Book 4: Chapter 2

Book 4: Chapter 2

We need to talk about the meeting between the Imperial children.

Rewind back to a meeting room in the palace of Natra lined with only the most important vassals. They were looking at one thing: Crown Prince Wein sitting at the head of the table.

As I believe youve already heard, the children of the Imperial family will be gathering in the city of Mealtars, located in the center of the continent. On paper, our invitation is for another ceremony hosted in the city at the same time to entertain the most influential players in all the land, including Natra.

Wein didnt even pause for a second. Make no mistake. This meeting is incredibly important. It would be the most proper if I were the one to attend. Unfortunately, however, we are in the middle of recovering from war. Which is why Im bringing it to you. Let me hear your input about whether I should attend.

Wein took a sweeping look at his vassals, asking each one of them for input.

They started to offer their opinions.

As you said, Prince Wein, we are in the middle of a transitionary period as a nation. We must tread carefully. Things might take a turn for the worse if you left the kingdom right now, Your Highness.

Please. Its not just the Imperial children who will be in attendance. The greatest minds of each nation will be present, too. If the next emperor is chosen at this meeting, it would reflect badly on us as an allied kingdom if we fail to send a proper representative.

How do we know theyll actually assign someone to the throne? Is it worth neglecting your country for a mere hypothetical?

Then we can support the nation in His Highnesss absence. Or is there nothing useful in that skull of yours?

What was that?!

Quiet, please. You are standing before royalty.

The meeting room filled with varying opinions flying left and right. Wein listened for a nugget of wisdom within the fighting words.

Looks about fifty-fifty.

If this had happened a year prior, they most likely would have insisted he attend. However, in a short amount of time, the Empire had declined in power, and Natra had actually gained territory. Things were looking up. This had made the vassals a little too overconfident.

At this rate, theyll decide I should sit it out! Wein thought gleefully.

He never had any intention of going. There were a number of reasons for this, including that he was simply too busy, especially since the war with Cavarin had led to the expansion of the kingdoms territory. Nothing like it had ever occurred within living memory, which meant they currently had no system in place to handle it.

That was why there were reports of confusion and disorder in the newly gained territory. It was like mashing together gears that didnt fit. Wein had his hands full.

Another reason was Lowellmina. All of the surrounding nations believed Natra sided with her faction, because he had a hand in suppressing the civil insurrection in Earthworld.

Naturally, Wein had no plans on joining her side. However, if he accepted the invitation, he knew for a doggone fact that Lowellmina would use every method at her disposal to get him to aid her cause.

And theres absolutely no way Im letting that happen! Backing her would be more trouble than its worth!

That said, a chance to meet with the Imperial princes would be huge. Wein wanted to talk to them if he could. But if he accepted the invite, he would have to side with Lowellmina, which meant instantly making enemies of the three princes. And that wouldnt be good at all.

Well, its not like theyll decide on the emperor anyway.

The summit was an opportunity to discuss who would be the next emperor. But Wein could tell this event was mostly a performance.

The internal strife had damaged the standing of the Empire, and the people were anxious about the lack of a new emperor. This meeting was supposed to pacify them, let the people know the Imperial family wanted to decide who would inherit the throne with words instead of violence. This was also meant to show the Empire still had the clout to assemble all the major powers in one place.

If the Imperial throne was to remain empty, Wein could atone for declining the invitation using diplomatic strategies at a later time. For all these reasons, Wein had ultimately decided to turn down the request.

Heh. I can practically see the look on Lowas face when she gets the news that Im not coming.

As Wein continued to think about the most pointless things, he suddenly realized a pair of eyes were on him. They belonged to a young girl who was sitting a short distance from himhis younger sister, Falanya.

Wein wasnt the only one from the royal family in attendance, as he was joined by the crown princess.

Hmm? Whats up?

She was staring at him as if she wanted to say something but found it hard to actually give voice to the idea. Wein considered the possibilities before it finally hit him.

Oh, I bet shes thinking Ill have time to play with her if I turn down this invitation.

Now that he thought about it, he realized Falanya had recently found a reason to follow Wein around. She must have gotten lonely because she hadnt been winning his attention. Though he had been busy, Wein was disappointed in himself as an older brother for not realizing this sooner.

Rest easy, Falanya. Ill find a way to make time for you.

Maybe they could enjoy a dance or some poetry together. They could also go for a long ride on horseback.

Wein turned to his younger sister and smiled.

In recent days, Falanya Elk Arbalest had one fear: There was nothing she could do to help out.

