Book 3: Chapter 2

Book 3: Chapter 2

A delegation to send to the royal capital in Cavarin was hastily pieced together.

After all, Cavarin couldnt be reached in a day or two. That meant they had to decide on a route, find lodgings along the way, gather their entourage, and prepare the necessary provisions. On top of it all, they had to align themselves with Western culture.

Ninym, Im going to Cavarin by carriage. Go ahead and bring it out.

Really? All right, but carriages are typically for women.

In the East. Especially in the Empire.

The Empire was a meritocracy, where riding on horseback was a symbol of strength. There, it would be ridiculous for royals and noblemen to use carriages. Others would point and laugh that they couldnt ride a horse without training wheels.

Theres an understanding in the West that nobles shouldnt excessively be in the public eye. If a royal was to ride in on a horse unaided, theyd be seen as a foreign barbarian. At least, thats what Claudius told me.

I see. Ill have it ready.

Im leaving that to you. I have to go review Western etiquette with Claudius Theyre a stiff crowd.

The delegations preparations to head West proceeded steadilyuntil a certain issue arose.

Prince Regent, Im terribly sorry, but might you cut a few more people from your party? Holonyeh asked. The Holy Elites will be attending the Festival of the Spirit, which means the royal capital will be more congested than we expected.

In other words, theyd hit max capacity.

Even under the best circumstances, a festival brought in local crowds. Add in Wein and the Holy Elites, and it wasnt hard to see why Cavarin would have a hard time finding lodging for everyone.

But Wein had an objection.

I unfortunately cant make it any less than fifty. Itll cause trouble for my guards.

After all, this was an age where bandits were liable to crop up as soon as they left behind civilization. It had been that way while they were out on the royal tour, and there was no way Wein could walk around without any guards.

Even from a power perspective, it was important for people to accompany him. If his retinue was too small, people would wonder if that was all the crown prince of Natra could afford. But if he went overboard, his peers would be intimidated, fretting that he was coming to declare war and becoming hypervigilant. With this in mind, Wein had settled on fifty and showed no intention of backing down.

Holonyeh eventually acquiesced, so his delegation stayed intact. The emissary returned to Cavarin ahead of time to relay Weins answer, while Wein plugged away at his overdue work and wrestled over how to put Falanya in a good mood.

Two weeks after Holonyeh made his return, everything was in order, and they were at last ready to depart.

Wein was now in a carriage headed for Cavarin.

Im honestly shocked.

Soldiers in his retinue were stationed on all sides, and gaudy ornamentation adorned the carriage. Anyone could tell their group belonged to a noble.

About what? Ninym asked as she sat across from him. Wein reached toward her.

Your hair. Wein ran his fingers through a tuft of it.

Ah. She touched it in understanding.

It was black.

Ninyms head of snowy hair had been dyed the color of night.

You know that the Flahm are masters of disguise, right? Im not as good as Nanaki, but I can do at least this much.

They were heading toward the Kingdom of Cavarin in the west, where racial prejudice ran deep. In particular, the Flahm were scorned. Wein had questioned whether to bring along Ninym, who was both his close aide and a Flahm.

Cavarin had to have their own unique ways of thinking. And Wein wanted Ninym nearby to give him advice. Ninym herself had no objections.

But it would cause unnecessary trouble for her to appear as a Flahm. Hence this solution: Ninym dyed her hair.

I cant change my eye color, but as long as no one pays close attention, they wont realize Im a Flahm.

You had me fooled. I couldnt even tell it was dyed.

Thats because this is a secret trick of the Flahm people. Then, with a dyed head of hair, Ninym flashed Wein a mischievous grin, pressing him for his opinion. Oh, Wein. By the way, do you think I look better with white or black?

Oh, there it is. Right here, right now. I already know youll get all huffy whichever one I pick.

Oh, and by the way, itll come back to bite you if you try to get out of it by teasing me.

Hed been cornered. With some difficulty, Wein considered all options before coming to a conclusion.

White!

Oh-ho, Ninyms face seemed to say.

Its rare for you to be this resolute.

Hey now, Ninym, I am an honest prince who upholds a creed of decisiveness.

Yeah, yeah. Hmm. White, huh? Ninym took a lock in her hand and gently dabbed her eyes. And to think that I dyed it black just for you. Youre breaking my heart.

There it is, dammit! Thats not fair!

Not fair, my butt. Its a totally normal reaction for a woman.

