Chapter 0576 The Pavillion of Harmonious Sound (Chouonkaku)
-x-X-x-
The day after the suppression army returned to the imperial capital.
Prince Ryun, his entourage, General Bijan Lu of the Black Banner Army, Ryo, and Abel were summoned to the Taiji Hall, where they were rewarded.
"I received an incredibly stylish Eastern-style outfits."
"Yeah…I got one too."
Back at their residence, the two of them tried on the garments bestowed by the Emperor.
Ryo's outfit had a light blue base with dark blue trim and gold-stitched arabesque patterns.
Abel's was red with black trim and silver-stitched patterns.
Standing together in front of the full-length mirror, the outfits suited them surprisingly well.
Even more surprising was how perfectly they fit.
"I don't recall being measured, though."
"Me neither. Could it be some special Darwei technique?"
Indeed, neither of them remembered being measured.
And yet, every part of the garments fit perfectly.
It was astonishing.
"Still, I have my favorite robe from my master."
"Well, you can wear it from time to time, right? I mean, these aren't everyday clothes."
They could wear them at ceremonies or inside the palace.
But not really something you'd walk around town in…
The next day.
The two were once again seen in the palace.
Since they had received such splendid clothing, they wore it to personally thank Emperor Tsuin.
"The palace really is vast."
"Yeah. We'd definitely get lost on our own."
Neither Ryo nor Abel was confident they could find their way alone.
So a guide walked ahead to lead them to the exit.
However, because the main gate—Suzaku Gate—was closed for a ceremony, they were guided through an unfamiliar path.
A different path.
Different scenery.
While they looked around curiously, they heard the sound of an instrument.
"Huh? Isn't that the sound of a violin?"
"Yeah, it's a violin. Not very good though."
Abel answered Ryo's question with blunt honesty.
Ryo was so taken aback by the overly frank words that he was momentarily speechless.
"What is it, Ryo?"
"Ah…well, Abel, you play the violin well, but I'm not sure it's right to say things so bluntly…"
"Hmm? Just because someone plays poorly doesn't mean their value is any less, right? I think it's fine as long as they enjoy it. I mean, of course, I wouldn't say it to their face. That'd just discourage them."
"Your standards are hard to follow, Abel."
Ryo shook his head slightly.
As someone working as a king, Abel probably often receives proposals that don't seem great at first.
But if the purpose or aim is admirable, he might reject it and ask for a revised proposal instead.
In those decisions, he may need to clearly distinguish between 'good' and 'bad'…
Perhaps it's just a difference in position.
As long as the way things are said and communicated is handled well, there's nothing wrong with honesty.
"This sound is coming from Chouonkaku, isn't it? Most likely, it's Ron Shen-sama, the head of the workshop."
Their guide explained.
"The head of the workshop? So someone who builds things?"
"Yes. He makes musical instruments."
"Wow!"
Ryo was surprised to learn that such a division existed within the imperial palace.
"So he's an instrument maker, not a performer. Then it's no wonder he's not that skilled."
"Exactly. Without people who make instruments, good ones wouldn't exist."
Abel nodded sincerely at Ryo's comment.
"I'd love to visit this Chouonkaku place. Would that be possible?"
"Of course. Right this way."
With that, the guides led the two toward Chouonkaku.
"Abel said it wasn't good, but the notes weren't that off, you know?"
"If you say 'not that off', you're already implying it's bad."
While having this conversation, Ryo and Abel were brought to Chouonkaku.
It was, as the name suggested, a place for musical performances, often enjoyed by the emperor.
According to their guides, the facility had both indoor and outdoor stages.
The current performance was taking place in the largest outdoor area.
The two were led to what could be called the viewing gallery.
Only those of the Shitaifu rank or higher could enter, but Ryo had apparently been granted access to many areas by Emperor Tsuin.
Though Ryo himself had never heard of this, it was commonly known among the palace staff.
"This is impressive."
"Yes. They say that in modern Darwei, the arts are valued more than martial prowess… but I think this has always been the case."
Chouonkaku didn't appear to be a recent construction, but something built several emperors ago.
On the outdoor stage of Chouonkaku, a man was playing, clearly enjoying himself.
Seemed to be in his mid-twenties.
His hair was neatly tied and held in place by a ceremonial crown.
