The Return of the Prince
Jessica sipped her coffee as she whispered.
... You are five minutes late.
Ugh I-It cant be helped okay? Its not like I went there to play.
Sit down first.
The waitress served her coffee.
After making Martina sit, Franziska sat too.
She placed the basket with a short bow in it at her feet, then took back her leather bag. Her luggage was rather big. She took a sip of coffee first.
Uwah, the fragrance dissipating in my mouth, the joyous bitterness on the tongue and a faint sour taste. Theres also a hint of sweetness?
Its really delicious!?
When Franziska was ordering, she thought the coffee doesn't earn much money, the empire will burn However, luxurious sugar seed to have been added.
This coffee had turn into another type of beverage.
Like a type of dessert.
Jessica asked quietly:
... Well? Any results?
Hmmp, isnt that a given? There are plenty of Belgarian Officers in this city who lust after my beauty in no ti. They then spilled the beans easily.
Jessica crossed her legs the other way, and looked really elegant.
She straightened her slender waist, which accentuated the curve of her beautiful legs.
Uwah, sister is so cool! Martina comnted with sparkling eyes.
Jessica tilted her head.
... Is that so? Threatening them with a knife is the work of your beauty?
You saw it!?
As expected, thats what happened.
Ughh Before I bring them to the shadows of the building, it is the work of my beauty!
She was too loud, so Jessica watched her surroundings.
Arara.
Even though they were conversing in Germanian, there were Belgarians who could understand too. Franziska lowered her voice quickly.
Anyway, there is good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?
... Well Theres nobody who would want to start with the bad news right?
It seed that way from the perspective of the listener.
The good news is elder brother didnt get hung. After all, executing such a famous figure would have great propaganda effects. Since there isnt such news from the Fourth Army, he either escaped or is still alive He is most probably employed. The Fourth Princess is passionate about improving her forces.
Jessica said in the past:
If she wanted to, he would have executed him already Since she didnt, the Princess must be hoping to take him in as a subordinate.
Even Franziska agreed
I feel that the political struggle between the Second Prince and Fourth Princess has already concluded. The Emperor passed away right? Didnt he already declare that he will take the throne?
Jessica put the newspaper on the table.
It was published not long ago.
That would be after the formal state funeral, it hasnt reached the stage for the succession yet. He did say I swear to inherit the will of my father to make the Belgarian Empire even more prosperous.
Hmm?
Franziska could speak Belgarian, but couldnt read it. She could only make out single words. By the way, her sister Jessica was fluent in thirteen languages. According to her, the language of these nations mostly stemd from the common tongue of an ancient Empire, so they were on the level of dialects. That ancient Empire was said to be destroyed by the Founding Emperor of Belgaria.
... And? The bad news?
In response to Jessicas query, Franziska sighed.
The Fourth Princess seed to have left Fort Bonaire, and is returning to Fort Volks. They wont pass through the capital.
... I see.
Jessicas group traveled with Bastian in a shaky carriage. After they made a detour around the place they suspected to be the battlefield, the Fourth Army had already set off towards another direction.
When she saw how unmoved Jessica was, Franziska beca anxious.
I thought big sis could predict the location with divination!?
... Even without divining The position of the Imperial Fourth Army isnt important.
Why!? Big bro is there!
Even if we know his position, whats the point?
Ughh
Indeed, the distance wasnt the problem.
Even if the three of them infiltrate the Fourth Army, they wouldnt be of any help to their brother Gilbert and his other captured companions thats what Jessica divined.
Franziska felt the things Jessica see was different from what she saw.
So, what should we do?
It is really easy to gather info from here to the Empire. First, lets get in contact with the rest of Renard Pendu.
Thats right!
Even though they lost the other day, that was just part of the rcenary band. There were still 700 odd rcenaries with the High Britannia First Division.
... Well, 700 n wouldnt be of much help in conducting a rescue operation.
Its not enough!?
Jessica looked up into the sky.
The sun was setting and the western sky was dyed a deep shade of red. It was almost ti for dinner.
... Yes Its not enough with just them But we cant ignore their will and strength. They are like the stars, sparkling in the night Well then, at the side are Queen Margaret and his right hand man theres also the Second Prince and Fourth Princess All of them are dazzling stars Even though it is just looking up at the stars from the ground, but the capital is a very suitable place for that. After all, telling the future by astrology is my duty.
