Chapter 1 - Hey, How Abour Running Away?
A young girl no older than nine wandered in the deep, dense forest alone. Her eyes swam with unease, and she stumbled many times on the uneven terrain. She shuddered at every gust of wind and bird call. Her visible fear made it apparent that she was unaccustomed to forest life.
“……”
She peered past the breaks in the trees to the sky beyond. It was almost sunset. Needless to say, spending the night in a lightless forest wasn’t the wisest decision. The girl understood this perfectly well and instinctively feared the approaching darkness. Dread hastened her pace. She needed to either find the way out or hide somewhere until morning. Yet despite her best efforts, there was no hint of refuge among the trees.
“Ah…”
Her crimson eyes spotted something beyond the distant foliage, and she raced over without a second thought. The sun’s last rays cast shadows that seemed to pursue her from behind, but she arrived before they had the chance to swallow her up.
“A house…”
Indeed, there stood a single mansion. It obviously belonged to a high-ranking individual and looked nothing like the slipshod huts loggers built. Anyone could tell from a single glance this was a well-crafted residence and the perfect place to spend the night.
At the same time, the girl hesitated slightly. A stranger like her had no right to suddenly walk into a home uninvited. However, the truth was she’d run out of options. Her mind made up, she knocked on the door.
“P-pardon the intrusion…”
The door was unlocked and opened smoothly, so the girl cautiously entered. The interior was dark and gloomy.
Was the place abandoned? It would certainly be more convenient for her if that was the case.
Footsteps clacked.
“Eek!”
The girl’s yelp betrayed her presence.
“Ah, I’m sorry! I promise I’m not a thief or anything,” she squeaked, hurriedly looking to the left and the right.
A silhouette emerged from the dim light of near-dusk.
“……”
The girl gulped instinctively.
The figure belonged to a boy around her age. He was dressed richly and stood still as a statue. The girl came to the inevitable conclusion he was both the master of the house and a prominent individual.
More than any other quality, the boy’s eyes left her awestruck. Those light amber eyes. They were a bottomless abyss that might swallow her up if she stared too long.
“What is your business here?”
The boy’s question brought her back to reality.
“U-um, well, I got lost, and it’s almost dark. I was looking for a place to spend the night.”
Even if she wasn’t allowed within the house itself, the girl would’ve been just as grateful to huddle outside the entrance. Would her desperate words reach this boy, though? Move his heart? She peered into his deep eyes, and time seemed to move at a tenth of its normal rate.
An oppressive silence reigned until the boy finally replied.
“Do as you please.”
The girl hardly had time to process this response before the boy, having apparently lost all interest, turned on his heel and left her, the intruder, behind.
“U-um…”
He didn’t even break stride when she called out from behind him.
“W-wait!”
The girl raced to his side and was met by a cold, empty stare. She was struck silent for a moment but held firm, compelled to meet this new challenge.
“I-I’m Ninym Ralei!”
Eager to prove she meant no harm, the girl hurriedly introduced herself. The boy then stopped and stared at her—at Ninym.
“I’m Wein,” he replied quietly. “Wein Salema Arbalest.”
The sight was, in a word, dazzling.
Parades filled the streets of Grantsrale, capital of the Earthworld Empire, day and night.
“Long live Empress Lowellmina!”
“Praise to our radiant ruler!”
“A new day has dawned on the Empire!”
As the people sang, danced, and drank, they all lauded one young woman, Second Imperial Princess Lowellmina of the Earthworld Empire. For several years following the death of the previous emperor, his children had fought each other for the right to succeed. In the end, it was Lowellmina who took the throne.
“Who would’ve thought Princess Lowellmina would actually become Empress?”
“No kidding. It was a shock for sure, but did you hear the princess’s—no, Her Majesty’s—speech?”
“Of course! ‘I did not become Empress by my power alone. This was only possible thanks to you, our nation’s people. My victory is yours as well.’ It brought a tear to my eye.”
“Her Majesty really does put us regular folk first. Her reign will return light to our land!”
No one had believed Lowellmina stood a chance at first. Even so, she’d slowly proved herself and, in the end, bested the Imperial Princes. Future historians would undoubtedly study this event in an effort to record it in scrupulous detail. However, no amount of research would ever capture such a complex rise to power.
That’s precisely why Lowellmina now enjoyed such tremendous popularity. People sang her praises in the capital and throughout the Empire.