But his clothing wasn't the formal kind seen in the palace—it was a casual, practical Eastern-style outfit with many slits, more common among commoners.
The contrast between his formal hair and casual attire was striking.
But then…
"Ron-sama!"
A loud shout.
The man, Ron, flinched and stopped playing.
"I told you… no outdoor performances!"
"But… with such nice sunlight, it's hard to resist playing outside…"
"Still not allowed!"
"When will I be allowed…?"
"When you get better!"
Ron was bluntly told he was bad.
Apparently, this wasn't the first time.
He didn't seem too upset, just a bit annoyed.
"I practice every day, you know. I just wish someone better at teaching— or at least someone closer to my build— could teach me. Everyone's so small, and the finger placements are different…"
"But Ron-sama, it's hard to find a skilled player of your build…"
Ron complained, and the man who scolded him shook his head slightly.
Indeed, Ron was about 180 cm tall.
With a solid build— more of an athlete than an artist.
Though technically, he was a craftsman.
"Abel, your moment has come."
"Me?"
"Time to show off and win favor within the palace!"
"Do we need to?"
"We do."
With that, Ryo walked toward the stage…
"Excuse me!"
He called out to Ron and the man who had shouted.
"Yes?"
"Um. Pardon me, but… might you be the Duke Rondo?"
Ron gave a dazed response, but the man immediately bowed his head.
Apparently, news traveled fast within the palace.
"Yes. Actually, my guard would very much like to play that violin, if you don't mind."
"Eh?"
The man looked confused by Ryo's sudden request.
But after some thought, he agreed.
Ron, with slight reluctance, handed over the violin.
Abel accepted it.
Indeed, their builds were similar.
Ryo took Abel's sword and returned to the viewing seat.
That was the cue—Abel began to play.
The piece was Paganini's '24 Caprices'.
Perfect for solo performance, dramatic flair, and showcasing skill.
Both Ron and the man who had scolded him were entranced by the music.
As was Ryo.
Abel's violin had flair.
Despite his height, his posture conveyed grace.
His left hand summoned a whirlwind of speed.
The entire performance overwhelmed the stage with presence.
The four-and-a-half-minute performance flew by.
Applause erupted from the four people there.
Ryo, Ron, the angry man, and the guide.
In fact, even outside Chouonkaku, many others had stopped to listen in awe, though Ryo and Abel didn't know that yet.
"Magnificent! As expected of the Duke's guard."
The man praised him wholeheartedly.
"About that left-hand movement just now…"
Snapping out of his trance, Ron immediately asked about the technique.
"Oh, that's…"
Abel responded with a polite explanation.
Ryo nodded—this had gone exactly as he planned.
Later, tea was served, and Abel continued tutoring Ron. It was inevitable.
"Tomorrow! Please come again tomorrow!"
"Yeah, yeah, I got it."
As they were leaving the palace, Ron made Abel promise to return.
Abel casually agreed.
"Worked just as planned, we're in."
"In… right. But I don't mind teaching someone that dedicated."
Ryo grinned mischievously, while Abel replied with a look of nostalgic fondness.
Surely, he had once taught young swordsmen during his adventuring days.
He was incredibly popular in the city of Rune, after all.
As promised, they returned the next day.
They visited the workshop adjacent to Chouonkaku to see Ron again.
There, they found a very different Ron.
His hair was tied the same, but now he wore the formal attire of a high-ranking palace official.
He greeted them with Darwei's formal salute—four fingers aligned on each hand, with one palm placed atop the back of the other, held before the chest.
"I am Ron Shen, Head of the Imperial Palace Workshop."
"Uh…"
Ryo was momentarily speechless in the face of such a formal greeting.
Abel, behind him, also looked surprised.
"I'm ashamed to admit, I didn't recognize Duke Rondo… Of course, I've heard the ballads from the bards… but I didn't know you were the Duke. And to think I had your guard teach me… I beg your forgiveness."
Ron bowed deeply, still holding the salute.
"Oh. Don't worry about it. Abe… Albert does enjoy teaching dedicated people. No need to be so formal."
"Yeah. Besides, you can't get proper violin instruction in that stiff posture."
Ryo said, and Abel nodded.
"Really?"
"Of course."
"Oh, thank goodness."
Ron smiled in relief.
