NOVEL WEB Book 9: Chapter 3
“Uhh…” Wein and company were back at the temporary residence the Ulbeth Alliance had set up for them. The prince was groaning with unease. “This mask protects your household…?”
The object in Wein’s hands was a common sort of handicraft that could be found on sale throughout the region, and he’d purchased several on a whim.
“It does look more like something you’d wear to scare off enemies,” Ninym replied as she took it from him.
“Or freak out little kids.”
“I think that kind of reaction is the point. It’s proof of its effectiveness, you could say. It’s not happening right now, but I heard there’s a festival where everyone parades around town in masks like these.”
Wein imagined a sea of terrifying crafted faces marching through the dark night and shivered. The celebration sounded like a nightmare for children and uninformed adults alike.
“I also recall that there’s a masked gathering where people can vent their various frustrations.”
“Makes sense to me. The Ulbeth government keeps tabs on everyone. I guess a masquerade party helps them cope.”
“It’s an established custom, so authorities usually look the other way,” Ninym added. She then donned the mask. “‘I serve a certain noble, but he’s an awful troublemaker…’ Just kidding.”
Wein laughed. “Who could you be referring to? He sounds like a handful.”
“Care to try it on, Wein?” Ninym giggled.
However, the prince swept his hair back theatrically. “Don’t need it. Concealing these good looks would be a disservice to the continent!”
“…”
“…”
Ninym quietly held the mask over her face again. “Well then, I have work to do.”
“Wait! Don’t ignore me, Miss Ninym…! It hurts my feelings…!”
“Ninym? I, the Masked Flahmette, am a simple passerby.”
“My subordinate is in a super bad mood! What should I do, O adorable Masked Flahmette?!”
“She’ll feel much better if you devote yourself to your job and don’t spout nonsense.” Ninym, aka the Masked Flahmette, set documents in front of the crestfallen Wein. “First, let’s review the situation. We want to make a trade deal with Ulbeth, right? Commerce between Natra and Patura took a significant hit, so we’ll need a substitute.”
“Right. We trekked here from the far north to help Agata with his scheme in exchange for a business deal,” Wein responded, his previous despair now gone. “But after seeing things for myself, it’s obvious that the situation is quite different from what we assumed. I know each city possesses equal authority, but Agata is a Holy Elite and the public face of the whole nation. I figured he’d at least be a cut above the rest.”
“From what we’ve heard, that’s not the case at all,” Ninym agreed before cocking her head to one side. “Do foreign entities like Levetia lack influence here because the Ulbeth Alliance is focused on its own strength?”
“Let’s worry about the reason later. Right now, our biggest problem is Agata’s limited power. It could sink our trade deal.”
Agata wanted to unite the four city-states under his own banner, and a trade deal with Natra was plausible if he succeeded. However, Wein and Agata’s secret pact would collapse if this plan failed. It all hinged on whether the older man actually brought Ulbeth under his control.
“Man, I was really hoping this would go better.”
Wein had, of course, weighed the risks before the trip. He’d supposed that his odds against Agata were pretty good. Even if he did lose by some odd chance, the prince thought he’d at least bring home a consolation prize.
Once Wein had arrived in Muldu, however, he realized that Agata’s predicament was worse than he’d imagined. He could already sense this was a colossal waste of time.
“And that’s why you’re betraying him, right?”
“You got it.”
Aiding Agata in bringing the Alliance together wasn’t Wein’s only option. So long as he achieved his own goal, Ulbeth’s unification (or lack thereof) made no difference to Natra’s future. Wein already saw an obvious second route.
“We’ll try Roynock to the west,” he began. “It dominates Ulbeth’s sea trade, and we can ditch Agata if I strike a deal with its representative.”
Ninym nodded. “Yes, but I have several concerns. First, you’ll immediately make an enemy of Agata.”
“True, but I doubt he’ll be much of a threat. After all, he invited a foreign power like me to help with Ulbeth’s domestic issues. If I cut ties with him, a political war against the west and the south will swiftly end his career.”
Agata was old, so making a comeback wouldn’t be easy. And without authority, no amount of hatred could threaten Wein.
“All right, let’s move on. How do you plan to negotiate with Roynock’s representative? The Ulbeth Alliance has rejected your business proposal once before.”
After Natra had gained access to Soljest’s port, Wein immediately solicited every nation along the West’s coastline with a trade deal. Unfortunately, his notorious reputation preceded him, leaving other countries wary. Everyone ignored him, including the Ulbeth Alliance, whose naval liaison was, of course, Roynock.