Amid these festivities, Lowellmina herself…
“Bleh…”
…cradled her head in both hands while a mountain of paperwork loomed from atop the desk in her palace’s office.
“Why is there so much? Does everything honestly need my approval?”
“I understand how busy you are as Empress, but unfortunately, this was the best I could do,” replied Fyshe Blundell, the aide at her side. “After all, our internal affairs have not yet recovered from this recent turmoil, and the Empire is vast.”
“True, but still…”
The Empire was a blend of main territories and surrounding provinces. The latter were still managed primarily by dispatched viceroys and local nobles. Nonetheless, large-scale issues involving either public works or provinces were reported to the capital.
Of course, the Empire’s capable officials usually dealt with such matters, so Lowellmina simply had to give her approval, but for a nation that ruled half the continent, that task alone meant endless paperwork.
“Honestly, everywhere I look, it’s work, work, work. ‘History’s First Empress’ is a glamorous title, but my to-do list is the same as ever.”
“Your Majesty may leave everything to the vassals if you wish.”
“That would give room for those vassals to take advantage of that power.”
“As Empress, that may be a useful way to test their trustworthiness.”
“…All expectations aside, I should think that would only increase my workload, so I’ll pass.”
“Very well.”
Lowellmina’s disgruntled attitude made Fyshe break into a tiny smile.
Despite her new role, Lowellmina never changes.
Lowellmina had overcome numerous challenges to become Empress just as she’d always dreamed. It was a joyous achievement, and she had every right to indulge herself. However, the Empress celebrated only briefly with her friends and followers before seeing to her duties. The image of Lowellmina quietly lifting the Empire back on its feet despite her fledgling authority was a fine example of her virtuous nature.
Yet even as her popularity rose, some still felt women had no place in politics and bemoaned the advent of a new dark age. Fyshe, however, believed the opposite. One sun had set on the Empire, only to be greeted by a new one named “Lowellmina.”
Of course, examples of wise, respectable politicians marred by corruption and depravity can be found in any era. Our budding Empress is full of promise, so I’ll do everything in my power to help her grow into a tall, upright tree. That is the duty of a vassal.
Fyshe had originally been an Earthworld ambassador, but Lowellmina hired her as an aide after a career setback. As a woman, Fyshe admired Lowellmina’s fiery ambition and undying patriotism, and the bond built between them made her a trusted confidant. Considering the outcome, it was safe to say Fyshe had taken a significant risk and won. The journey hadn’t been straightforward by any means, but she’d finally risen to head aide and was now the envy of every official.
Unfortunately, my ascension has brought countless nuisances.
Between letters from unknown relatives and sudden marriage proposals, Fyshe had to deal with it all as everyone tried to get their own piece of the pie. Still, this was nothing compared to those who plotted to push Fyshe out of the picture and gain Lowellmina’s trust. She would have to constantly defend her position while still supporting her mistress. When Fyshe considered how she would likely go down in history as the trusted retainer of history’s first Empress, she was beset by an overwhelming feeling. She had no intention of relinquishing her seat to anyone.
Honor and loyalty would be the two wheels of her cart. She would support Empress Lowellmina with these two guiding principles. That was what Fyshe had decided.
“What’s the matter, Fyshe?”
“It’s nothing,” she replied smoothly. “More importantly, if Your Majesty feels so overwhelmed, then let’s coordinate with Prime Minister Keskinel and try to lighten your workload.”
“Right!” Lowellmina exclaimed, her mood instantly brighter.
“However, please remember that all of your spare time has been set aside for diplomatic appointments.”
“Right…” Lowellmina’s expression soured. “Which means we’ll only break even…”
“I expect it will be some time before your schedule permits any leisure.”
Lowellmina let out a wail of protest. “Well, so be it. In any case, we have more important business than mere paperwork.”
“Yes, especially from today onward.”
“Exactly,” Lowellmina replied with a smile. “It’s time for a delightful conversation with our princely ally.”
Lowellmina’s ascension had an immense impact on the Empire, but needless to say, those waves rippled through foreign nations as well. The West, in particular, was highly conservative, and its politics were a male-dominated sphere. No one questioned this. Nonetheless, the new sovereign of one of the most powerful nations in the East was a woman. The West’s flustered males were surely scrambling to ascertain Lowellmina’s character, ideologies, politics, and what connections could be made.
Among these nations, there was one which remained unfazed by the Empress. The dragon of the north, the Kingdom of Natra.
