecting me from danger, right?”

We stared at each other in silence for a while, a heavy tension in the air. It ended suddenly when Dida let out a heavy sigh. “You got me, Princess. If you’re that insistent, you know I can’t disobey.”

“Dida…”

“Are you sure I’m the one for the job? After, you know…”

It seemed it still bothered him that he’d been captured by the enemy during the incident in the east. I saw a hint of a shadow fall across his eyes as he turned his gaze downward. I smiled knowingly at him—he really was still worried. But I wasn’t worried about him at all.

“I know you don’t make the same mistake twice.” I truly believed that.

“I’m no match for you, Princess,” Dida muttered with a laugh. “All right, then. I promise I’ll do my job without a hitch this time.”

“I know you will. I’m counting on you, Dida.”

 

***

 

“…Well, you take care of things here.” Dida left everything in Lyle’s hands and headed toward the front door as he made to leave the mansion. He’d arranged his affairs and responsibilities as quickly as possible upon receiving the orders from Iris.

“Don’t worry. I’ll take care of Lady Iris,” Lyle replied with a firm nod.

“I can rest at ease knowing she’s in your hands. Well, I’ll be seeing you.”

Rather than use the main exit, Dida left the mansion via a narrower path, which was usually used by the servants. As he drew near the gate, he saw someone standing in front of it. It was Tanya.

“What? Don’t tell me you went out of your way to see me off?” Dida teased, but she didn’t answer. She just stared at him with a serious gaze, as if studying him. He let out a sigh and started walking again. “I’ll be back.”

His tone of voice was just as serious as her gaze.

“Wait,” she called as he passed her. “My agents are already heading toward the east.”

“Yeah, I heard.”

“Lady Iris seems to be most concerned about this matter, but honestly I also think something suspicious is afoot.”

“Oh?” Dida asked, a glint in his eye. Tanya sensed his inner fighter flare quietly for a passing moment. “You got some kind of premonition?”

“I don’t know anything for certain. Be honest—you sense something’s off as well, don’t you?”

“Well, yeah. You know the place we’re talking about.”

“My agents don’t share your objective, but I want you to take this passcode anyway. It will allow you entry to places where you can communicate with them. I’ve already told them about you and to do everything you say.” Tanya passed him a scrap of paper.

“Thanks. I owe you one.”

“I-It’s not a big deal. I just want you to carry out Lady Iris’s orders…and to come home safely.” Tanya said it coldly, but it still made Dida smile. He could take “come home safely” in many different ways, after all.

“You got it. I’ll be watching my back.” With that, he left.

 

***

 

Several days had passed since Dida left the mansion. “I wonder if he’s reached the east yet?” I murmured as I worked my way through the stack of papers on my desk. I could only hope that I was worrying needlessly.

Just then, there was a knock at the door, and Tanya entered. “Pardon me, my lady. I have news for you.”

“Is it from Dida already?”

Tanya’s face tensed, which was unusual for her. She shook her head. “No, but it’s very urgent.”

Now I grew tense. “What in the world is it?”

“The former Lord Monroe’s line of defense is crumbling…and I fear that since we received word, it has only further crumbled.”

For a moment, my mind went completely blank. I was so confused that it took me a while to comprehend what she had said. Once I did, I took a deep breath to calm myself. “Is this news certain?”

“I received word from one of my men who I’d placed undercover amongst the former lord’s troops. Taking into account the time it took for the message to reach us, I think it only rational to assume that his line has since fallen.”

“I want to hear details. What circumstances led to this? What about Grandfather’s troops? Surely the second regiment has joined them by now?”

“As of right now, I’ve received no news of Master’s—I mean, General Gazell’s—defeat. Actually, although his regiment and Lord Messi’s private soldiers are outnumbered, they have been fighting valiantly against the enemy. For that reason, the general’s second regiment was instead diverted to provide defense for the former Lord Monroe’s troops, but…”

“They lost anyway. The enemy must have sent a great number of troops to Lord Monroe’s domain, then.”

“Yes. That’s where they sent a large number of their formal soldiers.”

“The ones fighting in Lord Messi’s domain are mostly militiamen, correct? Perhaps they predicted where Grandfather would be fighting, since it’s where the war began and they knew he was familiar with Lord Messi’s domain after the last war. They directed a large number of militiamen there to outnumber him to ensure that he would be unable to move elsewhere…” I spoke in a stream of consciousness, trying to organize my thoughts out loud. “That’s why they attacked Lord Monroe’s domain later and why they saved the real soldiers for that battle. Ah, but hang on a minute; even though they had a lot of troops, the second regiment was quite large, no? So how were they defeated so quickly after their arrival?”

“…Because Monroe’s citizens took Tweil’s side.”

“What did you just say?!” I couldn’t help but raise my voice. I was so shocked that I leapt out of my seat with a loud clatter. Tanya’s calm expression brought me to my senses, and I gradually started to calm down too.

“You can never let anyone but her see you like this, even on accident,” I thought in a corner of my mind.

“What is the reason behind this betrayal?” I asked, but Tanya shook her head.

“To the people who lived in Lord Monroe’s domain, this was not an invasion…but a liberation. They have run out of patience for Lord Monroe’s governance, as well as the kingdom of Tasmeria. So they have revolted and sided with Tweil. I have intel that suggests someone there was further fanning their flames.”

“Divan and his cronies?”

“Yes, my lady. It’s just as you said before.”

“Pardon?”

“You said, ‘The world flows just like a great river. If two drops of water decide to go in a different direction, they can’t fight the larger current.’ and ‘Even if some speak against the war, they can’t fight the greater current of popular sentiment. At some point, they’ll turn in the same direction and change their opinions, telling themselves, ‘This is the only way,’ or ‘I have no other choice.’ I think that’s probably what happened to the people of the county of Monroe. Seeds of discontent and anxiety were sewn to the point that they couldn’t envision a future. The seeds were nourished by a steady stream of incitement, and now they’ve bloomed. Even if life looked to improve under the first prince’s rule, it was too late to stop these seeds from growing.”

“That’s true…” I let out an inward sigh. Our enemy had very thoroughly prepared for this. Perhaps they had pretended to be aligned with Lord Monroe while, in truth, their aim had always been to stoke rebellion within the citizens.

Still, the kingdom’s troops had withdrawn from Monroe, and now the defense troops were retreating as well… “Hang on a second. That means Lord Messi’s domain will be attacked from two sides!”

“Yes, I know. What about backup troops from other domains?”

“Do you even think that’s possible? They’re doubless all concerned with protecting their own domains.” The governors of the domains bordering Monroe and Messi’s, surely anticipated attacks as well. It was unlikely any of them would willingly give up their own troops to fight in another domain. Moreover, none of those domains were in a position to sacrifice soldiers.

Someone rapped on the door, shouting from the other side. “Lady Iris, terrible news!”

“We’re very busy. Is it urgent?”