“We won’t know until we try, but I think we stand a chance. A lot has changed in the West since then.”
“Okay, here’s my third and final concern. I know you’re going to meet the representative in Roynock, but Agata’s involvement worries me.”
“Yeah, there’s that,” Wein groaned. Agata was sharpening the ax for his own demise. It was unnerving, to say the least. “I’m sure he knows I might betray him. Shouldn’t that make him nervous about leaving me alone with the West and the South Representatives?”
“Yet he’s prepared that exact scenario. Agata might believe you can’t betray him, and perhaps his confidence is warranted. We should be careful,” said Ninym.
“Right. And there’s something else that bothers me.”
“Something else?” Not sure what other points she missed, Ninym gave Wein a puzzled look.
“I’m not sure…how serious Agata is about unification.”
Ninym’s visible confusion grew deeper. “From what we know, Agata’s political position is slowly declining. Asking a foreign power for aid seems genuine to me.”
Agata had dragged Wein into the fray because Roynock and Facrita overshadowed Muldu. Such was the present situation.
“Still, Agata’s heart doesn’t seem in it.”
A seat of authority was a wondrous thing. Almost every leader, even the most composed, would fight to the death to guard their power.
Wein didn’t sense this from Agata, however. The Holy Elite asserted that his goal was unification, but it felt like the man was running in a different lane.
“What other objective could he have?”
“No clue,” Wein replied blankly.
“I suppose it is a bit early to say.”
They’d already learned a lot in this city, but there were still plenty of unknowns. Blindly guessing Agata’s motive wouldn’t accomplish much. They needed information.
“Well, no use worrying. Let’s set that aside for now and get ready for the banquet.”
“Right. I’ll also gather more details about the Alliance.” Ninym paused to let out a sigh. “I wish I could come with you, but as your aide, I know that associating with me would damage your reputation. Even if my hair is dyed, a Flahm like me should remain in the background.”
“Come to think of it, didn’t you mention that the aide from earlier realized you’re a Flahm? What was his name… Kamil, right?”
“Yes, but fortunately, he doesn’t seem prejudiced.”
Ninym shrugged but found no reason to celebrate. If Kamil had said something cruel, there would have been bloodshed once Wein found out. To her immense relief, their conversation had been unremarkable.
“Perhaps he’s a rare exception. Then again, Levetia’s influence is shaky here, so maybe people in the Ulbeth Alliance are more accepting of the Flahm?”
“Even so, let’s not test that theory.”
Taking such risks despite full knowledge of Wein’s imperial wrath was suicidal. Ninym didn’t want Ulbeth reduced to ash.
“Besides, Flahm prejudice or not, the Alliance clearly despises outsiders.”
She could still feel those penetrating eyes as the carriage traveled through the city. The heavy, insular atmosphere was hardly inviting.
“Well, let’s meet up with the West Representative first and try to work out a deal. That’ll decide whether or not we betray Agata.”
“Let me say this first—be very careful. Don’t cause unnecessary trouble.”
Wein grinned. “Better hope peace loves me.”
Ninym let out a defeated sigh. “…I’ll prepare an escape route.”
“Good morning, Prince Wein.”
On the day of the banquet, Agata’s aide, Kamil, met the foreign delegation outside of their provided accommodation.
“Master Agata has instructed me to escort you to the venue.”
“Thanks. I don’t really know my way around town yet.”
Kamil bowed courteously. “We can depart at your earliest convenience. Is that all right?”
“Sure, sounds good. Let’s get going.” Wein nodded before turning to Ninym behind him. “Well, I’m off. Hold down the fort while I’m gone.”
“Yes. Please take care, Your Highness.”
Ninym watched Wein and Kamil’s carriage depart.
“By the way, what’s the occasion?”
“The children of two influential people, one from Roynock and the other from Facrita, are getting married. The West Representative is hosting the affair since the groom-to-be is his close relative.”
“I see. How wonderful,” Wein replied before asking a follow-up question. “Shouldn’t the party be in Roynock, then?”
“Although I believe the engagement is a political bargain between the west and the south, the location was likely chosen because the West Representative’s relative lives in Muldu.”
“Traveling all the way here for a family engagement? That’s rough.”
“The four cities have upheld a policy of appeasement since the Alliance’s founding, so most people have relatives throughout Ulbeth. Traveling between cities to attend a wedding is quite common.”
