Translator: Skythewood
Editor: Hiiro
Ⅱ
Three days after the war conference in Leticia.
Right now, Olivia—— was spending everyday playing with kids until dusk. But relax, that didn’t mean she was slacking off her military duties.
After finding out the reason for the Valedstorm house’s demise, she was about to return to Windsam Castle, the base of the Seventh Army, when Cornelius ordered her to stay in the Capital.
As the festive atmosphere in the city died down, the gentle sunlight basked the land on this spring day——
「One more time!」
Olivia’s energetic voice echoed in the plaza.
「Enough already! Olivia onee-san will use that 『Fleet Footed Rush』 thing right? Didn’t I tell you that’s too sly!?」
The girl with a large red ribbon on her light brown hair lightly hit Olivia’s stomach. Her name was Patty Sullivan, the only daughter of Akagi and Anne, owners of the 『Grey Crow Pavilion』 where Olivia was lodging.
「Ahaha, sorry, I used it without realizing~」
Patty looked right at Olivia who was scratching her cheeks.
「Muu—— Olivia onee-san, are you the type who can’t take a loss?」
「Well, I don’t think so.」
Olivia said as she thought back to the only time she almost lost to Ashton in Military Chess. When Ashton was smiling confidently, Olivia suddenly felt dizzy and collapsed onto the board.
And of course, the game was ruined. She could still clearly remember Ashton’s face, who looked as if he saw the end of the world. She even kindly advised Ashton 『The most dangerous moment is when you are sure of victory』. He threw a chess piece at her with the face of a demon.
「During times like this, you should let the kids win.」
「Why do I have to let kids win?」
If this was war, there were times when you should feign defeat to catch the opponent off guard. But this was just hide and go seek, so Olivia didn’t understand the rationale of giving up the win.
She tilted her head quizzingly, and Patty haughtily lifted a finger.
「This is the condition for being a mature and good woman.」
「Mature and good woman?」
「That’s right. Since Olivia onee-san is an outstanding maiden, you have to remember this well.」
Patty acted like an all-knowing instructor and taught Olivia. Even though she was called an outstanding maiden, Olivia didn’t understand what that meant and just fudged through it with a laugh. At this moment, Patty’s playmate Griffin Noah suddenly showed himself from the bushes.
「Oh, I found Griffin!」
Olivia pointed with gusto.
「You didn’t find me, I came out myself.」
「Why did you come out by yourself?」
Griffin with his trademark green scarf around his neck sighed tiredly.
「Because I waited so long, and Olivia Onee-san didn’t seem to be looking for me—— So, Olivia Onee-san used 『Fleet Footed Rush』 again?」
「That’s right, you tell Olivia Onee-san off too, Griffin.」
On Patty’s urging, Griffin stood before Olivia. Olivia’s gaze on Griffin made him blush, and he said softly.
「B-Be careful next time.」
「Yes, got it!」
「Hey Griffin! Why do you always, always, always, blush before Olivia Onee-san!?」
Patty stamped her feet as she approached Griffin. But Griffin turned his head away to feign innocence.
To Olivia, Griffin’s face had obviously turned red. For some reason, when Olivia stared at him, Griffin would turn red like a cooked octopus. Not just Griffin, Ashton and the other men were the same too.
In the beginning, Olivia suspected that they contacted Red pancreatic disease—— a type of disease that was spread by bugs. The face of those infected would turn red, followed by the onset of a high fever. In the worst case scenario, it could be fatal, it was a fearsome disease.
Olivia forced the reluctant Ashton to drink the medicine she brewed, but his face would still turn red. She tried making the other men drink the medicine too, but to no avail. It didn’t work, but there weren’t symptoms of high fever either, so Olivia concluded that men were just that sort of creature.
By the way, Ellis who was a woman also blushed frequently. Evansin said 『My sister got a unique illness that even the doctors can’t cure. Please pay it no mind, Major Olivia』. He even apologized, so that was an exception.
「Muu, Griffin is going to be Patty’s groom in the future! It’s already decided that we will inherit the 『Grey Crow Pavilion』! So you must never be unfaithful!」
「G-Got it.」
Griffin, who was intimidated by the fierce Patty, answered in a mosquito-level volume, then stole a glance at Olivia. When Olivia smiled, his face turned even redder. Patty wasn’t going to let this go.
They were just like how Akagi and Anne acted when they quarreled, she was like a carbon copy of Anne.
「So you are here, Major…」
Claudia who appeared around the corner of the plaza sighed in relief after finding Olivia. She flicked her golden locks back out of habit and quickened her pace.
「What a coincidence, Claudia. You here to play hide and go seek too—— Hmm? What’s wrong, Griffin?」
She realized Griffin who was being questioned by Patty was behind Olivia before she knew it and tugged her sleeve. Moving behind me without being detected, his sneakiness could rival Z—— Olivia sighed in awe. With training, he might make a great swordsman.
「Is that pretty Onee-san one of Olivia Onee-san’s friend?」
Griffin was very curious as he peeked at Claudia through her sleeve. When Claudia looked his way, he would hide behind Olivia. He was acting the same he did when Patty introduced him to Olivia.
「Oh right, this is the first time you are meeting her, Griffin. This is my comrade and friend, Claudia.」
Olivia pushed Griffin to Claudia. Griffin was hesitant at first, but——
「N-Nice to meet you. I’m Griffin Noah, five years old.」
He opened his hands bashfully and waved in greeting. Claudia had a fluffy smile that Olivia had never seen before.
「You can greet others properly even though you are so young, that’s wonderful. I’m Claudia Jung.」
「Ehehe… Claudia Onee-san, want to play hide and go seek?」
Griffin invited Claudia a little bashfully. Claudia squatted down and looked Griffin in the eyes.
