Maou No Utsuwa

Imperial capital mosque of the Ruthuan Empire. The city hasn't changed anything just because I changed my name from Wang to Empire. If anything has changed since before, it would feel slightly less vibrant.

It's a strange story to lose your vitality even though you've become the capital of an empire that can unite the continent, but there's a reason for this.

Many knights and soldiers have not returned as they marched to the western part of the continent. Not only that, but it has left us to His Majesty Emperor Nicolai, and the inhabitants of the imperial capital have not had a real sense of continental domination, but on the contrary have felt somewhat forgotten loneliness.

And it's not just the residents.

"... What's the messenger from the Artenkreutz Republic for?

It is Stefan, the Crown Prince of the Ruthuan Empire, who is suddenly against Kamui, the ambassador of the Republic he has visited.

Golden hair, blue eyes, a face that can be described as beautiful, sits next to each other, like Lady Tatiana, my mother. I'm supposed to be around thirty years old, but I look younger than I am because of my creased hair.

"Yes, because it was something I had come close to on a mission that His Majesty ordered me to do. You can't leave without saying hello to His Royal Highness."

"... is that just a greeting"

Heard of greeting, Crown Prince Stefan looks a little sorry.

When I heard that Kamui of the Artenkreutz Republic had appeared, I was nervous about something and I was expecting it.

The Ruthua Empire is where Emperor Nicolai has finally taken over the country's full powers. Crown Prince Stefan had not been given the opportunity to get involved in national politics. This is what I can't help but do.

"For His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, you think it's just a greeting, etc., but it's important for our small country. You can't survive being resented by the Empire."

"... right"

Crown Prince Stefan's face clouds again. Prince Stephane naturally knows about the Republic's Kamui. Though enemies, their abilities were highly valued and, in a way, honored as well.

One day I want my continent to be named like Kamui myself. This is what some people think.

Crown Prince Stephane feels sorry that Kamui showed such a bad attitude.

"Now, may I also greet Her Royal Highness Lady Tatiana?

"Oh, yeah, sure."

My mother, Lady Tatiana, is now in her sideroom capacity. Even though it is a subordinate country, it is not in a position to be present in places of sight with the envoys of other countries. I dared to have that present because of a little defiance towards Emperor Nicolai, my father, who dropped his mother on the sideroom seat.

"Her Royal Highness Lady Tatiana. I know this is the first time I've seen you. My name is Kamui Kreutz and I am the representative of the Republic of Arten Kreutz."

"Yeah. I've heard your first name several times. Sounds like a big shot, huh?

"No, that's not true"

"It's just enough for me, the Queen, to know her name. There won't be anything. I hope humility passes, don't you?

I'm not going to be saying anything disgusting. Lady Tatiana usually only praises Kamui for her work as a social decree.

"Even if I had been active in reaching Her Royal Highness's ears, I would be ashamed of you now."

"What are you saying? From now on, use that power not for war, but for peace on the continent. That's what I want."

Lady Tatiana's greetings are nothing short of that. Should I say that there are things that were just supposed to be queens of the Kingdom of Ruthua?

"We encourage you to meet your expectations. After all, Her Royal Highness is the one the Queen deserves. I know there will be a lot of hard work ahead, but we are on Her Royal Highness's side. I can't say what I can do, but I hope I can help at all."

"... on my side?

Lady Tatiana does not know why Kamui has brought up such words.

"The Republic has something to think of in the former Empire of Schutz Alten. If I put it this way, will you believe us?

"Oh, no, it's not... is it?

Guess from Kamui's story, I can accept that the Republic has something to think of in the Old Empire, or Claudia. So when you take sides with Lady Tatiana, not Claudia.

Considering what this means, Lady Tatiana's face is getting a little blue.

"... I apologize for this. I think I'm in a bit of a hurry."

Kamui utters an apology. But it did not deny Lady Tatiana's questioning.

"What happens to Stefan?

"No, that's why I was in a hurry. I haven't heard that your son has been made, so I was wondering if anything has changed so far."

"... So what happens next?

So far, Lady Tatiana thought of Kamui's intentions, which she dared to attach.

"I can't help it. It is only natural that His Royal Highness the Crown Prince will succeed him. Our power is fine, but there must be a lot of other people on your side."

Kamui's explanation seems to refute Lady Tatiana's anxiety, which has not happened at all. It's just a bunch of thought-provoking stories, and rejection is supposed to inflate anxiety.

"What is Father thinking!?

Crown Prince Stefan also understands the meaning of the conversation between his mother and Kamui. I put into words my dissatisfaction with Emperor Nicolai.

"Be careful what you say like that. I really just have to apologize for this. This is my fault for swallowing rumors I heard in the capital of the kingdom of Dia."

If Kamui is right, it would mean that rumors are circulating in the king's capital of the kingdom of Dia. It's actually flowing. Needless to say who is flushing it.