“Oh yeah? You make it sound as though Ulbeth has a firm sense of solidarity.”
“If only it were that simple.” Kamil let out a heavy sigh. “We’ve laid a solid foundation and can handle foreign nations, thanks to the appeasement policy, but the rivalry between the cities is rising drastically. Each of the four believes itself the true leader of the union. Politicians have even tried to gain the upper hand by inciting their own citizens. Unfortunately, this has also opened old wounds.”
Mutual encouragement through healthy rivalry could nurture cultures, ideas, and techniques. However, the relationship quickly soured when anger and resentment were thrown into the mix.
“I know those types. Higher-ups that engage in that kind of manipulation are especially annoying.”
“I must agree, Prince.”
Wein and Kamil smiled wryly at each other.
Those who managed their own domains regularly took to thinking half the city and even the entire nation belonged to them. They gleefully snatched up all the credit when their settlement prospered yet panicked more than anyone once things turned bleak. It wasn’t too dire an issue in moderation, but this could rapidly go belly-up if the situation turned extreme.
“The marriage of a relative is paramount to such people. After all, someone you dislike may suddenly become close family.”
“It must be tough to balance feelings and profit.”
“Indeed. The familial relationships in Ulbeth are a complex labyrinth. Even today’s couple argued bitterly and nearly broken off their engagement, but the West and the South Representatives managed to keep them together.”
The carriage arrived at the mansion while Wein and Kamil conversed. Other guests had already gathered, and there seemed to be a large crowd inside.
“You know, Prince Wein, disjointed as they are, the Ulbeth people transform when a certain something is in their midst. Do you know what that is?”
“A foreigner, right?”
Kamil only smiled, and the two entered the building. The mood changed instantly.
“My, what an auspicious day.”
“Indeed. The weather is crisp and clear.”
The reception hall was vast enough to accommodate a large crowd, and guests filled every corner, chatting all the while. The light tone matched the joyous occasion, but their comments were less than complimentary.
“Ha-ha-ha, this fresh air is more than the weather.”
“Oh…? Why, you’re right. Those dirty easterners aren’t here, are they?”
“No, look over there. They’re skulking in the corner.”
“Heh. How impressive for a group that boasts only arrogance.”
“I do wish they’d realize their star has fallen.”
“Why, I’m certain they’ll understand once we demonstrate Roynock and Facrita’s unbreakable bond.”
The gossipers sneered openly as their targets, those guests from Muldu, silently endured the abuse.
Harsh…
Despite the engagement party being held in the eastern city, the locals were being dragged through the mud. It underlined just how much Roynock and Facrita despised them.
Still, it looks like Muldu might have a chance to turn things around.
A quick glance revealed that most of the attendees were from Roynock or Facrita. The Muldu guests were a small minority. What’s more, there weren’t any guests from Altie. Invitees from the west and the south patted themselves on the back and acted as if their friendship were forever, but that glint in their eyes revealed both factions considered the other to be a nuisance. It was obvious that, given half a chance, they would be at each other’s throats.
They’ll settle down soon enough, though.
After all, Wein—a foreigner—was now in their midst.
“Hey, who’s that?”
“That’s one of Agata’s men with him.”
“Wait, could it be the visitor from Natra?”
“You mean Natra’s crown prince?!”
The stares and whispers escalated as Wein moved into the center of the room. The distrust and suspicion were almost palpable. It was hardly a warm welcome.
“What did the prince come to Ulbeth for…?”
“I heard his mind is a steel trap. He’s definitely up to something.”
“Sir Agata invited him, right? Does that mean Natra is allies with the eastern city?”
“If so, that makes him an enemy…”
Animosity flooded the hall. Even Kamil, who was only a guide, looked tense. Had the glares from the crowd been solid arrows, Wein would have resembled a hedgehog by now.
Naturally, the prince wasn’t the least bit intimidated. His arrogant smile practically declared him king.
“He is over there, Prince Wein.”
“So that’s the West Representative I’ve heard so much about?”
Kamil directed Wein’s attention to a man slightly older than the prince. He was Oleom, the young genius and the representative of Roynock.
“It has been some time, Sir Oleom.” Kamil stopped and gave a polite bow.
“Indeed it has, Kamil,” Oleom replied in a slow, cautious tone. He knew Kamil was Agata’s aide. “I’m pleased to see you in good health. How is Sir Agata?”