“Y-yes! Hostilities have broken out in the east!”

That was the very last thing I’d expected to hear, and once again my mind went blank. The word “hostilities” didn’t sound real. It was like I had seen the word but didn’t know what it meant. It invaded my head like a stranger. Why? Why? Doubts and questions circled through my head over and over again. No matter how I racked my brain, I couldn’t come up with a cause.

“My lady, are you all right?” Tanya peered at me with concern. Her face was awfully pale.

The second I realized that, my last sliver of good sense commanded me to “Calm down, calm down!” I automatically reached up to grasp the pocket watch I wore around my neck. My breaths were shallow, but as I listened to the ticking of the clock, they grew more regular, and gradually I was able to see the things around me clearly once more.

“I’m fine, Tanya.” If I fell and let myself be swallowed by the waves, everyone around me would drown too. I could not stumble at this crucial moment. I kept telling myself that. “Call Lyle and Sebastian here right away. We must discuss this.”

“Y-yes, my lady!” Tanya broke out into a run, which she rarely did, and rushed out of the room.

“I want you to tell me everything you know, down to the smallest detail,” I instructed the messenger.

“Y-yes, my lady!” The messenger nodded firmly, although he trembled.

When Lyle and Sebastian entered the room, I could tell by their tense expressions that Tanya had already informed them of the situation. “Tanya already told you why I called you here, correct?”

“Yes, but…I’m not quite sure I understand,” Sebastian said, looking quite bewildered.

I had to agree. “I feel the same way. I’ve heard more details, but all we know is the scope of the casualties. We don’t know who our enemy is, nor do we know their goal.” I let out a sigh to try to calm myself.

“Well, my lady? What casualties do we know of?”

“There was a simultaneous attack on the garrison and the town hall. As of now, the town hall is occupied. At present, we know of ten fatalities and several wounded, including government officials, members of the garrisoned forces, and ordinary citizens.”

I bit my lip and clenched my trembling hands into fists. The metallic taste of blood spread through my mouth, but the sharp pain let me know that this was reality.

“My lady…” Sebastian’s voice was pained as he looked at me. I wasn’t shaking from sadness. While I explained the situation to them, my confusion had cleared, revealing one emotion.

“How dare they…!” Anger. It made me shake. If someone was dissatisfied with the way I governed Armelia, then they should have taken it up with me. They needed to speak up and state their motives clearly. Instead, they didn’t even try to engage me and gave into their anger. They attacked innocent citizens. That behavior made them far worse than a foreign foe.

The four people in the room looked stunned—they had finally sensed my anger.

“And the enemy?” Lyle was the first to come back to himself.

“According to eyewitness reports, there are about a hundred. According to the surviving members of the garrison, they are highly organized. So they’re not just some mob.”

“It is true that it would take more than your average thug to defeat our trained officers. They must have planned this a while ago, or they had significant backing…”

“How did those hundred people convene in the first place?” Tanya asked as if just realizing that. Feeling our gazes on her, she hastily added, “I-I’m sorry. It just bothers me. For a group of one hundred people to move in an organized manner, they would have needed meetings to coordinate, as well as a place to store their weapons until the battle began.”

All of a sudden, I felt like I had been slapped in the face. “That’s it!”

“Huh?” The four of them looked at me, bewildered.

“That must be who was gathering at the buildings we seized. You know, the trespassers that Architetto warned me about. They were using those properties to prepare for today. Several of those buildings have access to the underground sewers. That would give them the ability to appear wherever they wanted in the city without a trace of movement beforehand!”

It was a guess on my part, but after I connected the dots, it made perfect sense. I’d felt strange about this from the start. There was no reason for the Boltik family to trespass into properties when Glaus was their boss. I was even more sure of that now after revisiting the sequence of events that had followed after we took possession of the properties.

Had there been more conflict within the family, and they had split off into another faction? It wasn’t out of the question, but I didn’t think that was what we were facing. After all, trespassing in these properties would only be asking for greater scrutiny from the Boltiks themselves.

“The more I hear, the less likely I think the attacks were made by some renegade group related to the Boltiks.”

“I agree. They must have been planning this for quite some time…almost as if they waited for this exact moment to strike.”

The only conclusion I could come to was that they had purposefully waited until the former count’s defense force had fallen. Indeed, they had been bold, attacking city hall and the garrison.

Suddenly, I heard loud footsteps and the door burst open.

A woman I didn’t recognize entered the room. “Miss Tanya, please pardon me for interrupting, but I have news!”

“What in the world is it? This is a very important meeting.”

“I realize that. But…” The woman went up to Tanya and whispered in her ear.

“What did you just say?”

“I confirmed it with one of your agents before coming here.”

While they spoke, I confirmed the composition of the garrisons in each of our territories, trying to determine how many of them I could dispatch to the east and how long it would take them to get there.

“My lady, may I have a word?” asked Tanya.

“Are you finished conferring?”

“I’m sorry about that. I have news from Dida.”

“I see. And?”

“Dida has checked with Glaus about the trespassers, and he says they are not his men, nor anyone he knows. He will watch his men closely just in case, but…after their internal troubles, things have tightened up in his organization to the point that he thinks it very unlikely there are traitors in his midst.”

“I see… Well then, who in the world could these people be?”

“I also have news from the agents who were dispatched to the east. They used their judgment and took it upon themselves to go undercover at city hall to look into the trespassers.”

“Your agents are very clever. Did they find anything?”

“She’ll give her report to Lyle directly after this.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” Lyle said to the woman who had just spoken to Tanya. She nodded firmly.

“Also, my agents have confirmed that the people occupying city hall are the same as those who trespassed on our buildings, just as you suspected, my lady.”

“How did they reach this conclusion?”

“Apparently, they occasionally speak a language other than Tasmeria’s native tongue. When they do speak in Tasmerian, they do so with an accent. That can’t be mere coincidence.”

I tensed at this revelation. I’d sensed something else going on behind the scenes, but the thought of another kingdom’s involvement was shocking. “Do they know what language they’re speaking?”

“…It’s Acacian, my lady.”

A heavy silence filled the room. Even if someone wanted to say something, no one dared speak a word. I felt myself trembling slightly. I slowly closed my eyes. I thought of the cries of help from the people who had come to Armelia from other domains, hoping to escape famine. The cries I heard the day I visited the border crossing still numbed my mind. The memory triggered something in me, and all of a sudden I thought I could hear the cries of my people in the east, begging for help.

I silently scolded myself: Don’t be a coward. There were people who needed my help. If I covered my ears and ignored those cries for aid, they would suffer.

“Lyle, alert our forces to the north and west; they are to leave the bare minimum at their stations, and the rest are to journey to the east. Transfer right of command to Dida. I want him to annihilate the assailants! Tanya, send word to Dida and deliver these orders.”

They silently nodded.