You an we have to keep on collecting intelligence?
It will be fine. We are getting closer to elder brother.
Hah Well I will believe it since big sis says so
The Fourth Army was on their way back to Fort Volks. In terms of distance, they were gradually moving away from the capital.
Sister, you are not feeling well?
Martina looked at her worryingly.
It will be fine, Franziska said while patting her head.
Hmm But what should we do? Even if we want to seek out our Renard Pendu comrades, where are they now? With the way the situation is developing, wouldnt High Britannia head back ho? They will bring our comrades with them. Or would they dismiss them sowhere else?
Firstly, Oswald Coulthard isnt that stupid to dismiss such a force.
That might be so, but isnt Queen Margaret a little?
Franziska scratched her head.
Jessica didnt deny.
Thats true. Queen Margaret probably wont withdraw. Lets gather so information from the soldiers. They will probably pull sothing off with the Germanian Federation
Why do you think that? Because of the stars?
... Before the war, they had frequent correspondence with the envoy of Langobalt Kingdom. What did you think their preparation is for, if not for such a situation?
Isnt that simply preparation if they needed help to escape?
If Queen Margarets character could be seen through so simply, she wouldnt have participated in her Armys expedition to Belgaria. The High Britannias main forces had never lost any battle, so their losses were minimal.
I see
Even though they didnt suffer much losses, they had to retreat because their supply lines were cut off.
With this in mind, it was understandable what their next move was.
But, wouldnt it be fine to not retreat from Fort Bonaire? Didnt they hold a rather huge advantage?
... If they made any wrong decision, the battle would have ended. If they engage the First Army and the Fourth Army show up behind them, no matter how experienced the soldiers of High Britannia are, there would be deserters.
Well, thats true.
The Empire also has reserves.
When the palace gets within their reach, there would be a good chance that enemy forces would hit them from behind.
It wouldnt be a victory even if they got into the capital Jessica added.
Even though big sis claid to be a diviner, she actually says strategist like things most of the ti.
Realizing they would be caught in a pincer attack, Queen Margaret led her troops away. However, if they receive resupply from Germanian Federations Langobalt Kingdom, things would be different She isnt a woman who will return ho so easily.
Isnt that Oswald guy the one commanding the High Britannia forces? Colonel Coulthard?
He is just enamoured with the Queen His love is very pure Even though he could see the trends of the war, he still took command of the army as he understood the wishes of the Queen.
He knew he would lose the battle?
... Franziska too, you knew that Renard Pendu had lost, but still want to do sothing for elder brother right?
I-I am different from him!
... We fight wars for money, its sothing we have to do to survive.
Thats right!
... This is necessary for Queen Margaret too. In order for her to live on.
Why?
Jessica shrugged. She said in a colder tone than before.
... Probably to stave off boredom.
Kek, Franziska gritted her teeth.
I will blow her away, that damn woman.
... Thats why, High Britannia wont bring Renard Pendu back with them If we can gather intelligence in the capital swiftly, not only will we have more opportunity for communication, we will have more options if our strength increases. Lets prepare for now Until the chance to rescue elder brother cos up.
Thats the most important point. Franziska nodded.
Yes, I will definitely rescue him! He is our brother after all! Our family!
Jessica looked to the sky. The clouds seed to be burning because of the setting sun.
... The star of the Second Prince Latreille is shining brightly. Seems like he had obtained incredible power.
Its not the hour to see stars yet right? Franziska thought as she tilted her head.
You an the Empire will win?
That is definitely so. Because the tides of the war are clear, there is no value in divination However, its not clear if they will lose sothing Since the war is still ongoing, that is very possible.
Well, you are right.
... I think Queen Margaret will return to High Britannia in the end If you gain sothing, you will lose sothing else.
That damn woman can still go back after creating this entire ss?
... However, her star in the west Probably her ho country, there are dark clouds looming. What should we do?
Well, the conflict within High Britannia has nothing to do with us.
... Thats true.
Clap! Martina raised both of her hands.
Mister Bastian!
Franziska looked up, and saw Bastian walked into the cafe.
