Rebirth in a Ruined Nation! The Life of a New Strategist Starting From Now - Chapter 116

The Empire’s Turmoil (3) – The King’s Decision

What should be done with the news brought by Das-san was something even the King couldn’t decide on his own. Therefore, the country’s major power was gathered in the capital for a discussion.

The discussion wasn’t held in the audience room, where I usually meet the King, but in a rather solemn-looking room. There were exquisite-looking chairs in the room and eight people sitting on them.

At the center of the front sat King Zeurasia and The Commander of the 1st Division, Lucifal Veras sat right beside the King. On the other side of the King, there was an empty chair. Rays-sama, who came in with us, walked toward the empty chair.

Nelfia was standing quietly and inconspicuously behind the king.

Das-san and I remained standing near the entrance. After Rays-sama sat down, King Zeurasia started to speak.

“Das-dono, I apologize for the lack of courtesy. I hope you don’t mind standing for a moment. I have heard everything from Rays, but would you mind explaining it again to the people here?”

“Of course, sir.”

Das-san put his right hand on his chest while keeping his left hand open and bowed to the King. His exaggerated gesture reminded me more of a merchant rather than a diplomat.

After clearing his throat, Das-san explained simply what he had told us before, while I was listening beside him. Perhaps because this was his second time explaining, his explanation was more put together and clearer.

“Thus, I am humbly here to act as the Empire’s messenger.”

When Das-san finished speaking, silence filled the room.

“Now then, does anyone have any opinions on this matter…No,  this time, let me speak my opinion first. I am thinking of meeting them first. But I am willing to change my mind if anyone disagrees.”

After King Zeurasia spoke, no one said anything.

Because of my bias, I thought Lucifal would express an opposing opinion, but he stayed silent with a rather difficult expression.

Eventually, one person raised his hand.

I remember he was Cipher-sama, Rudek’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“Regardless of my personal feelings, I agree with the King, that we should meet them. However, whether or not to permit them to pass will depend on the 4th Imperial Prince’s attitude after he arrived in our country later. If, when the Prince stepped into our country he was overbearing, then we can refuse him.” 

“Hmm…what Cipher said makes sense. I also believe that we can let them pass as long as the Empire’s people show us the minimum amount of courtesy. If they are being disrespectful, then we will ask them to turn back.” (King)

“I have no objection to that” (Person A)

“Any other opinion?”

After the King asked again, although everyone looked reluctant, little by little the opinion that ‘we should at least meet them and listen to them’ began to spread in the room.

Everyone here must understand that we have to avoid fighting the Empire in our current situation.

“Very well. We shall meet them first.”

King Zeurasia made the decision. I saw Das-san secretly sighing in relief. For Das-san, the princess of his country was also involved in this matter, so I was sure he was also anxious about what kind of decision that our kingdom would take.

“Then, what kind of arrangement should we make?” After Lucifal asked, the King turned his gaze to me.

“Roa. The matter was brought up because of the letter you sent, is that right?”

“No. The matter wasn’t caused by my letter. My letter was just coincidentally sent at the right moment.”

“But is it true that the wife of the 4th Imperial Prince took a liking to you because of the drifting ship incident?”

“…Yes, most likely.”

“What do you think, Das-dono?”

“I believe that Roa here is one of the few people that Luluria-sama trusts in this northern continent.”

Hearing Das-san’s words, King Zeurasia nodded in satisfaction.

“In that case, the Roa Brigade will be picking up the Empire’s delegate at Yolos Corridor. Any objection?”

No one spoke up.

“Good. Das-dono, I apologize for troubling you again, but I would like you to return to the Empire and arrange the meeting. My secretary will inform you later about the days that are available for the meeting. Nelfia, do you understand?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Then, that’s all for today. Everyone, thank you for your hard work.”

Thus, the preparation for an unprecedented event, that was of the 4th Imperial Prince coming to Rudek as an envoy has begun.

***

“The Roa Brigade alone won’t be enough. Take another brigade with you.”

Thanks to Das-san’s effort, the date of the meeting was decided. Several days before we were about to go and receive the imperial envoy, Rays-sama told me we needed more people.

Though I want to trust Luluria and the others, I understand that we needed to bring more than 2000 people in case the meeting was a trap.

Next to me, Lapilia-sama shot me with a look as if to say, bring me with you too. True, having someone as powerful as Lapilia-sama with me would make me feel at ease. Still, I wonder if she has any other purpose for wanting to come with me. Hm…no, I couldn’t think of anything like that.

…Well, I guess bringing her would be fine.

“Then, is it fine if I ask for Lapilia-sama’s help?”

“Sure. Lapilia, do you agree?”

“If Rays-sama ordered me to go, then I will go.”

Thus, the imperial envoy’s escort ended up being the Roa Brigade and Lapilia Brigade.

…Ah, sure enough, Lapilia-sama has another purpose.

That was what I thought when I saw Rufa riding with Lapilia-sama on the day of the departure.