Yeah? Then Ive got something else to say. Listen up, Ninym! Yeah, you asked me if I preferred black or white, but you never specified that it was about your hair! In other words!

In other words?

I was talkin about underwear. Bweh.

Ninyms fist had sunk deep into Weins cheek.

Well, I might have gotten carried away, too. Lets strike a deal.

Im sure Ive been struck enough for the day.

To make up for your pain, you can touch my hair as much as you like Oh, but not too hard. The color will come out.

Rub, rub, rub.

Hey! I just said dont do that! Itll be difficult to redo this, you know!

Wein laughed and let go as Ninym snarled at him with bared teeth. She jabbed a finger at the tip of his nose.

And, Wein, Im warning you right now that you cant be reckless once were in Cavarin. Even if you dont agree with their culture and ideologies, you cant go flying off the handle. Ill stay in the background and hide away indoors as much as possible.

Okay, okay, I know. Im not that stupid.

Then can you promise me?

Sure. Have I ever broken a promise before?

All the time.

Guess we just have to have faith in the future me!

If you break your promise, Ill stuff a potato in every orifice of your body.

Its not very good to waste food!

Their conversation carried on in this fashion until a knock came from outside the carriage window. The two turned to see Raklum next to them on horseback.

Raklum was a commander in the army of Natra who had sworn loyalty to Wein. Though still young, he was excellent in battle and was a capable leader, which was why he had been entrusted with overseeing the delegation.

Your Highness, I apologize for interrupting. We will soon be arriving at the Jilaat gold mine, and I wish to give my report.

Oh, were finally here.

Last year, Natra had seized the Jilaat gold mine after a war with Marden. They had been under the impression that the reserves had dwindled, but they discovered a new pocket of gold, making it one of Natras most crucial holdings.

The locals have been given advance notice, and they should be ready to receive us. I think we should rest at the foot of the mine as planned tonight.

Understood. Ill leave it to you.

Very good, Your Highness. Raklum distanced himself from the carriage.

The journey from Natra to Cavarin was a long one. It couldnt be done in a day, which was why they had decided on a number of rest stops. The foot of the gold mine was one of them.

Wein, keep in mind that theres supposed to be a banquet and a meeting upon arrival.

Got it. With who?

Supervisor Pelynt and General Hagal. We have no plans to enter the fortress in front of the gold mine, so well be meeting them there.

Hagal, huh? I see. Perfect timing. Theres something else I want to talk about with him.

Ninym nodded. Dont forget the banquet. As a politician, its important that you show the people your good side.

I know, I know. Besides, if I pass this opportunity up, who knows when Ill be able to eat Natran food again. I plan on enjoying it while I can.

The delegation slowly continued winding its way to the foot of the mine.

We have been expecting you, Prince Wein.

The local magistrate of the Jilaat gold minea man named Pelyntgreeted the delegation at the base of the mountain. He had originally been a vassal of Marden but spent his days in exile, toiling as a miner after losing a political battle. But when Wein had showed up with his forces to capture the mine, he had noticed Pelynt and appointed him as a local magistrate.

Thanks for coming to meet us. Wein climbed out of the carriage and offered his gratitude with a wry smile. Who knew wed be seeing each other again so soon. Sorry for imposing on you like this.

Wein had actually stayed at the gold mine during his winter visits. They had thrown a huge banquet then, too, which was why he was feeling bad about showing up again so quickly.

Im obliged by your generous words, but please have no fear. There is no one here who would be unhappy to welcome the prince who saved our lives. You can make all the visits in the world. It may be modest, but we have prepared a feast for you. Please, right this way.

Guided by Pelynt, Wein set off with Ninym and his guards.

Things really have changed around here.

Wein noted their surroundings. It was now a prospering town, far better than what it had been like before.

Since coming under Natras rule, the lives of the people working in the gold mine had improved drastically. This could all be attributed to Weins policies. Once known for its squalid environment and harsh working conditions, the mine had claimed the lives of many of its laborers, which Wein had deemed unacceptable. Instead of treating people as disposable beasts of burden, Wein had made it a priority to provide them with sufficient safety, homes, food, and pay. He considered mining as only a part of their work, earning enough respect to access their knowledge and experience.