"Well, after that, I spoke with Taikan-sama and learned more about the situation. Ah, Taikan-sama is the one who was yelling yesterday. He's the eunuch in charge of the Shouhoukan which oversees all matters of art in Darwei. So technically, the workshop falls under their jurisdiction…"
"He was yelling, but it didn't feel like he was being abusive or insulting."
Ryo said, recalling the previous day as Ron explained.
"Exactly. Although Taikan-sama is essentially responsible for all arts, the head of the imperial workshop is a position directly under His Majesty the Emperor. That's why even Taikan-sama speaks to me with a degree of restraint."
"Your job is making instruments, right?"
"Yes. My role is to create instruments that don't yet exist in this world."
"Don't yet exist?"
"Ah, sorry, just talking to myself."
Ron said, deflecting Ryo's question.
Then he changed the subject.
"Taikan-sama also told me that Duke Rondo is a noble of such high status that even the Emperor speaks to him personally. For someone of such greatness to spare the time of his guard for my instruction… I feel terribly unworthy…"
"Hmm? Then shall we stop the lessons?"
"No, please continue! "
Abel asked, and Ron replied immediately.
Despite what Taikan-sama said, Ron clearly still wanted to learn from Abel.
"I remembered later—the piece you played yesterday, Albert-san… it was Paga…something?"
"Sorry, I don't know the details either. I was forced to play it back when I lived at my parents'…it was the hardest piece, so I practiced it the most. My fingers still remember it. I only ever heard it called 'Caprice No. 24'."
"I—I see."
Ron looked somewhat disappointed at Abel's explanation.
Ryo actually knew a fair bit about the piece.
It was composed by Niccolo Paganini.
'24 Caprices', a collection of 24 solo violin works.
Abel had played the most famous, most beautiful, and most difficult of them all: the final piece, No. 24 in A minor.
Of course, that assessment was entirely Ryo's subjective opinion.
By the way, 'Caprice' comes from the Italian word capriccio, which means whimsical, unusual, or exceptional.
Like a certain water-attribute magician.
"Someday, I want to be able to play that piece too…"
"That's a lofty goal, but good luck."
Abel encouraged Ron, who was burning with passion.
Abel never crushed someone's enthusiasm to their face.
He knew that passion was what drove daily effort—and that it was at the end of that path that one would taste the fruits of glory.
"Setting aside the Caprice. Actually, after yesterday, I practiced as you instructed. That led to some new questions…"
"That's how it goes. What are they?"
And so, Ron and Abel once again dove into intense violin instruction.
Meanwhile, Ryo wandered the workshop.
It was filled with all kinds of instruments.
Violins, slightly smaller viola-like ones, larger cellos, and even contrabasses.
The focus was on string instruments, but then Ryo noticed something behind a folding screen toward the back.
"No way…"
He crept over on tiptoe and peered behind the screen.
It was what Abel had once described as a black, monstrous table.
"A grand piano…"
Later that morning, Ryo sipped tea while reading from an ice tablet.
"They say magic can't be used in the palace, but I can still generate this normally."
He murmured.
Then came a midday break.
Lunch was brought into the workshop.
Simple fare centered around rice balls.
Even during lunch, Ron didn't put down his violin.
It seemed he was always like that, and both Ryo and Abel figured as much.
"Ron-san, that thing in the back—is it a piano?"
"Huh?"
Ron looked surprised by Ryo's sudden question.
"Yes, it is… Have you seen one before?"
"At the 'Ryusen Residence', where we stayed before."
"Ah, yes. That inn was the first to install one of our pianos. That model only had 54 keys, I believe. Still, the action mechanism was practically a finished design…"
At that point, Ron realized he was getting carried away with his explanation.
"Sorry. That probably didn't make much sense."
He chuckled awkwardly.
Maybe someone had called him out for it before.
But then…
"Wait, that piano at the Ryusen Residence—was that made by you, Ron-san?"
"Yes."
"And you were the first person to ever build a piano?"
"…Yes."
Ryo asked with surprise, and Ron nodded, a little embarrassed but with a look that hinted he wanted to say more.
Ryo was truly astonished.
Anyone who understood piano action mechanisms would be.
"The one at Ryusen had 54 keys, but the one back there is the first full 88-key model. Of course, you rarely use all 88 keys, but the more strings a piano has, the deeper and richer the sound becomes…"
Ryo remembered now.