He was a brown haired youth with a slender built. Just 16 years old, just like Franziska.
He was wearing sun glasses right now.
There seed to be a reason why he was hiding his true identity.
A blonde girl was by his side. Even though she was a bit short and frail, she seed to be the sa age as him. She was Elise.
Franziska recalled their conversation in the carriage
That ti, Jessica asked Elise with a calm tone:
... By the way Why did you lie about being a student studying abroad?
What!?
The atmosphere in the carriage turned tense in an instant.
Bastian straightened his back.
Franziska witnessed Bastians strength before, so she beca nervous. If this devolved into a battle, they would definitely lose.
Elise seed very calm.
... Why do you think that is a lie?
The capital might turn into a battle field tomorrow It would be dangerous if the Belgarian find out that you are a High Britannian, and you might be killed by the High Britannian Army by mistake too. If you are really an overseas student, it is too dangerous for you to head for the capital.
I see. Its true, this was just a simple lie.
Elise nodded in acknowledgent.
She admitted that was a lie imdiately.
She pondered for a mont then said:
Erm I cant divulge the details but I escaped from High Britannia. I would go back so ti, but that would be dependent on the situation within the country. As for why I am visiting the capital, it is to accompany Bastian on his goal.
Bastian nodded with his arms crossed.
I am not sure what I should do too! But I think I have to return to the capital.
Elise smiled wryly.
Going to the capital that might turn into a battlefield for such a reason? You might think it strange, but thats how he is.
A retard? Even though Franziska thought so, Bastian rescued her earlier, so she couldnt said it out loud.
Jessica lowered her gaze.
... We followed the High Britannia Army for so ti before.
Franziskas body stiffened because her sister revealed this fact suddenly.
Bastian and Elise looked at Martina in surprise.
This child too?
Clap, she raised both hands.
Its true! Martina worked hard too!
I see It must have been hard
How should she explain this. Anyway, they didnt seem to think of them as rcenaries. Franziska sighed in relief.
Jessica mixed in a lie.
... We dont have a ho to go back to. So we want to seek refuge with an acquaintance in the capital.
So thats it.
Even though Bastian seed agreeable, Elise didnt look entirely convinced.
That was the conversation with masks they had in the carriage.
And their opponent back then, Bastian and Elise ca to the table.
Yo, sorry for the wait.
... Have you finished investigating the things you need?
There are so results. What about you? Found your acquaintance in the capital?
Jessica looked at Martina, hesitant to speak.
She seed to be hinting at sothing.
Elise seed to realize sothing, and asked:
Martina, have you eaten the cake in this shop?
Hmm?
They look delicious. Want so? I will buy them for you.
Really!? Thats great!
By the way, the cake here is butter bread. Bread with sugar spread on top of it.
Although Franziska like that too She decided to endure.
They left the table.
Her splendid performance impressed Franziska.
Jessica acted this way for two reasons. First was to bring away Martina who was bad at acting. Second was to draw the smart and observant Elise away from this conversation.
Right now, only Franziska, Jessica and Bastian were at the table.
Jessica lowered her head.
... Thank you for your concern.
Its nothing. There are things we dont want kids to hear So, what happened?
Jessica said in a rarely seen depressed tone.
... Regrettably, our acquaintance is gone After asking the neighbours The head of the family died in battle, and his widow went back to the countryside with her three children.
That was a lie, of course.
They were rcenaries from the Germanian Federation, it was impossible for them to know anyone in the Imperial capital.
However, Bastian looked sympathetic, and showed an expression of regret.
I see Hmm What are your plans now?
We are very troubled. Our money is running out.
That was true.
If they were rich, they wouldnt be rcenaries.
Even the continents strongest Renard Pendu wont possess gems like aristocratic ladies.
Even though the three sisters had the funds to return to the Germanian Federation, their objectives right now was to rescue their brother Gilbert.
They had to stay in the capital.
Jessica stared at the empty coffee cup on the table.
... What What should we do Maybe I can write to another acquaintance for help?
Does he live near the capital?
... No. He is in the Germanian Federation. But there is no one else we can turn to. It pains for my sister to live a hard life too.
Hmm, Bastian crossed his arms and nodded.
Judging from his clothing, Bastian was a noble.
