Chapter 0462 The Decision
-x-X-x-
Three days after the four-person meeting, Ryo and Abel stepped out of the Wannya branch of the Blue Jade Trading Company in the commercial port.
"Thank you for all your help."
"No, it's thanks to you, Abel-san, that no one was hurt. Feel free to use our services anytime."
Abel said, thanking him for their hospitality, and Bansox replied.
"I'm counting on you to handle the repatriation of everyone."
"Leave it to us. We'll ensure everyone is safely delivered back to Suje Kingdom."
Ryo asked, and Banton, the branch manager, replied with a nod.
The Rain Shooter was an elegant and reasonably large ship, but it couldn't accommodate all 100 people who had come with Princess Iliaja.
All of them had declared that if the princess was returning, they would too, which caused a lot of complications…
After all, these were people who had refused to be separated from the princess even during the transport from Manyamya.
Over the past three days, Princess Iliaja and Kabui Somal had repeatedly tried to persuade them…
Eventually, ten of them, mostly royal guards, agreed to board the Rain Shooter with the princess, while the remaining ninety agreed to return to the kingdom on a separate vessel.
Arranged by the Wannya branch of the Blue Jade Trading Company.
For Ryo and Abel, this was the most trustworthy company.
They believed that everything would be fine… as long as the Blue Jade Trading Company was handling it.
When the two reached the Rain Shooter, Kabui Somal was already there.
"Thank you for coming."
He said, shaking hands with Abel and Ryo.
"Your departure was quite well executed."
"Admiral Gus was eager to get rid of the princess and me from the Principality. We just took advantage of that."
Abel remarked, praising Somal's efficiency, and Kabui Somal replied with a laugh.
After the four-person meeting, Kabui Somal maneuvered several first secretaries in various ministries of the vassal kingdom into pushing for the expulsion of Princess Iliaja and himself during a council meeting.
"I just made a few requests, and it went through easily."
At that moment, the princess's carriage arrived.
Greeted by Kabui Somal and the sailors.
Watching Somal laugh, Ryo couldn't help but worry.
About the Kingdom of Knightley…
This led him to voice his concerns to Abel.
"Abel, isn't it possible that other countries are interfering with the policy-making process in Knightley? Are we safe in that regard?"
"There's always that possibility."
"Wha…"
"But Marquess Heinlein is in charge of counterintelligence. It should be harder for them to infiltrate us compared to other countries."
"Still, it's not perfect, is it?"
"Of course not. Perfection is impossible when humans are involved. Striving for it often means sacrificing a lot. Sometimes, you must aim for perfection, even if it requires sacrifices… but if you tighten the reins too much on governance, all the strain falls on the people… The goal of governance is to make the people happy. If it ends up making them miserable, then it's a failure, isn't it?"
Abel, as a king, was a realist.
Governance was truly difficult.
But one must never forget the most important question:
'Is this truly making the people happy?'
That was the one perspective that should never be lost.
Princess Iliaja approached the two of them.
"Abel-san, Ryo-san, I look forward to your support."
"I promise to do my best."
"And you've promised us excellent treatment too, so leave it to us!"
Abel assured her, and Ryo added with a pleased smile.
As they were boarding the ship, Abel turned to Kabui Somal with a question.
"Is there any chance that the Principality's navy will attack us on the way?"
"Ah, you're referring to Admiral Gus, aren't you?"
Kabui Somal understood the intention behind Abel's question and smiled wryly.
Admiral Gus, who was one of the key figures behind the exile of Princess Iliaja and Kabui Somal, was also a staunch advocate of war against the kingdom.
He had fought numerous battles against the kingdom's navy, led by Kabui Somal.
"If it's Gus we're talking about, that won't happen."
"Oh?"
"Gus is stubborn, hates the kingdom, and probably wants to destroy it… but he's the kind of man who wants to defeat his enemies fair and square. He despises deceit and won't engage in underhanded tactics. He's a true man of the sea."
"…With that kind of straight-laced attitude, it's no wonder he can't win battles."
"Exactly. That's why I've never lost to him."
Abel was astounded, and Kabui Somal said with a shrug.
"Well, he may be an enemy, but he's also an admirable person. He would never betray his lord."
Kabui Somal added, though his expression turned a bit self-deprecating.
After all, even if it was by royal command, he had led a rebellion.
"It was a royal command. No one can blame you."
"That does make me feel a little better."
Abel said, offering some comfort, and Kabui Somal replied with a small shake of his head.
Abel boarded the Rain Shooter with Kabui Somal.
Ahead of them… Ryo stood frozen.
"Ryo?"
"Oh, Abel… we've finally boarded. The revolutionary ship, the Rain Shooter."
"Uh, yeah…"
"The interior is elegant. And it's quite spacious. The ship must be around fifty meters long? It's incredible."
"I see… This is Ryo's first time boarding this ship."
"No way, have you been on this before? That's not fair!"
"I don't see how it's unfair."
Ryo protested, and Abel replied, bemused.
Ryo wandered around the cabin, exploring every corner with wide-eyed curiosity.
"We'll depart in five minutes. While we're still in the harbor, please take a seat somewhere suitable. Once we're out of the harbor, feel free to relax anywhere you like, be it the bow or the stern."
Kabui Somal approached Abel and explained.
Just then, Ryo, who had been wandering around excitedly, came up to them.
"I think this ship uses a hybrid propulsion system, with wind-attribute magic above the waterline and water-attribute magic below it. Do you know the specifics of how it works, Abel?"
"No, I only know that it involves alchemy."
"Hmm… I'll have to look into that later. Oh, Kabui Somal-san, could you show me how it works?"
Ryo asked, noticing Kabui Somal nearby.
"I don't mind showing you, but… I've been curious. How do you both know so much about this ship?"
"Huh?"
"Remember when you shouted in the square? That you wanted to talk about the Rain Shooter? This ship is currently known as the Bralcau. It was renamed by the navy after being seized. No one knew its real name. Until six months later, during maintenance, when we found the name 'Rain Shooter' inscribed somewhere."
"Was it on the ship's wheel?"
Abel asked, and Kabui Somal's eyes widened.
He seemed genuinely surprised.
"Yes. It seems you're quite knowledgeable about this ship."
"Indeed. It was built in our Knightley Kingdom. But it went missing during an oceanic survey."
"I see… The Suje Kingdom Navy seized it from pirates. They found it when they raided the pirates' base."
"Pirates, huh…"
Ryo's gaze grew somber as he looked at the Rain Shooter.
Gently running his hand along the wall.
"Our navy, and even the pirates, seemed to have cherished this ship. It was well-maintained when we seized it…"
"Oh! Even the pirates could recognize its value. That's good to hear, Rain Shooter…"
Ryo said happily, patting the ship's wall.
He was relieved to know that the Rain Shooter had been well cared for, even after leaving the Knightley Kingdom.
"Abel, it seems the Rain Shooter was treated with care."
"Y-yeah, it appears so."
"I don't think we should try to take the Rain Shooter back to Knightley Kingdom by force. I believe it's best if she remains here, ruling as the queen of ships in this archipelago…"
"Well, I had no plans to steal it, and I never mentioned anything of the sort. Be careful, the Lord Protector is already watching us suspiciously. But yes, calling it the queen of ships is quite fitting. For its elegant appearance."