Of course, there were other motivations at play, too. It would have been a big pain if they rebelled due to mistreatment. And hed given off a philanthropic vibe that he couldnt back out on anymore. In any case, the people of the mine had welcomed his new policies with open arms.Follow current novels at novelhall.com)

They had set to work, roused by the need to meet Prince Weins expectations. Some were more than happy to try to slack off, but Weinwho was lazier than mosthad anticipated this and put strict ordinances in place to keep that to a minimum.

The mine had begun to buzz with energy, and people from the surrounding area started to stream in as word spread. As the population grew, the merchants with the sharpest eyes showed up. The miners lavished them with generous profits, and it wasnt long before more people realized they could make a killing here. Next to arrive were craftsmen as the townspeople demanded more homes and sundriesand before anyone realized it, the Jilaat gold mine had become a bustling mining town.

I know I asked last time, but have there been any changes to the mine itself, Pelynt?

Yes. The equipment and tunnels damaged during the war have been repaired. Since we have more hands available now, the excavation has been proceeding very smoothly. At present, we have begun to search for new pockets of gold along with our usual activities.

The gold mine was doing well. That was thrilling news. Inside, Wein grinned sloppily.

Im glad to hear it. Dont let management slip from getting too caught up in mining. If you get too many people coming in and out, youll attract the more unsavory types.

Yes! I will keep that in mind. Pelynt gave a reverent bow.

As Wein nodded magnanimously, there was a small poke in his ribs.

Wein, your face.

Oops.

His face must have slackened upon hearing the news of the mine. With Ninym by his side to rebuke him with a whispered comment, Wein hurriedly composed his expression.

In any case, it would seem the mine is doing well.

Wein couldnt have been happier. It had been well worth it to construct a road connecting the royal capital in Natra to the mine to facilitate the exchange of goods and people.

Thanks to this new road, their carriage had been able to travel to the mine, despite the ground still being slick with snow. It was difficult to predict what decisions could make an impact in the future, but this had been a lucky bet.

Which leaves military preparedness as the primary remaining concern.

In all aspects, the gold mine was drool worthy. If the booming mining town continued to develop, its value would climb even higher. Wein knew there were a number of forces ready to swipe it from under their noses the moment they got a chance. To prevent that, the town would need to strengthen its defenses.

Well, in actuality, Wein was already a step ahead. He had constructed a new defensive fortress to the west of the mine, garrisoned by a top general in Natra, Hagal. Its mission was to hold out against the remaining Marden troops and Cavarin. But with the fortress unfinished, only the bare minimum of soldiers had been stationed there.

To bring this fortress up to par, well need three times the provisions, labor, funds, and time, Hagal had said. And where exactly was Wein going to find all that?

As he thought, the party arrived in front of a noticeably elegant mansion. The structure dated back to when the land was still Marden territory, and it was currently serving as a reception hall and guesthouse for visiting dignitaries.

By the way, Pelynt, wheres Hagal?

It was an innocent enough question, but Pelynt looked slightly unsettled.

It seems the general hasnt arrived yet He must be delayed with administrative tasks

I see. Well, no matter. Wein wasnt particularly bothered by this and headed toward the mansion.

Walking beside him, Wein noticed in secret that Pelynts profile looked nervous.

At the reception hall, the banquet proceeded smoothly. Wein conversed with the mine residents and merchants as he smacked his lips over the food. Since theyd just had a feast together a short while ago, no one was especially nervous, and the overall atmosphere was inviting.

But right in the middle of it all, a single incident ruined the moods.

Just as the party was in full swing, Hagal made his appearance.

Your Highness, I apologize for my tardiness. It is I, Hagal.

The old man got down on one knee, and Wein spoke with a wineglass in one hand. Glad you could make it. But arriving later than me? I think youre getting a little careless.

It was a sharp comment that came directly from the crown prince himself. The people around them knew Wein to be mild mannered and instinctively jolted in nervous shock.

I have no excuse. I take full responsibility, Hagal apologized as all eyes focused on him.

Wein smiled. Im joking. I know youre busy. Here, pull up a chair.

Of course.

Urged by Wein, Hagal joined the banquet. Wein rebuked him no further, and the others in attendance breathed an internal sigh of relief.

Phew.

The party came to an end, and as the evening grew late, Pelynt heaved a heavy sigh in a corner of the mansion. He sighed for two reasons: because the event had concluded without a hitch and to ease his nerves.

Sir Pelynt, a voice called out behind him.

He turned around to find Raklum standing there.

Oh, Sir Raklum. I apologize for having you meet me here.

