Wortenia Senki (LN) - Volume 24 - Chapter 1

Chapter 1: A Poisonous Gathering

The sun was setting in the west a few minutes past five as a young woman walked along the gravel road. She stood at around 170 centimeters tall and had a slim figure yet ample bosom. A man would no doubt find his gaze directed to that area, and the woman was well aware of her allure. Her light green dress, decorated with lace details, had a noticeable opening, drawing people’s attention to her main appeal.

Accessories also adorned her, each worth about a commoner’s yearly income. Even high-ranking nobles could not attain them unless they came from a very well-off family. Seeing as she wore such expensive items, there was no doubt she was a young woman from such circles or royalty.

Her focused gait was that of a person with a specific location in mind. The woman eventually reached a gap in the dense forest, allowing her to see more. It was an open space in the woods, surrounded by trees with sunlight streaking through. A garden pond stood at the center of the open space, with a bridge connecting one side of the pond to a small island with a white, two-story building.

Said building was known as the Ivory Manor. The two marble pillars that supported the building had a beautiful design carved into them, adding color to the scenery. It was a crafted beauty, as if someone had made it by imagining the mentality and vision of those who would look at it.

As expected, the best gardener in the kingdom created it. I never get tired of looking at it, she thought, crossing over the bridge.

Flowers bloomed on either side of the bridge, acting as a treat for visitors’ eyes. Rumors abounded that this place was made for a rather lustful king to meet secretly with another man’s wife. Thus, it had an intricate design. In addition, the manor and garden were hidden away, meaning people rarely ever passed through.

Not many people even knew this secret world lay hidden within the royal castle. That made the area around the building, which a wall of trees covered, a suitable place to conduct meetings out of the public eye. Only maids or gardeners visited, periodically tending to the garden.

After all, the garden acted as a secret rendezvous point to meet his lover. It makes sense he had it built like this.

According to rumors, the woman that the king visited in secret wasn’t an ethereal beauty who could bring a whole nation to its knees. She was a refined noblewoman, but it was plain to see that she had no remarkable features.

Being a king, he literally could have had any woman he wanted. He really had no need to be willingly playing with fire.

But forcing a vassal’s wife to obey his commands must have sent the king mad with feelings of taboo.

I guess he had quite perverted hobbies. Rather embarrassing for a king of a nation. Even more so for those sycophants who kept quiet about the affair...

Those who knew simply portrayed it as a case of forbidden love when the reality of it was that it was closer to coercion.

The woman suitably expressed disgust, even if the man was a king. Just because he had authority, it didn’t mean that he could get away with being oppressive and violent. Other vassals within the kingdom eventually had enough of the king’s wild, irrational behavior and purged him as well as his sycophant vassals.

Of course, that included their families because it was a shameful part of the Kingdom of Rhoadseria’s past that got erased from official history. As a result, the nobles’ tyranny grew more powerful, and the royal family had a remarkable lack of authority. As the saying went, “Pride always comes before the fall.”

However, there are not many people who can apply the lessons they’ve learned to their own lives. As hard as it is to admit, she thought, sighing deeply.

Although the level of their abuses differed, the Kingdom of Rhoadseria’s current nobles were unknowingly walking a similar path to that of the foolish king. It resulted from the passage of time completely erasing the tragedy of what happened before from the minds of the nobles. But a man called Ryoma Mikoshiba was about to redeem the legacy the nobles had tarnished over the decades.

It makes sense that he wishes to eliminate us. Should our roles be reversed, I would probably want to do the same, the woman thought, knowing it was poetic justice. Not to mention, it’s the right decision to make as a politician.

Considering the weight of the crimes the nobles had committed up to now, it was a natural decision. Anyone would want to exterminate the bugs—the nobles—in their newly gained Kingdom of Rhoadseria.

Thus, striking right at the heart of the problem...

That plan had advantages and disadvantages. If Ryoma went ahead with purging nobles, some would call him merciless. As a woman who had struggled through many political disputes, she knew all too well that it was the most realistic and least damaging path to take. The only issue was that not many people would be willing to go ahead with it. The previous queen, Lupis Rhoadserians, was a good example of that.

But that man is one of the few people to make such ruthless decisions. He is the Devil of Heraklion. 

The man was generous and sincere to his allies but turned merciless when he deemed someone an enemy. That also went for the families of said individuals.

He probably thinks that the children of demons are also demons. 

There was a saying that went “Children are like mirrors. What they see and hear, they do.” Naturally, there were exceptions.

Generally, biologically unintelligent parents couldn’t give birth to an intelligent child. But children who didn’t take after their parents’ talents or character could still come about. A child born from a genius wouldn’t always end up as a genius themselves. Similarly, a child born from ordinary people could still be a genius. However, the possibility of that occurring wasn’t particularly high.

Taking into account how much effort sorting everyone would take, the woman didn’t think Ryoma Mikoshiba would put all that work in.