「Sorry, I have military duties—— I still have work to do with Olivia Onee-san in the castle, so I can’t play.」
「I see…」
Seeing Griffin turn sullen, Claudia smiled troublingly and patted his blonde hair.
「Can you let me join next time?」
「Yes, got it, I will invite you next time.」
Griffin nodded his head like a bobble head doll sold at the street side stalls. Patty who was watching showed a scary expression for a five years old child. She grabbed Griffin by the collar and dragged him to a corner of the plaza.
When Olivia saw this scene, she thought about the scary imp featured in the drawing book 《Unlimited Chef Works》. I hope Griffin doesn't get tossed into a pot and get cooked alive— she worried for him.
Waving goodbye to Griffin who was sending SOS signals with his eyes, Olivia turned to Claudia who was looking at Griffin with a similar worried face.
「They sent a message?」
「Yes, Field Marshal Cornelius wants to speak to you directly.」
「He really made me wait so long. Do you know what’s that about, Claudia?」
「They didn’t say, but it’s probably related to promotions.」
Claudia was smiling brilliantly, she really likes promotions. Olivia decided to leave the plaza before she made any speeches.
Olivia turned back, and in her pupils was the reflection of Griffin sitting in seiza getting smaller as she moved further away.
Ⅲ
Letizia Castle, Field Marshal Cornelius’s Office.
「My apologies for keeping you for so long.」
「No, you are too kind.」
When Claudia first entered Cornelius’ office, she sighed a little in her heart. The room’s decor was befitting of a Field Marshal, and were all top class. Aside from daily necessities, armours and weapons were displayed neatly.
The most prominent of all is the sword hanging on the left wall. There was an icy bluish white gleam on the sword that was shorter than the norm. The golden hilt was engraved with the symbol of the Lemuria Kingdom —— a double headed snake
(So this is the one of a kind legendary sword, Lemuria, huh. Amazing.)
Cornelius's voice snapped Claudia out of her trance.
「You can admire it as much as you like later. Do take a seat for now.」
Claudia turned and saw that Cornelius and Olivia had already sat down. Realizing that she was acting impolitely, her face flushed red.
「P-Pardon my impudence!」
Claudia quickly lowered her head in apology and sat down beside Olivia. As she adjusted her sitting posture and looked Olivia's way, she saw Olivia had already laid her hands on the snacks. Claudia felt dizzy at the sight of that.
「Major! How could you snack wantonly!?」
「Ehhh? But I got permission, Lord Cornelius said that I could.」
Olivia didn't stop her hands while speaking to Claudia. Olivia looked absolutely blissed as she munched on the snacks.
「Field Marshal Sir, allow me to apologize again!」
Claudia almost banged her head on the table when she bowed. Even if she was granted permission, she shouldn't eat in such an insolent manner. This was the Field Marshal's office, not a place to relax. If Otto learned of this, he wouldn't let the matter rest so easily.
Her sweating that stopped had started rolling down her back again.
「Lieutenant Claudia, raise your head.」
「Yes Sir!」
After timidly lifting her head, what Claudia saw was Cornelius' smiling face. The Field Marshal didn't seem to be mad, which was a relief for Claudia. On closer look, Cornelius's eyes were gentle, as if he was looking at his adorable grandchild.
「Major Olivia, are the snacks tasty?」
「Yes, super delish!」
「Please use a formal tone!」
She was stressed enough to get stomach ulcers, but Claudia still did her duty to advise Olivia in her choice of words.
「——Ahem, it is absolutely delightful.」
Olivia paid no heed to Claudia's worries and started swaying her legs with a happy smile—— Claudia really felt like running away from the room.
「It's good, huh? I think so too, since my old lady is famous for her pastries. When I told her about Major Olivia, she got up early to make plenty of snacks. My old lady will be happy to know that you like them. Lieutenant Claudia, don't hold back, try one.」
Cornelius offered her a silver tray with a smile. Claudia gulped at the sight of the tray full of pastries.
(So it's handmade by that great person……)
Speaking of Cornelius' wife Sabrina Wym Curling, she long reigned over the high social circles, and was full of majesty and magnanimity. A great woman with the nickname 『Empress』.
There was a great story about her.
Lunar Calendar Year 960. Aiming for the gap when Cornelius and his subordinates were away from his territory, Galbera attempted a revolt. Sabrina put on her armour majestically and attacked with the small garrison unit under the cover of night. Galbera was careless and she crushed his basecamp. Sabrina fought in the frontlines and splendidly killed Galbera.
When he learned of the revolt, Cornelius rushed back and found the blood soaked Sabrina saying with a smile——
『The scum who attempted a revolt in our territory has failed.』
Hence, Sabrina was still very influential even though she retired from high society. Even the fearsome Lambert would behave himself in her presence.
If her mother Elisabeth learned that Claudia didn't sample the pastry made personally by that person, she would faint on the spot.
(Can't be helped, just think of this as part of my military duties.)
Claudia convinced herself with that and timidly took a piece. She put it in her mouth, and a gentle sweetness slowly spread.
(Well, it is delicious, but……)
However, Claudia just wanted to swallow it quickly and didn't have the heart to savour the taste. To escape from this interrogation-like situation, she straightened her back and got right into business.
「Field Marshal Sir, regarding today's summon……」
「Hmm?—— Oh, that's right. I almost forgot about the main agenda, age is getting to me.」
Cornelius said as he pulled out a neatly folded piece of paper to Olivia. Olivia browsed it and quickly lost interest, passing it off to Claudia.
After nodding to the two of them, Claudia checked the contents of the paper. It stated the new Eighth Army would be formed with Olivia appointed as its inaugural commander, and also her promotion to Major General.
(This…… is way beyond my expectations, I didn't expect them to go this far……)
If Claudia remembered correctly, there had never been a Major General under the age of 20. Even more so for the commander of an army.