Come to think of it, the piano at Ryusen was a bit narrower.
But with 88 keys, you could play all kinds of music…
"Is that piano back there already finished?"
"As an instrument, yes. There are actually three other completed units. However, the engraving hasn't been done yet."
"Engraving? Like a maker's mark on a sword?"
"Yes, exactly. His Majesty the Emperor requested that we include it. If this is to be considered a 'complete model', he wants it spread across all of Darwei, and eventually the world."
"As expected of an Emperor known for his love of the arts…"
Ryo nodded in agreement with Ron's words.
Violins had spread to the Central Countries.
They existed here in the Eastern Countries as well.
Maybe the piano would spread throughout the world just like that!
Ryo wiped his hands clean, stood up, moved the screen aside, and approached the piano.
It was definitely larger than the one at the Ryusen Residence.
Its shape was the familiar grand piano form he had seen many times before.
He opened the lid over the keys.
Inside were beautifully arranged black and white keys.
"Whoa…"
An involuntary gasp escaped Ryo's lips.
And then he pressed a key.
Do.
It produced a familiar piano sound.
"Whoaaa…"
Ryo gasped again.
Mi-Mi-Mi-Mi-Fa-Mi-Do-Mi♪
He pressed several keys in succession.
The notes sounded perfectly.
Mi-Mi-Mi-Mi-Fa-Mi-Do-Mi♪
He repeated the phrase, this time paying attention to the phrasing… more of a performance than just pressing keys.
It felt really good.
"Huh? That sounds familiar…"
Ron murmured, but Ryo didn't hear him.
"Ryo, what's with that series of somber notes?"
"It's meant to convey the dark, lonely feeling of winter. This part comes before the cold winds begin to howl…"
Ryo gave a brief explanation in response to Abel's question.
Then…
BAM♪
He pressed a dramatic chord with both hands.
"Nice! The harmony sounds beautiful."
"That sound… it's majestic, but also powerful and brilliant."
Ryo praised the piano's quality, and Abel praised the four-note chord.
"Really? I'm glad to hear that! It's the perfect opening for a piece that suits Abel."
"Oh really?"
"But… to continue the piece, my fingers are too far out of practice."
Ryo said this and began to play slowly.
It wasn't a song, but Hanon finger exercises.
Very, very softly.
But not because he lacked force.
He pressed each key all the way down. But the sound that came out was quiet. Yet clear.
Softer than soft: pianissimo.
He was practicing that.
Slowly, quietly.
Checking each note, one at a time.
As he reacquainted himself with the keyboard after decades.
That afternoon, Ron kept practicing violin, Abel kept teaching, and Ryo kept playing piano.
Evening.
"Please, come again tomorrow…"
"Sorry. I can't tomorrow."
Abel replied when Ron tried to schedule the next session.
"Eh…?"
Ron looked devastated.
"Tomorrow, some people from the Censorate are coming to our residence. They'll be questioning someone we have detained there."
"So we can't come to the palace tomorrow."
Ryo and Abel explained.
"I see…"
Ron seemed to understand and spoke quietly.
Head down.
But after a moment of thought, he raised his head.
"Then, how about I come to your residence and receive instruction there?"
"Well…"
Abel looked to Ryo, unsure how to answer.
Ryo tilted his head in thought.
It didn't seem like a problem.
"No issues on our end. It's a large estate, gifted to us by the Emperor himself. Even with the Censorate coming, they'll only be using part of the residence."
"Oh! Then I'll come by!"
People with a passion for learning tend to earn the affection of many…
-x-X-x-
Chapter 0577 Interrogation
-x-X-x-
The next day.
Ryo's estate was unusually crowded—dozens of times its usual population.
Normally, only Ryo and Abel lived there. But from the morning, personnel from the Censorate had arrived.
Within the Imperial Palace, it was well known that the estate's master, Duke Rondo, was highly favored by the Emperor.
Unless one were an exception like Workshop Chief Ron Shen, this was common knowledge…
However, some within the Censorate knew Ryo personally.
"Ah, Shau-san, it's been a while."
"Duke Rondo, we're most grateful for your cooperation."
The person in charge of the interrogation was Censorate Secretary Shau, the second-highest authority in the organization.
Considering the prisoner was a powerful Phantomkin, this level of supervision was only natural.