Although there are a lot of idiotic noble houses, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any useful people. Like Count Bergstone, for example. They are just anomalies, though.

Ryoma would keep a small number of useful noble houses and throw the rest to the wolves.

From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, that is the best thing to do. It would also help restore some authority to the Rhoadserian royal family.

The woman was sharp and sensed that House Eisenbach would be one of the houses to be removed.

Considering what happened with the House of Lords, I doubt that man would hurry to forgive us. 

Count Eisenbach, leader of the nobles’ faction and vice president of the House of Lords, had worked with Lupis. He had helped with her strategy and worked alongside Marquis Halcyon in supporting the decision to impeach Ryoma Mikoshiba. In other words, relations were hostile between House Eisenbach and the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy.

When I think about everything my father has done up to now...

Despite her blood tie with her father, she didn’t think he was a good man. If anything, he was a quintessential Rhoadserian noble. Not in a good way.

Makes sense we’ll be one of the targets of the purge.

That conclusion was as certain as the sun rising in the east and setting in the west. Although the woman understood, she had no plans to do something about it.

But to be summoned like this... I wonder if there is still room for negotiation. At the very least, my and Charlotte’s intentions have become apparent to others.

In order to show her allegiance and usefulness, the woman, as well as her friends, had worked hard to ensure Ryoma Mikoshiba could do what he needed to do. They had ensured it wouldn’t be too obvious, though.

I doubt anyone would believe that someone, once seen as an enemy, would have such a quick change of heart and ally with them. 

After all, the nobles of the Kingdom of Rhoadseria had acted as they always had. If House Eisenbach had begun getting close to the enemy in plain sight, they would be known as an untrustworthy family. There was a high chance the other nobles would reject them, marking the end of that situation. But there was also a one-in-a-million chance they’d be accepted by people, not ending well for the nobles.

Based on that man’s character, he would use us as a sacrificial pawn. 

House Eisenbach would face demise like how they once crushed a noble house. That was why they needed to be extremely cautious. The woman knew her house hadn’t reached out for negotiations because it would have tarnished their credibility. If that man considered it patronizing, it would further ruin his image.

That didn’t mean there was no way out of this.

At the very least, Ryoma Mikoshiba isn’t a narrow-minded man. That’s easy to see from his treatment of Yulia Salzberg, Signus Galveria, and Robert Bertrand. Although we were once enemies, I’m sure he’ll change his opinion when he sees how useful we are.

Of course, she had a hint of wishful thinking. But there was no doubt that Ryoma was a man of incomparable caliber, as he had employed and chosen close aides that were mercenaries with dubious backgrounds.

He might do the same for me should I show my usefulness and trustworthiness.

A faint possibility.

Although it was a one-in-a-million chance, if it meant she could survive, it was only natural that she wanted to cling to that possibility. The woman also harbored other ambitions alongside the desire to survive.

If he puts me in a key position, I might take the center stage in politics despite being a woman. I could even become a prime minister, a cabinet minister, or the queen’s aide.

She would also need the trust of Queen Radine. But the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy had the most influence and a mighty military. If the woman could become a supporter of Ryoma Mikoshiba, everything could quite literally change.

The women who had received insults behind their backs for being too smart, including those who never had the opportunity to use their talents, would finally have their day. It was a dream that the women of Rhoadseria, which was strongly chauvinistic, had given up on.

Besides, forming a more marital bond with the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy wouldn’t be impossible.

While there was a lot of competition, she would gain influence over the noble society in the Kingdom of Rhoadseria if she won Ryoma’s heart. House Eisenbach could rival even the queen, and take precedence over House Halcyon. It would no longer be just a dream.

That said, I have no plans on getting a head start on that. Charlotte and I are working together... Plus, I won’t gain his affection if I mess up. He might even avoid me... He might even see right through my intentions, thought the woman before coming to a stop.

“Bettina Eisenbach, right? Welcome. Please come inside,” said a young woman wearing an apron decorated with frills. For a moment, it looked as if her short hair was sparkling in the sunlight.

She’s pretty...and well-mannered, thought Bettina.

The maid’s bow was impeccable and was a prime example of greeting guests. Bettina nodded in response before looking at her surroundings, cocking her head slightly.

“I’ve been looking forward to today. By the way, I wonder where everyone else is?” asked Bettina. She had seen no one else on her way here, nor could she see any of her friends here, making her feel uneasy. There’s no way Charlotte told me the wrong time...

Although childish, it was a tried-and-true move in noble society. People told the wrong place and time would naturally be confused and angry, thus making them the butt of a joke in public. There were several reasons for doing so, which included harassment originating from one’s personal feelings or an attempt to undermine another noble house in a power struggle. Bettina had done it before to Charlotte. While it would be an exaggeration to say that it happened every day in Rhoadserian noble society, it happened often enough.

Nevertheless, Bettina didn’t suspect Charlotte of doing that.

We’ve been working together up to now. It would be unwise of her to pull such a trick in front of that man.