I exhaled deeply and started to breathe more regularly. “A governor’s foremost responsibility is to protect the lives of their citizens. If my people are in danger, then I will stop those attempting to harm them by whatever means necessary.” Perhaps part of the reason I said it aloud was because I still trembled slightly. The four people in the room had begun to move, but they froze. “If anyone stands in the way of this aim, you have my permission to eliminate them. Entirely. I shall take responsibility for your actions. I may not possess the physical prowess to lead the charge, but know that my heart is with you. As acting governor, I bear the responsibility for whatever happens and will act accordingly.”

All four of them stood ramrod straight as they answered in unison, “Yes, my lady!”

Then they sprang into action.

“Oh, and Sebastian? Gather two or three members from each ministry and assemble an emergency response team. Bring any information regarding the situation in the east to me immediately.”

“Y-yes, my lady!”

Sebastian rushed to carry out my orders. It didn’t take long for him to gather those people and send the new emergency response team to my study.

“My lady, we’ve sent word to the garrisons in each territory, and they have begun dispatching forces to the east.”

“Good. Keep up the good work. Don’t forget to send word to Tanya’s agents informing them of this.”

“Yes, my lady.”

“Sebastian, contact the medical guild and dispatch doctors to the east posthaste. Send a request to the merchant guild for their cooperation as well. Tell them, ‘If you don’t want to see your lifeblood ports destroyed, act now.’”

“Y-yes, of course.”

“What’s the status of aid we requested for the injured citizens?”

“It’s ready to be dispatched right away. We were able to secure the aid at the meeting the other day after numerous budget cuts.”

“That’s good news. Put Lyle in charge of the delivery. And alert our forces right away so they can guard the supplies.”

“Yes, my lady.”

A group of people scurried about busily in my wing of the mansion.

“Th-there’s more trouble!” One of my officials came yelling into the room. I wondered what in the world it could be this time, but I silently gestured for him to speak. “A mysterious ship suddenly appeared at the port in the east. They’re armed and are attempting to take over the harbor!”

“What did you just say?” The entire room went silent. I hadn’t meant for my voice to sound so ominous, but it echoed harshly nevertheless.

“A-and word is it’s only a matter of time before they attack the city…”

The blood drained from every single person’s face upon hearing this news.

“We don’t know if they’re the same people who attacked city hall,” said Lyle. “Perhaps it was someone else, capitalizing on the state of confusion in the east. After all, we have no one there to give orders, nor do we have a fully functional garrison.”

I nodded. “Tanya, have one of your agents investigate and report back on the appearance of this new ship right away.”

“Yes, my lady.”

Her confident response made me release a sigh I’d been keeping pent up. Under normal circumstances, any suspicious ships would have been spotted in advance and dealt with right then and there. The center of the eastern territory’s governance was the town hall, which was occupied by enemy forces. Therefore, no one there could give such orders. The garrison was also not yet fully operational, as Lyle said, so they were less able to protect our citizens from new attacks. Even so, I had a hard time believing we’d so carelessly left such an opening.

“I think Tweil and Acacia are acting in tandem.” Everyone went pale at my suggestion. I could hardly blame them. No one had ever suspected that Acacia might attack Armelia. I had no proof to back it up, but if it was true, it meant things were dire indeed. Acacia was an enormous kingdom. It was possible that the force taking control of my port was merely the vanguard.

“Wh-what should we do, Lady Iris?”

All eyes turned toward me. I had prepared myself mentally for this, but knowing that my decision could mean life or death for my citizens was a heavier burden than I had imagined. I detached myself from those emotions and thought it through. Honestly, I would have given anything to have more time to think, but I didn’t have that luxury. The east was in danger. I wanted to confirm more of the background details, but I also couldn’t wait for intelligence reports to be gathered on the kingdom of Acacia. I would still order them though, of course.

“Lyle.”

“Yes?”

“Take a regiment and meet up with Dida.”

“But…” It was unusual for Lyle to show any sign of hesitation in response to my orders.

“The strength of one person won’t turn this tide. But your leadership will enable the troops to fight to their utmost abilities.”

“Very well, but…who will protect you, my lady?”

“Unless I must for some reason flee, the bodyguards remaining here should be sufficient. Besides, if things get dire, I have Tanya.” Lyle seemed to acquiesce at this last acknowledgment, but some hesitation still lingered in his eyes. “Lyle, do you remember what you said to me before? That you would protect me and the things important to me?”

The moment I said that, his breath caught in his throat. “Forgive me, my lady. I nearly broke my vow to you. Tanya, I’m counting on you to protect her in my stead.”

Tanya nodded firmly.

“We don’t have much time, so if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go ahead and ready the troops. Do you have any other additional orders for me?”

“No. I transfer authority on the battlefield to you. I shall take on all responsibility for the decisions made there, so I want you to have confidence and do what you think is right.”

“Yes, my lady. I shall act knowing you have placed your trust in me. If you’ll excuse me.”

Lyle bowed and left the room in a rush. As I watched him go, I prayed for his success in battle.

“M-my lady… Will Lyle be all right?” Rehme asked with tears in her eyes. They’d known each other since they were children, and she seemed awfully worried about him.

“We’ll do everything in our power on our end to make sure that he will be.”

“But…”

“Rehme.” I said her name firmly to discourage any other questions, but she wouldn’t back down.

“P-please let me go with him!”

I was momentarily astounded by her request.

“I can speak Acacian! I also have many tomes with information about the kingdom. If negotiations with their soldiers are at all possible, I’m certain that I will be very useful!”

I immediately dismissed her request. “It’s a very attractive offer, Rehme, but I’m going to have to say no.”

“B-but why…?!” Tears streamed down her face.

“Because you can’t protect yourself. If you come along, you’ll be in the way and hinder their progress. Please understand, Rehme,” I said in the firmest tone of voice I could muster.

We stared at each other in silence for a moment.

“Forgive my impertinence, my lady,” Rehme finally said.

“I’m sorry, Rehme.”

Honestly, I wished I could go as well. I wanted to be there to give orders in real time. It frustrated me to be unable to do so. Nevertheless, there were things only I could do, and I needed to do them.

“Send a request to the kingdom’s army for assistance at once.”

“Y-yes, my lady.”

“And I want to send a personal letter to Acacia.”

“B-but, my lady… We still haven’t confirmed that Acacia is behind the attacks…”

“Of course. I won’t say anything directly; I just want to feel them out. It wouldn’t be out of the ordinary for me to send a letter to the prince, after all.” The only caveat was that I would have to be extra careful to conceal my true feelings in the letter. If I set the way I truly felt to paper, it would be a letter filled with condemnation.

“That’s true, but…”

“Tanya? I know this is an unreasonable request, but do you think your agents would be able to gather intelligence in Acacia?”

“Actually…” Tanya looked at me and hesitated for a moment. I started to regret asking something that would require so much trouble at such short notice, but then she continued. “I already have some agents in Acacia doing just that.”