“We exchanged formalities earlier, but allow me to congratulate you again on your coronation, Empress Lowellmina.”
“Hee-hee. Why, thank you, Prince Wein.”
Soft light streamed through the window of a room within the Imperial Palace while a young man addressed Lowellmina. He was Natra’s crown prince, Wein Salema Arbalest.
“I feel like it’s been ages since Your Majesty’s last visit to Natra.”
“Indeed. However, I believe I was only able to come this far because of the time we spent together, Prince Wein.”
Natra and the Empire had a surprisingly long history as allies, but their significant differences in national strength meant the two were never equals. Most of Natra’s neighbors once viewed it as a vassal state to the Empire. However, in the chaos following the Emperor’s sudden demise, Natra rose in power under Prince Wein’s command.
Lowellmina, who’d been Wein’s greatest supporter, had been left to fend for herself in the War for Succession. Despite her lack of public achievements, Wein recognized Lowellmina’s wisdom and offered aid. It seemed like a foolhardy venture since everyone else had always assumed one of the princes would become Emperor. Now that Lowellmina sat on the throne, it was clear his decision had been correct.
And so the relationship between Natra and the Empire entered a honeymoon phase. There wasn’t the slightest hint of darkness between the prince whose finesse had led his people to prosperity, and the young princess turned Empress. That was how it appeared to outsiders anyway. Those well-versed in politics knew it wasn’t so simple.
“…With all due respect, Your Majesty, there is something I wish to ask,” interjected a third voice, which echoed across the room.
“Oh my. What is it, Ninym?”
Ninym. The name Lowellmina spoke belonged to Wein’s aide. She had the distinctive white hair and red eyes of the Flahm.
“Exactly how long do you intend to hug me?” she asked wearily from between Empress Lowellmina’s arms.
“Come now, why the long face? We haven’t seen each other in forever.”
The two were so far apart on the social ladder that Ninym shouldn’t have even been allowed to speak to Lowellmina, let alone touch her. Regardless, Lowellmina clung to her like an oversized lapdog. It was no wonder since Lowellmina, Ninym, and Wein had spent their days at the military academy together and formed a bond far beyond rank.
However, that was a long time ago.
“Lowa, you are the rightful Empress now. Even if you are only playing around, please show some restraint,” Ninym said.
“Don’t worry, I trust everyone here. Even my guard,” the Empress replied.
Ninym’s eyes moved to a corner of the room where Lowellmina’s aide, Fyshe, stood. However, she subtly refused to meet Ninym’s gaze. Perhaps she saw no harm in looking the other way if tightly squeezing an old friend brought the Empress a bit of happiness.
“…Wein.”
Seeing there would be no salvation from Fyshe, Ninym instead turned to her master for rescue as she felt a lock of golden hair tickle her nose.
“Think of it as your congratulations gift to her. Hang in there.”
He abandoned her just as quickly.
You’ll pay for this later, Ninym swore.
“Let’s set Ninym’s problems aside for now.” Wein’s previously polite tone evaporated. “You really showed your brothers how it’s done, eh? Despite an initial disadvantage.”
“Indeed. Many fortunate circumstances aligned, including the public’s feelings, my brothers’ hubris, and my own good luck. Of course…most of this is owed to my excellent efforts!”
“None of this would have happened if you hadn’t taken action, Lowa. I can’t argue that.”
“Quite so! Feel free to praise me more, you two.”
“Super,” Wein said.
“Great,” Ninym added.
“Put some heart into it!” Lowellmina poked Ninym’s cheek in disapproval. Ninym offered no resistance, having given up.
“So how does it feel to finally sit on the throne?” Wein asked.
“It is a profound sensation,” Lowellmina answered. “After all, I’ve finally been able to prove my abilities.”
Many had done everything in their power to keep Lowellmina off the political world stage merely because she was a woman. Her journey began with that first proactive step to challenge a society suffocated by social norms and tradition.
“And yet despite my successful rise as Empress, I must continue to demonstrate my political acumen. This is no time to relax.”
If all went well, Lowellmina’s reign would last for the next decade or so—far longer than Earthworld’s recent inheritance dispute. Besides, every nation in history had anecdotes of its own trouble with political corruption over the years.
“In that regard, you’re like a mentor to me, Wein.”
Wein was both Natra’s crown prince and, for the past several years, its true leader. Lowellmina calling him her mentor wasn’t too far-fetched.
“Seeing as you have more experience, might I ask for a bit of advice?” she asked.