Raklum often accompanied Wein, which was why he had met Pelynt on a few occasions during the war with Marden and the recent royal visits. Theyd established a kind of familiar relationship.

Dont worry about it. There seems to be something you want to ask me. What could it be? Is there a problem with the night guards?

No, nothing like that. Pelynt shook his head, though he struggled to get the next words out. He knew it would touch a nerve with Raklum, who had placed his faith in Wein.

Sir Pelynt?

Please allow me to say that I dont believe this at all of the crown prince regent. But there is something that I must confirm. Even as he sensed the dangerous aura emitting from Raklum, Pelynt continued. Recently, a certain rumor has been traveling throughout these parts. It began after His Highnesss recent visits.

And what could that be?

Pelynt paused for a few seconds, then steeled himself.

That General Hagal had displeased Prince Wein, and a chasm has opened up between them

A rift between me and Hagal?

In a room prepared for them in the mansion, Wein murmured as he sat on a chair.

Yes. It appears this rumor is spreading across every region, Ninym replied politely as she stood nearby.

A rumor about discord between the crown prince and a prominent military leader. Common sense would say this was a grave issue. If they werent careful, it might even lead to a large-scale rebellion

Our strategys working pretty well, huh, Hagal?

Indeed. Hagal bowed in reverence. The plan to spread these rumors to lure dissenters to come together around me so we can round them up all at once Everything is as you predicted.

That was right. The rumors of bad blood between the two were part of the grand plan that Wein had secretly proposed to Hagal when he came to conduct his winter tour. He figured that even if he was away scouting things out, the rebels wouldnt make a move without a leader. That was where Hagal came in. He was an established military figure, and in a nation where most generals lacked actual battle experience, few had as many achievements as him. He would make an excellent rebel leader. If these rumors spread, the malcontents would try to get in touch with him. At least, that was the idea.

None have approached me yet, but it will not be long before we see results.

Right. Be sure to contact me if anything happens.

Understood.

They chatted for a while longer before Hagal left the room. Wein adopted a look of pure rapture at the progress of his scheme. But Ninym felt otherwise.

Hey, Wein, are you really going to go forward with this plan?

What? Are you against it, Ninym?

She nodded as if that was obvious. To start, this plan was essentially a fake feud between Wein, the head of the nation, and Hagal, a well-trusted military official. It would incite the rebelsand stir unrest in the nation. Ninym didnt see the merit of going this far to incite a rebellion.

I know what you mean. Im still hung up on something I saw when we visited the most suspicious bunch.

Do you really think theyre planning to rebel?

Thats what I want to confirm. And if it does end up being true, I want to move this plan forward and get the upper hand.

Okay, fine. But even then, dont forget to back out if things keep dragging out, Ninym said, stating her honest opinion. If this plan of yours goes on for too long, you run the risk of hurting General Hagals reputation. Not to mention that the general was born in a nation that prizes reputation above all else.

To most, reputation was key. But for those whose livelihood was tied to war, it was of utmost importance. They were always dancing with death, which made many of them want to die with a noble legacy, if nothing else.

Plus, Hagal was old. It was natural that he was preoccupied with peace of mind over fleeting worldly gain. Ninym didnt think injuring his reputation was a good idea at all.

If he gets fed up with you and the deteriorating situation, he might actually rebel.

Oh, he wont do that. I talked with him while we were out making the rounds. Plus, hes like a grandfather to me and Falanya.

Which means youre using your grandfather as bait, Ninym retorted.

Wein raised his hands in defeat. Okay, okay. If time passes, and Im not making any progress, Ill back out. Deal?

Ninym nodded. Since the plan was already in motion, this was as good as it was going to get.

Oh, please, Your Highness Well then, were here.

Before them was a conspicuously large door. Jiva rapped his knuckles on it.

Prince Helmut, I am here with our two visitors.

The door opened with a rusty creak to reveal a room that must have been normally used for war councils. Among the several soldiers awaiting them was one eccentric-looking man.

So youre the crown prince of Natra, said a muffled voice.

It was muted for an obvious reason. The speaker wore a full suit of armor indoors.

I am Helmut, the second prince of the Marden Kingdom.

Which meant Wein was going to have to negotiate with this armored man. Even Wein was thrown by this whole situation.

What the heck is going on?

Helmuts face was covered with a metal helmetsave for narrow slits for him to see and breathe out of. Even Wein wouldnt be able to discern his character through those openings alone.