It became clear to the visiting Censorate officials that Ryo wasn't just favored by the Emperor—but also personally acquainted with their own number two.
As such, they entered the estate with the utmost courtesy.
First, they were astonished by the size of the mansion.
Then, by the golem managing the estate.
Finally, by the frozen coffin quietly sitting in the garden.
"So, Duke Rondo… How shall we proceed with this interrogation of the Phantomkin?"
After staring at the coffin for a while, Shau posed the question.
"Remove the ice covering the head. He's currently in a state of suspended animation… unconscious, basically. Once the ice is removed, he'll gradually regain awareness. I heard you might have something to place on his head during questioning?"
"Yes. This is it."
At Shau's signal, an attendant stepped forward and presented a full-face helmet, completely enclosing the head.
"This is our trump card."
Shau said with a gentle smile.
Later, as promised, the workshop chief Ron Shen arrived, and soon the sound of a violin filled the mansion.
Listening to it, Ryo nodded to himself in satisfaction for some reason.
Throughout the interrogation of the Choouchi Empire's Seven-Star General, Yun Chen, Ryo remained seated in a place where he could see the proceedings.
Though he was reading an alchemy book the whole time.
General Yun had the ice removed only from his head. The rest of his body remained frozen.
To prevent any magical or sorcerous means, he remained encased in a large block of ice even during the interrogation.
The questioning was conducted by specialists from the Censorate, so Secretary Shau simply sipped tea beside them…
"What composure."
Seeing this, Ryo couldn't help but mutter.
Secretary Shau, over 70 years old and exuding the presence of a hale and hearty elder, sipping tea in such a relaxed manner, radiated overwhelming composure.
Whether it was the former Union King, His Majesty Roberto Pirlo, or Secretary Shau before him, the composure possessed by those who had gained years of experience was something Ryo could never acquire, no matter how hard he tried to act mature.
And that composure inevitably inspired a certain kind of admiration in those who observed it.
"One day, I'd like to be like that too…"
"Not likely, is it?"
The blunt remark of the tactless swordsman-king tore through Ryo's words of admiration.
"Abel, that's rude!"
Ryo barked.
"Let me ask you, Ryo, do you think you could become like that?"
"Guh…"
"Right? Same here, but I get the feeling it's impossible for you too."
Ryo looked frustrated while Abel shrugged.
Yes, they both knew it.
It wasn't something you could become just because you wanted to.
They knew it, and yet… precisely because they knew…
"I still admire it."
"Yeah, well, it's free to admire, at least."
With that, they both shook their heads at the same time.
While Abel had come to visit Ryo like this, the sound of a violin could still be heard from deeper within the residence.
"Mr. Ron is quite diligent."
"Yeah. With people like that, as long as they get proper instruction, they'll keep improving on their own."
Abel said this as he sipped tea that had been prepared without him even noticing.
Apparently, among the many Censorate personnel who had come for General Yun's interrogation, there were those whose job was to serve tea.
Of course, tea had been promptly prepared not only for Secretary Shau, but also for Ryo and Abel when he arrived.
"This tea is good."
Taking a sip, Abel praised it.
"Right? You can really tell whether someone takes their work seriously, even from something as simple as how they brew tea."
Ryo nodded.
Tea brewed with perfect technique and perfect timing was unbelievably delicious.
So delicious that anyone could tell immediately.
'It's the same no matter who makes it', was not true.
Now then, do you know the perfect method and perfect timing for brewing tea?
Most people do not.
If you don't learn and don't research, you won't know.
That's why those who know the perfect method and timing are people who have either studied or researched it themselves.
Why would they do that?
Because they knew it was necessary.
People like that, even if their roles change and they move on to other jobs, will be able to excel.
Because they know what they need to research.
Because they know by when they need to have researched it.
It's just tea, and yet, it is not "just" tea…
That day, the interrogation continued until evening.
Of course, the violin practice also continued until evening.
"Still, nothing's happening, huh."
"…Ryo, are you thinking up something bad again?"
"I'm always thinking about world peace…"
"Don't lie. I can see through it immediately."
Abel cut down Ryo's words with a single strike.
"No, I meant the prisoner—the one in ice."
"General Yun, you mean."
"Yes, that general, but he's being too quiet."
"…Huh?"
Abel tilted his head, not understanding.