“Advice, huh?” Wein mulled this over for a moment. “You should do some light exercise, or your body will break down.”
“That has become very apparent in recent days,” Lowellmina said with a deep nod. “Endless paperwork, reconciliation of interests, then more paperwork on top of that. When I consider what life as an Empress means, I can’t help but sigh.”
“I’m up to my eyeballs with work in Natra,” Wein replied. “So I can only imagine Earthworld’s responsibilities as the East’s greatest superpower. Still, you’ve got a whole team of capable officials to handle the extra load.”
“It’s true, they’re quite helpful, but…” Lowellmina trailed off as she lazily rubbed cheeks with Ninym.
“Becoming Empress was difficult enough, and it’s only going to get worse. You’ve chosen a thorny road, haven’t you?” Ninym remarked, her exasperation only partly masked.
Lowellmina nodded. “Most certainly.”
“But it was your own decision, so you have no one else to blame,” Ninym said.
“Also true!”
Wein smiled gently. “You’ll find a steady number of trustworthy subordinates to fill in the gaps, so hang in there.”
Lowellmina gave Ninym a very serious look. “Ninym, how would you like to come work for me?”
“And now I’m suddenly being scouted…”
“I’ll pay triple, no, five times your current salary!”
“This lady sure is generous with the Empire’s budget…!” Wein shuddered.
Ninym shot him a sidelong glance, then sighed. “I can’t leave Natra, so I must decline.”
“Well then, what if Natra joins the Empire, Wein?”
“That ain’t funny comin’ from you, Little Miss Empress!”
“I’m not joking. I mean it.”
The air immediately shifted, and Lowellmina released Ninym. She turned back to Wein, and Ninym felt a silent, uneasy spark fly between them.
“…Sorry, but I’ve got no plans for that.” It was Wein who finally broke the silence. “I believe the Empire and Natra are firm allies, but that narrative will change fast if you want us to become one nation.”
“Fyshe told me you were eager to sell out to us at one point.”
“That might’ve been true before your previous ruler passed away, but Natra has grown much stronger since the Empire was plagued by civil war. It would be tough to convince our people to join the Empire now.”
As Wein said, Natra’s strength and influence had advanced drastically both at home and abroad since he became regent, and that development showed no signs of stopping. It still paled in comparison to an Eastern giant like the Empire, of course, but every politician on the continent now understood Natra was not to be trifled with.
“…I see,” Lowellmina muttered. Ninym gleaned true disappointment from the woman’s expression.
That’s a bit surprising…
Lowellmina held feelings of love and friendship for Wein, but she also saw him as a worthy rival. To prove herself against him in battle and reign victorious was one of her dearest desires. It was peculiar that she’d instead asked him and Natra to come into the Empire’s fold. Had the Empress had a change of heart?
However, Lowellmina’s radiant smile returned before Ninym’s question could be answered. “In that case, I suppose it cannot be helped. I look forward to our fruitful alliance for many years to come.”
“Me, too,” Wein replied with a smile. “To that end, I’ll work hard and continue to meet with Earthworld’s dignitaries during my stay.”
“I’m the same, though my line is much, much longer!”
“That’s what you choose to compete over…?” Ninym shot Lowellmina a tired look, even as her friend seemed to swell with pride.
“By the way, I heard you met with Ernesto, Wein,” Lowellmina remarked.
“Hm? Yeah, a little while ago.”
Ernesto.
He was the leader of Eastern Levetia, the East’s main religion. Although Wein had been involved in the resolution of the Empire’s civil war, he’d originally come to the region to meet with Ernesto.
“What sort of person is he? I’m supposed to meet him next, so I’d like a point of reference.”
“He looks like your average old guy. You’d never guess it, but he was a teacher back in the day. Still…”
“Still?”
“We had an interesting conversation.” Wein smirked. “To be honest, I think you two will really hit it off.”
“Oh dear…”
“What do you mean, ‘Oh dear’?” Wein asked.
“Well, surely that means he’s an eccentric, right?”
“Oh. I didn’t think you were so self-aware.”
Suddenly, Fyshe stepped forward from her corner of the room. “Your Majesty, it’s almost time for your next appointment.”
“Aww, already?” Lowellmina muttered reluctantly, then turned back to Wein. “Unfortunately, I must take my leave… What will you do next, Wein?”
“I’ve been away long enough, so I think it’s high time I head home.”