When Bettina thought about Ryoma Mikoshiba’s personality, she thought that he wouldn’t take too kindly to such behavior. Charlotte ought to understand that personally.

More importantly...

A specific possibility crossed Bettina’s mind. It wasn’t a desirable turn of events, yet the most natural. However, the maid in front of Bettina soon crushed Bettina’s hopeful thoughts.

“Everyone is already gathered together.”

Upon hearing that, Bettina became disorientated.

“Oh... Is that so? Does that mean the host, Charlotte, and everyone else?” asked Bettina, hiding her inner turmoil and keeping up a formal appearance.

“Yes. You are the last to arrive, Lady Bettina,” responded the maid.

A dreadful sentence.

She arrived twenty minutes later than Charlotte had written in the letter. If it were an evening party, sometimes it was more acceptable to be a little late. For a casual tea party, one could say Bettina was early. But it wasn’t very commendable that she had barely made it on time.

I wonder if the real host is that man...

Formally, Charlotte Halcyon was the host since her name appeared on the invitation. But Ryoma Mikoshiba could have borrowed her name, and Charlotte might not have known she was the host. Therefore, he was undoubtedly the true host of today’s tea party. If he wasn’t, that meant there was no reason for Bettina to put so much work into her appearance today.

That means that everyone attending today was aware of that.

A tea party wasn’t as formal as a ball or an evening banquet. When meeting with close friends or acquaintances of the same social standing, it was a time to eat delicious sweets with tea while having a fun chat. Depending on the circumstance, a friendly gathering was not as much fun as this tea party. As someone of a higher rank was attending, one had to be extra careful. It would be more appropriate to call it a battlefield under the guise of a tea party.

Their weapons ranged from clothes and hairstyles to even the accessories they wore. All that was left was how they used those weapons.

Would they use them as a shield to deflect enemy attacks, or would they use them as a sword to cut down the enemy? It all depended on the strength of the wielder.

Lying low and watching silently is also an option...

Similar to how the commoners of the Kingdom of Rhoadseria endured the noble’s tyranny, it was also how the weak survived. Choosing to act conspicuous meant that one would receive the same treatment, regardless of whether they there.

Which would be fatal for House Eisenbach...

As it was, Ryoma Mikoshiba thought the absolute worst of all the nobles in the Kingdom of Rhoadseria. Such was an expected reaction based on everything that had happened so far. If left unaddressed, it would lead to trouble in the future. Bettina recognized that when faced with someone in a higher position, it was best to do nothing that would come off unpleasant rather than gain their favor.

And the best way to do that would be not to stand out. But...

Waiting for the storm that was the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy to pass by wouldn’t be impossible. It was akin to simply trying to sleep through an illness and choosing not to accept any medicine or treatment. One could recover naturally, but it would purely depend on luck. Many nobles, including House Eisenbach, had all contracted the same disease. It was a deadly virus that, if left untreated, would annihilate them.

As the head of the Eisenbach family, Bettina’s true motive was to use the tea party to capture the attention of Ryoma Mikoshiba. She would try to improve the current situation, knowing what the outcome would be if she did not.

If I’m going to sit and wait for death, I will try to find a way out of this fatal situation. Trying to get his attention this way isn’t the most desirable. If anything, it’s going to be awkward today.

Arriving last to a high society meeting would draw a lot of attention. Sometimes, visiting before the appointed time could appear as being late.

Of course, someone was bound to be last. I’m sure everyone knows...

One wouldn’t stand out as much when arriving late to a large gathering such as a ball or an evening banquet. Tea parties usually started when everyone was present if the event had at least ten people in attendance. That meant the last to arrive had kept everyone else waiting.

And so, most people would be more or less easily irritated by the wait and showed the basics of human psychology. In such situations, it was common for the host to overwhelm a guest to instill a sense of hierarchy. The chosen individual would be the one that stood out the most. Overall, the last person at today’s tea party was in a rather dangerous situation.

I should have come here earlier...

Being late was still the worst thing to do, but coming an hour early wouldn’t have been the honorable thing to do either. If the event had already been set up, it would be fine. But if it hadn’t, one would have to find something to pass the time. It would have made no sense for Bettina to return to her room at the castle. Still, it would have been even stranger for her to sit in the shade waiting around.

I couldn’t risk getting my clothes dirty before the tea party.

It would have been rather unwise to dirty her clothes on the leaves or trees, let alone on the ground. No matter how well she had dressed, one open seam or spot of dirt could result in a complete loss of interest in her. Thus, if she had arrived too early, it could have damaged the reputation and dignity of House Eisenbach.

Though prioritizing material gain over one’s moral duty and reputation was out of the question, it could become problematic later. Such problems would occur if one pursued material gain over anything else. It all depended on a very delicate balance.

So the only thing left was choosing a more appropriate time.

The matter was similar to the game Old Maid. Someone would eventually pull the old maid card. But the problem was that Bettina had pulled that card.

“I also planned on coming here a little earlier,” said Bettina wryly with a troubled expression.