Abel said, attempting to rein in Ryo's wild ideas.
Kabui Somal, who had been listening to their conversation, raised an eyebrow slightly.
"We have no intention of asking you to return the Rain Shooter."
Abel said firmly to Kabui Somal.
"I appreciate that. Although you two are the princess's benefactors and important guests who will continue to assist us, this ship belongs to the kingdom's navy. It's not something I can simply give away at my discretion."
He knew that national assets couldn't be handed over lightly.
"As long as the Rain Shooter is happy, that's all that matters!"
Ryo declared with conviction.
"Our navy treats it with great care."
Kabui Somal assured him.
With the firm resolve of a seasoned sailor.
Who valued the ships that carried him and his crew.
Hearing this, Ryo smiled and began patting the Rain Shooter's walls again.
A habit he seemed to have when expressing satisfaction or joy.
"Well, as long as everyone's happy, that's what matters…"
Abel said, trying to convince himself.
The Rain Shooter quietly left the harbor.
Moving with an almost eerie silence…
"This ship doesn't have a deep draft. So it can sail in shallow waters and dock in smaller ports. It's also very quiet."
"Usually, such ships are unstable, but the trimaran design compensates for that, as I was once told."
"Exactly. You really do know your stuff, Sir Abel."
"Well, it was a rare ship. So I asked a lot of questions back then."
Kabui Somal said, impressed, and Abel replied with a slight smile.
Meanwhile, Ryo was glued to the window, eagerly watching the scenery pass by.
Occasionally, he would wander around the cabin, patting walls and surfaces.
His joy and delight were quite evident.
"Ryo-san seems to really like this ship."
"Yes, Your Highness! It's an excellent ship. I recommend making it your royal yacht in the future."
"I can't make that decision alone… but I'll keep it in mind."
Ryo suggested enthusiastically, and Princess Iliaja noted.
Their conversation was easily overheard by Abel and Kabui Somal.
"He's making quite the proposal."
"Indeed… But it's not something I can decide on either… The ship is one of our navy's flagships… Still, I'll keep it in mind."
Abel commented, and Kabui Somal replied, clearly uncertain how to respond to such a bold suggestion.
Innocent proposals like Ryo's can sometimes leave adults in a difficult position.
Once the ship had completely left the harbor, the Rain Shooter picked up speed.
"Wow!"
Ryo exclaimed with delight.
His voice echoed with pure joy, causing the captain and helmsman to smile.
"The top speed is much faster, but this should be sufficient, right?"
"Yes, it's incredible! Truly befitting of the queen of ships."
Ryo replied happily to Kabui Somal's words.
It seemed that, in Ryo's mind, the Rain Shooter was already firmly established as the queen of ships.
"Your Highness, let me inform you once again of the upcoming schedule."
"Yes."
Kabui Somal began explaining the upcoming schedule to Princess Iliaja.
Ryo and Abel were also listening in quietly from the side.
Well, quietly is only from Ryo's perspective.
Of course, Abel, the princess, and even the Lord Protector knew they were listening.
"In three hours, we will cross the border. On the Suje Kingdom's side of the border, four hundred ships of the Royal Navy are anchored, and we will join them."
"Four hundred is quite a lot. If I recall correctly, isn't that nearly the entire central navy?"
"You're correct. We have mobilized them to apply pressure on the Principality Additionally, they are here to escort the princess and to make a grand entrance at the capital port."
Princess Iliaja tilted her head in question, and Kabui Somal nodded in response.
With a slight smile.
The king's arrival at the capital is one of the major events.
While it serves as a display of power, more importantly, it is a necessary demonstration to the people that their protector has returned.
In an archipelago, this takes the form of a 'port entry'.
The royal ship carrying the king enters the capital port, and the king disembarks from there.
A kind of ceremony.
In terms of marking a transition, ceremonies and rituals are necessary.
They may seem unnecessary at first glance, but holding a ceremony serves as a notification to the outside and a means of mental preparation for those within… it is pretty much a compulsory process.
"After entering the castle, the coronation ceremony is scheduled for one week later."
"That's soon. The coronation involves the nobility from all over the kingdom gathering in the capital, doesn't it? Will they be able to make it in time?"
"The nobles from the outer regions will likely be cutting it close… but it should be fine. Arrangements have been made so that the schedule and invitations for the coronation will be sent to each noble as soon as we enter the castle."
Ryo was quietly impressed by Kabui Somal's explanation.
(This man is capable.)
He thought about glancing at Abel beside him but restrained himself.
He figured he would get scolded for something if he did.
A wise man stays away from danger.
"I understand. I'll leave the scheduling and arrangements to you. Is there anything I should be particularly mindful of?"
"Please be wary of poison."
Kabui Somal immediately answered Princess Iliaja's question.
With those words, the princess's expression changed.
Naturally, this precaution against poison is due to the high likelihood of intervention from the Atinjo Grand Duchy.
"Many, including myself, have narrowly escaped death from their poisons. Some, unfortunately, have lost their lives. The Central Alchemy Research Institute and others are working on developing antidotes, but… it's challenging. Well, that's to be expected. If it were easy, it would have been developed long ago."
Kabui Somal shrugged as he spoke.
"It is a symptomatic treatment, but in the royal castle, various antidotes from across the archipelago region and the continent have been prepared. Additionally, we have healers who can diagnose the type of poison. Therefore, as long as you are within the royal castle, unless it is a very fast-acting lethal poison, you should be safe. You will learn about the characteristics of these poisons in the castle."
Kabui Somal paused for a moment.
Before continuing.
"The more likely threat is a direct attack."
"Even within the royal castle?"
"Yes. The Atinjo Grand Duchy has long specialized in using assassins to kill rulers, causing chaos, and exploiting it. The civil war in the Federation was likely their doing. They have also targeted our kingdom… initially, it seemed to be a plot to prevent the archipelago region from intervening in the Federation's civil war, but that may not be the only reason."
"…In other words, they want to extend their influence over the Suje Kingdom itself?"
"Or perhaps, more directly, they want to seize the throne."
"No way…"
Princess Iliaja was shocked by Kabui Somal's words.
Ryo and Abel, however, were struggling to grasp the situation.
"Pardon me for interrupting. Is there someone with a higher claim to the throne than Princess Iliaja?"
"It's a complicated matter."
Kabui Somal shook his head slightly as he answered Abel's question.
"The one they are trying to put forward is Prince Jolt, the eldest son of the Crown Prince. He is only five years old. Naturally, his mother, the First Crown Princess would become the regent, but she is the niece of the Atinjo Grand Duke."
"Oh…"
Ryo nodded at Kabui Somal's explanation.
It was a plausible scenario.
"Indeed, aside from Princess Iliaja and Prince Jolt, there are no more direct royal descendants. If the king had passed away and the throne had been transferred to the Crown Prince, then Prince Jolt would certainly have been first in line for the throne. However, the Crown Prince and the king passed away almost simultaneously. In such a case, according to the kingdom's law, Prince Jolt's claim to the throne is much lower than Princess Iliaja's…"
"That's a matter that varies from country to country."
Abel shook his head slightly.
"Currently, Princess Iliaja is first in line for the throne. But…"
"Yes, there are those who won't easily accept that."