"What rumors?

"I have no corroboration, I thought that letting you know vague information would just confuse me"

"I don't mind. Speak."

"... it's a downward looking rumor. His Majesty said he was no longer willing to return to the Imperial Capital and intended to make the King Capital of the Kingdom of Dia a new Imperial Capital. For some reason, it's hard to say, so let me skip the explanation."

"Oh no..."

Lower care rumors and foreboding explanations. I can imagine the details being omitted.

"Your Royal Highness, do not be deceived. It's a ploy to confuse the Empire."

Towards the discouraging Prince Stephane, there are those who have denied the story of Kamui. Top of the Civilian of the Ruthua Empire. Chancellor Leonid Cromore.

"A ruse? Really?!?

Prince Stephane turns his question to Kamui after listening to Prime Minister Cromore. There is anger in that look.

"It would be if they called it a ruse. Let's get this straight. The Republic does not make it good for Claudia, and those of the former Empire who serve Claudia, to take power in the Empire. To that end, I support Her Royal Highness the Lady of Taratina, let alone those who are here now."

"Is that how we're going to create cracks inside the Empire?

As this is the important part, Chancellor Cromore has directly questioned Kamui. The inexperienced Prince Stephane is anxious.

"Your Royal Highness. Our hope is that the empire will be stable and that the spirit of racial harmony will travel widely across this continent as soon as possible. Confusion is the opposite of what we want. That is why we want not only the rightful form, the imperial succession of Her Royal Highness the Crown Prince, but also the return of Her Royal Highness the Queen Tatiana to her righteous Queen."

Kamui returned the answer to Chancellor Cromore's question to Prince Stephane.

"... um"

The matter of my mother is a matter I want to do something about as Crown Prince Stefan. When people say they support it, they can't deny Kamui's story without saying it.

"Your Royal Highness. Don't let such stories fool you."

Chancellor Cromore doesn't seem to be going to easily erase his distrust of Kamui. Rightsmanship tactics are Republic specialties. This vigilance is natural as a prime minister of a country.

"Believe it or not, it's up to you to ask, but there's only one thing I'm not convinced of."

"What's that?

"Why aren't they trying to bring His Majesty back to the Imperial Capital? It seems to me that the problem at present lies all in His Majesty not returning to the Imperial City."

"It's... the messenger has sent many times"

Chancellor Cromore knows as much as Kamui says. There is nothing good about Emperor Nicolai being away from the Imperial City.

"I have been sent messengers many times and His Majesty will not return. It doesn't surprise me not to be alarmed by this fact. Is this idea of mine wrong?

"... it"

I can't deny Kamui's words. There is a fact that Emperor Nicolai has not responded to repeated requests for return.

"Okay. Again today, I say nothing more. So I think we should start with a closer look at what's going on in the capital of the Kingdom of Dia."

"I know."

"On top of that, let us know if you feel you need our help. The republic has trouble being empowered by the old empire who would resent the republic. I think our interests are in agreement on this point?

"... ok. Let's get the messenger out of here then."

Chancellor Cromore is alert to the power of the Republic. But that's because we recognize the power of the Republic. If we can really get help, we can never be more powerful.

"I'm on a mission, moving around the continent. I'll leave the messenger for communication."

"A messenger?

"No matter where I am on the continent, you should be able to communicate information at an alarming rate. Mia."

"Yes."

Kamui called me in and a woman in black came in. I can barely see its face with a long stretched forehead, a black cloth covering it to the mouth, but I can clearly see the good style even from the top of the clothes.

"I will leave this person. Usually be it a samurai or a woman, feel free to use it. You should be able to do a lot of work."

"The person...?

Pretty suspicious style to say to use as a samurai or midwife. I can imagine what qualities would be if I were to be under Kamui's command in this atmosphere.

"As you can guess, I'm a demon tribe. You won't be able to use vigilance, so feel free not to put surveillance on it. First of all, don't hesitate to dispose of the Crown Prince or Lady Tatiana when they show a gesture of harm."

"But..."

Even if they told me to like it, keeping the Demons in the castle was in itself an anxiety for Chancellor Cromore.

"I think we can talk about it now, but if you feel like it, this one can sneak in as many intermediaries as it takes. I thought it would be useless to be wary of Mia alone."

"I guess..."

Listening to Kamui's explanation, Chancellor Cromore reluctantly utters a convincing word.

Prime Minister Cromore is well aware of the high intelligence capacity of the Republic. In order to prevent that intelligence, various attempts have been made and many have come to an end in failure.

"Did you understand?

"... Your Royal Highness?

Chancellor Cromore asked Prince Stephane for judgment. It is also a sign of willingness that I will no longer object.

"... would be good. Leave him."

It's not like Crown Prince Stefan has no anxiety. But even as I refused in this situation, I couldn't think of a reason for that. There's no way you can say that because you're scared of the real Demon Clan.

