Chapter 18: Imperial Capital – Martial Arts Tournament – 12
That afternoon, I held a meeting in the Audience Chamber of the Imperial Castle alongside Geshura, His Imperial Majesty, the Prime Minister, Her Highness Marishielle, and Captain Dominate.
The main topic of discussion was, of course, the invasion of the Kin of Twilight and the confirmation of information regarding Rendurm, who is regarded as their king.
However, there was little new information to share. A few officials studying the Kin of Twilight were present, and they posed detailed questions about their culture and civilization.
Geshura, though visibly strained, patiently answered their inquiries.
At the end, His Imperial Majesty asked, “Lady Geshura, just to confirm, it is correct to say that the Kin of Twilight fundamentally lacks the concept of a ‘nation,’ yes?”
“Indeed. We typically gather in groups of no more than twenty to thirty individuals to form settlements. The concept of larger collectives did not exist until Rendurm emerged.”
“Do you think that in the future, many of the Kin of Twilight will accept the concept of a nation?”
“I cannot say. However, I believe we cannot maintain large groups without a powerful leader uniting us through strength. The differences in thought between our groups and individuals are far greater than those among humans. Even if we gradually correct this, it would take several hundred years.”
“So, while Rendurm currently unites you as a formidable individual, if he were to disappear, you would revert to your previous state?”
“Without a doubt. Unless a stronger individual than Rendurm appears, that is how it will be.”
This could be seen as good news in one sense, but perhaps tragic in another.
The certainty that defeating Rendurm would end the Kin of Twilight’s invasion is significant.
However, on the flip side, if we were to win and there is no ‘nation’ to demand reparations from, it would mean a complete loss for us.
As rulers, they are, in a way, easier to deal with, yet also a headache. The grim expressions on both His Imperial Majesty and the Prime Minister likely stem from this consideration.
At the end of the meeting, His Imperial Majesty declared, “As an empire, we are prepared to welcome Lady Geshura as a guest. However, if Lady Geshura continues her activities as a member of Soul’s Guidance, we will not hinder that.”
In other words, if she acts as a member of Soul’s Guidance, she can be left alone, but it would be problematic if she were to become a guest of another nation.
To this, Geshura promptly replied, “I have no intention of leaving Soushi,” leaving no room for my input. She would likely continue to be targeted by Rendurm, and staying by my side would be the safest option for her.
Thus, the discussion between Geshura and His Imperial Majesty concluded, and I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.
The next day marked the day of the audience.
Although I had already exchanged enough words with His Imperial Majesty, today’s audience would officially mark the moment when Soul’s Guidance was granted an audience with him.
Before breakfast, I received the day’s schedule from the head butler, Zorberg, and we planned to follow it accordingly.
After breakfast, we first changed in the dressing room. As adventurers, we were told that our usual attire would suffice for the audience. However, it seemed they had prepared outfits for us, and we were to change into those. A variety of formal attire had been provided in different sizes for the occasion.
Wearing noble attire for the first time, I was surprised to find that I didn’t feel out of place when I looked in the mirror. After a long time, I took a good look at myself and realized I appeared much younger, perhaps even in my twenties. Now that I think about it, His Imperial Majesty had not shown any concern for my age, so perhaps I was perceived as younger than I actually was.
The women were dressed in elegant, subdued gowns. It was the first time I had seen them in such attire, and I was honestly taken aback.
The familiar faces of my companions looked like entirely different people—adorable and beautiful. It reaffirmed that Soul’s Guidance was indeed a special party.
“Frei, you seem quite accustomed to wearing that dress. You truly look like a Saint,” I remarked.
“Oh, thank you, Soushi. I never thought I would wear something like this again. I didn’t even wish to, but…” Freinir replied, her cheeks flushing. Given her background of being exiled from a ducal family, she must have mixed feelings about it. Yet, seeing her in such a lovely form made me feel that this was indeed how she should appear.
“Hey, Soushi, how do I look? Does it suit me?” Larni twirled around in her dress. Though she usually wore active, somewhat revealing outfits, she didn’t look out of place in a gown.
“Ah, you have a different kind of cuteness about you. But it seems like the dress is wearing you a bit.”
“What do you mean by that?”
“It means you’re not quite used to it yet. But I think you’ll get the hang of it as you wear it more, Larni.”
“Oh, well, it is my first time wearing something like this. If you become more noble-looking, I guess I’ll wear dresses more often.”
“Let’s not get our hopes up too much about that.”
Afterward, I was overwhelmed by Sfenia’s dress, captivated by Mariane’s figure that the gown couldn’t entirely conceal, impressed by Shizuna’s elegance in a Western-style dress befitting her noble birth, and reminded of Karma’s beauty in her refined lady attire. I couldn’t help but sigh at the grace of Sakurahime, the marchioness, who looked perfectly at ease in her gown.
Among them, Geshura was particularly interesting. She wore a dress as well, but her snake-like lower half extended from beneath the skirt, creating a fascinating sight.
“This is my first time wearing such clothing, but humans truly enjoy these constricting garments. The craftsmanship is indeed remarkable. However…”
Though she was undeniably beautiful and the dress suited her, it was clear she preferred looser attire, and she looked somewhat uncomfortable.
Miss Dorozitte did not participate in the audience and remained in her usual pants look.
Once everyone was gathered, we awaited our summons in the waiting room.
“Um, Soushi, I think you look wonderful as well. I’ve met many nobles, but I believe you are the finest among them,” Freinir said.
“Thank you. Hearing that from you gives me confidence. I never expected to wear something like this, but if I’m going to wear it, I want to look good in it.”
“Soushi, you possess tremendous strength within that body of yours, and I believe it shows through your attire. Therefore, no matter what you wear, you will surely look splendid.”
Sfenia spoke passionately, and Shizuna and Karma nodded in agreement.
As we exchanged slightly embarrassing compliments, Butler Zorberg arrived and bowed, saying, “The preparations are complete. I will guide you to the audience chamber.”