Rather than being quiet, General Yun hadn't opened his mouth at all during the interrogation, remaining completely silent.
Certainly, one could call that quiet…
"I mean, magic… he's a sorcerer, right? I thought he'd try to go berserk with sorcery or something…"
"Isn't he surrounded by your ice walls?"
"Yes, he is, but they're transparent… I mean, you'd expect him to at least try once to attack with sorcery or something, wouldn't you?"
Ryo said this with a disappointed expression.
"If you were captured, Abel, wouldn't you at least try to escape?"
"…Yeah, I would."
"Right?"
That would be normal.
But General Yun did not move.
Even during interrogation, he remained silent, with his eyes mostly closed.
"It's creepy, actually."
"Now that you mention it, it is."
Ryo muttered, and Abel agreed.
The next day, the interrogation and practice resumed from morning until evening, just as before.
"Duke Rondo, we have gathered the necessary information."
After the day's interrogation ended, and General Yun was once again fully frozen, Secretary Shau informed Ryo.
Apparently, the information extraction using a helmet-type information collector was complete.
"It's terrifying… having the information inside your head extracted without even realizing it…"
Ryo shook his head slightly as he gave his honest impression.
"It simply means one cannot do evil."
Secretary Shau said with a laugh.
Then he continued:
"That said, we have merely extracted the information, and it has yet to be converted into something we can understand. It will take several days of analysis before it becomes readable. Well, we have no further use for that prisoner."
"Meaning you will no longer be visiting the residence. Thank you for your hard work."
"No, no, sorry for the trouble."
Ryo bowed his head politely, and Secretary Shau returned the gesture with hands folded.
Greetings are important.
Thus, the Censorate withdrew.
There was one person pleased by this development.
"Then, starting tomorrow, could you return to visiting the Chouonkaku again?!"
It was Workshop Chief Ron Shen.
"There, you can play the piano as much as you like!"
He said, turning toward Ryo.
"That's quite tempting."
Ryo seemed rather pleased as well.
And so, starting the next day, Ryo and Abel once again began visiting the Chouonkaku.
Meanwhile, in the Taiji Hall within the imperial palace:
"What? An envoy from the Chooouchi Empire?"
"Yes, Your Majesty."
The Emperor of Darwei, Tsuin Tsao, frowned and confirmed, while Prime Minister Byan Byan nodded respectfully.
The Prime Minister was the highest administrative authority in Darwei.
In the Central Countries, this would correspond to the Kingdom's Prime Minister or the Union's Governor.
Thus, Byan Byan, as Prime Minister, was the highest administrative authority within this vast Darwei Empire… but he was already over eighty years old.
He had long stood at the center of the palace, supporting Darwei as one of its senior officials, but age was catching up with him.
In fact, he had once retired ten years ago.
At that time, Darwei was under the effective governance of a wise and capable Crown Prince who excelled in both the civil and military arts, while the Emperor, who loved the arts, stepped back to enjoy his own interests.
This created a bright and joyful atmosphere throughout the nation.
Watching this, Prime Minister Byan Byan felt a sense of fulfillment and resigned his position to retire in the countryside.
Everyone believed that Darwei had a bright future ahead.
Until five years later, when the Crown Prince was assassinated.
The Crown Prince was assassinated in his Eastern Palace, and Emperor Tsuin, losing his will to govern, led to the gradual breakdown of Darwei's central administration.
Darwei's structure concentrated immense power in the Emperor and his immediate circle.
When the central administration faltered, the entire massive nation of Darwei began to malfunction.
Naturally, many among the Shitaifu class sensed the danger.
Some gathered under the remaining princes, forming factions…
Others, in hopes of restoring proper governance to the central administration, worked to recall the retired senior officials…
One of those recalled was Prime Minister Byan Byan.
However, Byan Byan himself knew best.
That he was no longer capable of shouldering the heavy burden of the Prime Minister's role.
Thus, he initially refused the recall.
He refused many times.
In the end, when the Emperor himself, rumored to have lost his will, personally requested it, he returned out of necessity.
However, he believed he should train a successor as quickly as possible and retire again.
In reality, he felt that he could no longer keep watch over every corner of Darwei as he once had.
In the past, he would even jump on a horse as soon as an issue arose and go directly to see the situation for himself.
He had even once ridden a horse for an entire day to reach a site.