"Indeed. They claim that the king passed away first…"
"That's troublesome…"
Abel frowned, Kabui Somal added clarification, and Ryo sighed.
Princess Iliaja, the person at the center of this, listened with a wry smile.
She must have anticipated this issue.
With the smile fading, she spoke clearly and decisively.
"However, I have decided to become queen."
Hearing this, Kabui Somal instinctively bowed his head.
Ryo nodded vigorously
Abel, too, nodded repeatedly, thinking,
(As expected, someone raised as a princess is different.)
A ruler needs to be flexible, but once they have thoroughly considered and made a decision, there are many situations where they must not waver.
If the ruler wavers, it confuses those around them.
Abel, who knew this from experience, found Princess Iliaja's actions admirable.
Naturally, he wanted to support her.
-x-X-x-
In about an hour, they would reach the border between the Komakyuta Principality and the Suje Kingdom.
That's when the problem arose.
"A ship is moving to block our path!"
Upon receiving this report, Kabui Somal, Princess Iliaja, Ryo, and Abel went to the bow of the ship to look at the horizon ahead.
The distance was still considerable.
"Can you identify the ship with a telescope?"
"They're not flying any national flags. But judging by the ship's shape, it seems to be a Go-War ship from the continent. I can see five of them."
"A Go-War ship?"
Ryo tilted his head slightly, confused.
He had never heard of such a type of ship before.
"It's a ship from the continent, capable of navigating even the open sea. Honestly, it's not that fast, but it has long-range attacks."
"Huh?"
Ryo was bewildered by Kabui Somal's unexpected explanation.
Long-range attacks?
"They line up magicians on the ship who then conduct magic bombardments."
"Oh, I see!"
Apparently, Ryo had imagined an Earth-like naval battle with cannons, but that wasn't the case.
"If each ship has twenty magicians, that's a hundred magicians across five ships… Can we break through with this ship's speed…?"
Hearing Kabui Somal's muttering, Ryo turned to him, his movements almost creaking like a machine.
"Won't that… damage the Rain Shooter…?"
"Yeah, it won't be unscathed. Some damage is inevitable…"
"No! I won't allow it!"
"Uh…?"
Kabui Somal was taken aback by Ryo's sudden shift from his previously relaxed demeanor.
"I'll protect the Rain Shooter! The best view of the ship… is from the second deck, right?"
"Y-yes. From the upper deck, you can see both the ship and the surroundings more clearly."
The Rain Shooter had an area that could be called a second deck.
While it was a bit exposed, it offered a great view.
"Just to confirm, is it okay if we sink those ships?"
"No problem. Since they're not flying any national flags, they're considered pirates. Sinking them wouldn't hold us legally responsible in this archipelago."
"Understood."
As Ryo said this, he exited the cabin, patting the wall of the Rain Shooter.
"Don't worry, I'll protect you."
He said it softly but firmly.
Kabui Somal turned to Abel, who was standing beside him, and asked.
"Sir Abel, what do you think?"
"If Ryo says he'll do it, he'll do it. You can trust him."
"Even against a hundred magic bombardments?"
"I don't know what the magic bombardments of the Eastern Countries are like, but…"
He paused for a moment, then continued.
"Whether it's a hundred, a thousand, or ten thousand, if Ryo says he'll do it, he will. That's just who he is."
"
Ryo generated a multilayered ice wall around the Rain Shooter, a wall so tough that even unexpected physical or magic impacts wouldn't break through.
The Rain Shooter advanced, cloaked in the hardest of ice.
The five enemy ships had already stopped moving ahead and were lined up in a row.
They were probably preparing to launch a simultaneous attack on the Rain Shooter.
"An
The
It placed mines made of water vapor in the air that would freeze and neutralize any incoming magic.
Even powerful spells would vanish in a burst of mutual annihilation particles upon contact.
However, this spell didn't move.
Since it only used the water vapor in the air, it stayed in place.
But that wouldn't work this time.
The Rain Shooter was moving.
So, Ryo decided to make the vapor mines move along with the ship.
Normally, he would specify the coordinates for the water vapor in the air, but this time he set the mines to activate at a certain distance from the Rain Shooter.
This way, the mines would move with the ship, protecting it.
"Doing it with magic is easy."
Ryo murmured.
He meant that this was much easier than achieving the same effect through alchemy.
With magic, you only had to imagine it.
But that wasn't the case with alchemy.
Alchemy required 'formulas and magic circles to manifest magical phenomena'.
Whether those formulas were inscribed on a magic stone or an object like Ryo's Murasame scabbard… it was still alchemy as far as Ryo was concerned.
Compared to magic, alchemy was more challenging because it required creating many formulas and quantifying them accurately.
Ryo had experienced this painfully when he created the second ship of the Rondo-class, the Neil Anderson, through alchemy.
Compared to that, magic was truly convenient and easy…
"I'll protect the Rain Shooter! Come on, bring it on!"
Ryo shouted.
Though the enemy likely didn't hear his shout, five Go-War ships ahead simultaneously unleashed their magic on the Rain Shooter.
Hundreds of magic bombardments.
All fire-attributed.
Among the four elemental attributes, excluding light and darkness, fire is said to have the highest offensive power.
This understanding likely held true in both the central and eastern countries.
It was because they intended to sink the ship with magic bombardments that they had gathered magicians capable of using fire-attribute offensive magic.
However…
Hundreds of beams of annihilation light flashed, causing all the magic to vanish.
Even from the Rain Shooter, it was clear that the crew aboard the Go-War ships were in a state of panic.
"There won't be a second time!
As Ryo chanted, sixteen magic circles appeared behind him.
"
In an instant, Ryo and the magic circles launched ice spears in a fan-shaped formation.
A barrage of ice spears.
The number of spears exceeded ten thousand.
Each one was unusually thick this time.
About the size of an adult man's torso.
It was hard to call them 'icicles' given their massive size.
The thick ice spears rained down like a torrential sideways storm.
They tore through the sails, snapped the masts, punctured the sides of the ships… and even created gaping holes below the waterline.
The ice spears, precisely calculated, avoided hitting any people but completely destroyed the ships' functionality.
As a result, all five ships began to sink.
The Rain Shooter, the queen of the seas, sailed gracefully past them.
Some magicians, clinging to the sinking ships, attempted to cast spells, but… all of them were easily deflected by the invisible ice walls.
Ryo deliberately refrained from attacking the people.
He could have sniped them, just like in some naval battles on Earth, but…
"The true glory of naval warfare lies in bombardments."
He muttered.
It seemed Ryo had a particular fascination with naval battles…
As the five Go-War ships sank one by one, the Rain Shooter sailed away from the battlefield unscathed.
Ryo returned to the cabin.
"Ryo, good job."
"Just as I promised, I protected the Rain Shooter!"
"Indeed, well done."
"Oh, it was nothing."
Ryo said, blushing at Abel's straightforward praise.
Next to Abel, Princess Iliaja bowed her head and said,
"Thank you, Ryo-san."
"No, no, I only did what was necessary."
Having witnessed Ryo's magic in the recent naval battle, Princess Iliaja accepted this outcome as only natural.
Though she had been a bit surprised when the overwhelming number of ice spears assaulted the enemy ships, she had expected nothing less.
