Chapter 187

“Finally… he is coming.”

The news that That Man is heading this way.

To the Emperor of the Empire of Frantz.

A deep smile graced Napoleona’s lips.

It had been half a year since she ascended the throne.

During that time, there had been many internal adjustments and reforms, but amidst it all, one unwavering goal remained sharply focused in Napoleona’s heart.

‘By now… it shouldn’t be a weakness to capture that man.’

An emperor wielding absolute power capable of steering a nation.

Though the Senate resembling the ancient Roman Empire and its head, the Consul, existed, their role was merely to handle administrative tasks according to her directives.

In reality, her power was on par with that of the renowned King Henry, who established absolute monarchy in the past.

Considering her grand title as emperor, one could even argue she held more authority than King Henry.

And with such absolute power in her hands, Napoleona had dedicated most of it solely to serving the citizens.

Of course, to prevent blunders like Robes Fiora’s in the past, crucial decisions were made with expert consultations.

Instead of the relentless purges that had plagued the past, she embraced inclusivity, thereby attracting exceptional talent to her side.

As a result, the Empire of Frantz regained stability in a surprisingly short time.

Simultaneously, Napoleona’s initially shaky authority also solidified.

Certainly, this swift establishment of power was aided by the ‘legitimacy’ left by Queen Louis.

The fact that she was recognized as the legitimate successor through the abdication played a significant role as well.

In fact, there were moments of unrest in a region called Vande, but as soon as the news of the National Seal Incident spread, they were the first to pledge their loyalty, right?

Anyway, with no more distractions, Napoleona now moved to execute what she had long awaited.

That Man…

To summon Pirate King Ezra Drake.

According to the information she had obtained since becoming empress, it seemed that many women were drawn to him, but that didn’t really matter.

Capturing the heart of a man who belongs to another would also be an entertaining endeavor.

For her, bearing the blood of the Frantz, such a ‘romance’ was rather enjoyable for the circumstances ahead.

‘Just you wait… I shall make your heart mine, Ezra Drake.’

*

There was a saying in a cartoon I watched as a child.

Pirate King.

It’s a term referring to the freest person at sea.

That wasn’t entirely wrong.

The power associated with the name ‘king’ grants the ability to do many things.

With a mere gesture, thousands of people would move.

With a single decision, the rules of this sea could change.

However, as I lived on as a Pirate King, I realized something.

The position of a Pirate King isn’t one that seeks freedom.

It’s a responsibility.

A responsibility to protect those who exist in this sea.

A duty to safeguard my people, my family.

If I were to make an analogy, it would be more akin to being the village chief from a popular ninja manga.

A being that protects everyone.

Those bearing the name ‘king’ are such beings, and this heavy responsibility constantly occupied a corner of my heart.

The reason I didn’t want to involve myself in land affairs right after ascending to the Pirate King was that I continually pondered how to respond should any impure forces, including other Empires, appear.

And so, taking a step toward the most perilous place was all in the name of…

Protecting everyone.

Those I love.

Someone might ask.

Why go to such lengths?

Isn’t it sufficient to live as one wishes without taking on such troublesome responsibilities?

I had no intention to deny such a way of life.

In truth, the former queen under my command chose that path for herself.

Having relinquished her throne and national seal, she continues to hammer away in the ship’s hold.

A person who loves creating crowns rather than wearing a shiny one.

Though it appears laborious and arduous, when I see the smile on her soot-stained face, I know that her current life is filled with happiness.

Yet despite that…

I resolved to choose a different path from hers.

And I shall continue to do so.

Not out of mere sense of duty.

Because the weight of responsibility allows one to grasp something incredibly special in life.

“Father! Look there! We’re almost there!”

-“Kyu~”

“Looks like… we’re arriving.”

“That woman must be Napoleona, right? I remember seeing her when she was the chancellor, but I wonder if she’ll recognize me.”

“She seems to come to our hometown quite often… Is this that instinct of yours, Magellan?”

“Well… seeing the former queen next to her, it doesn’t seem like a coincidence. Don’t you think so, Queen Louis?”

“Don’t call me that… I’m worried someone might actually recognize me.”

Expressions of joy, excitement, and tension adorned their faces.

I have chosen,

I have protected,

Those treasures I hold dear more than anything else.

Even while shouldering such heavy responsibilities, they fill my face with smiles, reminding me once again.

As the king leading them, I shall do my utmost today.

No matter what happens from here on,

I will always protect them.