The source of her worries was Wein, who was positively overworked.

Ever since hed assumed the role of prince regent, he had been burdened with a great number of duties. It wasnt just the usual work involved to keep the nation running. He had to deal with foreign diplomacy and orchestrate wars and perform a whole slew of other miscellaneous tasks.

Hoping to lessen his burden, Falanya had earnestly applied herself to studying politics and attended meetings in his stead. These tasks had given her a modest amount of confidence.

But even that had been squashed when their borders grew and Weins workload exponentially increased.

I cant even handle 10 percent of his job I have to find something that I can do!

With her strong sense of duty driving her, Falanya had opted to follow Wein around. She kept out of his way, searching for something she could do in his place.

I wonder if I can attend the summit for Wein

She was the crown princess of Natra. That gave her the right to attend. It would also allow Wein to focus on the kingdoms internal politics while she handled the external stuff. This arrangement would be mutually beneficial.

But

It was an armchair theory. Never mind talking to important foreign officials, Falanya had never even been outside Natra. Could she be trusted as a diplomat?

What does Wein think?

Falanya glanced over at him. He was her big brother. He had to know what she was thinking. All she wanted was for him to say she should go in his place. Then she could nod without hesitation.

Wein must have noticed her gaze, because his eyes shot toward hers.

gh! Falanya was floored.

Her brothers normally kind and gentle eyes had narrowed in focus as he appraised her. Like a parent waiting for their child to stand for the first time. It was both affectionate and solemn.

Im so weak, Falanya scolded herself.

By wishing he would support her decision, she had practically hoisted the responsibility of the choice onto Wein. That would never do in meetings with foreign dignitaries.

Falanyas mind raced. Wein is waitingfor me to think and act for myself!

Wein stifled a yawn. Crap, I almost fell asleep.

Ninym stood dutifully behind him. I feel theres been a grave misunderstanding

As the lords continued to shout at one another, Falanya stood up resolutely.

I shall attend the summit in Weins stead.

Her declaration took the vassals by surprise. Weins eyeballs practically shriveled up and plopped out of his skull. Ninym stared up at the ceiling.

This moment cemented Falanyas debut on the diplomatic stage.



I never imagined Princess Falanya would be the one to attend Lowellminas brain churned as she looked at Falanya sitting across from her.

After Weins younger sister finished up the formalities, Lowellmina had suggested they chat over tea. Things had been okay until thenbut this conversation was going absolutely nowhere.

How has your time in Mealtars been? Were you surprised by how different the weather is from Natra?

Indeed.

I highly recommend visiting our markets to see the goods we import from all across the continent.

If the opportunity arises.

That was the gist of it.

There were a few reasons to account for this behavior. Falanya was nervous. It was hard to find a topic of mutual interest. But it was mainly because Falanya had all her defenses up against Lowellmina.

I did see a glimpse of this when I met her before. ButNew novel chapters are published on

As if that wasnt bad enough, Wein had only been praised for his many accomplishments, which was totally superficial.

Theyve gotten it so wrong! Thats not what makes Wein great!

After all, those were nothing more than a matter of chance. There would inevitably be times when he failed, even when he did everything right, when fate and circumstance would conspire against him.

But did failure make her brother any less amazing? Obviously not.

He took up the position of prince regent at a young age and bore the responsibility of national politics. For years, hed endured the pressure and expectations of those around him. There was no way he wouldnt be amazing.

She knew his true greatness came from his ability to smile, even on the most soul crushing of days.

And that was exactly how Lowellmina spoke of him.

Hes constantly surprised me with his thoughts and actions. Its like he goes above and beyond peoples expectations.

Uh-huh.

Well, sometimes that gets him into predicaments.

I know!

But he still manages to smile, even in the most unpleasant situations. Hes a strong person. That must be his true power.

I totally agree!

There was no way Falanya could refuse her. It was obvious she would get along with this Lowellmina girl who was also a fan of her brother.

Well, I still wont accept the marriage.

Those were two separate things.

Falanya gently set that issue aside in her heart.

Come to think of it, Lowellmina started, Id love to hear about Wein before he came to the academy. I hear he has been wise since his early days.

When he was younger? Falanya dug through her memories. My brother never changes. Wein has been kind and dependable for as long as I can remember. Im always proud of him. Suffice to say, he was a bookworm when we were children, though hes too busy now to indulge.

Everyone in Natra praised Weins abilities as natural talent, but the truth was that much of his achievements were only possible because of the vast amount of books he had consumed.