Summer was drawing to a close, and Natra’s northern climate undoubtedly already hinted at the approaching icy hand of winter. As important as it was to rub elbows with the Empire’s elite, Wein wanted to return before his carriage could get stuck in the snow.
“But before I do, I’d like to catch up with Glen and Strang,” Wein added.
“I see… Yes, that’s an excellent idea. We’ll likely have very little opportunity to meet each other in private from here on.” Lowellmina’s tone was tinged with melancholy. As she said, meeting in the future would be more difficult. Not only did Wein and Lowellmina belong to the most esteemed families on the continent, but they also led their respective nations as crown prince and Empress.
Ninym had a duty to support Wein, and Glen and Strang were loyal to Lowellmina. Not only that, Lowellmina and her retinue had no time to waste as they rebuilt the weakened Empire. At least for now, their paths would not cross outside the realm of politics.
“This may be our last farewell in this lifetime,” Lowellmina said.
Ninym sighed. “Come on, Lowa. No need to be dramatic.”
“Hee-hee. I’m only joking.”
“Well, let’s do our best to make sure that doesn’t happen,” Wein suggested.
Lowellmina smiled. “It was lovely speaking with you, Prince Wein. I earnestly look forward to the day we can fulfill our duties and meet again.”
“Unfortunately…” Lowellmina mumbled wearily not long after her talk with Wein and Ninym, “…that’s only if such a day ever truly comes.”
This caught the attention of the slim man beside her.
“Are you concerned about something, Your Majesty?”
“No, no. I’m fine, Keskinel.”
Keskinel had been the Earthworld Empire’s Prime Minister before the civil war, and although still quite far from old age, he didn’t have a shred of ambition or authoritative power in him. His exhausted demeanor resembled a withered tree’s—certainly not the type anyone would picture as the highest official in the Empire. However, in truth, this man was an exceptional figure who’d aided his nation since the previous emperor’s reign. He’d taken great pains to help the leaderless Empire through the civil war without taking sides. Keskinel’s abilities were recognized once Lowellmina took the throne, and he was reinstated as Prime Minister.
“Please continue your report.”
“Of course.”
At Lowellmina’s insistence, Keskinel skimmed the documents in his hand.
“Thanks to Your Majesty’s ascension, a degree of stability has returned to the public. We intend to seize this opportunity and increase our revenue.”
In the few years since the war broke out, the Empire’s economy had steadily declined. The civil officials, led by Keskinel, tried everything in their limited authority to fix the situation, but the government’s widespread instability did little to ease people’s fears about the future. And when things looked uncertain, the public’s purse strings naturally tightened, along with their hearts.
Empress Lowellmina’s arrival brought about a transformation, though. The populace saw a new glimmer of hope. Of course, whether her reign proved to be boon or bane was yet to be seen, but the citizens could finally let out a sigh of relief. Not to act on this fresh chance would be foolish.
“Fortunately, the harvest was plentiful this year. There is no reason for anyone to claim your coronation has angered the heavens.”
“That is indeed a blessing. If a natural disaster had struck as soon as I became Empress and rumors began to circulate of divine retribution, panic would abound.”
Needless to say, no politician in the world could manipulate the elements. Regardless, people would make their own assumptions about any such events. Lowellmina was in a precarious situation because her political authority was not yet unshakable. One large-scale natural disaster could ruin everything.
“I’m afraid I have some bad news as well, Your Majesty,” Keskinel said.
Lowellmina scrunched her face and groaned as the Prime Minister continued, “The first matter concerns the factions of Prince Bardloche and Prince Manfred.”
Second Prince Bardloche and Third Prince Manfred. Lowellmina had fought both for the throne and had emerged victorious upon their arrests. The next issue was how to deal with their factions.
“We’ve dealt with their supporters as leniently as possible, and I’ve ordered each group to disband and join us,” Lowellmina remarked. “However…”
“Yes. On the whole, they have obeyed Your Majesty’s command. Regrettably, a percentage has masked its whereabouts, and it seems others who claim to have accepted you secretly plot to reinstate their princes.”
“…Well, that’s no surprise.”
Lowellmina was history’s first female monarch. Her brothers’ factions had had their political dreams dashed. That was more than enough for them to seek revenge. Their cherished leaders yet lived, too, which surely emboldened them.
“Perhaps it would be best to execute Prince Bardloche and Prince Manfred after all,” Keskinel suggested.
Lowellmina’s brothers were confined and under tight surveillance, but she treated them with respect as royals.