Even the member of the Royal family, Lieutenant General Sara of the Sixth Army, was appointed as a Major General when she was 20 years old. Which means this is another accomplishment in Olivia's history of heroic exploits.
Before the excited Claudia could speak, Cornelius said:
「The details will be given at a later date, and this is the agenda for this meeting. Any objections so far?」
When asked, there was a gleam in Olivia's dark eyes as she thought of something.
「A Major General ranks higher than a Senior Colonel, right?」
「Hmm? I don't quite get the point of your question, but that is correct.」
Olivia snickered and told Cornelius she understood. Claudia knew better than anyone else that Olivia wasn’t interested in making it big. That was why Claudia sighed deeply in her heart as she realized the reason why Olivia accepted this so readily.
「Ahem. As of this moment, Olivia Valedstorm is promoted to the rank of Major General, and appointed as the inaugural commander of the Eighth Army.」
「Yes Sir! Major General Olivia hereby accept the post as the inaugural commander of the Eighth Army!」
Olivia stood up swiftly from the couch and gave a formal salute. The only flaw would be the crumbs on her uniform falling off. Cornelius nodded with satisfaction and turned his gaze towards Claudia.
「As for you, Lieutenant Colonel Claudia, please continue to assist Major General Olivia as her adjutant.」
「Yes Sir! … Pardon me, Field Marshal Sir.」
「Yes?」
「Am I a…… Lieutenant Colonel?」
Suspecting that her ears were wrong, Claudia couldn’t help asking Cornelius. Putting exceptions like Olivia aside, she understood that bigger than normal promotions would be given to raise morale during tough situations. Even so, a triple promotion was still rare. From what Claudia remembered, no one from her academy batch managed that—— More accurately speaking, Liz had not achieved that yet.
Cornelius looked at the troubled Claudia with a wry smile.
「Dissatisfied with being a mere Lieutenant Colonel?」
「N-No Sir! I will continue to do my best as Major General Olivia’s adjutant!」
There was no way she was unhappy, her parents would be overjoyed to learn that. Claudia straightened her back and saluted with utmost respect.
「I see, I will be expecting great things from you.」
「Yes Sir!」
After chatting idly for a while more, the two left the room. Cornelius sat down at his desk, pulled the drawer at the top right and took out a delicate letter with the faint smell of perfume.
(Well then, what should I do about this……)
It came from a small nation to the west of the Dubedirica continent.
Cornelius focused on the letter sent from the Holy Nation of Mekia.
Ⅳ
After leaving Cornelius’s office, the two of them walked along the passageway in the courtyard. Claudia suddenly stopped.
「What’s wrong?」
Olivia looked back and saw Claudia’s face was more serious than usual.
「Your Excellency, I will take my leave first.」
「Ehh? It’s noon, let’s eat together in the Mess Hall.」
Olivia took out a silver pocket watch and showed Claudia that both hands were pointed to the top. She ate quite a bit of snacks, but that was different from a meal. If she didn’t eat a proper meal, the orchestra in her stomach would start to play.
「My apologies. I want to accompany you, Madam, but with the founding of the Eighth Army, there is much work to do. I don’t even want to waste time on lunch.」
Claudia’s words made Olivia tilt her head, she couldn’t fathom how setting up the Eighth Army was more important than food. Both the books and Olivia herself firmly believed that an army couldn’t fight on an empty stomach.
As she was thinking about that, Claudia who was alternating her gaze between Olivia’s brand new Major General insignia on her collar and Olivia’s face laughed happily.
—— Scary.
That was Olivia’s honest feelings.
「I-I see. I will go to the Mess Hall alone then.」
Judging that she shouldn’t stay, Olivia promptly left. Claudia saluted with a serious expression—— maybe it was just a psychological effect, but her back seemed straighter than usual.
「Yes Mdm! Please enjoy your lunch. I will bid my leave now, Your Excellency.」
「Y-Yes. See you later.」
Olivia sent Claudia with a stiff wave. Claudia muttered 「it’s going to get busy」, and left with a spring in her steps.
After watching Claudia go with a fearful face, Olivia obediently headed to the Senior Officer Mess Hall. She visited several times already, so she didn’t get lost.
(Hmm… Speaking of which, she was emphasizing on the ‘Excellency’ term. Claudia always called me by my rank, so it doesn’t feel too out of place… Excellency, huh… Should I put on airs? General Paul and Lord Cornelius are friendly, but the others are haughty…)
Noticing her reflection on the window, Olivia crossed her arms in a dignified posture. She didn’t pay much attention to her uniform, but felt the dark green uniform suited her and meshed well with her silver hair.
Unfortunately, she didn’t look dignified at all. The troubled Olivia tried different poses, but they all lacked something.
(Putting on air doesn’t suit me after all. Anyway, I don’t know how to do that in the first place… But I still want to try it once!)
With random thoughts in her head, Olivia stepped forth once again. At this moment, a man with a serious face and walking with precise steps that seemed to be carefully calculated appeared—— an old acquaintance of Olivia, Otto.
(Aha! The rank of Major General gets to be useful immediately. This must be the guidance of the Goddess Citresia!)
Flicking the golden rank insignia on her collar happily, Olivia made a pretentious cough. She held her hands behind her to act like a big shot.
Otto who noticed Olivia swiftly stepped aside to the wall and saluted.
(Uwah! Uwah! Adjutant Otto is saluting me! This is big news!)
Olivia tried to stifle her smile amidst her surprise. It seems that news of her promotion had reached Otto’s ears.
「Ara ara! Adjutant Otto, it’s been a while.」
Going off on her whim, Olivia used a very pretentious tone. She took reference from the traitor Dominique she met in Fort Glacise, since he was the most pretentious person she ever met.
But Otto wasn’t fazed.