That was the only way to truly address problems.
By the time official reports arrived, the people would already be exhausted.
Sometimes, such exhaustion could lead to riots or rebellions…
But now, he could no longer ride a horse.
"If only His Highness the Crown Prince were still alive…"
How many times had he whispered those words?
Undoubtedly, it wasn't just Byan Byan.
Many officials had likely whispered the same.
That was how significant the late Crown Prince had been, and how much hope he had represented for Darwei…
"You said the envoy from the Chooouchi Empire has arrived at 'Chuo Chuang' and wishes to visit the palace, correct? But I have received no report that such people crossed the northern border."
"Yes, Your Majesty. The Prime Minister's Office also received no such information."
"…Meaning the administration is not functioning properly."
"My apologies."
Emperor Tsuin shook his head with a frown, while Prime Minister Byan Byan apologized.
As the Prime Minister, he bore ultimate responsibility for administration.
"No, it is not Prime Minister Byan's fault. This is the consequence of my own negligence since that time. It has caused trouble for many…"
Emperor Tsuin sighed.
Since the Crown Prince's death, he had abandoned his duties as Emperor, and he knew it.
As a result, the princes formed factions, splitting the Shitaifu class, and causing suffering among the people.
"If they are indeed official envoys, we shall receive them and hear what they have to say. Speaking of which, we did receive some information about this Chooouchi Empire."
"Yes. It is said to be a newly established country further north of Peiyu, which borders us in the north. However, that area…"
"Yes, I know what you wish to say, Prime Minister Byan."
Emperor Tsuin furrowed his brow, nodded deeply, and continued:
"For most of the year, it is covered in snow, and of course, crops cannot grow. It should not be a place where people can live at all…"
-x-X-x-
That day as well, the sounds of violin and a small piano echoed through Chouonkaku within the imperial palace. (TLN: Chouonkaku is the music instrument workshop within the imperial palace of Darwei)
Outside, however, on one of the outdoor stages, a lone swordsman was swinging his sword.
"To swing a sword in this bastion of music— such utter boorishness!"
"Well, I'm just bored."
The water-attribute magician, who had been practicing the piano moments ago, rebuked him, and the swordsman deflected it lightly.
Typically, Workshop Chief Ron would practice with single-minded focus.
When he got stuck or had questions, he would ask Abel, but otherwise, he practiced alone.
Ryo would also play the piano or read the alchemy books he had brought, spending time alone.
As a result, Abel would end up with nothing to do.
That, it seemed, was why he was swinging his sword.
Chouonkaku had many stages, both indoor and outdoor, for performances.
They varied in size, and the largest outdoor stage was big enough for open-air concerts, so there was no problem with Abel practicing sword swings alone there.
"Well, Abel's swordplay is quite a spectacle. So it's not a bad sight."
Ryo, who had just called it boorish, immediately reversed his stance.
"R-Really?"
Abel blushed.
Yes, Abel was rather shy.
"Why don't you practice an instrument too, Abel? There are plenty of violins."
As Ryo pointed out, the workshop had many violins made by Ron.
There were also smaller violas, large cellos, and even larger contrabasses—practically the entire family of string instruments.
There was even a piano, which Ryo privately considered a mutant string instrument.
Yes, a piano is a string instrument.
While sound is produced by pressing keys, a hammer inside strikes strings.
Which produces the sound.
Thus, it is classified as a string instrument.
However, some view it as a percussion instrument because the strings are 'struck' with hammers.
Technically, it is classified as a 'keyboarded string percussion instrument'… so, in essence, it is both.
A piano is a piano.
"I just… don't really feel like playing that much."
When Abel said that, his expression seemed a little lonely.
Ryo tilted his head, not understanding why.
"I practiced the violin so hard for my older brother."
"Your brother? Crown Prince Cain?"
"My brother was perfect, even with the violin. That's what you call a genius, I suppose."
Looking as if he were seeing something that was no longer there, Abel's gaze grew distant.
"I still think your playing now is quite amazing…"
"I can't even hold a candle to him."
Ryo praised Abel's playing, but Abel shook his head slightly, denying it.
"I practiced because I wanted to get even a little closer to my brother…"
"He was your aspiration, wasn't he?"
"My aspiration, huh… yeah, that's true. But…"
Abel chuckled bitterly before continuing:
"Once I realized I could never reach him, I fell into despair."