"Thank you for your forgiveness. Mia, please."

"Yes, I'll take care of it"

"Well, that's all I wanted to talk to you about. Whispering later, we have a gift for you, so please give it to us."

That concludes the negotiation. Later, it became a revelation of the gifts that had been prepared.

Items that are never numerous, but none are ever available in the Ruthua Empire. Almost everything is like what can be called a specialty of a demonic tribe.

To Lady Tatiana, a textile fabric made from yarn spit out by demons that only inhabit Nortoende. The colours are also used dyes made from plants, ores, etc. which can only be picked at Northende, and the shades are unique. Other than that, various ornaments. The stones are not expensive, but the sophisticated design is unique to the Demons.

To Crown Prince Stefan are mainly weapons. Swords, cages, and shins made of special metals magically processed from oats steel used by the Kamuis were given away.

Both Lady Tatiana and Crown Prince Stephane were very satisfied with the rare gift. Attempts to even slightly diminish prejudice against the Demons are first and foremost about success.

Thus the sight with Crown Prince Stefan ended.

◇ ◇ ◇

Without even knowing that the Republic of Artenkreutz is enlivening its movements in the country, Emperor Nikolai continues his stay in the King's Capital of the Kingdom of Dia.

Those who accompany us know that this situation is never good. Vasily, in particular, was giving it as an agenda at every meeting in an attempt to do something about it.

"We can't keep our country handy forever. I think we should return at least half the army, more if we can."

"Hmm. That's right."

Keeping a large army in garrison is expensive. It was also conceivable to make the Kingdom of Dia bear the burden, but there was no such gold in the Kingdom of Dia as to make it bear it. After the war, the treasury was empty.

"Then plan to withdraw specifically. Who does this?

Vasily has no right to give orders to the military. I wasn't even in a position to think about a march plan.

"I will consider it in the military. That's good."

General Bondarev has returned the answer to Vasily's question. But Vasily is not satisfied with this.

The real aim is to encourage Emperor Nicolai to return as well, in the wake of the return of the army. As for Vasily, I want to move on as soon as possible.

"How soon can you submit that?

"As soon as you can."

IMMEDIATE ANSWER. But it's still not the answer.

"More specific dates."

"He says we'll work on it soon! Can you answer deadlines for things you haven't worked on yet!

Towards Vasily for a specific due date, General Bondarev has been absurd in his voice. When I get this attitude, I want to suspect it's also why I don't want to return the army.

Vasily didn't say anything because pursuing this would only make her even angrier.

"Discuss it more calmly. Then nothing will be decided."

Emperor Nikolai has pinched his mouth here. Something like soothing the two of us that makes the atmosphere worse.

"I'm afraid the military has its way of doing things. No outsiders are instructed."

Even if Emperor Nikolai goes in between, General Bondarev can't seem to heal his anger.

"I know that. So I'll take care of it. Make a plan and report it as soon as I can."

"Ha."

Emperor Nicolai intended to rule the place, but in the end the specific deadline remains uncertain.

"It's good to return the army, but what's happening to the republicans? If you don't do your job well, the army won't be able to give you back your soldiers, will it?

Plus Emperor Nicolai has changed the story. That concludes the day. I have to bring up the story of my return from scratch again tomorrow.

"The collapse of the northern aristocracy is going well. It's just that we've been rubbing it inside the Independent States."

Hiding his inner disappointment, Vasily answers Emperor Nicolai's question.

The crushing work of the nobility to weaken the Republic has not progressed as we thought. The rebellion is working, but it doesn't get wrapped up on the independent side.

"What are you rubbing?

"Independence in a noble house has no advantages whatsoever. We seem to know that, and some nobles are trying to build a country, but when it comes down to it, we talk about who the king will be."

"... you greedy people"

We are using that greed to disobey the Republic. It's not something I can criticize.

"We mediate one by one, so it takes all the time"

"If so, why don't you expire?

"So what about those who can't make a decision?

"Take it all away. There's no way a country can be ruled by someone who's not so decisive."

"Really..."

Listening to Emperor Nicolai, Vasily began to think. I have one concern for Vasily, although the idea is that he will compromise somewhere for fear of becoming nil.

"What are you worried about? If you're showing all your sweet faces, you just let them go up. Shouldn't it be time to show the tough side, too?

"Yes, but as a result, I was wondering if you would make a decision to stay in the Republic"

"What?

As soon as I heard Vasily talk, Emperor Nicolai looks grumpy. I am unhappy that the aristocrats of the North have been told that they will choose a republic over an empire under their rule.

"I'm not talking about compared to His Majesty. It is those who believe that independence cannot be achieved in a single aristocratic family who are rubbing it. But I'm not convinced that other houses in line with myself will be kings. If so. It's not strange to think about staying in a republic where you swore to obey once."