「Yes, it’s been a long time since our last meeting, Major General Olivia.」
He used formal speech too.
「Pfft!」
「…… Did I say something amusing, Your Excellency?」
Otto looked at Olivia who couldn’t contain her laughter in surprise. She had gotten used to it now, but she still hated formal speech—— but to Olivia right now, it sounded as pleasant as the chirping of the birds.
「No, don’t mind me. It has really been a while, you seem to be doing well.」
Olivia, who was getting cocky, tried patting Otto’s shoulder. Normally, he would lash out at her. If there was a table nearby, he would slam it loudly. Since Otto loved to slam tables.
Otto looked at his right shoulder without saying anything special.
「Yes, thank you for your concern. I’m glad to see Major General Olivia is as lively as ever.」
By the way, I heard when a subordinate suddenly becomes a superior, the former superior will show a sour face—— Olivia thought as she looked at Otto’s emotionless face.
Olivia was completely unconcerned with hierarchies, and is just happy to minimize the use of formal speech. But that wasn’t the only reason she accepted this promotion.
Olivia couldn’t tell what Otto actually felt, but he didn’t look unhappy at all, as if Olivia had always been his superior. As expected of the 『Iron Mask』.
「Yes, I’m always lively—— I mean, I have always been in good health. Are your wife and kids doing well? If I recall correctly—— they resides in the capital, correct?」
「… Yes, they are residents of the capital as you say, they are healthy and well.」
Otto frowned at that, probably feeling something was weird. Olivia did ask that, but not because she was interested in his Otto. Or rather, who would be interested in people they didn’t even know the name and faces of? She was just just mimicking the chatter about family she heard from a bureaucrat before.
「Hmm, that’s wonderful. You haven’t seen your family for a while, adjutant Otto, that must make you happy, right?」
「… Yes, that is true.」
Olivia nodded exaggeratedly.
「And of course, I want to meet Z again too. Well then, work hard on your duties then.」
When the giggly Olivia was about to leave, 「Major General, a moment please?」—— these words that could freeze her blood stopped her. Olivia turned her head back like a swivel on rusty gears.
「W-What is it?」
A Major General is higher than a Senior Colonel, a Major General is higher than a Senior Colonel—— she kept repeating in her heart.
「… Your rank insignia is crooked. Your uniform is a little unkempt, an untidy attire will ruffle one’s heart too. As a commander, you need to be a role model to the troops. Even more so for the commander of an army. Please keep that in mind.」
Otto reached out to Olivia’s collar and quickly straightened her rank insignia.
「Thank you very much.」
Olivia said in a formal tone, and it was too late when she covered her mouth in a panic. Otto’s expression turned stern as he stared at Olivia.
「… That won’t do, a superior mustn’t use formal speech to their subordinates.」
「My deepest apology.」
She used formal speech again with a polite bow.
Even though she hated formal speech, it came out naturally. Is this a curse Otto put on me? Olivia groaned in her mind——
「Oh? Right after I gave my humble opinion, Your Excellency spoke formally again? This is troubling, Major General Mdm, you need be more firm in your attitude in order to issue orders to your subordinates.」
Otto started his absolutely merciless lecture. He kept droning on about the 「importance of self discipline」 「Value your subordinates more than before」 with no signs of stopping. This was no different from before, and the reason for her promotion to Major General was becoming murky.
As he went on, Otto even touched on the cleanliness of her room. No no no, that has nothing to do with this—— Olivia wanted to protest loudly, but that would definitely invite an even more terrible fate, so she gave up on it.
(How much longer will he go…)
Otto seemed to have forgotten how to shut his mouth. Even though Olivia would cast pleading gazes at the officers walking past the corridor, they didn’t do anything else except saluting—— at best, they just looked at her with pity and sympathy.
(Why isn’t anyone helping me? If Ashton is here… No, Ashton isn’t good with adjutant Otto either. Claudia, Claudia will definitely save me…)
I should have forcefully dragged Claudia to the Mess Hall—— Olivia regretted, her good mood completely ruined.
However, this was her own doing, so she didn’t have the right to complain to anyone… People shouldn’t attempt things they couldn’t do—— Olivia thought to herself.
「Like I said——」
A sudden 「Pomf」 drew Otto’s eyes away from Olivia. Someone had dropped a bundle of documents on the passageway, and was frantically picking them up.
(I don’t know who you are, but that’s a big help! This is a great chance!)
Seizing the momentary gap in Otto’s words, Olivia immediately conveyed her thanks. If she continued listening, her mind would become a mess.
「… Thank you for listening to my humble advice. It’s a little late, but allow me to congratulate you on your promotion to Major General, and your appointment as the commander of the Eighth Army.」
「Y-Yes. Farewell then.」
Otto smiled wryly at Olivia who was speaking nonsense, then saluted again. In order to escape quickly, Olivia saluted as she walked off. A voice behind her said 「Please walk slowly in the corridors!」.
Olivia fled with all her might.
Chapter 2: Who Are You Fighting For
Ⅰ
Dubedirica continent, Central area.
Bordering the Farnesse Kingdom was Stonia Duchy, ruled by the Archduke Silvester von Bernstein and four elders—— known as the 『Four Sages』. The Duchy was divided into five zones, with Silvester ruling the center and a Sage governing the zones in each cardinal direction.
In the beginning of the war, they and the Confederation of Sutherland declared their neutrality. However, it had been reduced to a vassal state of the Empire, just like the neighbouring Swaran Kingdom.
「Everyone’s present.」
Answering Silvester’s summons, the Four Sages had gathered in a room inside the main Castle Corks. In contrast to the clear blue skies, the ones gathered at the round table had sullen faces.
The reason was a letter brought by an Imperial envoy. In short, they were asked to start a war against the Holy Nation of Mekia.