I was so surprised it took me a moment to reply. “Goodness! You’re awfully prepared, aren’t you?”

“I made the decision on my own, but…it was regarding you, my lady. I sent my agents to Acacia the instant the prince approached you about marriage. At present, I’m just waiting for their reports.”

Ah, so it had to do with the proposal. I was thoroughly impressed with Tanya’s judgment. “Let me know as soon as you get that information.”

“Of course.”

“My lady, I understand that you wish to send a request for assistance from the kingdom’s army, but can they spare any soldiers during this time of war?” Sebastian asked.

I shared his apprehension, but I had no choice but to ask for aid. We just didn’t have the military force required. At the same time, I couldn’t count on help either. When you’re drowning and grasping at straws, you’re still going to drown.

So I needed to think, then think some more. My mind was racing. I thought of several plans that weren’t even really plans yet, which popped into my head and disappeared just as quickly. I couldn’t think straight, perhaps because of the anxiety. I was lost in a labyrinth of thoughts, all circling back to “What should I do?” and “What can I do?”

I closed my eyes and let out a deep sigh to clear my head. Then I surrendered myself to the waves of thoughts once more. This time, I couldn’t get lost, and I couldn’t drown. I had to identify each problem and put my goals in order.

“Armelia may be farther from Tweil than we are here, but you never know what will happen in times of war. If you sense any sparks from the fires of war have spread to you, you must let your mother know at once.”

Suddenly, my mother’s words flashed through my mind. I spoke one of my ideas aloud. “I’m going to ask House Anderson for aid directly, through my mother.”

House Anderson’s personal guard was composed entirely of powerful soldiers trained by my grandfather, which meant that they had the best training in the entire kingdom.

“But my lady… It’s against Tasmerian law to dispatch one’s private guard to another domain!” one of the Codice officials protested.

“As I said, I will ask for aid through my mother. What would be strange about my mother returning home to Armelia and bringing along a sizable number of bodyguards at such a dangerous time in the kingdom?” Even I had to admit, that was quite a gray area of the law. “I shall notify the first prince myself. If there’s a consequence to be had for asking consent after the fact, then I shall take full responsibility.”

Although honestly, I didn’t think Dean would protest. If those around him did, then I would indeed assume responsibility. If I had the power to save the duchy, then this was my best chance.

“I shall prepare the letters this minute. Meanwhile, I want you to gather all the information you have and respond accordingly! Our utmost priority is to protect the duchy!”

“Yes, my lady.”

After everyone rushed off to get to work, I returned to my study to start writing letters. First, I had to explain the situation to my uncle, who was currently the head of House Anderson, and formally request aid. Next, I had to suppress my boiling rage toward the kingdom of Acacia and compose a letter that was not accusatory but which clearly demonstrated that we grasped the situation at hand.

Then, I wrote a letter to the Ministry of Defense, explaining the situation and formally requesting aid. Finally, I wrote a letter to Dean. As I did so, my hands suddenly froze. I wondered what he was doing.

I had to chuckle wryly at myself for thinking something so foolish. He was fighting, of course, just as I was. But he shouldered far more responsibility than I did. Several times since returning home, I’d had to bite my lip to stop myself from calling for Dean aloud. Doing so had become second nature. He had been by my side during every grueling ordeal I’d faced as governor. Perhaps that was why I found myself wishing over and over, “If only he were here…” and “I want to be with him.”

It seemed I had become quite weak. But I had many lingering regrets. We’d said goodbye to each other that day, determined to travel down different paths, even if we headed in the same direction. Wasn’t that the decision I made? Nothing had changed. Spoiling myself and choosing the easy path would destroy everything I had worked so hard to build up. As such, I absolutely would not allow myself to run to or depend overmuch on others.

I picked up my pen once more and continued to write. I wrote to the prince not as Iris but as the acting governor of the domain of Armelia.

 

***

 

The royal palace was known for maintaining a constant air of elegant austerity, but at present it was uncharacteristically chaotic. People ran back and forth, and shouts could be heard from all over. Members of the royal family, who were most esteemed for their refined conduct, should have turned their noses up at the uncouth behavior and tense atmosphere, or perhaps even shrunk back in horror. However, Leticia was going to and fro, seemingly unbothered.

“Hm? There you are, Brother! I’ve been looking for you.” She had been searching for her older brother, Prince Alfred.

“Letty, how in the world did you find me here?” Alfred didn’t look particularly surprised to see his sister, but he did seem a little tired.

“I just searched all the places I figured you would be, that’s all.”

“Ah…” Alfred let out a wry chuckle at the triumphant look on her face.

“Things have grown awfully noisy, haven’t they?”

“Yes, they have… He really left me with a mess.”

“When will you be leaving for battle?” All of a sudden, Leticia’s cheerful, lighthearted tone disappeared and her voice became direly serious. Her abrupt change of attitude startled Alfred for a moment, delaying his response.

In that moment of hesitation, he decided it would be pointless to beat around the bush, so he confirmed with his next question. “How did you know about that?”

“I could guess as much even though I can’t attend the meetings. War broke out in the midst of a downturn in the royal family’s popularity. Therefore, it’s crucial for you, as the future king, to go to the battlefield yourself and show our people that you will not abandon our kingdom. Moreover, you’re the only one who can unite both the kingdom’s army and the knights behind your cause. You built a relationship with the soldiers as Dean, and training with the knights has guaranteed that they will follow you. We need all the military strength we can get, so there’s no better person to lead the charge. I know that means you’ll be risking your life and your safety, but this is the greatest chance to build on your achievements as future king. So, for all those reasons, I also believe you should go to battle.”

“You’re exactly right, Letty. But I doubt you came looking for me just to tell me you agree with me.”

“No, but…first I want to know why you’re here.”

“Because I just received a letter from Lord Armelia’s daughter.”

“Oh!” Joy spread across Leticia’s face at the name, but she swiftly regained her composure. “I heard there’s all sorts of trouble in Armelia. Has she requested military aid?”

“Yes. Unfortunately, under these circumstances, I can’t provide it.”

“That’s true, taking the urgent situation in the north under consideration. Then Armelia will…”

“She anticipated we wouldn’t be able to provide the aid she needed, so she went ahead and sent a request to House Anderson for their cooperation.”

Leticia let out a noise of admiration. “I’d expect nothing less from Lady Iris.”

“I know.”

“Then why do you look so distraught?”

“That’s not for you to worry about.” Alfred quickly and firmly dismissed her question, because she had hit the nail on the head; he was distraught. She—Iris, that was—had said that she wanted him to approve her request as the acting governor of Armelia to receive troops from House Anderson’s private guard. The request in and of itself was not the problem. Some nobles might have something to say about it later, but when one considered Armelia’s situation, it was clear there was no other choice. Alfred had already decided to give his full support. He didn’t have a problem with any of that. The problem lay in the final part of her letter.