“We’ve discussed this a thousand times. I will not execute them. Once my position is secure, I’ll send them off to live in the countryside or the like.”
“I still think you are too lenient,” Keskinel asserted. “Especially Prince Bardloche, who collaborated with the West’s Teachings of Levetia and has been criticized by Eastern Levetia for it. Many firmly believe only the harshest punishment will suffice.”
During the war, a desperate Bardloche had accepted the aid of the Empire’s Western rival, the Teachings of Levetia faith. Once Manfred discovered this, he’d appealed to Eastern Levetia, which swiftly leveled harsh censure upon the Second Prince.
“I have a meeting with Eastern Levetia’s key representative, Ernesto, soon to discuss Bardloche. We’ll get that sorted out. I guarantee their heads will not roll,” Lowellmina stated.
“Does your compassion run so deep?”
“Goodness, no.” The Empress sniffed. “In the public eye, I am a merciful ruler who’s bested her useless brothers. If I executed them the moment everything became official, people might believe I was revealing my despotic tendencies now that my position was secure. Politically speaking, that would leave us even more vulnerable.” She paused for a moment. “Besides, we can use those Western Levetia connections to our advantage. This dispute has sorely tarnished the Imperial Family’s influence, and the palace is under greater suspicion. Instead of fools beaten by their little sister, we can portray Bardloche and Manfred as victims of the West’s schemes. By making the West the true mastermind, we can deflect anger and garner sympathy.”
Keskinel hummed. “To accomplish that, we must minimize the chances of a factional revolt from either side.”
“It’s already minuscule,” Lowellmina replied with an overwhelming air of self-confidence. “No matter how many times my brothers turn their swords against me, I’ll always win.”
Keskinel groaned quietly at the once helpless princess–turned–Empress’s bold declaration. A brilliant flame burned in this young sovereign, and the Prime Minister thought to himself that perhaps that was precisely what had allowed her to succeed in the first place.
“If you insist, then I have nothing more to say on the matter,” Keskinel conceded. “However, we have more to discuss. Present issues include the Empire’s diminished military, the agenda of each province, and our alliance with Natra.”
Lowellmina subtly reacted to that last word. Keskinel understood the deep connection the Empress had with Natra, and that was precisely why that subject couldn’t be ignored.
“I believe the time has come to reconsider our alliance,” he stated.
At last, the day came for the Natra delegation to leave the Empire. Now that everything was set, each member of the group felt a vague sense of melancholy as they bade farewell to their temporary home during the recent trouble. Even so, the thought of their true home waiting to the west lifted everyone’s spirits.
“My head is killin’ me…” Wein moaned as he writhed on the sofa.
“Didn’t I warn you not to go overboard?” Ninym asked exasperatedly. She offered him a glass of water.
“Don’t blame me. They’re the ones who insisted I try different Earthworld wines since I ‘won’t get another chance for a while.’”
The individuals in question were Glen and Strang, Wein’s friends who now served as Lowellmina’s vassals. They’d met with him the other day. Ninym had elected not to join, since there were departure preparations to see to, and she’d thought a bit of male camaraderie would do Wein good. The sight of him in his present state left her wondering if she should’ve come along, however.
“All the same, a hangover means you had too much,” Ninym stated bluntly as she poked Wein’s cheek with her index finger. “Will you be able to ride like this? We’d be the laughingstock of the world if you drunkenly fell off.”
“I’ll manage…”
People fell from their steeds all the time. Picking yourself up and laughing it off wasn’t so terrible. There was always a risk of injury or death, though. A delay in their departure because Wein failed to sober up would earn him plenty of mocking.
“There’s still some time, so let’s just get you as close to ‘normal’ as possible,” Ninym said.
“Fwaaah.” Wein yawned wearily before emptying the glass of water.
“By the way, how were those two?” Ninym asked, hoping to distract him.
“They seemed well enough. We couldn’t have polished off all that wine together otherwise.”
“I’m glad to hear it.”
During the war, Lowellmina, Glen, and Strang had each belonged to different factions and showed no mercy. When Ninym considered how one or all of them might have perished, it was a relief to hear the three were still friends.
“Even though those guys lost and serve Lowa now, they complained she’ll probably make ’em do all the crazy stuff,” Wein said.
“I have no doubt about that,” Ninym agreed.