As one of the longest standing nations on the continent, Natra had archived many documents that dealt with governance: the successes and failures of industriesincluding details on necessary budgets, timetables, and staffrecords of public opinion, plans that went smoothly, plans that led to the unimaginable, et cetera. Those documents were their predecessors blueprints, and they played a huge part in shaping Wein.

He also studied the sword, debated with the vassals, researched farming methods

I see. As extraordinary as the rumors say.

Yes, but Falanya realized she had spoken without thinking and desperately held the words back.

Is something the matter?

It is nothing. Falanya coughed and zipped up her lips.

Naturally, Lowellmina noticed this. Once she confirmed Falanya had almost made a verbal gaffe, the princess raced to think of a way to draw it out.

Please excuse me for interrupting your conversation. Ninyms voice cut in as if trying to cut her off. Im afraid the sun will be setting shortly. We must prepare for the ceremony, and I believe it would be best that you return to your manor.

Ahyoure right. It appears we have been talking for quite some time, Falanya said with surprise as she peered out the window.

Time had flown by during the tea party that she had been initially wary of.

Ninym and Lowellmina threw daggers at each other as Falanya continued to gaze outside. A few seconds later, Lowellmina sighed, signaling her defeat.

I am reluctant to part with you, but it appears to be time. Still, this conversation has only further confirmed that Natra is an irreplaceable ally to the Empire. Lowellmina smiled and stretched out her hand.

For the friendship between our nations, I certainly hope we can chat again sometime, Princess Falanya.

Of course, Princess Lowellmina. Falanya reached out, and the two shook hands firmly.

Ninym watched over them closely.

Whew Am I beat.

Falanya flopped down on the bed as soon as they returned to their room in the manor.

You did a fine job today, Princess Falanya. Though this is bordering on unladylike.

Falanya rolled around on the bed. Its okay. Youre the only one watching, Ninym.

Im afraid that is not the case. Right, Nanaki?

When Ninym called out, a boy with white hair seeped out from the shadows.

Nanaki Ralei. Falanyas guard and aide.

You called? Whoa. With one hand, he caught the pillow that came whizzing toward him.

He traced the projectiles path back to its source and caught sight of Falanya, bright red, fixing the hem of her outfit.

Ugh! Get out, Nanaki!

Nanaki handed Ninym the pillow, thinking to himself that this was awfully unfair, considering hed only come out because he was called.

Urgh Sometimes I forget Nanaki is right there.

Its proof he is an excellent guard. Though I should caution him about a few things as an aide. Ninym flashed a dry smile as she passed the pillow back to Falanya.

The princess hugged it. Hey, Ninym, did the conversation between me and Princess Lowellmina go all right?

Of course. I was only there just in case, but as a vassal, I admired the way you held your head high even before Princess Lowellmina.

But I got really sucked into the conversation Didnt Wein say I should keep my distance from her?

Yes. Princess Lowellmina wishes for Natra to join her cause. But it would be more prudent as a kingdom to keep a safe distance from the struggle for the throne. That said, the only important thing now is for you to attend the ceremony and safely return home. To that end, Prince Wein has said he does not mind even if we become a little sidetracked in the process.

Thats true, but

If it was possible, Falanya wanted Wein to praise her for performing admirably. She was his little sister, after all.

Ninym understood. Of course, I think it is wonderful that youre striving to do your best, and I will do whatever I can to support you. But were speaking of Prince Wein. He will be happy that he could depend on you, even if there are some setbacks.

Do you really think so?

I do. Ninym nodded with confidence.

Falanya showed her a shy smile. Hee-hee. Okay. Ill let Wein indulge me then.

Thats for the best. Ninym grinned back. Its growing late. Will you be retiring to bed soon?

Not yet. Id like to stay up awhile. Ninym, will you stay here and chat?

Understood. I can bring us something to drink.

Thank you.

Ninym bowed and silently slipped out of the room.

Falanya squeezed her pillow and laid down on the bed. I know I just said that, but I really want to bring Wein some good news.

To do that, she had to stand strong, even at her very first foreign ceremony. She couldnt fall for all the sweet talk like she had today.

Oh right

Falanya had remembered something from the tea party.

She was so thankful that Ninym had jumped in before she had accidentally let something slip to Lowellmina.

It wasnt anything that ought to be said in front of a foreign dignitary.

I cant tell her I used to be scared of my brother because he barely seemed human she whispered to herself.

No one was there to hear her confession as the faint words faded into the night in Mealtars.

The ceremony that would soon prove that this was a city of clashing ideas drew ever closer.