At the end, she had written not as the acting governor of Armelia toward the future king but toward “Dean,” who had worked for Armelia. It said: “Do not, under any circumstances, act as ‘Dean.’” And that since this was Armelia’s problem, they would deal with it themselves. She said regardless of their past connections, he did not need to help her when he already had his hands full with his own catastrophe. This was the message she had left for Dean.

Alfred couldn’t just dismiss it as some nonsense. In fact, up until he read that last paragraph, he had been wondering what he could do to help—as “Dean,” of course. Even though he knew full well that any levelheaded person would say he should go to the north under these circumstances, he was still trying to rack his brains to determine a way to return to Armelia. These thoughts had plagued him.

His rational mind knew what he should do as the king. On the other hand, the desire to go to Iris’s aid roiled in the depths of his heart, daring to rise to the surface at any moment. The state of his own emotions bewildered and filled him with frustration. Consequently, his clear distress.

“Well, I can’t force you to answer me. I shall tell you why I came to see you, nonetheless.” Leticia’s voice pulled Alfred out of his reverie and back to reality. “I’ve been thinking about inciting a coup d’état and have come to confer with you.”

“Huh?!” Even Alfred was flabbergasted by this announcement. Historically—actually, not all that historically, since it had happened so recently—the two princes had fought a wretched battle for succession. So who in the world in their right mind would speak about instigating a coup d’état at this moment, not to mention asking the opposing party’s advice? “What kind of joke is this, Leticia?”

Taking all of that into account, his question was most reasonable.

“It’s not a joke. I’ve been dreaming about this for ages.” The smile on Leticia’s face was adorable, yet the words coming out of her mouth were beyond extreme. “I’ve lived my whole life being protected by you. In fact, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that you’re the only reason I’m still alive.” Her voice took on a sing-song quality. “That’s why I started dreaming. Dreaming about being useful to you. I want to help you shoulder those heavy burdens of yours.”

It was difficult to see how that sentiment was connected to a coup. Alfred gave her a confused look, wondering what the connection was.

“Answer me honestly. Do you see becoming the king as nothing more than a burden?” Leticia asked. “Truth be told, do you really care at all?”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Letty. If that were true, then why would I be sitting here?”

“Because the only way to keep us both alive was to sit in that throne. Surely you wouldn’t have been satisfied with our other brother and Ellia merely giving up succession rights and becoming your subjects.”

That was all true. So for a moment, Alfred couldn’t say a word. “Still, I was only ever destined to sit here on this throne.”

“Lies.” Letitia dismissed him with a laugh. “That’s not the only destiny in your heart. You were so happy when you worked in Armelia. Even now, you were fighting yourself over your position as future king versus your personal desires, were you not?” After those words left Leticia’s mouth, the smile vanished from her face and was replaced with a grave expression. “Brother, I have no doubt in my mind that you would make a wonderful king, if you ascended to the throne as things stand. You would serve as the cogs that would make this kingdom turn and do a good job of it too. But there’s a difference between the things you could do and the things you should do.”

“You don’t think I could put forth my best effort?”

“That’s right. Not if it means you have to lose her and your heart freezes over.”

Alfred let out a scornful laugh. “My heart? You think that’s a king’s most important quality?”

Leticia didn’t answer him. She just stared back at him silently.

“Have you forgotten our father? Our father who was absolutely negligent in all matters after he lost our mother?”

“I am too young to remember ever meeting him, so truthfully, no. I only know what I’ve heard.”

Alfred smiled in acknowledgment.

“I’m not saying heart is everything. Of course I know that sometimes it’s necessary to make levelheaded judgments. But the heart…it’s the one factor that leads people to follow another. And although people will follow those with heart, it’s also human nature to say…things. No matter how talented you are, when things don’t go smoothly, your heart will suffer. Conversely, when things go too well, your heart becomes isolated and fearful. The order of our kingdom is being sliced apart by a sharp blade and built anew. We’re showing as much strength as we can. But will you have the heart to unite the people once more? That depends on how you implement your plans.”

“I see. I’ll take that into consideration.” Alfred started to rise to his feet, signaling an end to the conversation.

“Brother! Please, hear me out until the end!”

“I have my dignity as your brother, Letty. Do you really think I would let you take on such a heavy responsibility on your own and just move on?”

“I wouldn’t be alone.”

“What?”

“Ah, nothing… I just mean, I honestly wouldn’t mind.”

Alfred’s gaze grew sharper when he saw her grow flustered and shy. “Nevertheless, I want to be king. Even if I have to do it alone, and even if the path ahead is paved with thorns, I’ll do it for the sake of my ideals.”

Just then, there was a knock at the door. After Alfred said to enter, Berne came into the room.

“Excuse me, Your Highness, there’s something I need to check—Princess Leticia?” Berne tensed, sensing the atmosphere in the room. “Ah, it seems you’re in the middle of something. Shall I come back later?”

Leticia spoke first. “No, Berne. You can stay there.”

“But…”

“I want you to hear this too.”

A troubled look came over Berne’s face at her serious tone.

Alfred narrowed his eyes thoughtfully as he watched their exchange. “That reminds me, Berne. Didn’t you say you had already met Letty before I introduced you to her?”

“Yes, when I visited the palace to give the queen dowager a message on my father’s behalf. I fear I was rude to her then, as I had no idea she was the princess.”

“I told you before, you weren’t rude at all.” Leticia smiled wryly at Berne. “Berne, what do you think about Lady Iris’s social standing as the acting governor of Armelia?”

Berne looked truly perplexed by the question. Not only that, but he had no idea that Alfred had once worked as Iris’s right-hand man in Armelia—miraculously, he had never been in the duchy at the same time as “Dean.” The reason he was perplexed was purely because he had no idea why Leticia would ask that question, at this moment. “As someone who serves in the kingdom’s government, I think that her marriage into another kingdom would be a terrible loss for Tasmeria.”

“Oh?” Alfred listened with interest and urged Berne to continue.

“This might sound like bias, as I’m her brother, but my older sister is extremely gifted. Specifically, she has a talent for bringing people together and convincing them to follow her. I doubt she’s aware of it, though.” A hardened smile crossed Berne’s face. “It’s become even more apparent to me since I started working for you, Your Highness. Although I do pride myself in having more knowledge than my sister in some areas, such as the precedents for each of the kingdom’s laws and policies and such.”

“I’ve heard great things about your enthusiasm—that even during your free time, you’ve been studying at the palace library and receiving private instruction from specialists,” said Alfred. “Some people have said you have such an intensity when you’re immersed in your studies that they dare not speak to you.”

“Thank you for the compliments, Your Highness. Still, I’m not even close to my sister’s caliber.” Despite Alfred’s praise, Berne’s look was stern rather than smiling. “The foundation of putting work into practice is knowledge. If you don’t have a certain amount of knowledge, you won’t be able to do your job effectively. Conversely, even if you have that knowledge, being able to utilize it effectively is a whole separate issue.”