It is an honor to meet you, Prince Helmut.

It didnt matter what was going on. Prince Helmut had just introduced himself, which meant Wein had to return the gesture in kind. Wein bowed.

I believe you already know that Im Wein Salema Arbalest, the crown prince of Natra. There are a number of topics I wish to discuss with you, but first, I want to express my thanks. Your Liberation Front saved me from a life-or-death situation. And for that, I am grateful.

Dont mention it. As the crown prince of Marden, it is my duty to suppress bandits. In fact, we should be criticized for our own ineptitudeallowing them to run free and thrive out there.

Prince Helmut, that is not Jiva hurriedly tried to interject, but Helmut silenced him with a single hand.

As Helmut sat down, Wein sat in a chair across the desk.

So is that all you wanted to say? Helmut asked.

There is one more thing Why do you wear armor indoors?

As the royal capital fell, I was temporarily captured by the Cavarin army. They burned my face. Helmut stroked his helmet with a finger in his gauntlet. In that moment, I made a vow to God. I was a member of the royal family and allowed the capital to fall. To atone for my sins and fulfill my royal duty to revive Marden, I vowed to never show myself before others until the capital is restored.

My, thats certainly something, replied Wein, casting a glance at Ninym standing at attention next to him.

Whaddaya think? he asked with his eyes.

Super-shady, she wordlessly replied.

Got that right.

He wore armor to hide his burn scars and as a reminder to himself and his allies. It checked out logically. But Wein and Ninym couldnt help but feel like he was really playing it up.

Could he be a body double? This probably isnt the right time to press the issue.

Wein and Ninym were completely defenseless, surrounded by armed soliders. They both had concealed weapons, but the chances of them battling their way through the situation was basically a coin toss. If they added a successful escape into the equation, those chances grew even lower.

Guess well just roll with it.

It didnt matter to Wein if this was the real Helmut or a double. The Liberation Front interacted with him as though he were Helmut and obeyed his orders. That was what mattered.

It appears that I have asked an uncouth question. Forgive me, Prince Helmut.

Think nothing of it. Why dont we get to the heart of the matter? Helmut was starting to get more intimidating.

The verbal war between the princes was about to begin. All present held their breath.

Prince Wein, please tell me why youve come here.

That had to be the meat of the conversation.

Jiva thought as he listened in.

We never received any word that they wished to discuss anything with us Its obvious they were trying to cross the country in secret. Plus, we have information that an emissary from Cavarin entered Natras capital

The Remnant Army realized Natra was trying to join together with Cavarin.

Ninym was having some thoughts of her own.

Regardless of what they know, we cant be honest about our intentions. That will naturally set them against us From the Remnant Armys point of view, a relationship between Natra and Cavarin would spell out their demise.

The subject was unavoidable, but there would probably be blood if they failed to carefully sidestep it.

How would Wein answer?

Everyone looked on with bated breath.

I am on my way to attend the Festival of the Spirit in Cavarins royal capital, he replied.

Chatter broke out around them.

Does this person hesitate at anything?! Jiva couldnt hold back the shiver that went down his spine.

At this rate We should probably ready ourselves.

Ninym gently lowered her center of gravity in preparation to move at any time. The only ones who remained still were Wein and Helmut.

Helmut had his face covered.

Wein was flashing a bold smile as he added fuel to the fire. No one else in this situation would have been able to keep such a brave face.

Do you understand what you are saying? If you wish to take it back, now is the time, Prince Wein.

I only speak the truth. What have I said that I should take back?

In that case Helmut reached for the sword at his side. There is no other choice but for you to die here.

The air froze over. Helmut wasnt the only one tightly gripping his weapon; the guards stood ready with theirs as well. Ninym and Jiva had adopted nervous looksbut Wein started to chuckle, laughing loudly enough to catch them all off guard.

Whats so funny?

Ah, sorry. That was rude of me. I have one question: What do you think would happen if you killed me here?

Id prevent an alliance between Cavarin and Natra.

And? Weins eyes sparkled terribly. Do you honestly think the Liberation Front can beat Cavarin that way?

It was the guards who flared up in anger.

H-how dare you!

Are you suggesting wed lose against them?!

A chorus of shouts started to form, but Helmut only had one thing to say. Silence.

That was all it took to hush the guards. They obeyed not out of fear but loyalty. Wein admired his leadership.

Why would we ever lose?

