“Alright, everyone, listen up carefully.”
After parting ways with Kael, the Princess swiftly held a secret meeting with the anti-Empire faction.
“The pro-Empire faction is about to make their move. Specifically, they’re trying to sway the hearts of the Empire’s citizens.”
“Could that really work, Your Highness? Especially after our glorious victory over Nobogorod?”
“Exactly that is the plan. Since we won without any significant losses, they’ll argue that we can achieve the same results with less taxation. They’ll definitely persuade the people that way.”
Retelling the words she’d just heard made her feel a touch embarrassed.
But it was fine. Didn’t they say that listening to the strategist’s advice was a key skill?
Taking advice from someone smarter than you and putting it into action was, indeed, the right move.
“If what Your Highness says is true, we’re in for a rough ride.”
“Mentioning taxes will surely sway Empire citizens and even the neutral ones.”
“Unfortunate, but true. The army budget is expensive, after all.”
Yes, she admitted that. That had even shaken the Princess herself. She and her followers weren’t war-crazed lunatics. They weren’t exactly war lovers either. War was simply the surest way to establish solid foundations.
Once they’ve built an unshakable order in the Empire, they’d consider adopting the pro-Empire faction’s suggestions. Until then—until every neighboring nation surrendered—it was out of the question.
“If they use taxes against us, we need to do the same.”
“I shall listen if you have a brilliant idea, Your Highness.”
Brilliant idea? Indeed, if it was brilliant, she’d take it. “Even I think so,” the Princess smiled as she unveiled the clever plan the strategist had prepared.
A few days later, inside the Imperial Parliament, the two factions were at each other’s throats again.
The victory against Nobogorod was one thing; politics was something else.
“Now is the time to switch from swords to other weapons. Haven’t we already proved that killing isn’t the only answer?”
“Hah! Someone might think we’re all war-obsessed lunatics! Besides, that ‘proof’ you keep mentioning only worked because of the special conditions of the battlefield. Be realistic!”
“Don’t be so extreme. If you keep this up, we’ll have no choice but to discuss the budget!”
“Hmph! Diplomacy and negotiation with those who keep testing our Empire’s patience? That sounds far cheaper than war!”
The scene wasn’t much different from the battlefield, minus a few minor differences. They intimidated opponents, searched for weaknesses, and attacked ruthlessly.
At least, because of their recent victory, the atmosphere wasn’t quite as sharp as it might have been.
“Ask the Empire citizens how many would willingly accept more taxes! Especially if they’re asked to support unnecessary conflicts!”
“Higher taxes, you say? Sounds like you’re about to explode like a bloated belly! In reality, the increase would be just a small 3% compared to last year…”
“Small? Just 3%? That’s huge! Clearly these war-hungry people don’t care about the Empire’s economy!”
“You’re the ones ignoring the external threats! The neighboring nations are still waiting for a chance to strike! That’s why you keep spouting nonsense about diplomacy!”
The pro-Empire faction kept hammering the anti-Empire faction with tax issues.
They were confident that the common people would support their stance.
These news updates even reached Kael, who was on his way back to his family’s estate.
“Of course. Nothing strikes fear into the heart of a nation like a budget debate.”
Of course, budget increases meant tax hikes. And even that day, there were murmurs of hope that military taxes might decrease. The pro-Empire faction was clearly spreading rumors among the populace.
Even noble families, in the end, had to cater to the mood of the Empire’s citizens.
This was how countries often met their downfall. History wasn’t just studied for fun.
At this point, the anti-Empire faction had no choice but to feel increasingly uncomfortable with the war-mongering label.
But the very next day, public sentiment flipped unexpectedly.
This was all part of the Princess’s plan (okay, technically Kael’s plan but, whatever).
“Is it true that our proud Empire will bend the knee and offer the first olive branch?”
“What nonsense! People might think we’ve been defeated!”
“If we beat even those brutish demon-races like the Nobogorodians, what’s left to regret?”
This wasn’t empty confidence—it was reality. The Empire had always been on the victorious side. Could they have conquered this vast land if they’d ever lost even once?
All of this was possible because of a great Emperor, diligent nobles, competent commanders, and of course, brave soldiers.
Now, imagine standing before these people and suggesting that the Empire must retreat and compromise…
“Fewer taxes? Sounds great! But I won’t trade even a coin of silver for the pride of our Empire!”
“If they want to open a dialogue, let them make the first move! Why does the Empire need to bow first?”
The Empire primarily used a voluntary recruitment system but occasionally implemented conscription during emergencies. That meant a surprisingly large number of citizens had served in the military, and they all returned home as victorious heroes.
If you were to ask them to choose between a silver coin and the Empire’s dignity, what would they pick?
Kael could confidently answer: “Never.”
“Sure, it may look like we’re war-loving maniacs, but…”
Weakness was fatal. It was all about maintaining morale, and half the battle was already won through sheer intimidation. Why did neighboring nations grumble but fall silent the moment the Empire mobilized near the borders? Because they knew the Empire would strike if provoked. They were terrified.
“The Crown Prince’s ideals might be admirable for the future, but it’s worthless if it only benefits the Empire. The realities of our neighboring countries must be understood first. In that area, the anti-Empire faction clearly holds the advantage.”
With such thoughts, Kael gazed out the window, hoping he wasn’t about to lose his quiet life in this crazy world.
“Alexei, how do I look?”
“Very impressive.”
“Right? Hmm… With this, I should be spared criticism?”
“Uh… Honestly, Miss Kaya will probably nag even if you look your best.”
Ugh, man! Quit hitting me with the truth like that! Just give me a little encouragement when I need it!
The Duke of the Bertier Empire had arrived at our Klawitz estate.
However, instead of heading straight to the castle, I paused and began decorating myself with various items bought in the city.
“Brother Kael, why are you so sloppy all the time?! Think about what others will say about you!”
“But Kaya, it’s just a quick tour of the estate…”
“Absolutely no! You need to always look good!”
Ugh, talk about unfair. After I painstakingly dress up, another wave of Kaya’s complaints hits me.
“What is this?!”
“What? Again?!”
“You look too good! If you walk out like this, everyone will stare at you, and I won’t like it!”
“What do you want me to do now?!”
Too fancy? Too plain? She kept pushing me to the brink.
Meanwhile, Father sighed deeply, and Mother smiled, saying how nice it was that we got along so well—frankly, it was driving me insane.
Eventually, I found the sweet spot: not too flashy, not too plain.
‘This is the elusive balance Kaya wants.’
Annoying, sure, but what can you do? This was my little sister’s wish, and I would honor it. Besides, she just wants her brother to look handsome while feeling jealous at the same time.
But as she grows up, meets people, and eventually finds love, she’ll care less—I hope.
“Master.”
“Yeah, what’s up? Are we done?”
“I just got word. You’ve been here for a while now…Why are you taking so long?”
“Did Kaya say that?”
affirmative nod
Twenty minutes ago isn’t “a while ago,” Kaya! And I’m doing this because of your nagging! How could you not wait?
“Hurry up then.”
Quickly tidying up, I headed toward the main castle.
The carriage jolted as it approached.
And suddenly—bam!
“Surprise!”
She didn’t wait inside, or even the castle gates. Instead, she ran straight to the carriage, flung open the door, and greeted me with unbridled excitement.
“Bro Kael!”
“Hey, Kaya.”
“Brother!”
Oof, little sis, you’re not a little girl anymore. Please don’t tackle me like that—I’m going to suffocate!