Knowledge was just a tool. Someone could ask you to use it without understanding it themselves. “My sister knows how to use the things she sees and hears. Her ability to innovate is truly extraordinary.”

Alfred had to privately agree with Berne on that one, because as of late, he had spent more time with Iris than Berne had. Therefore, he felt he had likely seen her abilities up close more than even her brother.

“Most of all, she’s surrounded herself with highly capable people. She always says that her staff is her greatest treasure. She fully supports them and creates an environment that encourages their growth, but I think that the main reason they’re so loyal to her is because she’s herself. If she’s lacking in any area, they fill the gap. No matter how much I try to learn, I understand that ultimately there’s a limit to what I alone can do. I don’t have the time to learn every single thing about every single field. But my sister has assembled experts in all those fields, and she encourages diligence. I know this is a terribly roundabout way of saying it, but I think that knowing how to do one’s job effectively, as well as possessing leadership qualities that make talented people want to follow you, is far more important than sheer breadth of knowledge. My sister has all of that. Not to mention, she’s an expert in a number of particular subjects. As such, all in all, I think it would be a shame for the kingdom to let her go.”

“I see… Then I take it you are opposed to her marriage, Berne?”

“Not the idea of marriage entirely, no. However, I want her to stay in Tasmeria. If I have to cede my right of succession to be the next Duke Armelia to make that happen, then so be it.”

“What…?”

“The reason Armelia is what it is today is because of her work. She’s the one who deserves to be the governor. I’m certain that the people of Armelia share my sentiment.”

“Perhaps this is an insensitive question, but are you really all right with that?” Leticia asked. “It doesn’t upset you?”

As Leticia said, it was insensitive, but there was also a hint of bitterness in her voice. After all, the foundation of the kingdom was built on primogeniture, the passage of succession and inheritance to firstborn heirs. Most of the time, these rights were reserved for the oldest son. It was rare indeed that a woman inherited. For instance, if an aristocratic couple had no sons and only daughters, or if the oldest son passed away before he could become head of house, they would name the oldest male in the next generation their heir and wait until he came of age to succeed. Honestly, it was unheard of for a woman to become head of house while a healthy son still lived. Even if a woman did become heir, it would only be because there were absolutely no living males even distantly related to succeed or there was some other substantial problem with the eligible men.

Thus, even if Berne did give up his rights, it was inevitable that people would assume something must be very wrong with him for Iris to be named heir. Even though it wouldn’t be true, people were so stuck on customs and tradition that they would just assume it was. Leticia’s question came from the same place.

“No, not at all,” Berne answered with a pleasant smile. “Who cares what other people say? I wouldn’t hesitate to cede my rights if it meant that it was in the best interests of the people. Those are my thoughts on the matter.”

All of a sudden, Alfred detected something off with what Berne just said. “Wait. You’re not telling me the whole truth, are you?”

Berne didn’t flinch. “I’m not sure what you mean,” he said calmly. “I was giving my impression on my sister’s prospective marriage in response to Her Highness Princess Leticia’s question.”

Alfred let out an amused laugh. Oh, how things have changed, he thought. It was especially amusing to him after he’d seen Berne be part of Yuri’s adoring entourage from afar. “I’m sad, Berne. I thought we might be able to open up and be frank with each other. Have you not yet fully accepted me as your master, and so you aren’t letting me into your trusted inner circle?”

They stared at each other for a while, as if trying to seek out the truth.

The first one to give in was Berne. “This is only my opinion. There’s no need to listen to me.”

Alfred nodded.

“Your Highness, remember what I told you before?” Berne asked. “That I had seen hell on earth.”

“Yes, I remember.”

“The people responsible for that hell were the nobility, Your Highness. Once, nobles were the ones who brought the people together and protected them. They took on that responsibility to earn their status. Over time, they have forgotten those obligations and have been reduced to nothing but arrogant, insolent burdens who do nothing but oppress the citizens.”

“I know. Hence my decision to punish the nobles guilty of those crimes most severely, to serve as a deterrent against that sort of behavior in the future.”

Berne smiled weakly. “As I said before, nobles tend to forget their self-respect and responsibilities with the passage of time. Who’s to say the same thing won’t happen again?”

“That’s true. You’re absolutely correct, Berne. That’s why it’s urgent that we set up a new system in this kingdom. We need even more reforms so that we never forget these wounds.”

“Indeed. But, Your Highness, I firmly believe that ‘Unless people change their consciousness, nothing will change in the end.’”

“What do you mean?”

“Before I answer, Your Highness, may I ask a question?”

“You may.”

“What is the difference between nobles and ordinary citizens?”

“That’s awfully general. If I were to give you a superficial answer, it would be wealth and power. However, their lifestyles and values also differ.”

“I agree. But I think that if you really consider it, that’s all it is.”

“Which means…?”

“The difference is nothing more than where you happened to be born and the environment in which you grew up. It has nothing to do with one’s temperament or abilities. It’s the same for men and women. Gender may bring some differences, but it has nothing to do with actual personality,” Berne said.

As he spoke, it was almost as if he were arranging his thoughts out loud. “The differences between social statuses and gender are laid out in separate tracks at birth. At first glance, this is an efficient system because your future is planned out for you from the start. All one has to do is work toward that set future. However, that doesn’t mean one is born with talent. The son of a governor doesn’t necessarily have the qualities to become a good governor himself. A merchant’s son doesn’t necessarily have a knack for trade. Of course, one could make up for lack of talent with hard work. But who would do that when their future is already promised to them? Certainly I’m not saying that there aren’t any hard workers amongst those due to inherit such responsibilities, however…”

Alfred’s eyes widened. Berne’s argument was entirely outrageous to him, but at the same time, he couldn’t ignore it.

“When one’s future has been predetermined, there is no necessity for growth. At the same time, other talents one may have been born with remain undiscovered. So, no matter what kind of new system you may devise, as long as it’s done within the confines of this restrictive environment, the kingdom will remain stagnant.”

“So in other words, you’re saying you have misgivings about the class system itself—particularly the existence of the noble class?”

Given the opportunity, Berne directly argued against the class system—which, in the current status quo in the kingdom—was unheard of. “The nobles are the ones who created that hell, because they were handed guaranteed futures and did nothing but rest on their laurels.”

“But, Berne, if you think people’s futures should be decided not by birthright or gender, but on their own personality and talents, then the kingdom would become a meritocracy. Then wouldn’t the people who were aiming for the same future be entangled in a struggle with each other?”

“Yes, they would. First, I want to say that I’m not entirely against the class system. There are good and bad sides to any organizational structure. It’s true that there are positive aspects to an heir being decided beforehand, such as no pointless fighting and an uninterrupted flow of succession.”

“Then what are you trying to say?”