It was also a way of judging the reaction of the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy’s side. Bettina could get a feel for their intentions from how they acted.

What I fear most is that His Grace Archduke Mikoshiba is already waiting. In that case...

Like the saying went, “The hero always arrives late.” People with a higher rank often arrived later than their guests. However, there were times they did the exact opposite of that. For example, a company president was already seated in the conference room when a meeting occurred at an office. Simply put, it was a form of harassment used to find fault with others.

Will I be met with cynicism or disdain?

Naturally, Bettina didn’t think she would get such a clear response. The quality of a noble’s servants typically represented their status and intentions. If a guest that the head of the family disliked attended, the servant would try their best to be formal. But if it were a privileged guest, the servant would take extra care when tending to them.

The reality was that noble families who employed servants with more brash personalities were usually a rank or two lower. Conversely, higher-ranking families employed servants with more professional demeanors. While the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy was a newly emerged noble family, their strength was already well-known. Bettina assumed that the servants working for him would be the best of the best.

No matter how much they hide it, there must be some subtle changes in their behavior that they can’t hide. Bettina was confident she could find those subtle changes.

“Please do not fret... Although the master has a coldhearted side, he will not dismiss you as long as you show respect and good manners. If he were planning to destroy House Eisenbach, he would not have invited you to a tea party, Lady Bettina. The master is not fond of such futile acts,” responded the blonde maid unexpectedly with a chuckle to Bettina’s unspoken question.

Bettina’s eyes widened as she thought, The maid wasted no time getting to the thick of it. I don’t believe she meant to antagonize me. 

There was no way of knowing if the maid had spoken the truth. While it might have been mere consolation, it was not the sort of thing a maid should discuss. Few people would speak to Bettina in such a way.

Is she just loose-lipped? Or is something else going on here? thought Bettina until she worked out who the young woman in the maid outfit was.

Ah, I see. She’s one of the Malfist sisters that man keeps close. They have the sun-kissed skin that many born in the central continent have. Given how they come from a family of high-ranking knights who serve the Kingdom of Quift, it’s no wonder that she has such perfect manners.

Women born into families of knights often mastered martial arts. Rather than just being simple knights, it wasn’t rare for them to become the bodyguard or waiting maid of a monarch or high-ranking noble. The Kingdom of Rhoadseria had a particularly chauvinistic bent, although Earth as a whole followed the same trend. It was difficult for women to live in a world like that. A woman born into a family bearing the knight’s crest could not inherit said crest if she wasn’t the firstborn. Being the waiting maid to a noble was an exceedingly wiser way to live, more so than being a female knight on the battlefield.

That is on the condition that one is lucky enough to be born with talent and good looks. But this maid ticks every box. I can’t find any faults, thought Bettina, letting out a small sigh that contained a slight sense of self-mockery concealed within it. I’m a fool. How did I not notice earlier? I can’t expect anything less than for a person of the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy to be a beauty from the central continent well-versed in manners.

Bettina was already aware of their names, Laura and Sara Malfist. After all, they were masterful warriors who had seen many battlefields and even helped Ryoma Mikoshiba with the previous civil war and when he was leading reinforcements for the Kingdom of Xarooda. Not looking up the names of such famous people was not an option. However, since photography and similar technologies didn’t exist yet on Earth, Bettina couldn’t pass judgment until she had met the sisters, even if she knew their names.

Portraits existed on Earth, but they took a long time to make and weren’t a very pragmatic choice—a situation unique to Ryoma’s world. Another reason for not knowing their appearance was that the Malfist twins often supported Ryoma Mikoshiba from the shadows and were more or less one step removed from the public eye. Therefore, Bettina hadn’t recognized who the maid was at first.

Even though Bettina was a woman recognized for her talent and received praise from those around her, she wasn’t entirely convinced of the Malfist twin’s identity.

Judging from her choice of words, she’s definitely close to that man. 

She had received information about the Malfist twins in advance. But Ryoma Mikoshiba had entrusted the blonde young woman with an important role. This Malfist’s mannerisms and behavior were too refined for her words to be laughed off as a slip of the tongue from an inconsiderate servant.

However, there must be a reason she told me that. “Is that...so?” asked Bettina, still unable to figure out their intentions.

“Yes, don’t worry,” said the blonde maid, laughing. Bettina stifled her inner anxieties and nodded in response.

It looks like she’s telling the truth.

There seemed to be no ill will behind the maid’s words, but Bettina couldn’t be too sure. The blonde young woman could not even show a hint of her inner thoughts as someone working alongside the monster Ryoma Mikoshiba.

“I’ll lead you to the meeting,” said the maid as she began to walk. Bettina followed her down the paved stones, white walls surrounding them.

“Oh, is the tea party outside?” Bettina cocked her head in confusion as the maid guided her past the manor entrance to a door that led to the central courtyard.

“Yes. The weather is nice today, so the master wished to hold the tea party outside today.”