Silvester was 38 years old. The Archduchy was passed down from father to son, and he was the seventeenth Archduchy. His hair that was honey coloured before the war had turned quite grey now, silently expressing how much stress he was under.
「I understand if they request us to attack the Farnesse Kingdom, but why the Holy Nation of Mekia? That’s where the main Saint Illuminous church is based. If we attack recklessly, we would incur the wrath of all their believers.」
The veins popping on the forehead of the North Sage showed his concerns as Silvester listened quietly. There were plenty of pious followers of the Goddess of Creation, Citresia. The moment the Stonia Duchy declared war against the Holy Nation of Mekia, even if they won, they would face intense retaliation from those believers.
A bigger problem was the private army of the Saint Illuminous Church, the 『Knights of the Holy Church』. It was only one division in strength, but was known for being an elite organization.
If you messed with them, it would be difficult to escape unscathed.
(Win or lose, our nation will suffer heavy losses. All the cons and not one benefit. I’m a laughingstock of an Archduchy who can’t complain about the Empire’s viciousness…)
Ignoring the frustrated Silvester, the West Sage laughed with mockery.
「You can ask the Imperial envoy for the reason, my dear Duke—— ‘pray tell us unworthy lot, the reason to wage war against the Holy Nation of Mekia.’ But in the end, they don’t have any intention to tell dogs their reason.」
Before the frowning North Sage could speak, there was a loud bang on the round table.
The East Sage had slammed the table with the posture of a demon.
「If possible, we would have killed that envoy! Stop listing the things we can’t do one after another! How unpleasant!」
「Fufu, then what? If we don’t act immediately, it will displease the Empire, you know? Even now, the Imperial envoy is waiting in the guest chambers as we speak.」
After a squabble between the East and West Sages, the South Sage who was almost 80, Roman Casael spoke in a hoarse voice. He was the leader of the Four Sages, and the first to propose the stable path of neutrality. On top of that, he was also Silvester’s teacher.
「Even if we agree to the Empire’s demands, we don’t have any intel on the opponent’s military… Or is the Empire asking us to investigate ourselves?」
「Teacher, regarding that, the Imperial envoy provided us with that information.」
Everyone focused their gazes on the North Sage who was handed a bundle of papers. The group then browsed the documents that were given out. In that short period of time, the room was filled with the sound of flipping papers.
「—— Hmmp, the Empire has been hard at work. They are really that keen on getting us to wage war?」
The East Sage tossed the documents onto the table with a grunt. The West Sage stroked his chin and continued the East Sage’s conversation.
「According to this report, the opponent numbers between 40,000 to 50,000… If I recall correctly, the Holy Nation of Mekia has a population of about one million, is their estimation accurate?」
Even the Stonia Duchy which had a population of three million could only mobilize 60,000 troops. Be it war or peace, the upkeep of an army was a huge expense. They got a lot of military funds from the Empire, but if they want to increase their army, it would be very taxing on their economy and even lead to the fall of the nation itself.
So Silvester thought the West Sage’s question was reasonable. However, the North Sage who was the most worldly and knowledgeable refuted that.
「No, we can’t be sure of that. After all, the Holy Nation of Mekia had plenty of ores of great quality. Furthermore, their workmanship is outstanding. A tour of their lands and you will know how well their pricey Mekia ores and accessories are selling.」
「So the Holy Nation of Mekia has the means of maintaining a large army… In this era, that makes me envious.」
The East Sage’s words made the North and West Sages nod in agreement. They often squabbled, but came to a consensus this time.
「——Archduke Silvester, the envoy must be getting tired of waiting.」
The leader of the Four Sages, Roman, subtly urging him to make his decision. Silvester cast his eyes to the ceiling to escape the murky gaze of that old man. They had exchanged all their views thus far, but Silvester’s answer had not changed since the beginning.
(Plainly speaking, I don’t have any choice…)
Sensing that the Four Sages had their eyes on him, Silvester sighed as if he was venting all the frustration in his chest and said:
「No matter how much we dislike it, since there is the example of the Swaran Kingdom, we can only submit. If we reject them, the Sun Knights garrisoned in Fort Kiel won’t take it lying down.」
「… It can’t be helped.」
Roman’s wrinkles deepened. The three Sages looked shocked, but didn’t rebuke him. This is the Sun Knights that captured the impregnable Fort Kiel, a formidable force. Silvester was unfazed as he quietly sipped his cold tea.
As the silence and worry loomed in the room, the East Sage remembered something.
「Oh right, I heard the Sun Knights were defeated by the Farnesse Kingdom recently. Is that true?」
「The truth behind that matter is still unclear, but such rumours are widespread in the streets.」
The North Sage nodded sagely while stroking his chin.
News of the Crimson Knights’ defeat had reached Silvester’s ears, but he brushed it off as just a stroke of luck built on top of several coincidences.
So to him, the Farnesse Kingdom was still in a dire situation in their war against the Arsbelt Empire.
(However, if the Sun Knights’ defeat was true…)
Of the three pillars supporting the Empire, two had crumbled. If that last pillar was as strong as the rumours, it wouldn’t fall that easily. Even so, Silvester wasn’t the only one who saw it as a glimmer of hope in the boundless darkness.
「Have the tide changed?」
The West Sage said a little excitedly, and the North Sage concurred with a nod.
「Maybe so. Even the Imperial Army is not infallible. And the Royal Army has that famous Ever-Victorious General Cornelius, maybe the Empire is in trouble?」
A bold smile appeared on the face of the East Sage as he spoke.
「With that, their intentions are now clear. They want to grind down our forces, which they see as a threat to them. In other words, they want us to be a good boy and not try anything funny.」
The three Sages were about to start an intense discussion when Roman suddenly interjected with a shrill voice.