Immediately aware of the reasons for Emperor Nicolai's displeasure, Vasily explained the reasons in detail. It could be enough.

"Right. So, what do we do?

"I have an idea. It's just a bit of a drastic measure, so let me tell you something."

What's in Vasily's head is a pretty hard measure to talk about. That's why I'm not going to keep it in my chest.

"I don't mind. If you have a plan, don't hesitate to say it."

As Vasily thought, Emperor Nicolai has asked for an explanation. This makes it easier for Vasily to talk.

"I was wondering if some hands would take in the Kingdom of Schutz Alten itself if the disobedience did not go well"

"Do you have such a plan?

Forward swing is enough. Emperor Nicolai is quite intrigued.

"Marriage to King Thales"

"... what?

"King Thales does not have a righteous queen. If we marry, and your son is born, the Kingdom of Schutzarten will bear the kingdom of His Majesty's blood."

Therese has Lisa, and between them is a son named Zigmund. But Lisa refused to take her right-wife's seat because she cared about her low status. I left it to say it doesn't matter because I'm not going to marry another wife for Therese, but Vasily is trying to poke me there.

"Is that what you're telling me to do with Juliana to my wife?

"It seems disrespectful to say who. We hope Your Majesty will choose the right person."

In his mouth he says this, but Vasily thinks of Juliana in his head. There is no other single royal family.

"... am I going to tell Juliana?

We know that Emperor Nicolai is also nowhere but Juliana. However, Juliana is not the type of person who obeys promises even if Emperor Nicolai orders her to. That's why we haven't put it anywhere yet.

"Who is there besides Your Majesty?

"... let's make sure of Juliana's intentions first. Send it to Juliana because she wants a letter."

"... Yes"

Vasily thinks it's up to him to be rejected if he confirms his intentions. Naturally the reply became powerless.

"I think marriage is a good measure. Don't worry, I'll convince you properly."

"Thank you"

As soon as I saw how Vasily was doing, Emperor Nikolai followed me. This kind of care is not a bad thing.

I just wanted Vasily to have a tougher attitude toward Juliana than kindness toward herself this time.

"Well, is there anything else?

Emperor Nicolai is about to change his story again in an attempt to blow up the atmosphere that has gone bad.

"Oh, well, I will"

In response, Claudia, for whatever reason. Vasily's expression turns into something dangerous.

"Kraw? Then let me know."

Ignoring Vasily's emotions this time, Emperor Nicolai urged Claudia to explain. The same sweetness for Claudia.

I'm going to open a swordsmanship tournament.

"... what?

Claudia's proposal was outside Emperor Nicolai's imagination.

"We hold swordsmanship tournaments to gather strong people. I don't think you need to be afraid of the Republic."

"... I see. Is that the plan?"

Hearing Claudia's explanation, Emperor Nicolai is showing impression. Gathering the strong is not a good idea.

"What is it different from the ritual of selection of brave men performed by the Church of God?

Vasily throws a question from the side to Claudia's suggestion. Vasily is right, Claudia's suggestion is a masterpiece of the courageous selection ritual.

The Church of God sought the strong and as a result Kamui was the end of his selection as a brave man. There is a great chance it will be the same this time around.

"Not in the Church of God and the Empire. If you give the top graders the status of Imperial Knight, which is also a special Imperial Knight, there will be people out there who didn't show up at the Church of God."

"... Really?"

Claudia says gather people together by promising to treat them broken. But there are more differences than good or bad treatment. The Church of God sought the mighty to fight the Demon King. But this time, I don't need to make it clear officially that I'm going to fight Kamui.

Promise breaking treatment without making you feel like your life is in danger. Surely there is a possibility that a strong man will appear who did not come out during the church.

Furthermore, knights belonging to the country should not have been allowed to participate during the church. There is no constraint this time either.

Now that we know this, Vasily can no longer deny Claudia's suggestion.

"What do you think?

Claudia turns to Vasily when she says she's a queen and asks for her opinion in such a way as to be afraid. This kind of attitude hasn't changed for a long time.

"I don't think it's a bad idea"

"Really!? So it's settled, then?

It's not a decision just because Vasily said it wasn't bad. I don't have that authority. But Claudia is already completely concerned about it. These places have been around for a long time.

"Sire?"

"Isn't that good? First swordsmanship tournament after the reunification of the continent. I'm looking forward to seeing how exciting it will be."

"No, you are. It will be the competition that determines the strongest of the continents in the true sense. Games of this magnitude are the first on the continent. Sounds good to me."

Following Emperor Nikolai, General Bondarev also speaks with some excitement. Plus the other generals. He's making his chest jump to the swordsmanship tournament for nothing.

Anxiety spreads again on Vasily's chest watching it sideways.

There is anxiety that the generals are unwilling to return to the Imperial Capital.