One of the perks of being Chief of Staff is unfettered access to teleportation magic.
Now, some might call this ab*se of power, but it’s nothing of the sort. You think the Auditors of the Realm wouldn’t come knocking?
It’s just that being able to use it without all the red tape and exorbitant fees is incredibly convenient.
“Welcome, Chief of Staff. We’ve been expecting you.”
“It’s been too long, Minister of the Palace, Your Grace.”
And the downside? Even the smallest movements come with elaborate protocols attached.
Chief of Staff is a position akin to a minister. If the Empire thrives, all eyes—and respect—are on you. Which is how this Minister of the Palace achieved the rare feat of coming out to greet me personally.
For reference, the Ministry of the Palace is the top administrative body in the Empire.
“Congratulations on your promotion. It was truly impressive to the point of being speechless.”
“Haha, you’re too kind. I’ve done nothing of the sort. It was all thanks to my subordinates and soldiers working in perfect sync. I merely provided a bit of direction and advice.”
“Isn’t that guidance what determines victory?”
“Indeed, His Majesty the Emperor himself clapped and celebrated upon hearing of Dedolant’s mass surrender.”
Oh wow, that sounds… slightly terrifying. Hearing the Emperor actually clapping.
Remember when Her Highness the Princess said he never showed much emotion?
“Has Her Highness the Crown Princess been in good health?”
“Yes, and yourself? Though… did His Majesty really react with such enthusiasm?”
“Absolutely—”
“He personally told me it wasn’t just a momentary reaction. Belle.”
As the trio approached, it became clear: Crown Princess, First Prince Gnaeus.
We offered our respects as they returned the gesture.
“There should be some form of welcome for our returning battlefield heroes, wouldn’t you agree, Gnaeus?”
“Unnecessary to say twice, Sister. Actually, if you hadn’t been here, I’d have bowed lower to the Chief of Staff to show my gratitude.”
“Let’s not do that,” I interrupted. “No noble in their right mind should bow to a prince, especially like that.”
Even receiving polite nods in greeting felt overwhelming.
“I wish I could corner the Chief of Staff and ask him about everything, but that’ll have to wait.”
“Yes, Your Highness Crown Princess. I must report directly to His Majesty first.”
“Hmm. Belle, what about you?”
“Kael. Ahem. I also plan to see the Emperor after the Chief of Staff finishes his report.”
“Very well. Chief of Staff, can I borrow my little sister for a bit?”
“Why are you asking me, Your Highness?”
As the question almost slipped out, a subtle nudge from First Prince Gnaeus reminded me this was probably expected.
“Absolutely, Your Highness. I’ll report and come to the Crown Princess afterward.”
“Then we siblings have some catching up to do. Come along, Gnaeus. Belle.”
“Yeah, sis. See you later, Kael. Or should I say… Chief of Staff!”
With the siblings gone, the Minister of the Palace broke the silence.
“Such a harmonious trio, aren’t they?”
“I couldn’t agree more. His Majesty truly has much to be thankful for.”
“Indeed?”
Of course. These three aren’t mere heirs of privilege. Each excels in their roles without overstepping or causing unnecessary conflict. It’s their restraint that keeps the Empire stable. And if not blessings, then what else could you call this?
“Speaking of which, Chief of Staff belongs among these blessings.”
“Ahem. We should move, Your Grace.”
The Minister led the way to the throne room where His Majesty awaited.
Upon arrival, His Majesty was in discussion with the Minister of War.
“Chief of Staff Kael Klauwitz, reporting to His Majesty the Emperor.”
“A welcome return, Chief of Staff. I’ve heard you’ve briefly arrived back in the capital.”
A quick nod to the Minister of War.
And then, without delay, I laid out the reason for my presence.
“Dedolant must not be simply subdued—we must annihilate it entirely.”
“Exactly, Your Majesty. The situation shows a need for unconventional tactics.”
Throughout the Empire’s history, conquests have followed a predictable pattern.
Leaving monarchies intact, removing them quietly, and relocating royal families elsewhere. A distant relative would then be installed as a local governor with proper titles.