“I see... He’s right. It would be nice to spend a day like this outside rather than holed up in a room.”

They passed through the hall and headed out into the central courtyard, and the paved path continued toward a small islet.

“It’s just over that way,” the maid instructed Bettina.

“Thank you,” responded Bettina, bowing her head. She went toward the islet, first crossing over the bridge. So, this is also a part of keeping everything secret.

The bridge was the only way of getting there. The meeting place was under an arbor built on the islet, meaning nobody could eavesdrop on the conversation. It was the perfect location for confidential business.

Archduke Mikoshiba probably has people hidden in the woods too.

Although often laughed off as plain rumors within noble circles, not a single spy that was sent to the Wortenia Peninsula had returned as far as Bettina knew. It was safe to assume that Ryoma had a highly skilled force of guards.

Unfortunately, I’m not quite skilled enough to detect where they are.

It was obvious why Ryoma had chosen to hold the tea party. Bettina mulled over the reasons as she crossed the bridge and headed to the arbor. As soon as she entered, she felt the gazes of several people; they seemed neither malicious nor friendly.

At the very least, no one seems to want to be any friendlier than necessary. Makes sense, I guess. You never know who has eyes on you.

Ahead of the tea party, Bettina and the other guests had to try to avoid doing anything that may evoke suspicion from Ryoma Mikoshiba. By enjoying light conversation and being amicable with one another, the women probably wouldn’t receive animosity or wariness from him. But it was impossible to say that was the case for sure.

In other words, it would be rather risky to take the initiative in welcoming Bettina, who had invited unwanted attention by arriving last. Being in a place where the future of one’s family hung in the balance, it was paramount that they avoided any actions or words that they weren’t one hundred percent about. Bettina couldn’t help but think it was dishonorable for the women who had promised to work together with her to remain steadfast in not getting involved. However, she couldn’t complain. She would have done the same had the shoe been on the other foot.

Besides, if Bettina dared to show her discontent and lose her composure now, it would reflect on the discussions with Archduke Mikoshiba later.

Everyone is putting their own families first...

Overall, everyone was minding and caring for their own business. As if to deny their gazes, Bettina smiled at everyone at the round table as she apologized.

“I’m sorry. Have I kept you all waiting?” said Bettina with an elegant bow.

“No, not at all. It’s still a while before the agreed-upon time. Sir Mikoshiba is not here yet,” replied Charlotte Halcyon as she rose from her chair, wearing a bright smile. Bettina felt relieved.

Although we’re working together to support Her Majesty Radine, I thought Charlotte would use this opportunity to oust me. But those were needless worries.

Even if they were allies now, there was no saying what the future held. Yesterday’s enemies could become today’s friends, and vice versa. It was important to monitor that line and adjust as necessary. Bettina wasn’t so naive as to lay bare her feelings to those around her. For better or worse, she was an unusually talented woman who had maintained her influence in the royal court, otherwise known as a nest of monsters.

“Is that so? What a relief.”

Ten people sat at the round table, with napkins and silver cutlery already set and laid out.

Oh? I thought they’d be serving macarons today, but I wonder if it’s something different instead?

Archduke Mikoshiba was known for serving macarons. Every noble within the Kingdom of Rhoadseria had that imprinted onto them. As a result, Bettina had assumed that he would serve macarons today too. She grew a little uncomfortable seeing the knives and forks on the table. But she didn’t spend too much time worrying about it since everyone seated around the table was both enemies and allies.

Seeing how determined they all are, it’s easy to see what they’re aiming at.

Bettina sat down without showing a hint of unease or internal conflict. The women at the table were important people from their noble families—all talented, well-known young women. Everyone was a bachelorette, and that was common knowledge. The northern subjugation and the battle that followed were to blame.

To those women, Ryoma was the perfect prey.

The women’s clothing made it apparent that they wanted more than just to establish cooperative relationships. Although the designs varied, each woman wore a new dress that was in fashion within the Kingdom of Rhoadseria. The dresses were clearly tailored especially for today’s tea party. All the accessories the women wore were noteworthy too. Their outfits could be described as the armor of warriors heading into a battle without weapons, the fate of their families on the line.

The same went for the organizer, Charlotte.

As Charlotte got lost in her thoughts, the maid with silver hair standing by the arbor’s doorway suddenly spoke up.

“Though somewhat early, since everyone is here, the tea party shall begin.”

As the maid with silver hair spoke, the blonde maid appeared behind her in the entryway accompanying a man. He wore black noble’s clothing and had his hair neatly combed back. At first glance, he looked like a young nobleman. But everyone knew who he was from the vigor that emanated from his body.

“Master of the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy, Sir Ryoma Mikoshiba,” announced the two maids. All the women stood before pinching their skirts and lifting them up slightly, bending their knees slightly as they gently bowed their heads. The women greeted the Kingdom of Rhoadseria’s true leader in a very ladylike manner.