「Assuming that is true, are you planning to revolt against the Empire?」
The three Sages looked at each other and quiet down. Roman’s words were like a bucket of cold water, and Silvester cooled down like the three Sages did.
The Imperial Army might be embroiled in a tough war, but that didn’t mean they could dismiss the Empire’s demand. Even more so if their goal was to grind Stonia’s forces down. They could use this chance to turn to the Farnesse Kingdom—— But if they wanted to do so, they needed to clear it through a secret channel first. Plainly speaking, they didn’t have any time to liaise with the Farnesse Kingdom in secret.
(No matter what, this is checkmate. In the end. nothing will change…)
Silvester smiled in self mockery and quietly told Roman.
「Usher the Imperial envoy to the audience hall.」
Ⅱ
Imperial Capital Orsted, Listerine Castle, Chancellor Dalmes’ Office
「— Stonia must be having a heated discussion. But no matter how much they struggle, they only have one path in the end.」
In the center of the room, Dalmes was savouring tea on his couch.
Five months after the Battle of Fort Astra ended, Felixus and his adjutant Theresa returned to the capital on Dalmes’ summons.
「The unit that attacked Fort Astra is confirmed to be from the Holy Nation of Mekia?」
「I can’t be completely sure, but there’s a good chance it is so.」
Felixus added sugar to his tea as he listened, and Dalmes watched with intrigue. When he added the seventh sugar cube, Felixus’ face turned stiff.
As for the information submitted by Felixus, Dalmes had sent the Heat Haze to gather more related intel. And as a result, the Holy Nation of Mekia that revered Citresia as their patron Goddess rose out of the waters. The Holy Nation of Mekia was known for the Saint Illuminous Citadel, and had been quiet since the war broke out—— That was the extent of what Felixus knew about them.
That was why he was surprised by Dalmes’ conclusion.
(Speaking of which, will the Stonia Duchy really accept this so easily?)
If things went as Dalmes predicted, Stonia Duchy would opt to fight the Holy Nation of Mekia even if they knew the Empire’s intentions. So if they didn’t have the resolve to do so, they would just throw caution to the wind and rise in revolt against the Empire.
(Even if inevitable death awaits, I would choose to die with honour.)
Felixus expressed his views and Dalmes laughed creepily. As Felixus furrowed his brows, Dalmes bowed deeply.
「Pardon me. Sir Felixus is right to worry about that, but they would probably accept our demand.」
「Lord Chancellor, what makes you so confident?」
「Because the ruler of the Stonia Duchy, Archduke Silvester is a mediocre person. Even if he sees through our intentions, he won’t have the guts to defy us. The best evidence is them opening their gates to the Imperial army without any resistance in the first place. In that sense, the Swaran Kingdom is far better than them.」
Dalmes pressed the bell on his desk. While freshly brewed tea was brought in, Felixus couldn’t help pitying the Stonia Duchy.
Stonia chose to submit to the Empire without a fight, a decision based on high level politics. As a result, they didn’t suffer any combat losses— ironically, that turned into the main reason why Dalmes had marked them.
After the Crimson Knights’ defeat, the Sun Knights also lost. This news would definitely give their vassal states second thoughts. So Dalmes opted to strike first and use Stonia Duchy as an example to warn others.
(Can the Stonia Duchy defeat the Holy Nation of Mekia?……)
As he sipped on his tea, Felixus reviewed the information he read earlier.
Stonia Duchy had an army of 60,000.
The Holy Nation of Mekia was estimated to have 40,000 to 50,000 troops.
With that in mind, the Stonia Duchy had the advantage. However, war wasn’t decided solely by numbers. Aside from fixed assets such as troop’s morale, training, and the ability of the commander to adapt, complicated factors like terrain, weather and other outside variables could have unexpected influence too.
If he was asked the most important factor that would decide the battle, Felixus would answer ‘morale’ without any hesitation. For the Stonia army forced into war, they had no fighting spirit to speak of. They had the initiative of attacking without any premonition, but the Holy Nation of Mekia had the achievement of toying with the Crimson Knights with just half of their opponent’s numbers.
「Who do you think will win, Lord Chancellor?」
「That’s hard to say. Or rather, I’m not concerned at all. My priority is to wear down Stonia Duchy’s forces, then evaluate the prowess of the Holy Nation of Mekia that had bared its fangs at the Empire.」
Dalmes’ words surprised Felixus. Felixus had some grasp on the Chancellor’s personality, and he wasn’t the type who likes roundabout ways like evaluating an opponent’s strength.
「It’s rare to see you so cautious, Lord Chancellor.」
Dalmes’ face turned sullen.
「… That might be so. But according to Sir Felixus’ report, the Holy Nation of Mekia has committed their Sorcerer into battle, right? On top of that, they had great relations with the Saint Illuminous Church, so we can’t ignore the religious zealots and the Knights of the Holy Church either.」
「Knights of the Holy Church……」
The Knights of the Holy Church were an army founded to protect devotees, but that was just the superficial reason. It was clear from history that they were used to wipe out heretics.
In that sense, Dalmes was right to exercise extreme caution.
「Aside from the Knights of the Holy Church, they also had almost two million devotees… At this stage, the Empire should avoid direct conflict with them.」
In just the Capital Orsted alone, there were multiple Saint Illuminous churches. Going to extremes, they had many potential enemies around them. Even Felixus couldn’t fault Dalmes for his methods.
「I understand the Chancellor’s concerns.」
「That’s wonderful. And of course, if they become an obstacle against the Empire, the Empire’s chariots will swiftly run over those zealots and the Knights of the Holy Church.」
Dalmes concluded matter of factly. He said that casually, but Felixus knew that Dalmes was serious.
「— Well then, what’s my mission?」
Felixus sat up and cut straight into the heart of the matter. He didn’t think that Dalmes would recall him without any reason.