However, it was Kabui Somal and the crew who were most astonished.
Of course, Kabui Somal had received reports from Admiral Rockday through his deputy Narun.
He had heard that the water-attribute magician, Ryo, before him was not to be underestimated.
He knew about the 200-meter ice bridge that Ryo had created…
But even so, the reality far exceeded his expectations.
Yet Kabui Somal was the quickest to grasp the situation.
He bowed deeply.
"Sir Ryo, thank you for protecting the ship. We are deeply grateful."
"Oh, no, please don't worry about it. I just didn't want the Rain Shooter to get damaged."
Ryo replied, slightly flustered by the overly deep bow.
"I want the Rain Shooter to continue reigning as the queen of the seas in this archipelago. It needs a legend befitting a queen."
Thanks to Ryo's unique, somewhat mysterious logic, the Rain Shooter had just become the stuff of legends.
-x-X-x-
That day, the port of Purri, the capital of the Suje Kingdom, was abuzz with excitement.
The reason? Princess Iliaja, the Sixth Princess, was returning to the capital… after three months away.
Rumors had been swirling that she would soon ascend to the throne as queen.
For those who paid close attention, it might have seemed suspicious that both rumors had spread so rapidly on that very morning.
As if someone had deliberately disseminated them.
It was as if someone was trying to steer public opinion in a specific direction.
As if someone had carefully orchestrated everything…
Otherwise…
"The Princess is supposed to arrive at noon."
"The entire navy is said to be loyal to the Princess."
"They say that Kabui Somal, who has become the Lord Protector, led a rebellion to place the Princess on the throne."
Rumors like these, so detailed, could hardly have spread among the populace on their own…
If Ryo had heard these rumors, he would have muttered,
"This is what they call information manipulation…"
As noon approached.
A fleet of ships appeared on the horizon.
With each passing moment, their numbers grew.
"Are those…?"
"The Royal Navy?"
"If they're enemies, we're in big trouble."
The citizens gathered at the port began to voice their thoughts as they watched the increasing number of ships, despite the lack of any official explanation.
Yet, no one left the scene.
They stayed out of anticipation.
If the fleet was indeed led by the Princess, as the rumors suggested, and if the navy was indeed loyal to her, and if the undefeated admiral and Lord Protector was supporting her…
The people's hopes were high.
When the fleet finally came into full view.
It became clear that it was a massive armada, filling the horizon.
The masts bore the Kingdom's flag and the Royal Navy's ensign.
"Wow…"
No one there had ever seen such a vast fleet.
And no wonder.
There were four hundred warships.
Such a sight was something most people would never witness in their lifetime.
Leading the fleet was a graceful ship.
A vessel so elegant that once seen, it could never be forgotten, a trimaran.
"It's the Bralcau…"
"One of the Navy's flagship-class vessels…"
"I heard Lord Kabui Somal often sails on it…"
The four hundred warships came to a stop just outside the port.
But one elegant trimaran sailed smoothly into the harbor.
The center of the harbor had been guarded by soldiers since morning, and the pier had been cleared.
As if it were the most natural thing in the world, the ship glided into place.
From the ship disembarked… a beautiful woman.
A woman everyone knew.
A woman everyone loved.
A woman everyone… wished to see crowned as queen.
"The Princess…"
"Princess Iliaja…"
"The Princess has returned!"
And with that, the people's emotions exploded.
"Long live the Princess!"
"Long live Princess Iliaja!"
Cheers erupted throughout the harbor.
Spreading from the port into the heart of the capital.
Princess Iliaja disembarked from the ship, smiling warmly as she waved to the crowd.
"Wah!"
Once again, the people's emotions surged.
To the citizens of the Suje Kingdom, a worthy ruler had returned to lead them.
"This is amazing. It's the perfect showcase for the Queen of Ships, the Rain Shooter!"
"Uh, yeah… but isn't Princess Iliaja the main star here…?"
"Ah, but the escort role is crucial too! In a way, it's incredibly important."
"I suppose that's true…"
On the deck of the Rain Shooter, Ryo and Abel watched the scene unfold with delight.
"The people's joy is overwhelming."
"She's quite popular. Remember what you said, Ryo? A ruler should have the support of the people."
"I did say that. It's the first principle, the Moral law."
"What's that?"
"First: the Moral law, Second: Heaven, Third: Earth, Fourth: the Commander, Fifth: Method and discipline. The Moral law is that which makes the people and the ruler share the same purpose. If you govern according to the Moral law, the people will willingly follow you to life or death."
"Now I'm even more confused…"
"It's a passage from 'The Art of War'. The Moral law refers to the kind of politics that can align the people's hearts with the ruler's. When that's done right, the people will follow the ruler even to the point of life and death… they'll fight alongside them with enthusiasm."
"I see. Well, it's only natural, but…"
"The fact that you find it natural, Abel, shows that you govern justly. And Princess Iliaja must have acted in a way that genuinely connected with the people during her time as a princess. That's why she's gained such support even before ascending the throne. I just hope she continues to rule with the 'Moral law' once she becomes queen."
Ryo nodded repeatedly as he gave this serious explanation.
"Ryo, sometimes you say surprisingly sensible things."
"How rude! It's not sometimes, it's all the time!"
"Yeah, I can't agree with that."
"Ugh…"
As they exchanged banter, Princess Iliaja and her entourage made their way to the royal castle.
Of course, Lord Protector Kabui Somal followed on horseback behind the princess's carriage.
As foreigners, Ryo and Abel were scheduled to enter the city last, along with the guards.
They were told that rooms had been prepared for them in the royal castle.
"That's very kind of them. I wish the Knightley Kingdom would prepare a dedicated room for me in their castle too."
"What, you wanted a private room?"
"Of course! As the Premier Duke, I would issue unreasonable orders using my authority…"
"I'll have it arranged immediately. But from that day on, you'll be buried in paperwork."
"I take it back! Wielding power and flaunting the Premier Duke's authority is wrong! I want to be a duke who's close to the people…"
Ryo quickly reversed his previous statements at Abel's words.
"A Premier Duke who is close to the people? All I can imagine is you lounging around in the 'Café de Chocolat'."
Abel muttered to himself, knowing Ryo wouldn't hear it.
Princess Iliaja's quarters were located in a secluded part of the royal castle.
Known as the 'White Annex'. This annex was exclusively for the Sixth Princess, Iliaja.
And even after her return to the capital, she would continue to live there until her coronation as queen.
The White Annex was quieter than the castle itself, with fewer people coming and going.
Making it easier to guard.
Although connected to the main castle by a corridor, the annex being a separate building had its advantages.
Additionally, three pavilions were adjacent to the 'White Annex'.
Though called pavilions, they were more like guesthouses, fully equipped for comfortable living.
One of these was assigned to the swordsman and the robed magician.
"Oh! This is great. When I heard pavilion, I wasn't sure what to expect, but this place has a spacious living room, two bedrooms, and even a study! It's part of an annex, yet it's so well-appointed… it really shows the strength of the Suje Kingdom as a nation."
"Thank you very much."
The maid who had escorted them to the 'White Annex' smiled warmly and bowed at Ryo's praise.
Abel watched the scene out of the corner of his eye.
(He wins people over with just a few compliments… Ryo is a natural charmer.)