“Quite well. Thankfully, he is as fit as ever.”
“I’m glad to hear it. However, I don’t recall inviting you today.”
“Yes, about that… I hastened here because I wish to introduce an individual quite suited to this honored occasion.”
With a look from Kamil, Wein stepped forward.
“I’m the crown prince of Natra, Wein Salema Arbalest. It’s a pleasure to meet you, West Representative Oleom.”
Wein greeted the other man courteously while taking in his every move. What would the response be?
“Oh my,” Oleom said with a mellow smile. “I am Oleom, Roynock’s West Representative. It is an honor to meet you, Prince Wein. I have heard many rumors.”
“Rumors? How embarrassing to hear my name has reached as far as Ulbeth. I hope they’re all flattering.”
“I daresay everyone has heard of the Dragon of the North. You have achieved much despite your youth, Prince Wein. I must follow your example.”
“Is that so? I’ll have to work harder or risk shattering my image.”
Wein and Oleom exchanged warm expressions, and their conversation was civil. However, every spectator understood that Oleom’s comments were layered with insults. Naturally, Wein recognized this, too, but said nothing. His grin only deepened as things continued.
“You’re young as well, Sir Oleom. I had assumed all representatives were up in years like Agata.”
“I inherited the title several years ago after my aging predecessor could no longer fulfill his duties. This has made garnering respect difficult,” Oleom explained. “However, compared to the woman approaching us, my presence is a mild breeze.”
Wein followed Oleom’s gaze and looked over his shoulder at the lady sauntering closer.
“Lejoutte, this is—”
“I know.” She cut Oleom off and addressed Wein directly. “It’s nice to meet you, Prince Wein. I’m Lejoutte, the South Representative.”
Lejoutte was around Oleom’s age. In other words, someone who would typically have been too inexperienced to lead a city of tens of thousands.
“…Did Facrita have a recent change in power as well?”
“Yes. She was appointed around the same time,” Oleom answered.
“I see.” Wein nodded. “You do have it hard.”
“Right?”
“What are you two talking about?”
“Only the great responsibility we bear, Lejoutte.” Oleom shrugged, and his fellow representative glared at him suspiciously for a moment before finally shifting her attention to Wein.
“Well, no matter. Prince Wein, I’ll get right to the point. Why have you come here? I must assume congratulating a couple over their engagement isn’t your only motivation.” Unlike Oleom, Lejoutte ditched subtle disdain and went straight for the jugular. Her crossed arms and sharp glare made it clear she had no intention of getting along.
“And if I claimed that truly is the only reason?” Wein questioned with an even tone. “Truth is, I love celebrating others’ happiness. In my country, I’m called ‘The Matchmaker Prince.’ Whenever there’s a new engagement announcement or wedding, I’m there in a heartbeat.”
Lejoutte couldn’t hide a grimace as Wein lied through his teeth. Oleom gave an entertained chuckle.
“How very generous. I’m certain the couple will consider your blessings a lifelong honor.”
“You actually believe him? How can you joke when people claim this prince started the recent famine?”
“…Sir Oleom, I thought you said all the rumors were positive?”
“I think even infamy has its own prestige,” Oleom deflected. Wein sniffed in amusement, and Oleom looked at Lejoutte as he continued, “No one can create an artificial famine. It’s impractical, not to mention heartless. Even if such methods did exist, the culprit would have to be a cold-blooded monster.”
“Or an evil dragon.”
“Oh dear. In that case, you’d better watch out. Your very bones will be charred if you’re not careful.”
Wein and Oleom laughed. It was a dry, disturbing sound.
“…This is a waste of time,” Lejoutte groaned, as if hoping to change the subject. “There’s nothing worse than watching two men bicker pointlessly. Prince Wein, I will leave if you insist on keeping up this charade.”
“It’s no charade. As I said, I’m here to offer my congratulations.”
“Is that so? Then perhaps you could pass on a message to Agata for me: ‘It doesn’t matter what tricks you pull. Your era is over. From now on, Facrita will be the heart of the Ulbeth Alliance.’”
Turning on her heel, Lejoutte exited as boldly as she’d come. Oleom watched her proud figure recede and shrugged. “Goodness, what discourteous behavior toward a crown prince. She’s always been a bit headstrong. I do hope you’ll consider it part of her charm.”
“No offense taken. But do you agree with that last statement, Sir Oleom?”