“That if we don’t change the peoples’ consciousness, then nothing will change in the end. Your Highness, what I suggested before is so radical it can’t even really be discussed. That’s the problem.”

“What do you mean?”

“In the current environment, no opportunities exist. Everyone is so stuck on their idea of how things should be that there aren’t even choices. Why don’t the ordinary citizens have any say in the government? Why can’t women advance in our society? The same goes for my sister. If she were a man, she would never be asked to cede her domain. One only need look to Armelia to see her power and talent. Perhaps the advantages to her crossing the sea and marrying into another kingdom are considerable in some respects, but even still, it is my personal opinion that the loss to Tasmeria will outweigh all those merits. Yet the status quo of our kingdom wouldn’t hear of it. Women ‘must’ protect the home, women ‘should’ marry and bear children; if she has to marry anyway, it ‘might as well’ be to the best possible suitor. Because those thoughts are in the forefront of everyone’s minds, no one dares to offer an alternative. Everyone is trapped in the cage of conventions and pretending they don’t see the incredible loss this kingdom would suffer were she to leave.”

“That remark sounds painfully true—that we are trapped in the cage of conventions…”

“This was quite long-winded, Your Highness,” Berne apologized, “but that is the answer to your question, when you asked if I was upset. I wouldn’t feel right if I weren’t upset. The fact is, my sister is the eldest child and she possesses more talent for governance. Of course I feel frustrated that I can’t measure up, but none of my negative feelings have anything to do with the fact of her womanhood. Furthermore, my greater feelings are that my sister should remain in the kingdom as Armelia’s governor.”

A satisfied smile appeared on Leticia’s face. “Brother, I came here to tell you the same thing.”

“What?” said Alfred.

“Goodness, have you forgotten? I came to tell you that I want to be the next monarch,” Leticia said.

Berne’s eyes nearly bugged out of his head.

“Half of the people in this kingdom are women, yet the government is composed exclusively of men,” Leticia went on. “That means all of our policies and laws are made from only their point of view. Even when Grandmother was queen, she was treated as little more than a link to the future king until Father succeeded her. So, I want to become the first true female monarch and govern the kingdom from an entirely new perspective. I want to bring forth new opportunities for our citizens and create a new system of values.”

Leticia spoke clearly and firmly as she faced Alfred. “As I said before, you’ve already divided our kingdom with a sharp blade. Right now, it’s broken. I’m the one who’s going to rebuild it. I’m already doing a great deal of your work and have experience in every area of concern. You know there’s no one better for the job than me, right?”

Alfred laughed at her statement. “Ha ha ha! I never would’ve dreamed that’s what you wanted, Letty. I had no idea.”

“Heh heh. So have I done well?”

They smiled at each other.

“I see, I see. You’ve got more practical experience for the job than a cabinet minister, so there’s no question about your abilities. Not to mention, you have Grandmother as both your backing and confidante. It’s not beyond the realm of possibilities at all. Now if only something happened to both Prince Edward and Prince Alfred, not even the nobles could argue with your succession…”

“Exactly. So you see, Brother? It’s a coup d’état.”

Berne, who had just happened upon this conversation between the siblings in the first place, looked thoroughly baffled.

“It certainly seems that way. But, Letty, right now this is nothing but a dream. If you bring about this reality and are rejected, will you still try to force your ideals to come to fruition?”

Leticia’s eyes were serious and filled with resolve. “Not having ideals is the same as wandering without a destination. If I become the monarch, it doesn’t matter how vigorously people try to deny me or if things don’t go smoothly. I will continue dreaming. I will continue looking forward. I’ve already prepared myself for the possibility that the path ahead will be rocky.”

“Well, if you’ve thought it all out that far, Letty, surely you know what I must do.”

“Yes, of course.” Leticia whispered a few words in Alfred’s ear, to which he nodded. “Now you can go off to war without any worries. I’ll take care of everything here.”

“I don’t want my little sister to have to do these things… But if you understand that, then I can go to the north with a free conscience.”

“Yes. If anything at all comes up, I’ll deal with it. I want you to focus on the war. I’ll be praying for your safety.”

A bell rang with a heavy, majestic sound. Alfred rose to his feet.

“I’m off.”

“Be careful,” said Berne.

“I’ll be praying for your safety in the fray,” said Leticia.

With that, they watched Alfred go.

“Are you sure that was for the best?” Berne asked her after Alfred left the room.

“What do you mean?”

“That I was here for this discussion. No matter how I look at it, I’m not sure someone of my position should have been privy to such a conversation.”

Leticia smiled wryly. “I suppose you’re right. Nevertheless, ever since I met you in the gardens of the palace, I wanted to ask what you thought. I was awfully interested.”

Berne gave her a puzzled look.

Leticia pressed her lips together as if suppressing a laugh. “What I heard just now surpassed my expectations. Thank you, Berne.”

“There’s no need to thank me. All I did was say what I think. But may I ask you something?”

“What is it?”

“Do you want to be the monarch because that’s what you truly want, or is it because as you said that day in the gardens, you want to help shoulder your brother’s burdens?”

Leticia’s smile deepened. “It’s true that I want to take on my brother’s burdens. Until now, I’ve been the one to burden my brother because I’ve had to entirely rely on him. But my pride won’t allow me to continue being the one always under protection. Berne, what you said to me that day—it lit a fire in me.”

Berne’s eyes widened with surprise.

“I’d always had these vague doubts in my head about the government and the way things operated in the kingdom, ever since I was a little girl. Your words brought clarity to those feelings. I decided I wanted to change things. That’s when I truly found the resolve to set my sights on the throne. So, Berne, to answer your question, I want to become the monarch of my own free will, and for my own desires.”

“I see…”

“That’s why I want you to walk down that path by my side. Because your thoughts so closely mirror my ideals.”

“You want me to work for you, you mean?”

“I know about your first conversation with my brother.”

A guilty look crossed Berne’s face.

The first time he had seen Alfred was at the palace, after he had returned from that hellish landscape.

“Shouldn’t you be going to see Edward?” That was the first thing Alfred had said to him, his smile amused.

“I came here because I want to undo the horrible things happening across the land. I’m prepared to work myself to the bone for the people of this kingdom.” Berne said it matter-of-factly, as if to say he had no interest in the feud between the brothers.

Alfred laughed heartily. “Ah, I see. So it could have been either of us. You want to use me to further your own ideals.” He murmured with interest, “Very well, then. Use me all you want. But once you’re finished with me, I will fire you instantly. You’ve put on quite the show. I won’t let you say you can’t do it either. In exchange, you can keep your watchful eye on me. If you ever bear witness to me slighting the people in any way, go ahead and abandon me.”

“I agree. I shall walk down the same path as long as Your Highness lives to serve the kingdom and its people.”

This was how their relationship of master and aide had been established.

“I haven’t forgotten what I said either,” said Berne. “It was a vow to myself. So, I rushed headlong into it. Be that as it may, there’s no reason for me to leave His Highness’s side.”