"Abel, were you just thinking something strange?"
"Nope, not at all. Weren't you more concerned about the coffee?"
"Oh, right! The maid mentioned that Kabui Somal-san promised us some delicious coffee once we arrived at the castle. It's supposed to be from the eastern part of the kingdom…"
"Ah, that would be Kenja." (TLN: Lit. Sage)
"Huh? Kenja?"
Ryo's mind immediately thought of the word 'sage'.
"Yes. I'll bring it right away."
The maid replied and left the room.
"Abel, it's called Kenja here."
"That's what she said. Why? Is there something strange about it being called Kenja?"
"No, it's just… Come to think of it, I haven't heard the word sage being used here."
"Hmm? I'm not sure what you mean, Ryo…"
Perhaps in the Central Countries, there were no individuals referred to as sages.
Even Ilarion Baraha didn't call himself a sage…
After a short wait, the maid returned with the coffee.
As soon as she entered the room, the aroma filled the air.
"Oh… what a wonderful smell."
"It sure is."
Ryo said with delight, and Abel nodded in agreement.
Though Ryo was obviously a coffee enthusiast… he suspected that Abel was equally fond of the drink.
"Abel, you used to indulge in Kona coffee, didn't you?"
"Indulge might be putting it too strongly. It was just about the only simple way to relax back then."
"Oh right, buried under paperwork."
"Shut up…"
As they exchanged jabs, the maid set the coffee cups on the table and poured coffee from a decanter.
"This is incredible…"
"Yeah. There's something comforting about the smell of coffee."
Both of them savored the aroma before taking their first sip.
"Aah…"
"Ooh…"
Ryo and Abel could only manage to express their approval with sighs of satisfaction.
They took another sip.
"Hmm…"
"Yes…"
Once again, their only words were simple murmurs of contentment…
"Does it have a fruity note?"
"Yes, and a hint of honey? Like the kind you sometimes find at the core of a perfectly ripe apple…"
"Well, whatever it is…"
"It's delicious."
Ryo finished, and Abel nodded in agreement.
"Thank you very much."
The maid smiled again, bowing in response to their satisfied expressions and words.
In that pavilion, the rich aroma of coffee mingled with a peaceful atmosphere that spread throughout the room.
-x-X-x-
The only time they had any leeway was on the day they arrived.
From the next day onward, the two were thrown into a grueling work schedule.
That said, it wasn't as if they were given particularly difficult tasks, just that they had no time to laze around.
Their assigned job was to guard Princess Iliaja.
The royal guards naturally took on this responsibility as well, handling the more challenging tasks, so all the two had to do was stand to the right and left behind Princess Iliaja.
And follow her when she moved.
"It's just like Warren used to do."
Ryo murmured, and Abel responded with a small sigh.
Incidentally, Warren was a former adventuring companion of Abel. He was a skilled shield-bearer, nicknamed 'The Unyielding', and the son of the noble Baron Harome, a family known for producing the shields of kings throughout history.
Currently, Warren is the first Count of the newly established Carlisle County, serving as a central figure in the northern part of the Knightley Kingdom.
When Abel had just become king, Warren stood behind him during audiences and protected him.
Ryo was comparing their situation to that.
Abel was tall, but he was by no means a 'giant' like Warren.
However, he was still quite striking in appearance.
He now wore clothing that resembled that of a captain of the royal guard, prepared specifically for him and primarily white.
Princess Iliaja often wore clothes based on white, so it seemed that these were prepared to match her style.
As for Ryo, his usual robe was white, so he wore it as is.
Since it was the robe of the Fairy King, it never got dirty, and… it was apparently not a problem to wear it constantly.
The people who worked at the 'White Annex', where Princess Iliaja resided, were aware of Ryo and Abel.
Especially since both the princess herself and her head butler, Ronk, had directly informed them that the two were, in a manner of speaking, guests of the princess, they treated them with great respect.
Additionally, the royal guards showed them respect as well, as Lord Protector Kabui Somal had informed them that the two were powerful allies and trusted greatly by Princess Iliaja.
Particularly towards Abel, the guards recognized that he was no ordinary person.
And their interactions with him reflected their understanding of his high status.
They addressed him as "Sir Abel".
Incidentally, they also addressed Ryo as "Sir Ryo".
Yes, incidentally.
Ryo lamented the neglect often faced by magicians…
Currently, Princess Iliaja was receiving a lecture on poisons.
Ryo and Abel were listening along with her.
The knowledge seemed useful for their future travels across the continent…
"Most fast-acting lethal poisons have a taste that numbs the tip of the tongue or an intense odor. So if you notice it, spit it out immediately and distance yourself from it."
Explained a healer named Boiznan, an elderly man.
With short-cropped gray hair, wearing white clothing reminiscent of a lab coat, and glasses.
Yes, glasses.
While Ryo had seen monocles in the Central Countries, he hadn't seen glasses that corrected both eyes.
However, it seemed that glasses were common in the Archipelago region.
In the Archipelago region, healers handled recovery from injuries and illnesses.
Unlike the Central Countries, where religious figures like priests held a monopoly on such matters.
Perhaps because of this, religious forces were notably weak in the Archipelago…
"However, please be especially cautious with this poison called 'Shrin'."
Boiznan the healer said, holding up a small vial.
Containing a transparent liquid like water.
"This poison is completely tasteless and odorless. Once it enters the body, paralysis and numbness set in. And it is almost always fatal."
"Almost?"
Princess Iliaja murmured, her voice barely audible. Boiznan nodded once before continuing.
"In fact, the poison that Lord Protector Kabui Somal was afflicted with was this very Shrin poison."
"What…?"
Princess Iliaja, as well as Ryo and Abel, were stunned into silence.
They recalled that he had reportedly hovered on the brink of death for three months.
"Though he somehow survived, it was almost a miracle. Normally, you cannot expect such a miracle. Therefore, be sure to avoid ingesting it."
Upon hearing Boiznan's words, Ryo and Abel both nodded instinctively.
"Yes, Shrin poison is a tasteless and odorless fast-acting lethal poison, but there is another completely tasteless and odorless poison. Chirilkaril poison."
Boiznan the healer said, pulling out a bottle about twice the size of the one containing Shrin poison.
"Chirilkaril poison, however, acts slowly and gradually destroys the body. It is extracted from the roots of the Chirilkaril plant but requires advanced refinement techniques. Despite this, its ease of use as a completely tasteless and odorless poison makes it quite common across the continent. Even a single drop entering the body can cause prolonged suffering. The function of various internal organs will deteriorate. The specific effects vary from person to person… However, it is said to take more than two years for the body to fully recover after stopping the poison, so please be careful."
Upon hearing Boiznan's words, Ryo and Abel nodded slightly.
When the poison lecture ended, it seemed that Ryo had a thought.
He walked towards Boiznan.
"Excuse me, Master Boiznan, but could you possibly spare a small amount of that Shrin poison?"
"Sir Ryo, I cannot do that. Handling this poison is strictly regulated. Do you have an experiment in mind?"
"Yes. There's something I'd like to test…"
"In that case, might I suggest using Jubi-Jubi poison instead? It has a strong odor and a sharp taste on the tongue, so there's no risk of accidentally mishandling it. Despite this, it has the same effects on the body as Shrin poison."