“Hardly,” he admitted with a chuckle. “Roynock will be the center of the next era. Well then, I must greet the other guests, so if you’ll excuse me. Please enjoy the party, Prince Wein.”
Oleom took his leave.
“‘Get a sense of their characters,’ huh?”
Wein looked around him. No one had admonished the representatives for disrespecting a foreign prince. In fact, those whispering seemed to sympathize with them.
“I’m terribly sorry, Prince Wein. I never imagined they’d act so brazen…” Kamil apologized after having silently observed the exchange. His position kept him from interfering, but his face had paled at the discourteousness shown to a visiting dignitary.
Wein himself remained unbothered, however.
“Don’t worry about it. I couldn’t handle foreign diplomacy if I let something like this get to me. Plus, imagine if I were the moody type.”
“What…?”
Kamil blinked in confusion, but Wein ignored it and carried on.
“Anyway, we’re here now. I better rub elbows with more than just the representatives. Kamil, find me a good candidate.”
“Y-yes. Understood.”
Still baffled, Kamil did as ordered. Wein formulated his next plan in the meantime.
In the White Willow of Muldu, Ninym sighed as she walked down a deserted alley.
As I thought, the city’s layout is almost identical to Lushan’s, but…
Most Western cities were modeled after Levetia’s stronghold, Lushan. This was a testament to both the old capital’s degree of perfection and Levetia’s influence. Muldu was no exception, and much of it resembled what Ninym recalled from Wein’s earlier visit to the capital. The atmosphere was markedly different, though.
It’s suffocating.
This was Ninym’s honest opinion after exploring more of the city.
As Levetia’s home base, Lushan had a solemn air that some could find oppressive. Muldu had a tenseness, too, yet it lacked divinity. The climate felt more like a turf war between beasts.
I guess this is another evil of the Ulbeth Alliance.
While not official, Muldu was effectively divided into a few districts. There was one for merchants, one for craftsmen, and one for leaders and the nobility.
Every city in Ulbeth was demarcated, but the distinction was particularly noticeable in Muldu. Each section had its own rules, and any outside presence was highly frowned upon. Therefore, the locals’ talent for spotting strangers was keen, and Ninym drew looks everywhere she went. Nothing could be more troublesome for a person who wished to stay in the shadows.
At least it was worth it.
Through inquiry and investigation, she gathered helpful information about the Ulbeth Alliance, Muldu, and Agata. She’d share it with Wein later.
Lost in thought, Ninym was heading back to the mansion when…
…she saw someone standing in the road ahead.
“ ”
A part of her had been hoping not to.
After noticing Kamil’s tolerance, Ninym realized the Alliance and Lushan were similar but not identical. She’d wondered if, like Patura to the south, Ulbeth was a unique Western culture untainted by Levetia’s influence. The simple fact that Ninym hadn’t come across any Flahm thus far allowed her to believe that her kin were happy here.
Unsurprisingly, that was not the case.
“Ah…”
Ninym instinctively looked down, but the sight was already burned into her mind.
A man in tattered clothes was carrying a heavy load. There were shackles around his feet. His eyes sparkled like crimson jewels, and his hair was a pale white.
There could be no mistaking it. He was a slave—a Flahm slave.
Calm down. This is common in the West. Ninym pressed a hand to her racing heart.
The Flahm man known as the Founder had created a nation for his oppressed and enslaved people. However, their kingdom was destroyed, and the Flahm were persecuted yet again, even worse than before.
Still, the Flahm weren’t the only victims of slavery. Every era demanded cheap labor. Whether victims of war, flesh hunters, or someone else’s financial greed, people were cast into bondage for various reasons.
That’s why this isn’t a big deal. No need to get emotional. Return to the mansion. Hurry.
Ninym was a Flahm, but she also served Natra’s royal family. The nation came first. Stirring up drama with slaves while abroad would only trouble Wein. And so the young woman told herself to leave.
Yet her body refused to move. Before she knew it, Ninym was peering straight ahead.
“Ah…”
The Flahm man was still there. And he was staring right at her.
An instinctual sort of chill ran through Ninym. It didn’t matter if her hair was dyed black. He knew she was a Flahm.
This is bad. Run away. I can’t cause Wein trouble, but—
The conflict between Ninym’s mind and body left her frozen. Had they been gazing at each other for a few seconds or a few minutes? As she sank into endless agony, the Flahm man flashed her a troubled look.
“Heh.”
Then he smiled.
It was tiny yet filled with compassion.