Over time, the conquered region would naturally assimilate into the Empire.
A strategy ensuring minimal backlash while preserving legitimacy. After all, in our world, the monarchy is sacred. Eliminating royal families would destabilize belief in absolute authority.
Our respect for royalty even among adversaries bolsters the prestige of our Imperial family.
Unfortunately, Dedolant does not fit this model.
“We must remove Dedolant’s royal family entirely. They’ve caused great harm to the Empire. More importantly, there needs to be a clear and severe message to those who dare dream of forming their own empire.”
“Without such action, another Dedolant will inevitably arise within the next decade—perhaps even two. It seems you are suggesting precisely this, Chief of Staff.”
“Exactly as you say, Your Majesty.”
For years, the Empire has faced relentless conflict. It isn’t teetering, but the cumulative damage is undeniable. Massive resources have been drained, and lives have been lost.
Healing and strengthening the Empire requires peace—at least a decade, ideally longer.
“Although the Empire has demonstrated its strength across the continent, Chief of Staff, you still feel differently?”
“Exactly why this operation must be definitive, Your Majesty. Even when we proclaim order, other kingdoms undermining it is an act of defiance.”
“I understand your motives fully. I, too, agree. The nature of rulers is to take advantage when opportunities arise.”
We aren’t merely concerned with the Empire waging war but preventing kingdoms from tearing each other apart too.
When an Empire establishes order, challenging it is an affront.
“The Deo ethnic group’s pride originated from Dedolant. Until we destroy this completely, another will surely dream such fantasies.”
“The elimination of the Dedolant royal family is decided. Discuss this matter with others. Chief of Staff, focus on what only you can achieve.”
“Your gracious consideration is humbling, Your Majesty.”
In other words, obliterate Dedolant and leave the aftermath to us.
With that assurance, I bowed deeply.
*
Crown Princess, First Prince, and Isabel.
The Imperial siblings gathered for a rare reunion.
“You’ve made a positive impression in the south.”
“The Chief of Staff has practically taken down Benito and saved the Holy Kingdom. The atmosphere was already warm, leaving me with little to contribute, Sister.”
The siblings chuckled.
“Similarly, the east, having witnessed the Empire’s might and benevolence, questioning it would be absurd.”
Both paused, turning their gaze toward Isabel.
Sipping her tea innocently, she finally responded to their stares.
“Why are you both looking at me like that?”
“Isn’t it obvious? You returned with the Chief of Staff.”
“Yes, Sister, together.”
“Though… there seems to be a certain… um… spark?”
“That’s quite accurate.”
A small cough from Isabel set the Crown Princess’ lips curling mischievously.
Inherited from the Emperor, her abilities and mannerisms reflect his. Yet, with her siblings, she shows a softer, more teasing side.
“Romance forged through war seems quite fitting.”
“Ah, stop it! Soldiers are tirelessly battling while higher-ups speculate on these baseless rumors—I’m sure such talk isn’t agreeable to anyone, Sister.”
“True, Belle. Spreading these tales would serve no purpose.”
However, some things must be said.
“Following this war, the Chief of Staff will be conferred a Dukedom.”
“PUH—HAH- KHEEZ!”
First Prince Gnaeus smirked, offering a handkerchief that Isabel begrudgingly accepted.
“You can’t be serious, Sister?”
“Deadly serious. The Chief of Staff will carry both the title of Duke of the Empire and Duke.”
“Is that even possible?! Where do these titles come from?”
“Leapfrog promotions are possible. And for this level of achievement, it’s only fitting for His Majesty’s stature.”
“Traditionally, direct lineage recipients gain immediate Dukedom.”
This left Isabel utterly flustered.
“Umm… I mean… I… If it means connecting with the Chief of Staff…”
The Crown Princess softened her tone.
“If you’re uncomfortable proceeding-”
“No! No, I… I mean, I’m not disinterested. It’s just… premature! It seems awfully rushed. That’s all.”
With that, the Crown Princess and Gnaeus exchanged knowing glances.
“Please stop tormenting me! Stop looking at me like that!”
Their laughter echoed through the room as Isabel squirmed under their playful banter.