"Ah, I see. Yes, that will do…"
Boiznan handed Ryo a small vial of Jubi-Jubi poison.
Unlike the colorless and transparent Shrin poison, Jubi-Jubi poison was red and ominously vibrant.
Exuding an almost palpable sense of danger, the very essence of poison.
"Thank you."
Ryo said with a smile as he took the vial and returned to Abel.
"…Ryo, why did you get poison?"
"I have something I want to try."
It is said that later, in the pavilion, a gruesome experiment was conducted using Abel's body, or perhaps it wasn't…
That night. In the former First Naval Lord's office. Now the Lord Protector's office.
"Your Excellency, we have completed the consolidation of the information."
"Ah, Narun, well done."
Narun, Kabui Somal's aide, appeared with a stack of reports.
After parting ways in the Komakyuta Principality, Narun had been gathering information both domestically and abroad and had just returned.
"As expected… the Grand Duchy is making bold moves."
"Yes. The five Go-War ships that attacked His Highness's party at sea were Bunna-class long-range assault ships from the Atinjo Grand Duchy."
"Since they intruded into the territorial waters of the Principality to carry out the attack… I figured it could only be them, and it seems I was right."
The Atinjo Grand Duchy was a major power on the continent.
They have been stoking the civil war in the Ghegish-Lu Federation at the southern tip of the continent and are now trying to extend their influence into the Archipelago region.
Most notably, the First Crown Princess Raina, mother of the Crown Prince's heir, Prince Jolt, Princess Iliaja's rival, is the niece of the Grand Duke of Atinjo.
It would be overly optimistic to think that the movements of Crown Princess Raina and the Grand Duchy are unrelated.
Kabui Somal, who was quickly scanning through several reports, suddenly stopped.
He then read one of them again, this time more slowly.
"Chirilkaril poison was detected in His Majesty's remains…?"
"Yes. It appears it was ingested more than a year ago, but Chirilkaril poison lingers in the body and continues to cause harm. Perhaps that's why His Majesty's recovery from the accident was poor, leading to his deteriorated health and even loss of vision…"
"But… everything His Majesty consumed was thoroughly tested for poison. These were not haphazard inspections either…"
"Yes, exactly. If we could pinpoint the exact time the poison entered his body, we might be able to trace how it was administered… but all we know is that it was over a year ago."
Kabui Somal frowned, and Narun shook his head slightly.
"The investigation clearly revealed the Crown Prince's involvement in the accident. But…"
Kabui Somal's murmuring was audible to Narun.
He was likely considering the possibility that the poison was connected as well.
After a moment of silence, Narun spoke up.
"Your Excellency, that's all there is on the Chirilkaril poison, but there's something to report regarding the Shrin poison."
"Hmm? Ah, sorry. What about the Shrin poison?"
"The only Shrin poison in the capital is what Master Boiznan the healer has in his possession."
"Yeah. Hmm? Okay?"
Kabui Somal frowned again.
It seemed there was more unwelcome news.
"Yes. About four months ago, there were traces of a small amount being brought into the capital."
"Four months ago… just before I was poisoned?"
Kabui Somal chuckled bitterly.
He had collapsed at a time when he absolutely couldn't afford to and had to abandon many of his plans.
Worse, during his incapacitation, unnecessary sacrifices were made among the troops surrounding the princess.
Even now, he still regretted his foolishness.
"It was smuggled in among other cargo on a ship from the Grand Duchy."
"…And its destination, let me guess?"
"Yes… the Crown Prince's palace."
"Unbelievable…"
Kabui Somal seemed to have anticipated this to some extent.
His reaction wasn't one of surprise but rather one of resignation. He had hoped his suspicions would be wrong.
It didn't matter whether it was the late crown prince, the crown princess, or anyone else… the Crown Prince's palace was a problematic place.
The Crown Prince was indeed one of the king's sons, but he was entirely different from the other princes and princesses.
First, the Crown Prince held his own territory.
He needed to learn governance before becoming king.
And, of course, he had his own military force.
Without knowledge of military command, he would be in trouble when he eventually became king…
The Crown Prince was essentially a small-scale king.
It wasn't unreasonable.
Each of these aspects had its own logical reasons.
However, allowing him his own military force was questionable…
Kabui Somal had been advising the king against this since his time as First Naval Lord.
"It's tradition."
While the king had heeded much of Kabui Somal's advice, he hadn't budged on this matter.
Naturally, Kabui Somal's efforts to curtail the Crown Prince's military power made him a clear enemy in the eyes of the Crown Prince's palace.
He had faced varying degrees of harassment from them ever since.
Most of the Royal Navy had pledged absolute loyalty to Kabui Somal.
A result of his overwhelming track record.
The criteria by which soldiers judge their commanders are remarkably simple.
Will they win and bring them back home?
No matter how eloquent or brave a commander might seem, they are of no use if they lose.
After all, the soldiers' lives are at stake.
In that regard, Kabui Somal was flawless.
Not only within the kingdom but also in neighboring nations, he was renowned as the 'Invincible Admiral'.
He treated every crew member and soldier equally, regardless of rank.
Because of this, although the Crown Prince's palace despised Kabui Somal, they never openly opposed him.
Especially not in front of the king.
Once someone becomes Crown Prince, not even the king can easily strip them of their title.
However, the power to do so lies solely with the king.
For this reason, both the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess behaved with extreme obedience in the king's presence.
The king seemed to understand the cunning side of the Crown Prince.
Yet, he still hoped… that through experience and growth, the Crown Prince would develop more positive traits.
This was why he allowed the Crown Prince to maintain his own military power, believing it would serve as valuable experience.
But then…
The king was involved in an accident and later fell ill.
It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that from that moment, everything began to go awry.
Kabui Somal let out a small sigh.
"There are four days left until Her Highness's coronation. Considering that nobles from various regions will start arriving in the capital by tomorrow afternoon… any bold moves will likely happen tonight or tomorrow morning."
"Yes. And as for Her Highness's protection…"
"She'll be safe at night. With Her Highness's permission, Sir Ryo has encased her entire bedchamber in a wall of ice."
"F-for the entire night?"
"Yeah. It's incredible, isn't it?"
Kabui Somal smiled wryly as his aide, Narun, expressed his surprise.
Such a feat was beyond the scope of any magic they were familiar with.
"The fact that Sir Ryo and Sir Abel have chosen to ally with us is a testament to Her Highness's hidden strength."
"I understand what you mean."
"Now then… what will happen tomorrow…?"
No one could answer Kabui Somal's murmured question.
-x-X-x-
After breakfast, Princess Iliaja and the Lord Protector, Kabui Somal, were having a meeting in the princess's room.
As usual, Ryo and Abel were also at the same table, though they couldn't quite follow the conversation.
Most of it was about the procedures for the coronation rehearsal, and since neither of them would be standing behind the princess during the actual coronation or the rehearsal, they weren't very involved.
For some reason, they would be seated in the guest section.
"Come to think of it, Abel, you were also in the guest section during the opening ceremony for the Rain Shooter at the Port Festival."
"That's right, I remember that. Brings back memories."
That was more than three years ago.
"Back then, everything seemed to shine so brightly."
"And now, it doesn't?"