Its simple. Cavarin can mobilize over twenty thousand soldiers. How many do you have in the Liberation Front? Even a generous estimate would put your numbers around two or three thousand.

Natra had investigated the Remnant Army. There was no questioning the count.

Wein went on. Last year, Cavarin was quiet as they settled into their newly occupied territory and holed up for the coming winter, but this year, theres no denying that theyre ready to crush you. Does the Liberation Front have a plan to stop them?

Lets say you killed me. It might buy you some time. But you should only buy time when you know youll come out stronger by the end of it. As more time passes, things will only get worse for the Liberation Front.

He deliberately didnt say it, but Wein saw the late King Fyshtarres government missteps as a liability for Helmut.

It wasnt as though Cavarin was particularly good at governing their occupied territories. But foreign occupation still offered the Marden citizens respite from Fyshtarres mismanagement.

If it were me, I would have aimed to recapture the royal capital before winter rolled in, even if the chances were slim.

Before passions cooled. Before wounds had time to heal. Before the people could get a taste of peace.

They should have screamed about Cavarins atrocities, incited the people, and fought with all they had.

But that wasnt what happened. Wein wasnt sure why, but as a result, the Remnant Army had missed out on their chance to take back the capital.

In other words, you think were already done for. You think we should just let you go, barked Helmut in anger. His hand reached for the hilt of his sword again, but unlike the earlier threat, he clearly intended to go for the kill.

Weins smile grew all the more arrogant rather than atoning for his mistakes.

Far from it. Id like to offer a more constructive proposal.

A proposal?

Indeed, Wein prefaced. Prince Helmut, have you never considered sending people with me to Cavarin?

Confusion spread. Their reactions went beyond surprise. Seeing his opening, Wein continued.

My delegation may have been attacked by bandits, but I know it was the work of Cavarin.

I do not see how you could come to this conclusion. What reason would Cavarin have to do that?

Im making this proposal because I dont know, Wein admitted. But I have every intention of going to Cavarin. Depending on the circumstances, making an alliance with the Liberation Front can be very advantageous for me. If thats the case, wouldnt it save us time to have people from the Liberation Front on the inside?

Wein pressed further.

The Holy Elites will gather in their royal capital this year. Security will be tight, but as a member of the delegation, youll be able to enter with no problem. This gives you the opportunity to make contact with them.

Hmph

All the other Western nations had been silent about Cavarins surprise attack on Marden. Since it was a country ruled by a member of the Holy Elite, denouncing them was tricky, diplomatically speaking. However, what if criticism was leveled at them by another Holy Elite of the same rank? There was no way all of them agreed with Cavarins methods. If they could somehow show the Holy Elites that there was merit in opposing Cavarin, there was a chance to gain supporters.

Theyre frightening, terrifying people.

Listening to the princes conversation nearby, Jiva couldnt help but feel impressed. As things stood, Wein was in enemy territoryyet he had boldly entered negotiations without showing a trace of fear and now held the rapt attention of everyone present. He had complete control over the conversation.

The plan itself isnt necessarily a bad one. The key is whether these negotiations will lead to an alliance with Natra.

As Wein had pointed out, the Liberation Front was in a tight spot: limited resources, dwindling personnel, and public sentiment that was only growing more distant Failure wasnt far off. To prevent that, they needed the aid of other nations, but winter had come and gone without any support materializing.

That was where the crown prince of Natra had come in with his sudden proposal. It was true that Wein was doing all the talking, but he was voicing his suspicions of Cavarin and pointing out the possibility of an allianceeven though Marden had nothing to offer.

He doesnt respond to threats or intimidation tactics. Holding him hostage will only make his people angry. Thats out of the question. Your Highness should accept his proposal here to deepen ties Jivas eyes signaled his armored master.

I admit your proposal is worth consideration, Helmut started.

Well, then

However, Helmut interrupted, I have some concerns. I wonder if this is all a lie that you concocted so you can escape. I wonder if I should actually believe you.

Jiva was surprised at first, but then he thought it over. There was a point of compromise. Helmut was bargaining to see if he could get anything more out of this.

Of all the things to say, Wein replied.

His response was beyond the imagination of everyone in the room.

Isnt that exactly why you should go for it?

What are you trying to say?

Listen, Prince Helmut, this all comes down to trust. Trust only has value because theres the potential of betrayal. It could all be a lie. You could get tricked. But overcoming your fears to trust Thats how to reach someones heart. Wein grinned. Prince Helmut, Ill ask again Are you sure you cant trust me?