“Thank you all for coming here today, even if it was last-minute. It is a privilege to meet you all,” said Ryoma as he also gently bowed his head.

Thus, the curtain was lifted on the battlefield disguised as a simple tea party.

Just as the women took their seats again, the twin maids took teapots from a wagon they had prepared and poured a cup of tea for all the guests. Ryoma waited until each lady had tea before speaking.

“All right, let’s begin. First, Lady Charlotte. Even though this was on short notice, thank you for your support and help. It must have been difficult coordinating everyone’s schedules. After all, I am considered a heretic among the noble society in Rhoadseria, which must have caused you a lot of trouble.”

Ryoma kick-started the tea party with some words of gratitude toward Charlotte. First on the agenda was to show appreciation for the people who helped organize the event in front of all the guests. That meant nothing besides showing that Charlotte Halcyon was now one step ahead of everyone else.

But this is probably a type of test.

Showing off their achievements was a foolish act that would wreck one’s image. At the very least, it would deteriorate the impression of the smiling man who stood beside all the women. Even if Charlotte’s heart was probably jumping for joy due to Ryoma’s words, she smiled calmly.

“Thank you, but it’s really nothing. I can’t imagine anyone in the Kingdom of Rhoadseria who would say no to your invitation. They would be delighted to join. At the very least, I believe everyone who is with us today would have made the same decision,” answered Charlotte.

Ryoma quietly nodded in response.

“That’s true. Everyone here is talented, well-known...and all natural beauties, to boot. Your dresses are so refined and incredibly well-made. Are these the latest fashion trends? The women on Earth are not to be underestimated, huh,” said Ryoma, smiling as he looked around the room.

The dresses came in various styles, and they all revealed the women’s shoulders or the top of the chest area. Some dresses were similar to modern styles, made of silk and designed to show off more skin. These beautiful women had gathered here, and the only man there was Ryoma. As he was a hot-blooded male, it would have been logical that he would fall for their charms and their clothes meant to draw a man’s gaze.

But Ryoma didn’t even have a hint of lust in his eyes. All he had done was candidly compliment their dresses and call it as it was—the women were all beauties.

A natural response, knowing his personality. I was a little afraid of him looking at me with a lustful glance, and I can’t help but feel a bit competitive.

Charlotte nodded, although somewhat irritated by Ryoma’s response.

“I’ve taken some tips from the styles that have made their way here from Rearth. From your response, Sir Ryoma, they must be quite accurate.”

“Oh... Is that so?” inquired Ryoma.

“Indeed. Rearth’s clothes and accessories are much more refined than those here.”

That was an expected outcome since Earth was in constant conflict; Rearth was relatively peaceful and could maintain more diverse cultures. Developments were usually born from mixing and combining styles and colors, a theory which applied to the designs of their dresses.

“I see... That could be the case,” stated Ryoma, sipping the tea the twins poured. When Charlotte and the others saw that, they picked their cups up.

“Oh? Oh...” One of the women faintly tilted her head to the side. The steam rising from the cup smelled different from how they expected.

“Oh my... It’s sweet, yet there’s a faint scent of orchid.”

“The color is quite dark too.”

Archduke Mikoshiba was known for his preference for Lisnors tea, but the women’s tea differed from the usual make.

“But...what is this?”

Based on the color and smell, it was easy to grasp that this was a high-quality luxury like Lisnors tea. Although the women were all highborn and well-versed in gourmet food, none could place where the tea had come from. Ryoma cheerfully laughed as he looked at all the women’s confused expressions.

“I see you’ve all noticed. This drink comes from the eastern part of the eastern continent, the Tian Hua Empire, and is known as Luminous Gate tea. People regard it as one of the eight best teas in Tian Hua, so please have a taste. There haven’t been many opportunities for tea to be transported here to the western continent.”

The women spoke to confirm if their memories were correct.

“The Tian Hua Empire... Wait, isn’t that the country that is said to be the strongest on the eastern continent?”

“You had a boat go that far?”

Ryoma gently waved his hand, denying the woman’s question.

“No, no, I had it imported via the central continent. Of course, I would like to send a ship to the eastern continent. But that’s a long while off yet,” added Ryoma, smiling. “I would also like you to try this. While macarons are delicious, it would be boring to serve the same thing every time.” He signaled the blonde maid, and she gave a slight nod as she brought the cart forward.

“Here you are... Please enjoy,” said the maid.

The women were greeted by an endless number of full-sized cakes. There was an ordinary strawberry shortcake, a no-bake cheesecake, a soufflé cheesecake, a basque cheesecake, and tarts with various fruits piled on top.

“Oooh...”

“I had these made by my chef. They’re authentic recipes, so let’s leave the more serious talks for later and enjoy the cakes. Feel free to have whatever you like,” said Ryoma.

Everyone’s eyes began to sparkle.

“These are wonderful. I never once thought I’d lay eyes on such a wide variety of sweets. I would like a slice of the one with fruit on,” said Diana Hamilton with a broad smile. Spurred on by Diana, the other dazzled women turned to the twins to pass on their choices.