Dalmes nodded with delight.
「It’s a breeze to talk with Sir Felixus. Straight to the point. I would like Sir Felixus to go to Stonia Duchy as a Military Consultant.」
「Military Consultant, huh…」
「That’s right, carefully observe the combat prowess of the Holy Nation of Mekia. Whether they would be a threat to the Empire, and the movements of the Sorcerers— But it isn’t clear whether they would commit Sorcerer into the battle against the Stonia Duchy.」
「… They probably would.」
Felixus thought about Amelia Stolast. Dalmes peeked at Felixus, waiting for his formal acknowledgement.
「I understand. I hereby accept the mission as a Military Consultant— On the other hand, what should we do about Death God Olivia? I think we should take countermeasures post haste.」
Dalmes’ stopped his wrinkled hand that was reaching for his cup. He showed a confused face as he locked eyes with Felixus.
「Death God Olivia……?」
「Yes, Death God Olivia.」
「— Oh, the girl with the Dark Sword you mentioned before… Death God is a being that controls death as it wished. It is laughable to call her a Death God with her meagre exploits.」
Dalmes smirked, speaking as if he knew the real Death God.
「That might be so, but she is involved in all our recent defeats. Allow me to repeat this again, there is a need to take action against her.」
「In any case, it’s fine to leave her alone for now.」
Felixus was doubting his ears. Just what was Dalmes thinking to arrive at this nonsensical conclusion?
「Bu——」
Dalmes raised his right hand to stop Felixus who wanted to pursue the matter, and stood up from the couch slowly.
「I will be counting on you to act as a Military Consultant. There are pressing matters that requires my presence, so I will be taking my leave.」
Evening out the creases on his robe, Dalmes’ attitude made it clear he was refusing to discuss this further. Felixus felt uneasy by the way he was dismissing this issue.
If Graden and Rosenmarie were here, they would feel the same way.
(The Chancellor is taking this too lightly, he isn’t the type to ignore such things… Should I report this directly to His Majesty? —No, that will probably be useless. Nowadays, I don’t see any reaction from him, other than the times when he converse with the Chancellor…)
He knew it was futile, but Felixus still insisted that Dalmes reconsider. Dalmes looked at the large ebony bookshelf with an impatient face, and ended the conversation by saying 「I will look into it」.
Ⅲ
Confederation of Sutherland Twelfth City, Nozan Persilla
The Twelfth City, Nozan Persilla, which borders the Farnesse Kingdom, was inhabited by brown skinned people who hailed from the east of the continent. In the Confederation of Sutherland, it was known for the aesthetic balance between natural scenery and manmade structure. At the northern edge of the city, the symbol of Nozan Persilla, the Esu Rudo palace stood gracefully.
Esu Rudo was owned by the Mayor Cassandra, with a standalone residential tower and a six sided building for administration usage. There was also a long building built on top of a river that flowed through the palace. Esu rudo was made up of these three buildings. The dark green palace decorated with streaks of white was recognized as the most beautiful building in the 13 cities.
Palace Esu Rudo Front Court
The interior of the palace matched its luxurious exterior, although the wooden Front Court seemed out of place. On the walls to either side were 8 sets of large statues of demons with angry faces. With giant axes in their arms, they stood stoically in a row, as if to intimidate any visitors.
In the central platform was a large incense urn, and its faint purple smoke emit a sweet fragrance. Bonfires were lit at equal distance, illuminating the room in place of windows.
「Queen Cassandra awaits, this way please…」
A huge man with the fur of a one horn beast draped over his left shoulder— he had Nozan-Persilla’s top rank and grade in the military, Drake Zum Gorgon. He followed behind the female courtier.
Nozan-Persilla’s military rank convention was very different from other nations. Starting from the base foot soldier, a 《Common Officer》, it was followed by 《Sand Officer》 《Tough Officer》 《Tough Silver Officer》 《Tough Gold Officer》 《Iron Officer》 《Silver Officer》 《Gold Officer》 《Heavy Silver Officer》 and 《Heavy Gold Officer》.
Starting from Silver Officers, each rank was further divided into five grades. Even for those in the same rank, being in the first grade was very different from being in the fifth grade. Drake’s rank and grade were both the highest, which meant he stood at the top of Nozan Persilla’s military.
(I hope she will listen to my advice…)
As he got nearer to the Throne Room, Mayor Cassandra’s figure became clearer.
Her luxurious long hair reached her waist and her brown skin was covered by thin clothes dyed in vibrant colours such as red and purple— She was an embodiment of sexiness, and she wore the same smile as always.
Drake kneeled before the throne and bowed low. Cassandra looked down at the kneeling Drake and asked him directly.
「What do you need?」
「Your Majesty, it’s regarding the invasion of the Farnesse Kingdom.」
「I see, the dates of the invasion has been set.」
「With regards to that… I humbly suggest we stop the invasion.」
「— Why?」
Before the icy voice that could freeze one’s body, Drake raised his head. Cassandra was still smiling, but Drake had served her long enough that she was steaming inside.
It would be a problem if he angered her further, so Drake tread lightly.
「We have determined that the Imperial Army is now at a disadvantage against the Royal Army.」
「The Imperial Army is at a disadvantage?— This joke isn’t funny.」
Cassandra took off her mask for the first time and showed a cold face.
「This is not a joke. During our intel gathering to prepare for the war against the Farnesse Kingdom, we determined this fact. Please take a look, I believe you will understand.」
Drake took out a scroll with the details on it, and handed it to a female courtier waiting at the side. The courtier slowly approached the throne with her back hunched, and respectfully handed the scroll to Cassandra.
Cassandra gracefully untied the string and opened the scroll.
「……」
As he listened to the crackling sound of wood in the fire, Drake waited on the Queen’s next words.