"Now, I'm stuck guarding a wicked, ruthless, and cruel swordsman like Abel."
"Hey, I've got plenty of complaints of my own."
The two of them whispered such a conversation to each other in hushed tones.
However, since they were at the same table, Princess Iliaja and Kabui Somal could hear them.
But the two continued to discuss the procedures… showing their professionalism.
At that moment, the chamberlain appeared.
"Your Highness, an invitation has arrived from the Crown Princess for a visit to the palace."
Princess Iliaja and Kabui Somal exchanged glances.
Both of their gazes were sharp.
It seemed the two also sensed the change in the atmosphere.
Abel's eyes sharpened as well.
The slowest to react was Ryo.
But his muttered words showed that he wasn't completely unaware.
"In situations like this, the primary weapon is usually poison. The second would be an attack by an assassin."
Of course, this was speculation based on typical fantasy novel tropes and foreign drama clichés.
It wasn't something he'd experienced firsthand.
Normally, Abel would immediately deny such a statement, but this time he didn't.
Regardless of the source, what Ryo said was plausible…
So, Abel asked to confirm.
"Could the Crown Princess directly harm Princess Iliaja?"
Abel's words were very direct.
Even though she understood, the princess's face stiffened slightly.
"Abel, please be more tactful with your words!"
"Oh, sorry. But still…"
"No, Abel-san's question is important. What do you think, Lord Protector?"
Ryo scolded Abel, but Princess Iliaja remained tense.
"Honestly, if it's poison, it's possible."
"Seriously…?"
Abel muttered in response to Kabui Somal's answer.
"If it's a slow-acting poison, it would be perfect. Even if it becomes apparent that something consumed at the Crown Prince's palace was the cause, they could feign ignorance. With the king absent and the crown prince gone, the highest authority in the royal family, even temporarily, is Prince Jolt and the Crown Princess. If that's the case…"
"If the princess were to collapse, the only ones left in the royal family would be the Crown Princess and Jolt… They could definitely push their way through."
"However, it's difficult to decline an invitation from Crown Princess Raina. Once Princess Iliaja is crowned, things will be different, but for now, she's still the Sixth Princess. In the meantime. The Crown Princess holds a higher rank…"
Abel and Kabui Somal were discussing the current situation, trying to determine the best course of action…
"We cannot refuse the invitation."
Princess Iliaja spoke firmly.
"Your Highness…"
"It's not certain that Crown Princess Raina will make any moves. We must avoid further conflict within the royal family. This afternoon, nobles from all over will begin arriving in the capital, correct? We still need them to continue supporting the royal family as they have."
Once again, Princess Iliaja spoke resolutely.
Hearing this, no one could object further.
So, Ryo made a suggestion.
"Your Highness, perhaps you could wear an ice armor for protection, just in case of an attack?"
"Ryo-san?"
Princess Iliaja tilted her head at Ryo's suggestion.
"
As Ryo cast the spell, Princess Iliaja briefly glowed from head to toe.
However, the light quickly faded… and it seemed as though nothing had changed.
"Isn't
"Abel, times have changed. The new version is less noticeable."
Abel recalled a time when he'd been forced to wear Ice Armor in his office.
His comrades from the 'Crimson Sword' immediately noticed the glittering armor when they walked in.
Princess Iliaja touched her face and arms through her clothes.
Then, she seemed to understand.
"It's like something very thin is clinging close to my skin? It's so subtle that I wouldn't notice it if I wasn't paying attention… there's no discomfort."
"As expected of Your Highness. It's an extremely thin layer of fine ice particles. It's similar to the principle I used for the cushion on the ice chair aboard the ship. It's applied right on top of your skin. I've even applied it to your palms, so if you shake hands with someone, they might feel something odd…"
"That's alright. While sailors do have a habit of shaking hands, it's not a custom among the royal family or nobility."
Princess Iliaja replied with a smile.
"Ryo, will that thin layer… really be enough?"
"I understand your concern, Abel. But I realized something. if it's not going to break, it doesn't matter if it's a hundred millimeters thick or just one."
"O-Okay…"
Of course, Ryo was assuming it wouldn't break.
If they were to be hit by something like the
In that case, a thin layer should suffice.
"That leaves us with one last option…"
"Poison, huh…"
It seemed that Abel and Kabui Somal shared the same concern.
"I've considered that as well… for now."
"Huh?"
Ryo said, and Princess Iliaja looked surprised.
"Ah, that…"
Then Abel, as if he remembered something, grimaced.
Seeing this, Princess Iliaja seemed to recall something else.
"Could it be that Abel-san was the one to make the sacrifice again?"
"As expected of you, Princess. Yes, Abel became the sacrifice once again."
"You don't always need to make me the sacrifice."
Abel said, shaking his head as Princess Iliaja smiled and Ryo nodded.
"The word 'Abel' is synonymous with 'sacrifice'."
"No, it's not…"
"People with the name Abel are destined to make great sacrifices. It has always been that way."
"Even if that's true, I can't accept it."
"This is troubling…"
Not everyone is familiar with the Old Testament.
In fact, there's no such thing as a Bible in 'Phi'.
"Anyway, I have a plan."
Ryo said, smiling brightly.
Inside the Crown Prince's palace.
"Princess Iliaja, thank you for coming."
"Lady Raina, thank you for inviting me."
Crown Princess Reina was a beautiful woman, with an air of elegance and dignity.
Her eldest son, Jolt, was not present.
"I'm sorry, Jolt hasn't been feeling well since this morning. I was thinking of rescheduling, but once you become queen, you'll be even busier than before. I thought today might be the last chance."
"Not at all…"
Crown Princess Raina and Princess Iliaja sat across from each other at a table.
Ryo and Abel stood at attention on one side of the room.
On the opposite side stood two maids serving Crown Princess Raina.
Two cups had already been prepared on the table before Iliaja entered…
"This is 'homecoming wine'. I'd like to toast to your safe return, Princess Iliaja."
"Lady Raina, I'm sorry. But I'm not feeling well… I don't think I should drink alcohol…"
With an apologetic expression, Iliaja tried to decline Raina's offer.
But…
"Don't say that. Just one cup."
"But…"
"I also lost my husband in this turmoil. And you, Princess, lost His Majesty and your siblings, didn't you? From now on, it will just be Jolt, you, and me. We need to join forces and strengthen the kingdom together. This cup is a pledge for that. Please."
"Lady Raina…"
When the Crown Princess insists to that extent, it's hard to refuse.
After all, there was a clear difference in their positions: Crown Princess Raina and the Sixth Princess Iliaja.
The fact that Raina was the Crown Princess and Iliaja was the Sixth Princess was undeniable.
Three days from now, after the coronation, their roles would be drastically reversed, but for now…
"Then, just one cup…"
Iliaja couldn't resist any further.
In her mind, Ryo's words echoed: 'I have a plan'.
"Here you go."
Raina placed one of the cups in front of Iliaja and kept the other for herself.
Iliaja took the cup placed before her.
At that moment…
"Your Highness, excuse me."
A voice came from the other side of the room as Ryo walked over.
He no longer carried his usual carefree attitude.
With perfect courtly manners, typical of the Central Countries, he approached Iliaja from behind.
He whispered something to her.
After a moment, Iliaja nodded and said,
"Thank you."