“I would like the strawberry one.”

“Could I get the one made with cheese, please?”

The tea party had a rather heavy atmosphere, but that disappeared instantly and turned into something more befitting the event’s name. Ryoma smiled as he looked at the women, appearing like a father watching over his daughters.

That, or a man pleased to see his lover delighted.

A different emotion stirred in Ryoma’s heart, quite unlike the warmth one would usually feel. Instead, it resembled the joy an examiner might feel.

Well, they say that women have a weakness for sweet things. If these women are as talented as they say, they should see straight through my plan. Let’s see how they fare with the first hurdle, thought Ryoma.

The women then met Ryoma’s expectations exactly.

“Interesting. This cake uses cheese that the territories under House Hamilton produce. The cheese from there is slightly sour yet deeply rich. It’s a luxurious item, famous among the higher echelons of the kingdom. However, when used in a dessert like this, I can enjoy a whole different facet of deliciousness.”

“The grapes and peaches in this fruit tart have a wonderful taste and sweetness. I suspect it’s from House Eisenbach’s Gondolana territory. That’s the only area that can produce such taste and sweetness.”

“Very much so. Yet it’s still so fresh even though it came all the way from Gondolana in the southern part of the kingdom. Those who brought it must have preserved it incredibly well.”

The women all beamed as they chatted. They then put their peach-colored lips on their tea cups, taking sips to cleanse their palettes.

“How marvelous. I was a little apprehensive when the maid served it. Sipping it after eating a sweet has made me realize how the tea balances the aroma and bitterness.”

“You’re right... Not to mention, these sweets are amazing. I had no idea famous products from our regions could be used to create such treats.”

Ryoma smiled, looking satisfied, then said, “Yes. All of these were made with the local specialties from your families’ regions.”

“Did you do something similar when you hosted the evening party held at the Salzberg manor and served food there?” asked Charlotte.

Ryoma grinned. It was evidence that she had correctly understood his intentions.

“Correct. I want those who shall walk the same path as me to also be well-off, so...”

The women smirked and were quick to figure out what Ryoma meant. He did not need to invite people who wouldn’t be able to do just that.

“House Merdias will never forget this favor,” said Iris Merdias, daughter of the Viscount Merdias.

“Thank you. We are most grateful for your kindness.”

Following in Iris’s footsteps, the rest of the women expressed their gratitude. It was tantamount to receiving immunity from the most influential man in Rhoadseria. And that immunity was their main reason for attending this tea party.

Of course, immunity was just a simple word.

But the words of this man, whose demeanor alone demonstrated his value, were considered by Queen Radine as more powerful than any contract. Had he not planned to let their families go unscathed, he would have never mentioned those who shall walk the same path. Nor would he have gone to such trouble to have sweets prepared using their region’s most famous products.

Their answer was the most correct response and the development Ryoma had hoped for. If the level of the women’s abilities were not what Ryoma required, they would not have understood what he had meant. That would have led them to failing to pass the first test.

They reacted as I thought. Well, the continuation of their families is more important than their own lives. Although it’s only a verbal promise, it’s natural that they would be overjoyed that their families can continue. But I can’t have them just be delighted...

Of course, Ryoma wasn’t displeased with the beautiful women sharing their heartfelt gratitude. As a realist who respected actual benefit, he felt that just ending with simple words wasn’t enough. It was similar to the master-servant relationship that Japanese samurai followed—a relationship based on gratitude and service. Or, in more modern terms, how a company compensates its workers with a salary. People received compensation for their work, but the reverse was true.

I expect them to return the favor.

It was a constant truth that the people of Earth had to live by. In the middle of all of this, Charlotte Halcyon uttered the words that Ryoma wanted to hear most.

“So, Sir Mikoshiba, what do you expect from us in return for your kindness?”

Ryoma smiled before he spoke.

“Good question... Maybe you could all advise me on a situation that I’ve been struggling with lately.” Ryoma then went on to explain the bad news he had received yesterday. He started with the confidential information Joshua Belares had written and sent in a secret letter. He covered the invasion of Xarooda, and the current condition of Julianus I. Then Ryoma expressed his unease regarding the two incidents. Basically, it was information that directly related to the survival of the nation. The only people who would be privy to such information were key personnel involved with managing the nation’s affairs.

The information was so confidential that if someone were careless with it, it could get them killed. Nevertheless, the women remained steadfast upon hearing what Ryoma had to say.

At the very least, they’re calm on the surface. They’ve kept their composure.

Ryoma wasn’t sure if it resulted from their upbringing as noble ladies or was a result of their talents and abilities. They all qualified to be here at the tea party, though. Once Ryoma had finished talking, the women all looked around at one another and began to speak.

“I see... You’re right to worry about that, Sir Mikoshiba,” said Bettina Eisenbach with a captivating smile. Following Bettina, the other women also raised their voice in agreement as they figured out the situation.