Not only was his clothes top quality, his sunglasses was expensive too.
In short, the plan was to beg. Jessica spoke plainly. But she didnt blatantly show her tears and sorrow to him. By doing so, it will create an air of being troubled, and the situation wont be too unrealistic.
Franziska wasnt good at acting, but was great in a fight.
I should have followed Martina, I want to eat cake Despite thinking so, she lowered her head in order to not disrupt her sister. They just wanted this nobleman to spare a few days lodging fee from his dessert allowance.
Alright, I understand. Bastian slapped his knee.
Just stay in my mansion. Others might talk unfavourably about this, but we are comrades who traveled and ate together. I could I abandon three girls? No, I wont do that. Well You wont be treated like guests though, so how about it?
The unexpected developnt made Franziska round her eyes.
Are you for real!? Do you know who we are!?
She asked without thinking.
Jessica kicked her under the table. Unnecessary thats what she was implying.
How embarrassing.
Bastian smiled awkwardly.
I dont know at all. I am dull and cant tell if soone is kind or evil I failed miserably because of that before. However, I also dislike suspecting others.
... You are really a strange man.
Is that so?
After finishing their conversation, Marina and Elise returned.
In Martinas hand was a wooden plate, with five pieces of cake on it.
We bought sisters share too!
Ooh!?
Franziska couldnt help shrieking.
How embarrassing.
However, she had been on the battlefield all this while, so she hadnt eaten any snacks for two months.
Elise asked:
Bastian, how did the discussion go?
Ahh, they need to contact an acquaintance from afar instead. So I asked if they want to stay at my place for the ti being.
What are you thinking, Bastian!?
What, you object?
Of course. Inviting young girls you just t back to your place is too shaless!
I-Im not thinking about it that way!
Bastians face reddened.
Franziska waved her hands.
Ahh, not at all! No need to worry about that! We are fine with it! It will be a big help if you can let us stay! Erm, isnt that right? Even though I am cute, that guy wont do anything strange right?
As usual, Jessica had an unreadable expression and said softly:
... We wont snatch him away, it will be fine.
It was Elises turn to blush.
I-I-I dont an that! I an from a standpoint of a gentleman! And we are not in that kind of relationship!
Martina ate her cake as if all these didnt concern her.
This is~ delicious!
Bastian got up from his seat.
A-Anyway! There are lots of empty room in the mansion, it will be fine! They wont be staying in my room.
... I understand. I will be staying at Bastians place too, so I have no reason to refute other guests. My apologies.
Franziska shook her head.
No, not at all! It will be heavenly as long as there is a roof! Much better than camping in the rain and marching with the troops through the night!
... Thats true.
Cough, is that so!? Really!? Just like heaven!?
Martina whose mouth was stuffed with cake raised both her hands.
There was no reason to reject.
Bastian smiled awkwardly.
Looks like there arent any problems. Well then, lets go. I have sothing to attend to tonight, so lets finish this matter quickly.
He walked out of the restaurant. Franziska and the others followed him closely.
The group walked along the streets under the evening sky.
Franziska pondered:
If I succeeded in stalling the Beilschmidt Border Regint That strategist Regis Auric wouldnt have made it to the front lines, the High Britannia supply line would be fine. We will defeat the Imperial First Army and take the Imperial capital?
She would then stroll with her brother Gilbert and her sisters along this street. Together with everyone from the rcenary band too.
Even though she took care not to show these feelings, she was still regretting in her heart, clenching her trembling fist.
There was an extravagant gate before them.
Bastian continued walking confidently.
They approached the Palace Le Brane.
Passing through the residence of the nobles, they finally reached the main gate of the palace. This gate was like an art masterpiece.
Even though they were at war, the gate was completely open. It might be a grand gate, but would be useless in a battle
The Belgaria Empire really likes to turn things into art, Franziska thought in surprise.
In comparison, the culture of the Germanian Federation was plain and practical. At most, they would have reliefs to create unnecessary uneven surfaces.
Even though Franziska had gotten used to the plain designs back ho, she still admired the grandiose of the Empire. And the palace, which stood at the peak of all these extravagancy, was before her eyes.
She sighed subconsciously.
But, what were they doing here?