Moving the Empire forward meant Lowellmina couldn’t afford to hold back. Naturally, this meant she’d work reliable friends like Glen and Strang to the bone. Ninym broke into a small smile at the mental image.
“Nonetheless, it will be all worthwhile. A new Empress, a new era… It’s now up to Lowa and her vassals whether they’ll leave a mark on history for better or for worse,” Ninym added.
Wein nodded. “You got that right. Knowin’ those guys, they’ll do just fine and stabilize the Empire.”
For most, Lowellmina’s abilities as Empress were an unknown variable. However, Wein understood her passion, ambition, patriotism, and support network. Barring some natural disaster, these factors guaranteed that the Earthworld Empire would flourish under Lowellmina’s rule.
“Still, that’s not necessarily great for Natra,” Wein mused.
Ninym lamented this as well. A stable Empire was a welcome change for its citizens, but over in the West, the revival of an Eastern superpower was an obvious threat. This was particularly true of Earthworld since the previous emperor had had broad expansionist policies and made no effort to hide his hunger for the West. With the civil war over, the West anxiously wondered if those desires would return.
Even Natra, the Empire’s ally, couldn’t afford to be complacent. It was common knowledge that the small northern nation’s initial alliance with Earthworld was meant to last only until the latter’s invasion of the West. However, those plans had fizzled out, owing to the previous emperor’s unexpected passing. The alliance itself survived, but its continued existence seemed precarious.
“Everyone knows Natra supported Lowa early on,” Ninym said. “If our alliance falls apart now, people will question the Empress’s abilities, and Earthworld’s anxious vassals will start jumping at shadows again.”
It was true. Wein and Lowellmina often clashed in pursuit of their own self-interests, but that was only behind closed doors. To the general public, they were thick as thieves. If Earthworld recklessly abandoned Natra, everyone would surely accuse Lowellmina of straying from the path of righteousness. Furthermore, her subordinates, upon witnessing such treatment of a longtime ally, would fearfully wonder if they were next. Since most had sworn fealty to their new sovereign only recently, the unease would spread like wildfire.
Thus, the general consensus was that the Empire ought to reward Natra for its assistance, regardless of Lowellmina’s feelings.
“Strang said it best,” Wein said. “Lowa needs to wow ’em all at once if she wants to demonstrate the Empire’s post-war military strength.”
Ninym looked conflicted. “That’s…”
The fires of Earthworld’s civil war had been quelled, but its embers yet smoldered. If Lowellmina displayed any weakness, the flames would rise again. She needed to show the world that the Earthworld Empire had returned to its former glory and wouldn’t be an easy target. Strang had mentioned earlier that Natra was an easy stepping stone to that end.
“…We can’t discard all that Natra has done for the Empire, though. Any invasion would need justification,” she finished.
“If there isn’t a reason, they can always make one up,” Wein replied with a smile. “Don’t forget that we’re playing nice with the West, too. The Empire can say whatever it wants. True or not, you’d be amazed how fast people will buy into any idea of justice.”
“How heartless…”
It was unclear whether Ninym’s comment was directed at the people or Wein’s opinion of them.
Regardless, there was no denying Natra couldn’t afford to rest on its laurels.
“We need to avoid whatever trouble might come up,” Wein explained. “It’s why I used this trip to get friendly with as many big shots as possible.”
Natra needed to maintain a few allies among the Empire’s elite to help fight against future anti-Natra policies. These political objectives would meet no resistance if no one came to the smaller nation’s defense, but some backlash would delay any Imperial decisions long enough for Natra to negotiate.
“There’s no telling how far that will take us,” Ninym argued.
“Yep, that’s the kicker. I could easily deal with any surprises if I stayed here, but—”
“Don’t be ridiculous. You’ve been away from home long enough.”
“No kidding.” Wein smirked. “Well, there’s always the chance we’re worried over nothing. Right now, our only real option is to head back as planned and hope nothing happens.”
“…You’re right.” Ninym sighed quietly and stood slowly. “Do you feel any better yet, Wein?”
“Enough.”
“In that case, I’ll let everyone know we’ll be departing soon.”
Ninym left the room. With no one else around, Wein muttered to himself as he prepared to do the same.
“A new Imperial Empress, the West is on high alert, Eastern and Western Levetia harboring secret ambitions, and the kindled embers of my own nation…” His mouth twisted into a smile. “I really do wonder if this can end quietly…”
And so Wein’s delegation left for Natra. Little did its members know that the unprecedented trouble on the road ahead would define their nation’s history.
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