“You’re right. The timing is too good.”

“I don’t think it’s coincidence that the O’ltormea Empire would invade Xarooda right around the time His Majesty Julianus falls ill.”

“I agree with Lady Iris. In that case, that would mean enemies are communicating from within His Majesty Julianus’s ranks.”

“It’s akin to the saying ‘Having a traitor within the walls.’ So, I can imagine there are people like that in every country.”

Ryoma nodded deeply to the women’s statements.

“Yes... His Majesty hadn’t been doing well for a while. Though, his illness was never that serious. I daresay someone used a weak poison to make the effects a lot slower. It cut away at his stamina, and they timed it perfectly. They must have wanted to assist the O’ltormea Empire in invading the Kingdom of Xarooda. I do not know who is behind all this, however...”

The women nodded.

“You’re correct, Sir Mikoshiba. I suspect O’ltormea had a hand in this. That, or a third country is looking to increase its power.”

“I think the O’ltormea Empire is the most suspicious. After all, they have Shardina Eisenheit over there.”

“That’s right. It’s definitely the sort of move that the so-called Princess General Shardina would make.”

The women had accurately analyzed the situation, though something was lacking. They hadn’t quite reached the level Ryoma was looking for. Even so, Charlotte, Bettina and Diana were ahead of the other women as far as talents went.

“I see. If their aim is to assist the O’ltormea Empire, those in Rhoadseria may also be at risk. At the very least, we can’t expect the kingdom to be in no danger.”

Charlotte nodded and responded, “I agree. If this were my operation, I would put a scheme together to hinder Sir Mikoshiba from doing anything.”

“That’s right, I agree with both of you. The most realistic idea would be to instigate the nobles that are unhappy with Sir Mikoshiba, causing a revolt. Doing that would make it difficult for Sir Mikoshiba to send aid to the Kingdom of Xarooda.”

Ryoma responded with a deep nod. That’s very true.

There was no mistaking that the Mikoshiba Grand Duchy had the strongest army within the Kingdom of Rhoadseria. The nation lost military power due to the northern subjugation and the civil war. But the six knight factions under the direct control of the royal family and the private armies owned by the nobles were not to be disregarded. They made up a substantial fraction of the nation’s military power too.

Although there would be a limit to the number of soldiers they could send, if they ignored all risk factors, they could send around one hundred thousand soldiers to Xarooda as reinforcements. It was a military strength that even the large O’ltormea Empire couldn’t ignore.

But should the nobles riot, that would change the situation entirely. It would be a devilish move that would allow their enemies to deplete Rhoadseria’s military strength without losing any of their own.

“Well, that is the most simple way of doing it. It wouldn’t take them much. All they would have to do is incite the other nobles, who are also as idiotic as Viscount Romaine.”

“That’s true. Unfortunately, we have many fools like that in our country.”

“Yeah, it’s actually embarrassing as a noble. That said, it’s not like they serve any purpose.”

The three women shrieked with laughter. At a glance, their words were pessimistic. Despite that, they all had a sense of composure, and Ryoma deduced they were plotting against House Romaine.

As I thought, they have a knack for trickery. They often say beautiful flowers have thorns, but those flowers are always poisonous. I have my work cut out for me. 

If Ryoma mishandled them, he could end up severely burned. Yet, he was relieved to discover talented people among the nobility of the Kingdom of Rhoadseria. Above all, their bewitching brilliance at hatching schemes had captivated him.

“Striking at an enemy’s weak points is essentially the basics of the art of war,” he said.

Charlotte and the others sneered behind their folding fans.

“Do you think that too, Sir Mikoshiba?”

“Yes. If I were them, I would also lay out the groundwork. After all, if all else fails, you could still narrow down your opponent’s options as a form of harassment,” responded Ryoma.

“That’s true. Limiting what we could do would be highly effective. Even though we understand that, how do we defend ourselves?”

“It’s a difficult situation. At the very least, someone will have to keep a close eye on the situation, dealing with anything suspicious.”

“I see... Is it okay to assume that’s the role you want to entrust to us?”

“Correct. I think you’ll all be a perfect fit.”

That was what Charlotte and the others wanted to hear the most.

“Understood. Then we must do a good job of managing the nobles’ discontent and animosity toward Sir Mikoshiba.”

Bettina agreed with Charlotte, showing the women knew exactly what Ryoma required of them. He then decided to entrust them with the most important mission.

“Alongside that, I have one more task I would like you all to do.”

“Okay... Is it related to dealing with Viscount Romaine and his cronies?”

Ryoma nodded deeply in response.

“Yes. It needs a swift resolution. I want to dispose of them in a way that would minimize any backlash from the nobles. Could I ask you to do that?”

“Of course. I expected you would mention it, so we have already made preparations. But we do have something we need to discuss with you...” A cold smile appeared on Charlotte’s lips. The ladies in attendance were already aware of said business and showed no signs of doubt. Ryoma smiled, satisfied with their confident words and expressions.