Ryo gave another perfect bow and walked gracefully back to his original position.
Under normal circumstances, this behavior might have warranted reprimand.
After all, it was an intrusion between the Crown Princess and a royal princess.
However, his movements were so flawless and elegant that no one said a word…
"Lady Raina, sorry to keep you waiting."
"Oh, no, it's fine. Shall we toast?"
Princess Iliaja and Crown Princess Raina raised their cups and drank.
After that, they engaged in idle conversation.
Two minutes passed, then three. By the time five minutes had gone by, Raina began to feel puzzled.
(Why isn't there any effect? I'm sure I used Shrin poison. So it should work immediately… In fact, I was more concerned about how to frame her guards while she suffered…)
She had been very careful with the tasteless, odorless poison.
She made sure not to mix up the cups, silenced her servants, and more…
(Could it be that there was no poison?)
Raina glanced at the maid standing at the side of the room.
The maid, also confused by the lack of results, gave a slight shake of her head.
(Did her guard do something when he approached earlier? But he didn't swap the cups… Even a
Of course, if there had been more time, using a slow-acting poison like Chirilkaril would have been ideal, allowing the poison to take effect after Princess Iliaja had left the Crown Prince's palace.
But right now, time was of the essence.
Chirilkaril's poison is indeed slow-acting, remaining in the body for a long time and continuing to exert its effects. However, the time it takes to begin affecting the body after ingestion varies from person to person.
And it can be extremely inconsistent.
In some cases, the poison takes effect within a day, while in others, it might take five days.
But five days would be too late!
If the poison took effect after the coronation, it would be meaningless.
If Iliaja were to ascend to the throne as queen.
And then pass away, Jolt's claim to the throne would be severely weakened.
At that point, he would no longer be 'the Crown Prince's son', but 'the son of the former Crown Prince'.
His status would be equal to that of distant relatives with a slight royal bloodline.
What's more troubling is that Jolt is only five years old.
Being a minor would further lower his position in the line of succession…
That cannot be allowed!
They absolutely must not let Iliaja ascend the throne.
Raina regretted her lack of foresight countless times in her heart.
Due to the rebellion of Kabui Somal…
The King, the Crown Prince, and all the princes and princesses were killed.
The only one left was the Sixth Princess. And she was not even in the capital.
And that Kabui Somal was defeated with poison.
When looking at the next candidate for the throne, her son Jolt was the only one!
Wonderful!
It was a perfect situation!
However… the Central Navy, the strongest military force, did not side with her or Jolt.
The conflict between Kabui Somal, who leads the Central Navy, and the Crown Prince's Palace was, of course, well-known.
So, she didn't expect the entire Central Navy to side with her.
But she thought that at least a portion of it would defect…
However, not a single ship, not a single soldier, defected.
Of course, the Crown Prince's Palace has its own military forces.
She tried to mobilize them.
She tried…
But she couldn't.
The Central Navy took the initiative, and by the time Raina realized it, all of her forces had been disarmed…
The commanding officers were imprisoned under the Central Navy's control.
The Central Navy waited for their commander, their sole master, Kabui Somal, to return.
They waited for the man, who was wandering on the edge of death, poisoned.
The Central Navy took actions that they believed were most correct.
Disarming the Crown Prince's Palace forces was one of them.
Advancing their main forces into the southern Tamako province was another.
Three months later.
Kabui Somal finally returned alive.
Upon hearing this report, Raina trembled.
She was certain that he would take her and Jolt's lives.
But Kabui Somal left the capital.
At that time, Raina couldn't figure out where he had gone.
A week later, he returned, and for some reason, he brought back Princess Iliaja with him.
Moreover, as soon as he returned to the capital, a notice was sent to all the nobles across the kingdom.
"One week from now, Princess Iliaja will ascend the throne as Queen."
When Raina heard this, she was furious. She despaired. She lost her sanity.
She had to stop Princess Iliaja's ascension at all costs, even if it meant killing her.
Fortunately, her home country, the Atinjo Grand Duchy, had pledged its full support to her.
The Grand Duchy seemed to have known about Princess Iliaja's return and her ascension as Queen even before Raina did…
But Raina chose not to dwell on that.
Even though it was her homeland and her uncle was the Grand Duke, the Grand Duchy had its own plans.
Of course, Raina understood that not all of their intentions would be communicated to her.
In the end, she chose poison as her method.
However, she wasn't the only one making decisions.
Yes, the Grand Duchy had its own intentions as well.
While Crown Princess Raina was panicking over the poison's lack of effect, the event unfolded.
Three arrows flew through the open window, aiming for Princess Iliaja.
"
The arrows were deflected by the instantly erected wall of ice.
The arrows fell to the floor.
"Princess!"
Abel immediately ran towards Princess Iliaja, drew his sword, and stood protectively behind her.
"Lady Raina! What is the meaning of this?"
"I-I don't know…"
Princess Iliaja, with the authority of a queen, demanded answers. Crown Princess Raina, flustered, replied in confusion.
She truly had no idea what was happening.
Crown Princess Raina had given no such orders.
From Raina's reaction, Iliaja realized that this attack was not orchestrated by her.
However, they were still in the Crown Prince's palace.
With the Crown Prince gone, Raina was now the person in charge.
The responsibility for failing to prevent this attack, for allowing such a thing to happen in the Crown Prince's Palace… would undoubtedly fall on Raina.
But for now, escaping was the top priority.
Ryo had originally planned to force an escape by surrounding them with an
But four strips of paper flew in through the window, changing the situation.
"Huh? The
Ryo, who had quickly moved to protect Princess Iliaja alongside Abel, muttered.
It wasn't a matter of nullifying magic.
Nor did it seem that control over the magic had been taken away.
However, he couldn't keep the
He could still generate ice walls.
But after five seconds, the
"Ryo?"
"I'm not sure what's happening. Could it be magic from the Eastern Countries or perhaps alchemy…?"
Abel asked briefly, and Ryo answered.
Abel nodded, but further investigation would have to wait.
"It can hold for five seconds, so as long as we continuously generate it, we should be fine."
As they were speaking, another four strips of paper flew in through the window.
"
Ryo immediately shot ice lances at the strips of paper.
Slip.
The
"Impossible!
Slip.
The same scene played out again.
The ice lances weren't deflected, nor did the strips of paper dodge them.
Instead, the trajectory of the lances changed just before they hit the paper.
"What is this?!"
Ryo couldn't help but shout in frustration.
It was an entirely new experience.
"
Sensing something was off, Ryo erected an ice wall between the strips of paper and Princess Iliaja, as well as themselves, and Crown Princess Raina.
It would only last five seconds, but there was no choice.
He just had to keep regenerating it!
Boom. Boom, boom, boom…
After the initial heavy explosion, hundreds or thousands of stone fragments were fired from the four strips of paper floating in the air.
They weren't aimed at anyone in particular but shot out in all directions: up, down, right, and left.
"
Ryo continuously regenerated the ice walls every five seconds.
"This is getting pretty annoying!
Ryo complained as he kept regenerating the ice walls.
The stone rain continued for about a minute.
"Oh no…
Ryo finally put up a protective wall around everyone in the room.
Even the pillars had been riddled with holes by the stone barrage.
And then, the roof collapsed.