Book 7: Chapter Ep

Book 7: Chapter Ep

In Willeron Palace in the Kingdom of Natra

Aghhhhh, Eliseeeeee

Falanya Elk Arbalest was lying across a desk, longing for the Flahm baby back in the Empire.

I thought youd never come home, Nanaki grumbled, recalling the scene.

As theyd prepared to return to Natra, Falanya had refused to stop attending to Elise and let her go. It was like she was bidding farewell to her own life. In the end, Nanaki had to practically drag her back.

But Elise was so cute! You understand, dont you, Nanaki?!

We have officers with children in Natra, too. Im sure theyll let you play with them.

Its different! Im sure theyre adorable, but I want to see Elise! Falanya kicked her feet up, still face-planted on the desk.

Nanaki gave up on any further attempt at constructive conversation. Anyway, you have a meeting soon.

Oh, right. Falanya hurriedly straightened her posture. Nanaki assisted her in fixing her appearance.

A knock came from outside the door. Ive arrived at your request.

A middle-aged man with a small frame appeared before them. His features were rather lifeless, and his demeanor was dry. However, Falanya looked at him and smiled.

Thank you for coming. I may be inexperienced, but I hope you will support me as my vassal, starting today.

I am so thankful to have the opportunity to stand before you, as someone who took refuge in the Empire after I was chased from my homeland. I would want nothing more than to serve you. The man continued, There is one thing I wish to ask, Your Highness.

Ask away.

Do you not know that I harbor some resentment toward your brother, Prince Wein?

I do, Falanya answered, nodding. My brother had that coming to him. I imagine you might try to get him to fallphysically and sociallyas you serve me.

So why have you chosen me?

Falanya briefly considered this. Allow me to ask a question. I believe youve heard of whats happening in the Empire. Do you know what I did for Natra during this incident?

Yes You went to the Imperial Capital in Prince Weins stead, met with many of its local leaders, and returned to Natra with several treaties that work in our favor.

Thats right. I delivered a message from my brother to Princess Lowellmina, thus hindering her plan. I made several connections with some of the most important people in the Empire. Falanya had on a look that seemed to mock herself, which didnt suit her features. In short, I was a living letter. Even though all the valuable treaties were technically set up by Wein, Princess Lowellmina wants to build me up as another authority figure in Natra, so she can pit me against Wein.

If that is what is concerning you, appointing me is not

No. Its necessary, Falanya said firmly. With Natra expanding, my brother cant be everywhere at once. Even in this instance, I bet I could have served a greater purpose if I were better at handling this stuff. He might have even pushed back on the Empire. But thats not what happened. Because I lacked experience.

There was power in Falanyas voice. Lowellmina called it devilish. The man standing directly before her and even Nanaki trembled a little.

I admit it. Im looked down upon. By both foreign nations and even my brother. All because I still have much to learn. Unfortunately, I cant fix that overnight. I need a capable vassal to support me.

The man groaned quietly. Should he accept or reject this offer? His decision kept flip-flopping in his heart until he finally reached a simple answer.

But that doesnt change the fact that I pose a threat.

Right back at ya. Ill deal with it if looks like it might pose some problems.

So well just surveil her for now.

With their policy on Sirgis decided, they moved on to the next topic of discussion.

Now the Empire is convinced that weve joined Lowellminas faction.

Demetrio got me good at the end. Plus, we couldnt have teamed up with the middle and youngest princes after we made enemies out of them.

By the way, how serious were you about presenting Prince Demetrio as a gift to the West?

Fifty-fifty, Wein grumbled. If we could just keep him in Natra, we might have gotten some stuff from the Empire and the West, even if we didnt say anything about our stance on the matter. In the end, all I got were a few treaties that give us a little boost, which sucks.

And those were considered the success of Princess Falanya.

Yeah! Lowa doesnt miss a thing!

It would be no laughing matter if Princess Falanya became involved in the struggle for the throne. Ill keep an even closer watch within the palace, but you have to stay on your toes, too, Wein.

I got it. At any rate, the Empire will be paralyzed while its recovering from this mess. Lets just drop it for now. He looked at the letter in front of him. This is our real problem.

An invite to the postponed Gathering of the Chosen.

The Teachings of Levetia was the biggest religion in the West. The Gathering of the Chosen was its annual conference of the Holy Elites. Wein had just received an invitation to the event, which should have been closed to all except the Holy Elites.

Think its a trap? he asked.

I do.

What do you think will get us: a demon or a snake?

My vote is for something scarier that chases them both away.

Suddenly, I dont feel like going!

Well, thats another topic you can discuss with the vassals. We have to think it over.

Wein nodded. No kidding.

Sheesh. As soon as I get back from the South, Im pulled to the East and West. I get no rest.

Isnt that normal for you?

I feel like thats something that really shouldnt be normal, Miss Ninym!

Ninym ignored him, feigning ignorance.

And thus, First Imperial Prince Demetrio exited stage left from history.

The trouble across the continent was far from over, however, and fiery trials were waiting to scorch the remaining actors.

Who would be the last one standing? Or would everyone be swallowed by flames and turn to ash?

Only future history books could tell.