Hey? Erm, why did you co to the palace? Sightseeing? Did you co to sightsee?
Well How should I put this Erm
Bastian scratched his head.
He then took his sunglasses off.
His crimson eyes shone under the setting sun and turned brighter shade of red.
This is my ho.
Eh?
Franziska couldnt understand montarily, and turned stiff.
Jessica didnt look surprised at all, as she already noticed.
Even though Martina made a surprised sound Whoaa!?, she didnt seem to completely understand.
Finally, Elise sighed.
... Even though I wanted to tell you earlier.
Haha I thought Elise already knew. Will it be strange if I introduce myself again?
It might feel strange, but you should still explain it clearly.
I see. But wouldnt it be the sa if they already understand?
Thats true.
Once they started talking loudly, the guards at the gate approached them.
It was a soldier wearing top grade light silver armour.
Hello there! Pardon , but who are you? What is your business here?
A slightly intimidating voice.
Franziskas body turned stiff when she saw the Belgarian soldier approaching them, while Bastian answered openly.
Ahh, just nice. Can you help notify Marquis Bergerac?
About what?
I think he should still be the Minister of Ceremony Maybe he will be fired this ti.
The guard was confused by his words, and stared closely at him.
... Brown hair. Eh? Crimson eyes? Y-You No, Sir Are you!?
Bastian looked embarrassed as he brushed away his fringe.
Well, its a bit embarrassing to state my own na I am Heinrich Trois Bastian de Belgaria, Third Prince of Belgaria. My grandfather is Marquis Bergerac.
The guard saluted loudly.
M-My sincere apologies!! Please be lenient for our punishnt!!
Its fine. Its natural for you to not know if I ca back like this. But please, make haste.
By your command!
The guard turned back and ran to the gate.
After he relayed the information, the other guards were stunned, and a lot of them scattered away.
Shortly after, a lot of maids rushed in briskly.
Followed by one person A stern elderly man with a chest full of dals and a mourning band on his arm.
Bastian!? Is that really you!?
Yo Grandpa, I am back.
You are alive!
How an
Before him was Marquis Bergerac. He was the Minister of the Ceremonial Ministry, father of the Third Consort, Bastians grandfather.
You fool! After you ran out from that school, you went missing!
Ah
Now that he ntioned it, he didnt contact the school again since he ran out of the classroom to chase Elise.
And the war started shortly right after that I felt that
Hahaha! Theres no way I would die right?
Did sothing happen in High Britannia?
Not really. Their soldiers hacked and shot at for a little though Oh right, I t Queen Margaret and dueled with her right hand man. Oswald is amazing, and unreasonably strong.
Marquis Bergerac collapsed dizzily onto the floor.
This sparked off a commotion with the maids, who shouted "Check it!" "Check his heart!" "The analgesics!"
Franziska who was listening in while standing at the edge could only think What the hell is he saying!?
If she didnt witness Bastians strength first hand, she would have treated this as a joke. However, he did seem capable of facing an army head on. In terms of combat abilities, he wasnt far off from her brother Gilbert.
The old noble glared at Bastian.
C-Could it be that this war is because of your mistake?
... Well, considering the fact that I failed to stop the war, it could be my fault. But Margaret is serious about declaring war.
Just listening to what you say is enough to make my heart stop.
Thats not good. Talking with is enough to make you unwell, maybe you need more exercise?
Moron! The problem lies with the content!
Hahaha it sounds that interesting? Is my creative talent seeping through even in my everyday conversations?
Ughh, your actions created international problems everywhere. Tell what you did to Prince Latreille if you dare. It wouldnt be strange if he throw you into prison.
What? Is my brother that sensitive now?
The Emperor just passed, and there is a large scale war after all. Even the Imperial Army suffered unprecedented losses.
I see Can you tell the details about that? Isnt it strange that father died from old age? Didnt he just take in a new wife? And he was eating at during the New Year party right?
Hmm
The elderly nobleman looked at Franziska and the others.
Who are the ladies over there?
Even though it was obvious that he was changing the topic, it was natural for him to ask about the unidentified guests.
How should I put it.
Bastian looked in the direction of Elise, Franziska, Jessica and Martina.
These are my friends.
... Friends?