What was the meaning behind it? Before Ninym could ask, the slave departed as if nothing had happened.
Shocked and breathless, Ninym stood alone for a long time.
“—And that’s what happened.”
Wein had explained the events of the party to Ninym in private.
“It looks like Oleom and Lejoutte are convinced I support Muldu, so it’ll be hard to team up with Facrita or Roynock. I suppose I can understand avoiding foreign aid when it still appears you can win on your own.”
“…”
“Still, there are definitely cracks forming between them. They might be friends now, but they’ll be ready to butt heads once Muldu is out of the picture.”
“…”
“Ninym?”
The young woman jolted. “Ah, s-sorry. I was just thinking.”
Wein fell silent for a moment, then looked deep into Ninym’s eyes.
“Ninym, I’m only going to ask once… Is something wrong?”
“No, it’s fine,” she asserted.
Wein closed his eyes and seemed to ruminate over her answer. “Okay,” he said with a slight nod. “In that case, let’s plan our next steps.”
Aware he was being considerate, Ninym did her best to focus.
“Agata will be our only option if we can’t negotiate with the Roynock or Facrita, right?”
“Yeah, most likely. Agata must have sent me to the party because he saw this coming,” Wein replied, obviously irritated. Regardless of whether Agata’s motive for aiding the enemy was a mystery, Wein had greatly underestimated the chance of failed negotiations. “I do have another idea, however.”
“What is it?”
“We’ll keep helping Agata, but half-ass it. Once he’s down for the count, we can join either the western or the southern city when they start fighting each other.”
For Wein, Agata’s victory was convenient but hardly a requirement. The Roynock-Facrita partnership would end with the representative of Muldu’s defeat, and Natra’s foreign military would make a tempting ally when Roynock and Facrita went to war.
“Still, this plan has its flaws,” Wein admitted.
“It’ll take time.”
“Yep.” The prince groaned. “We can only make a deal once Agata is out of the way and those two turn on each other. If we’re not careful, we’ll be stuck here ’til spring.”
“We shouldn’t be gone from Natra for too long. There’s plenty to be done back home.”
“So I’m not allowed to procrastinate if I stay in Ulbeth?”
“This isn’t a vacation.”
“Can’t argue with that,” Wein replied. Then he muttered, “Still, Sirgis is easier to maneuver when I’m away.”
“Did you say something?”
“Nope. Hey, who else is hungry?”
“I’ll prepare something after our discussion,” Ninym answered before returning to the conversation at hand. “Regardless of time limits, I’m not sure you’ll be able to negotiate. From what you’ve told me, they don’t sound like your biggest fans. I also felt this nation’s deep-rooted bigotry while exploring the city.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that.”
“Why?”
Wein smirked. “You might say it’s the fate of every young politician.”
“Welcome back, Lady Lejoutte.”
The representative of Facrita’s subordinates politely greeted her as she returned to her temporary residence in Muldu.
“How was the celebration?”
“It went well. Agata sent Natra’s crown prince to meddle in the affairs, but it was a meaningless effort. Muldu will fall.”
“You are as brilliant as ever, Lady Lejoutte.”
“Facrita is in excellent hands.”
“Isn’t Natra some remote northern country? What could their prince ever accomplish?”
“I couldn’t agree more. Besides, Sir Agata is just a senile old man.”
“At this rate, that newcomer Oleom will fall as well. The southern city will soon rule the Alliance…!”
Lejoutte threw a sidelong glance at her enthusiastic followers and quietly sighed. “I’d like a moment to think. I’ll be in my room, so do not disturb me.”
“Yes, understood.”
They bade her farewell, and Lejoutte returned to her quarters.
Then—
“SHOOOOOOOOOOOT!”
She crouched down with her head in her hands.
“WHY?! Why did Natra’s prince have to show up now?!”
Lejoutte cast off her noble air and pummeled the bed next to her.
“If he’d come just a little sooner or later, I could have convinced everyone our partnership is a good idea…!”
Brave young Lejoutte was the South Representative. Her pedigree was, of course, impeccable, and she demonstrated promising talent as well. In her pre-representative career, she had focused on improving inefficient agricultural techniques by visiting local farmlands, actively conversing with staff, and rewarding ingenuity. Lejoutte integrated foreign expertise as well. To the small-minded Ulbeth people, her methods were highly irregular.