“Did you not hear our conversation? If I ascend to the throne, my brother will naturally remove himself from the kingdom’s government. That’s why I want you to walk by my side instead.”

“The only thing I can truthfully say is that no matter what the situation becomes, it will not change my focus.”

Leticia smiled. “I see. That’s enough for me. Now, Berne. I’m sure the orders have already come down from my brother. All the responsibilities inside the palace will be transferred from him to me. There are several things I need to check, so come to my study with me.”

With that, they left together.

 

***

 

Meanwhile, Merellis was at the Armelias’ manor in the capital getting ready. Beneath her cloak she wore men’s clothes that were easy to move in. Her sword hung at her waist. Her hair was twisted up in a simple bun, and she wore no jewelry.

“You’re leaving?” Louis asked when she entered his room.

“Yes.”

Silence fell between them. They stared at each other wordlessly for a few moments, their eyes speaking everything their mouths did not. They both saw the conflict and emotion reflected in the other. Their eyes said, “I don’t want to let you go; I don’t want to be apart,” yet neither of them spoke the words.

Instead, Merellis smiled, taking it all in before finally speaking. “Never fear. I promise I’ll return to my husband’s side alive. That’s the only place I can call home, darling—by your side.”

Louis smiled again. “I know. I believe in you. I can’t go with you, but you know that my heart is always by yours. I will help shoulder the burdens you can’t bear alone, and I will protect you from all that stands in your way from afar. The vow I made to you long ago will never change. Go, without any reservations.”

“Yes… Yes, I will. I’m leaving now, darling.”

With that, Merellis headed for House Anderson. She exchanged a few pleasantries before proceeding directly to meet with her older brother, Pax.

“Iris told me what’s happening,” he said with a heavy voice.

“Yes. I’m sorry, Brother, but…”

“Your daughter truly is meticulous. She came up with a justification to send our soldiers to Armelia and even sent a notification to the first prince!” Pax interrupted her with a wry chuckle. “I’ve already summoned some troops. However, I can’t send very many.”

“That’s understandable. How many?”

“A hundred active duty. Mostly those who have fought on the battlefield with you.”

“Then we’ll be fine.”

“I’ve called them here but given no orders. Whether they follow and obey will be up to you.” It sounded as if Pax was issuing a challenge: Can you make them obey?

“That’s fine. They would follow orders issued by their governor, of course, but at the end of the day, I’m the one leading them. If they don’t follow my orders, then we’re in for chaos on the battlefield. Is that what you’re afraid of?” Merellis responded, seemingly unfazed.

“You certainly are perceptive when it comes to war.”

“How rude. Perhaps it used to be, but I’ve since transitioned to navigating the waters of high society as a duke’s wife.”

“Yes, but you also treat that like a battlefield.”

“True,” she acknowledged with a laugh. “In any case, thank you, Brother.”

“I’ll pray for your success in battle.”

“Yes.”

Merellis left her brother’s study in high spirits, then made her way to the sparring grounds, where the private guard of House Anderson was assembled. The hundred or so soldiers were already waiting for her, standing in rank and file. As soon as she appeared, a buzz spread through the grounds but quickly died down. Merellis didn’t say anything in particular to make that happen. She just stood there. Her commanding presence was more than enough to silence everyone on the spot.

“My name is Mer, and I’ve been charged with commanding this regiment. Some of you may already know me, but for those who don’t, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Her voice was soft and light, a stark contrast to the tension that enveloped the crowd. In the next moment, her tone grew stern and flat. “We’re heading to the duchy of Armelia. They are under attack by two separate forces of unknown origin. Their only line of defense are the Armelian garrisons. Even after we add our numbers to the battle, we will be at a disadvantage. However, I believe that as long as we are together and charge headlong into battle, we have the power to turn things in our favor.”

Merellis looked over at the gathered people and smiled. A shiver raced through the soldiers’ hearts.

“Each and every one of you are fearless fighters trained by the great General Daz Gazell himself, so you have nothing to fear. I shall clear the way for you. I shall lead you to victory. Fear nothing and follow me. Do not drown in the sea of blood but breathe in it. Go to that line between life and death and come out the other side alive.”

She spoke with a frank, even tone, yet her words had a strange, alluring magic that everyone felt at once. It was as if they could see the battlefield behind her in that moment.

“We will not be defeated. Because if we fall, then Armelia falls, and so does House Anderson. Then everyone you hold dear shall be lost in the flames of war.”

The look in the soldiers’ eyes changed. She had stirred the survival instincts within them and lit the fire of their fighting spirit. Her words fell over them and imbued them with her passion.

“Let us destroy them and deliver a soul-crushing defeat. May we emblazon the name of House Anderson upon their minds and fill their hearts with fear so that they shall never, ever dare to do something so foolish as to invade our kingdom again.”

The soldiers raised their swords in unison, proof that she had captured their hearts.

A pleased smile crossed Merellis’s face as she looked around at the sight. It lasted only a fleeting moment. She gave her orders.

Soon after, she was leading her soldiers on horseback toward Armelia. She rode furiously and with such skill that even these impeccably trained soldiers could barely keep up with her.

“Excuse me, Captain. We’ve finished replenishing our supplies.”

They stopped a few times en route to rest and replenish supplies, but they still neared their destination in roughly half the usual time it took to get there.

The soldiers called Merellis their captain, and she spoke and acted as such. “Very well. We’re almost to Armelia. I want you to double check and make sure everyone has the equipment they need. We’ll leave in ten minutes.”

“Yes, Captain!”

The soldiers’ tension grew as they got closer and closer to Armelia. It was increasingly apparent in the ones who had never been to battle before.

“Shrey, if you see anyone rattled by their nerves, go talk to them. A certain amount of anxiety is normal, but if it’s too much, then it can dull their reflexes.”

“Yes, Captain. Although I think as soon as they see how you fight, all their nerves will disappear.” Shrey’s normal lighthearted manner was gone, replaced by a serious, heavy mood.

Those like Shrey, who had shared the battlefield with Merellis before, carried a different kind of tension than those who hadn’t yet seen her in action. The greenhorns were experiencing a crushing pressure alongside their anxiety, while the veterans nursed an invigorating excitement. It meant a great deal to them that Merellis was leading them. They had seen what she could do on the battlefield, and now that she burned with an even greater intensity, they felt an awe and reverence, just as Shrey did. Normally he kept his reverential feelings toward her well hidden, but the gravity in his voice now couldn’t conceal it.

“Really? I’m not so sure about that,” Merellis chuckled wryly. It wouldn’t be a stretch of the imagination to say that Shrey had blind faith in her. She caught herself responding to him in her normal tone. “Anyway, please do so. If you sense any problems at all, let me know right away.”

Ten minutes later, after he reported that all her orders had been carried out smoothly and there were no problems, they were back on the road.