They ca from abroad, and dont have a place to stay. Arent there plenty of spare rooms in the palace? Can you let them stay for a while?
The wrinkle between the brows of the elderly nobleman beca deeper.
Ugu What a reckless fellow.
You cant?
This is a request from a royal to the Minister of Ceremony to treat them like friends right? There is no reason for to reject this. Which is the problem.
Hmm?
Hah When the Emperor passed and many soldiers died in battle for the Empire, the Third Prince studying abroad in High Britannia ca ho with four won This would beco scandalous news.
Well, everything I do will beco news anyway right?
Ughh My old heart!
As they conversed, the elderly noble ushered Franziska and the rest in.
Le Brane Palace
The interior design could only be described as stunning.
Even though Bastian was the sa as usual, Franziska and the others couldnt speak as if they were overwheld.
Unspeakable extravagance.
If she visited this palace and still insisted on waging war against the Belgarian Empire, instead of being stupid, it was more likely that Queen Margaret would be think of as being suicidal. Franziska thought.
Or maybe, she wanted this palace.
The elderly nobleman and Bastian had more things to discussed, and went to another room.
After stating their accommodation request, Elise was given a single room, Franziska and the others were given a room for three.
The zone under the jurisdiction of the Ceremonial Ministry always kept several rooms prepared in case of ergencies.
Franziska entered the room assigned to them and felt dazzled.
Is this for real
He is an unexpected big shot.
I thought big sis already noticed.
... The stars didnt tell this much.
Or rather, if you ask them right from the start, they probably wont tell you.
... You an the stars?
Yes, the stars. Hah I thought we would need to sneak into a stables to sleep But now, we have beds with canopy and sheets with golden threads
Waaahhhh, Martina pounced onto the bed.
There isnt any sll of straws!
Jessica told her: High class mattresses are stuffed with cotton.
Even famous rcenaries were poor. And of course, Franziska had never slept on cotton bed before.
It was too extravagant, which made her heightened emotions cool down instead.
I will sleep on the floor.
... Whats the matter?
Even though big bro is suffering in captivity But we are sleeping here
... Dont be stupid. If you accumulate too much fatigue, you wont be able to use your strength during the critical monts and fail in rescuing elder brother. Dont think of such aningless things.
E-Even so
If you say that, that kid will also sleep on the floor.
Ah
Looking up, she could see Martina sleeping in the middle of the bed. Even though it was just evening, she must have been very tired.
Jessica sat on a luxurious chair in the corner of the room. Embroidered cushions were placed on the chair, and its legs had beautiful patterns. It matched her unexpectedly well.
... They said that dinner would be brought to our room, I will wake you when they co. Franziska, just rest for now.
What about you, sis?
... I have things to think about for now, so I will sleep later.
Then I will too! I dont know much about thinking, but I can wield a weapon.
... If the maids co in with dinner and see you with a crossbow, they will definitely scream.
Ughh.
... Alright, just sleep first. You dont look well.
But I always look cute!
Jessica smiled gently.
... In order to protect us, you have been on edge this entire ti. The stars told that this place is safe. Take a rest for now. Thank you, Franziska.
I see
The stars and things like that couldnt be trusted.
But she felt like sleeping when Jessica asked her to rest.
Is this her spell?
Franziska laid onto the bed. Her consciousness fell into deep slumber.
After Bastian finished talking to his grandfather, he ate his dinner quickly and returned to the back of the palace.
He changed into clothes befitting a Belgarian noble, and tidied his attire.
Elise stood beside him.
You finished your conversation with your grandfather?
I already asked the necessary questions. If we talk further, he will lecture until morning. So I ran off after apologizing.
... It must be hard.
Thats right.
I an for your grandfather.
Eh!? Well I didnt get into this ss because I want to.
Fufu, just kidding. So, did you talk about anything that bothered you? You dont look so good?
Bastian washed away the dirt of his travel with perfud water, and wore top quality clothes and sunglasses.
He looked less tired than this morning but was shocked that Elise noticed such a minute change.
By the way, Elise was wearing a Belgarian noblewoman laced dress. The dark green dress matched her blonde hair really well.