A while later, Cassandra handed the scroll back to the courtier, ordering her to toss the scroll into the fire.
「W-What are you doing?!」
When Drake stood up and tried to stop her, the courtier already tossed the scroll into the fire. Drake watched stiffly as the scroll burned dryly.
「Heavy Gold Officer Drake, are you here to waste my time with this useless report? The ruler of Nozan Persilla isn’t that free.」
Cassandra showed an attitude of complete distaste, but Drake couldn’t refute her immediately. The burned scroll detailed the defeat of the Crimson and Sun Knights.
In the end, the plan to invade Farnesse Kingdom was just something Cassandra thought of on a whim. In the beginning, Drake was arrogant and thought he could take down the Farnesse Kingdom. He noted that he should reflect on his actions properly, including his tardiness in collecting intel.
Drake had the view that the best option was to watch from the side if the Farnesse Kingdom was ready to counter attack. There was no reason to risk the trip into the lion’s den.
「As Your Majesty just read, the Crimson and Sun Knights had been defeated. It isn’t clear how the Royal Army that was beaten and bruised has turned to the offensive, but they are like rats driven into a corner by a cat. We shouldn’t strike at such a moment.」
「The Royal Army are rats? Heavy Gold Officer Drake, you have a way with words.」
Cassandra opened the fan in her hand with a smile. Her unhappy tone gave Drake the urge to be more direct in his advice. But before he could speak Cassandra looked at him with disinterested eyes.
「What a boorish man… well, that’s one way of putting it.」
「Do you have a different view, my Queen?」
Cassandra closed the fan in her hand with a snap.
「Well, they picked impressive names like Crimson and Sun, but that’s just for show. From the looks of things, even the so called elite Azure knights is no big deal either.」
「That’s taking things too lightly. It’s because they are the Empire, that’s why they manage to push the 『Lion Nation』 Farnesse Kingdom to the brink. Please consider it carefully.」
As Drake bowed his head low, Cassandra sighed deeply.
「I understand.」
「So you finally understand?!」
The relieved Drake, raised his head and found Cassandra smiling dryly again, and his heart sunk.
「Yes, I understand very well now. Heavy Gold Officer Drake is a ball-less coward who is of no use. Just how did you climb up to the rank of Heavy Gold Officer? A warrior who is afraid of war, really?」
I’m not afraid of war— before Drake could speak, Cassandra instructed a female courtier 「Call Arthur over」, the female courtier left the Throne Room with a bow.
(Arthur……?!)
The image of Arthur’s cocky face flashed across Drake’s mind.
One of the pillars in Nozan Persilla’s military, Heavy Silver Officer Arthur, 27 years old. He was a young and brave warrior, and an ambitious man.
Normally, it wouldn’t be strange for him to become a Heavy Gold Officer, but Drake sensed something dangerous about him, and he stopped him from advancing beyond a Heavy Silver Officer—
「Your Majesty, I brought Sir Arthur here.」
Arthur who entered the throne room with a female courtier approached the throne and kneeled in an elegant manner. His flashy demeanour raised a few eyebrows, but from the way Cassandra was smiling and nodding, it seemed very effective.
「Your Majesty, Arthur Mau Finn is here to respond urgently to your summons.」
「Thank you for your hard work. You must know the reason why I called you here, correct?」
「Yes! Please leave it to me, Arthur. I will splendidly seize the Farnesse Kingdom’s territory and present them to Your Majesty.」
Arthur answered without any hesitation. Drake didn’t miss the moment Arthur tilted his head with a mocking smile.
「How reliable, you are a warrior. I hope someone can learn from you.」
Cassandra looked at Drake as she said that.
「… Your Majesty, will you not stop no matter what?」
「You are saying those nonsense again… Even if the Royal Army has the upper hand, they should have suffered major losses. If the Empire has really been beaten off, that would just be more good news.」
「But——」
「Enough. Heavy Gold Officer Drake, I hereby order you to be confined to your house for the time being— Well then, Heavy Silver Officer Arthur, notify me once the preparations are done.」
「As you wish, Your Majesty.」
Cassandra stood up from her throne and walked past the two kneeling men, and left the Front Court together with the female courtier. The cheerful voice behind them seemed certain of Nozan Persilla’s victory.
「……」
「……」
After Cassandra’s presence grew distant, Drake stopped Arthur who was about to leave.
「What is it?」
「You should have seen that report, why didn’t you stop Her Majesty?」
「Because Her Majesty craves for war, and I’m simply indulging her demands.」
「Even if that shallow thinking brought huge losses to Nozan Persilla?」
It would be great if they won, but the problem was losing. There was the possibility of the Farnesse Kingdom riding on their momentum of victory and counter attacking.
「Heavy Gold Officer Drake, you have been suspended from duty, please don’t interfere with our military affairs. Right now, I’m the commander-in-chief of the campaign against the Farnesse Kingdom.」
「… Ku. In that case, I have nothing else to say. Show me what you can do then.」
「Of course, and you finally got a vacation from Her Majesty, so use this chance to spend it leisurely. I will achieve a splendid victory in the place of Heavy Gold Officer Drake who had contracted a cowardice disease.」
「… Are you mocking me?」
Drake put his hands on the 『Crescent Sabre』 by his waist. He was within striking distance, but Arthur was completely unfazed. He even spread his arms out cheerfully.
「Mock? I wouldn’t dare mock the great Heavy Gold Officer Drake! I’m just plainly stating the facts—— By the way, aren’t you going to draw that thing on your waist?」
「……」
「Yes, that will be wise.」
Drake clenched his quivering fist as he watched the laughing Arthur leave. The wood kindled in the fire, and splinters danced with the flames.
Drake looked at the statues of the giant demons standing side by side.
(Are you also laughing at my supposed cowardice?)
The light from the swaying flames made the statues look like they were smiling.
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