It was a complete one-eighty.

Nothing for Marden to offer? That just wasnt true.

Wein was asking Helmut to show him what he was worthin return for his help.

Helmut had come to an answer.

Very well. I shall believe in you, Prince Wein.

Youll soon see youve made the right choice, Prince Helmut.

The two shook hands, and the meeting came to a temporary conclusion.

Looks like we got out of that somehow, Wein muttered, leaning in his chair, back in the other room.

I was so scared he would draw his sword, Ninym replied, standing next to him. And? How much of that did you actually mean?

Basically, all of it. I think Cavarin is up to something fishy, and I figured there was a possibility of teaming up with the Remnant Army. Well, we wont know how things will play out until we get there.

Lets say you ally with the Remnant Army. Do you think you can win against Cavarin?

Well think about that afterifwe actually team up.

A knock at the door. Pardon me, Prince Regent. We contacted your delegation not long ago, and

Your Highness!

As Jiva opened the door, Raklum pushed him aside. Im terribly sorry that Im late! I am beyond overjoyed to know you are safe!

Im glad to see youre looking well yourself.

It all happened so fast. The Remnant Army must have already known the location of the delegation. But based on Jivas expression, it would seem he hadnt expected Raklum to barge in.

Ill save the particulars for later. How are the troops?

Right! After we became separated, the bandits withdrew, and we suffered minor casualties. We are now on standby at the arranged campsite. I sent word to General Hagal, and he will soon be dispatching soldiers to scout the area and resupply us, reported Raklum.

Wein nodded in satisfaction. Your performance was admirable. I have no intention of blaming you for that attack. Im still counting on you to command the others.

Understood! I will do everything in my power to ensure this never happens again!

You might have already heard, but members of the Liberation Front will be joining our party. As for how many Wein glanced at Jiva, who stood behind Raklum.

We have chosen to send five, Jiva replied. Besides the one who shall be their representative, all have battle experience.

Well, you heard the man. Until you arrive at the capital of Cavarin, those four will also be under your command. Is that okay with you, Jiva?

Yes, of course. Jiva nodded. Prince Regent, I have called our representative for introductions. I hope you do not mind.

Oh yeah. Sure, no problem.

Jiva moved aside as someone appeared from the other side of the doorway.

It is a pleasure to meet you, Prince Wein. My name is Zeno, called out the representative who was about Weins age.

The boy had androgynous features. There was an elegance in his movements that one might expect of a representative.

This is my nephew. Though he is young and inexperienced, he is a master of etiquette. I promise he will not cause trouble for your entourage rambled Jiva.

Wein whispered to Ninym, This is bad.

What?

This Zeno guy is hotter than me.

Uh-huh.

Did you have to agree right then?!

How should I know? Anyway, Wein This person might be

Yeah?

Something felt off. Wein took a closer look at Zeno.

Zeno seemed to get more attractive by the second. He was svelte. Even though he carried a sword, he didnt seem tough. In fact, if he donned a dress, hed definitely be mistaken for a girl

Hey, wait! He is a girl! Wein was close to dribbling spittle.

The clothes and mannerisms did a good job of hiding it, but by looking very, very carefully, he could see that Zeno was unmistakably a girl.

Um Sir Jiva.

Yes?

My eyes may be playing tricks on me, but this boy

Prince Regent, Jiva cut him off curtly. Our Liberation Front is terribly short on people.

Uh-huh.

Which leaves us with very few options for skilled diplomats who are unlikely to raise alarm bells when you reach Cavarin.

Also true.

And men have the upper hand when meeting the most influential people in the West.

No objections here.

In conclusion, Zeno is my nephew.

R-right on Wein looked at Zeno. Are you okay with that?

Of course, Prince Regent. If that is to be my role, I shall accomplish any duty required of me.

With a determined gaze, Zeno nodded. If that was the case, Wein had no more to say.

I dont get the impression that this is just an elaborate trap to keep an eye on me. Plus, its true that theyre short on personnel.

Wein remembered Ninyms earlier question: whether they could actually defeat Cavarin by joining with the Remnant Army.

Wein answered with some uncertainty. Got it. Well then, lets meet up with our delegation.

And thus, Wein brought along Zeno as the head of the dispatched Remnant Army unit and once again set off for the capital of Cavarin.