Normally, tailor shops would send their workers to take asurents, and the clothes would only be ready after a week, and intrinsic costus would take a month. Even the Ceremonial Minister wont push for a dress to be fitted imdiately to keep up appearances.
You look really cute in that dress.
Eh!? W-What are you saying, Bastian is really
His abrupt words made Elise blush.
Alright, the heroine in my next work will wear this then.
... I knew it would turn out like this.
She sighed.
Such incidents only happen because Bastian was always collecting material for his future masterpiece.
Back to topic.
Bastian scratched his combed head.
Well, I asked about many things But I am most concerned about my brother and father.
Once again, I express my condolence for the passing of the Emperor.
No, its that Brother is sothing who would do that.
Eh?
Bastian checked his surroundings.
He was walking on the widest road in front of the Belgarian palace. Even though it was well lit after the sun setted, there werent many pedestrians due to the recent passing of the Emperor. At least, there wasnt anyone close enough to listen in on their conversation.
I didnt see it or have any proof. But, my brother entered the room of father and his newly wedded wife And found them dead. Isnt that strange? Also right now, brothers heavy infantryn are guarding the door and the only ones who could enter freely are the chamberlain, a few doctors and the maids.
W-Well, since that is the chambers of the Emperor and the place he passed, unauthorized persons shouldnt be allowed to go near
Therere rumours that even the personal doctor of the wife was forbidden entry, earning the wrath of the Estaburg Kingdom and threatening war.
War!?
Well, the Belgarian Empire is always at war, so its normal for relations with other nations to deteriorate. We refused to send her body back to her ho country nor let her doctor inspect the corpse, its weird right?
... That is very true.
A gloomy cloud lood over Elises face.
She realized the possibility that the truth might differ from the official report on the cause of death of Consort Johaprecia Octovia.
Which was regicide.
Elise asked with a disappointed expression.
Why do the people in the Empire allow such violence?
The sa reason why High Britannia couldnt bring Queen Margaret to justice. There is no evidence. There are many suspicious points, but nothing decisive. Also, many of the ministers acknowledge that my brother is qualified to be the next Emperor.
... How could this be Isnt he a rebel?
Well, my father isnt that passionate about politics and military affairs. And High Britannia seems to be losing.
Thats the problem here!?
There isnt any doubt that this nation is seeking a strong ruler. Even though I dont think this is right The nation will definitely fall if the monarch is weak.
So they acknowledge him
The chamberlain Marquis Beclard accepted him, and the grand nobles around the capital belonged to the Second Princes faction. Instead of facts, the focus is on which choice would yield the most benefits.
You think this is fine too?
Bastian crossed his arms.
Hmm Instead of the facts, isnt what he will do after becoming Emperor more important?
... You think the sa way too
Like I said, I think this is correct. After all, I promised that guy.
He gently touched the leather pouch on his waist. The notebook of Roland, a friend he t in High Britannia was inside.
It was a book he wrote in order to spread liberalism.
There is a way for all n to pursue happiness and freedom Thats what he said.
Right now, there wasnt any freedom in the Belgarian Empire. The nobles indulged in luxury, the commoners were oppressed, and the unending war continued to rob countless lives and wealth.
There need to be a change. However, I dont think everything about the Belgarian Empire is bad. We shouldnt destroy the Empire completely.
Thats true. I also feel that a dramatic revolution will bring misfortune to the masses.
What should be changed, what should stay the sa I dont understand. Thats why, I will ask soone who might know.
Yes.
And so, Bastian and Elise walked down the street that night.
After leaving the residential zone of the nobles and the central area with shops geared towards the aristocrats, they headed towards the outer region where most of the commoners lived.
Turning into an alley from the main road, they saw a bar just before they got lost.
The building was built with red bricks, and several tis the size of other houses, which made it look huge.
Even though most of the buildings in the vicinity closed their windows and doors, and the streets were quiet with few people on the streets, only this shop had light shining out of its open windows. The wooden door was also half opened.
A sign hanging above the entrance had the word Provenus.
Bastian opened the door.
A lamp hung from the ceiling, and the room was brightly lit.
At the counter to the left of the entrance was a staff cleaning wine glasses. He slanted his eyes and looked Bastians way.
There was a screen inside the bar, and the seat behind it wasnt visible. It divided the space into another room.