Naturally, there were critics, but the results silenced them. The produce output in her domain soared, and others tried to imitate her success. Keeping no secrets, Lejoutte openly shared her agricultural techniques. Altie prospered even further, and Lejoutte was appointed representative.
In this new position, she immediately allied with the naval city of Roynock to the west and used this new market outlet to great success.
“I’ve worked so hard. My position should be solid…but I suppose that’s too much to ask.”
Lejoutte sighed in exasperation. Her youth made people underestimate her, but there was also the matter of her agricultural innovations. Those who benefited were ecstatic, yet it was not a unanimous victory. Some were even left at a disadvantage, and they saw Lejoutte as a bitter enemy. This was where Ulbeth’s complex family tree came into play. The disgruntled tried to tarnish her by complaining among their own circles.
Altie’s relationship with Roynock was limited as well. The Ulbeth Alliance was formed of four cities that allegedly held equal power, but in truth, each citizen considered their city above the rest. While Altie flourished, thanks to its cooperation with Roynock, everyone irritably thought, “They should be bowing to us. Now we look like equals or something.”
“You’re all so stupid, stupid, stupid…!”
Now Lejoutte had to make Ulbeth and the rest of the continent believe she had befriended Roynock out of necessity and would eventually abandon them. Anything else would cost the woman her representative position.
“Why is nothing working out…?!”
Lejoutte could have made a deal with Natra had she not already sided with Roynock or cut ties already. That opportunity was long gone, however. Altie was more confident than ever before. Lejoutte had been forced to snub Wein at the party lest she appear weak and timid.
“Hahhh… Oh, Oleom… What should I do…?” Lejoutte whispered into the air.
There are jokes about every nation.
Why is there no face powder in Natra? Because it’s piled up outside!
Why are there no plates in Soljest? Because they were eaten!
And…
Why are there no world maps in the Ulbeth Alliance? Because the people insist they’re at the center!
“…At the end of the day, we’re bumpkins in denial.”
In his private quarters, West Representative Oleom was mumbling to himself.
The Ulbeth Alliance was a union among four city-states that had once battled for hegemony of their region. It wasn’t a large area in any respect. Ulbeth mocked Natra as the “northern backwoods,” but other countries regarded Ulbeth as the “western boonies.” What’s more, Natra was a rising world superpower. Oleom doubted Ulbeth could keep up.
“Location aside, it was a mistake to leave Muldu in charge of foreign affairs.”
The four remote cities created two policies when they’d founded the Alliance.
First, each city would develop its specialized industry and compensate for the others’ shortcomings. This would ensure an efficient government.
Second, all the settlements were to keep their competitive spirit alive while maintaining harmony and encouraging one another.
“I don’t think those policies were a mistake, but…”
So much time had passed that everyone had lost sight of the original aim of the two tenets.
People failed to hone their strengths and forgot anything that wasn’t their one job. They were glad to leave unpleasant tasks to their neighbors, but the mutual hostility within the Ulbeth Alliance never faded.
Although foolish, many citizens thought the following despite their own city’s incompetence: “Other cities can handle the annoying stuff. Ours should rule the Alliance anyway.”
“If only we could have resolved things and maintained the union. Yet Facrita and Roynock are making rapid progress, and Muldu is failing…”
The southern and the western cities were excited to become the face of Ulbeth. However, people failed to realize that they would be taking over Muldu’s diplomatic duties. The uneducated and xenophobic Ulbethians would have to carry the torch.
Pointing this out wouldn’t do much good either. Since citizens respected only their own city, most would laugh off the danger and say, “The others can handle it, right?”
“People understand the risk of allowing an amateur to do a master’s work when it’s their own field yet optimistically believe everything will work out somehow when those roles are reversed. Maybe that’s human nature.”
Oleom’s mouth twisted into a sardonic expression.
He had a duty to lead Roynock as West Representative. It was a frustrating job, though, and Wein’s appearance at the banquet was a perfect example. Befriending the prince was obviously the best option, but Oleom’s citizens would never approve. After all, they believed themselves superior and didn’t understand Natra’s importance.
“Lejoutte…what should I do…?”
The man’s anguished whispers went unheard.
“I see. So civic duty shaped their reactions rather than personal feelings.” Ninym nodded after hearing Wein’s explanation. “I also heard that both representatives were only appointed a few years ago. It’s no surprise things are troubled when they don’t have a strong grip on their factions yet.”
Both Oleom and Lejoutte were regularly praised for their competence, yet neither had unanimous support.
This seamless transition of power to a talented new generation would have made the Empire’s people grit their teeth and say, How nice for you.
“Wow, those two really do have it rough. I can relate,” Wein remarked. As another bright, young leader of tomorrow, he could easily sympathize.
“So will you show mercy and go easy on them?”
“What? Nah.”
And there you have it.
“I’m a man who can separate his work and personal life, after all.”
“I suppose I can’t complain about that.” Ninym wasn’t totally satisfied with the prince’s answer but moved on anyway. “At any rate, I understand now that there is still opportunity for negotiation. What are your plans, though? Should we prepare for a long battle?”
“Hmm…”
Wein pondered for a while. It was a rare sight since he usually went with his gut or devised a quick solution despite potential concerns. Were the scales tipped so evenly, showing no favor for one option over the other?
“Okay. We’ll meet Agata tomorrow, hear him out, and go from there,” Wein decided after much deliberation. “If he just wants to break up Facrita and Roynock’s honeymoon, we’ll cut ties right there and join the southern city or the western one.”
“Sounds reasonable,” Ninym replied, nodding. “But we should also consider retreat if it looks like this will take too long.”
“No way. I’m not going home empty-handed.”
“Sometimes it’s important to cut your losses.”
“We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Yup, just leave everything to me.”
Wein was brimming with confidence, but Ninym had to wonder if they’d truly be all right.
The next day, Wein met Agata at the Holy Elite’s mansion.
“So what did you think of Oleom and Lejoutte?” Agata inquired shamelessly.
Ninym kept her scowl hidden from her place behind Wein. Last time, she’d had to wait in a separate room, but Agata and his aide Kamil didn’t mind that Ninym was a Flahm and allowed her to join Wein during this meeting. Even so, she had no authority to speak and thus could only observe.
“They were quite delightful. Given time to mature, Ulbeth will be in excellent hands,” Wein replied cheerfully. His comments were dripping with sarcasm, but Agata wouldn’t have become East Representative without a thick skin.
“Exactly. That’s why I must stop them.”
“Got any ideas?”
“This.” Agata had Kamil bring over a large stack of papers. “I have gathered various records about Ulbeth’s citizens over my long career as East Representative. No other city has such a vast collection. I will use this to divide Roynock and Facrita. I want your help in convincing others to join our cause, Prince Wein.”
Ah, this is never going to work, Ninym thought immediately.
The volume of information was impressive, but it was your run-of-the-mill scheme from every angle. Based on what Wein had told Ninym the night before, he intended to end things with Agata now and join Roynock or Facrita. She couldn’t see the prince’s expression from behind him, but she imagined he looked bored to tears.
However, Ninym couldn’t have been more wrong.
What’s going on?
Wein stared Agata dead in the eye. He had a vague sense of the man’s intentions.
Agata wants to drag this out. And he’s totally fine with me joining the south or the west to make it happen…!
There was no proof, but Wein knew. The stone-faced Agata’s crumb trail of information led him to this conclusion. It was undeniable. This gave rise to another concern, however.
The unification is a bluff, and the homewrecker plan is, too. In fact, he doesn’t even want to be representative…! Sending me to that party was supposed to trick me into believing I had leeway to team up with Roynock or Facrita. Agata is making every excuse to keep me here! But why?
Wein couldn’t read him. Agata’s deepest core was shrouded. Still, even if he didn’t know what the Holy Elite was thinking, there was something the prince did understand.
This was a trap—an extremely convoluted one.
Knowing this, Wein…
Interesting. Okay, let’s dance, Agata!
…felt an excited flame burn in his chest.
“…What an impressive collection. I’d expect no less from Muldu’s veteran representative. Clearly, you have nothing to worry about with these in hand.” Wein began to test the waters. “Still, Sir Agata, I wonder if you’re being a bit light-handed.”
“Oh…?” Agata’s eyes flashed with evident interest. “Are you suggesting I use greater force? The Ulbeth Alliance usually avoids such measures, but…”
“Not at all. Anyone who has records like these but chooses violence should return to the pack of monkeys they clearly belong to. I have a more constructive way to split the opposition.”
Wein’s thoughts whirled excitedly.
I see your game, Agata. You want me to stick around here. In that case, I’ll do the complete opposite! I’m gonna wrap things up pronto and hightail it out of Ulbeth!
A dazzling smile spread across the prince of Natra’s face.
“In other words—it’s time for a marriage campaign.”