In the center was a large round table, with four ssy tables placed in other places. Several n with wooden mugs placed their elbows on the table.
The patrons were all adults.
About thirty odd n in total.
There wasnt just food on the table, but newspapers and books too. It appears to be not just a simple bar.
They stopped their discussion, and looked at Bastian and Elise with sharp eyes.
In Belgaria, one was considered an adult at age 15, so Bastian and Elise were adults. There wasnt any problem with them being here.
However, they still attracted a lot of attention.
Elise was a bit scared, and tugged on Bastians sleeve.
E-Erm Do we need to co here? Will we be fine inside?
She whispered.
Now that you ntioned it, you have to be 17 to be considered an adult in High Britannia. You cant enter a bar at 16 right?
Because you can only drink if you are an adult.
But in Belgaria, you are an adult at 15.
... Well, it would be an issue if they conscripted kids into the army, so the law is written that way to accommodate this fact. Be it ntally or physically, those who are not 17 are not of age yet. There are even so nations who set the mark at 18 or 20.
Even if one is 15, they could still kill an enemy in single combat. It is only natural to treat soone who can kill others as an adult. This is also a form of respect to the enemy who are killed.
It is because of such thinking that makes the Belgarian Empire neglect the rights of won no matter how much ti passes Well Enough about that Is the person we are looking for here?
Its my first ti eting her too.
Bastian walked into the depth of the bar.
The custors simply stared at him in silence. He was really prominent after all.
They seem to be wary of sothing?
He asked the staff behind the counter.
Is it convenient?
Sorry dear custor. Our bar dont have tea that suits the taste of a young master.
Even though his words were polite, it was the sa as saying go on ho you brat.
They might be plenty of commoners who hated nobles in other cities, but there werent many of them in the capital.
Bastian said with a smile:
Dont make such a scary face. I am looking for soone. Her na is Bourgine.
The staff scowled his face when he heard that na.
The bar turned quiet.
Gaze that was filled with annoyance and wary turned into obvious hostility.
One patron A well built man drew his sword.
The other patrons scrambled to the wall to avoid being drag in.
Ard with a sword, the man approached.
He didnt exert unnecessary strength on his shoulder and arm. From the nurous scars on his muscular arm sticking out of his shirt, he had the bearing of a veteran.
He was probably a soldier, or served in the past.
Professeur Bourgine isnt here. Go ho. This is not a place for a noble brat like you to play.
Can I assu that I need to make an appointnt before I can co here?
I already told you to scram.
I refuse. I have to et that person.
You want to die, you noble brat!?
The man swung his sword.
Half the people yelled finish him off!, the other shouted dont be rash!
The sword sliced down.
But Bastian didnt move.
Elise who was hiding behind yelped Hya!? softly, but that was all.
The blade flashed before his eyes.
It didnt reach Bastian could already tell.
I am not here to fight, I have so important business with Bourgine. I promised my friend.
I dont know the reason But no matter what it is, the Professeur wont et a noble like you!
His opponent took a step forth.
The next swing will definitely reach.
Bastian could dodge, but he had to protect Elise behind him. To be safe, it would be better to defend with his body.
There would be no room for discussion if I draw my dagger. Aside from this bar, I dont have any other clue in finding that person.
Cant I do sothing unard?
Bastian clenched his right fist with a crack.
The man slashed down.
A sharp voice ca from behind him.
Stop!
That man froze.
All eyes in the bar turned to the owner of that voice.
A woman holding a walking stick appeared from a seat behind the screen.
She wore a long dress, and had a scarf hanging down over her green blouse. It was the dressing of a normal citizen.
She was about 30 years old.
Her legs seed unwell, so she had to use a walking stick.
There wasnt anything special about her brown hair that was tied up, and hung over her chest. Her skin was pale and her limbs slender like a patient.
However, the man with the sword backed away after eting her gaze.
Master, you cant co out! He might be a soldier sent by the noble faction!
A child like that? Without even a sword?
You can never be too safe.
Just intimidating with words would be fine, but if you really slash at him, that would be violence, not a warning. I dont rember asking you to protect sothing like that.
Clink! A crisp sound echoed in their ears.
The sabre's blade fell to the policeman's feet.
The policemans sword broke at the
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