"What…"
Ryo was so shocked by Abel's words that he was at a loss for words.
It was hard to imagine the hardworking Abel falling into despair from understanding he could never reach someone.
"So, what did you do then, Abel?"
"My brother told me he wanted me to support him with my sword."
"Ah, I see."
"Of course, I had already liked the sword before that. But it was at that moment that I decided to dedicate everything about my sword to my brother."
With a gaze filled with sadness and nostalgia, Abel looked into the distance.
When people devote themselves to someone, they can display unbelievable strength.
But what happens when that 'someone' passes away?
Can one continue to give their all even then?
"My brother always cared deeply for the nation and its people. Even when I last saw him, when he could no longer get up from his bed, he still did."
Ryo listened in silence as Abel continued.
Abel gave a faint smile and continued:
"So, the sword I once dedicated to my brother, I now dedicate to the nation and its people."
When Abel declared this, the sadness and nostalgia disappeared from his face, replaced by the determined expression of a king.
"My sword is dedicated to you, Abel. I will support you with all my strength."
"Ah, I'm counting on you."
With that, Ryo and Abel smiled at each other.
For five days, Ryo and Abel continued to visit Chouonkaku.
During that time, the imperial capital remained peaceful, and the palace was calm.
However…
"A special envoy from the Choouchi Empire?"
"They're coming tomorrow?"
"Yes, that's what I heard. That's why Taikan-sama told us repeatedly not to perform outdoors tomorrow." (TLN: Grand Chamberlain)
Ryo tilted his head, Abel confirmed, and Workshop Chief Ron sighed as he answered.
It seemed Ron's performances still had not been recognized by the Grand Chamberlain.
"You're improving little by little. There's no need to rush."
"Thank you very much!"
Abel comforted him, and Ron responded with a smile, pleased by the praise.
"The Choouchi Empire… that's the country of General Yun, the one frozen in ice, right? After causing such a commotion, how dare they show their faces here!"
Ryo spoke indignantly.
"They're probably here to reclaim their prisoner. Even for a regular soldier, if it's known they've been captured, the country will negotiate to have them released. It's only natural, especially if it's a 'general'."
"That's discrimination!"
"You mean, people should be treated equally regardless of rank, right?"
"Of course."
Abel confirmed, and Ryo nodded vigorously.
"So, even if the Kingdom's premier duke were captured, the Kingdom should only conduct standard negotiations for release?"
"T-That's a different matter entirely."
It seemed anyone would change their stance when it concerned themselves.
Ryo quickly corrected himself.
"The Kingdom would run just fine without you, Ryo."
"How can you say that! I contribute to the kingdom too."
"Ooh? For example?"
"For example… ah! I eat lots of meals and cakes, reducing the kingdom's food waste! "
"What is 'food waste'…"
Ryo's earnest comeback didn't seem to resonate with Abel.
"The best way to avoid prisoners is to not wage war in the first place."
"Well, that's true… But sometimes, countries capture regular travelers or merchants to use as bargaining chips. Such things happen between nations."
"Ah…"
As Abel pointed this out, Ryo recalled similar cases from Earth's history.
Differences in national ideology and perspective often led to such situations…
It was bothersome for the people, but sometimes inevitable.
This was one aspect of sovereign nations.
The world was not a simple place.
"The frozen General Yun in the manor's garden—only you can move that, right?"
"Yes. No one else can."
"Then, if we agree to release the prisoner, we'll need to move that frozen block to the palace, won't we?"
"Ah, I'll have to be there, then. I guess we should let His Majesty know I'll be at Chouonkaku."
And so, the fact that Duke Rondo was staying at Chouonkaku was conveyed to Emperor Tsuin.
The next day.
The palace was somewhat bustling.
However, since the palace was unbelievably vast, not all of it was busy.
Only certain parts.
That day, Ryo and Abel visited Chouonkaku as usual.
Following the Grand Chamberlain's instructions, Chief Ron practiced indoors.
Ryo also played the workshop piano and read the books he had brought…
Around Chouonkaku, time flowed as gently as ever.
"Art slows the passage of time."
The water-attribute magician remarked smugly while sipping tea.
"That envoy from the Choouchi Empire is coming at noon, right?"
"So I heard. To come and break the beautiful flow of artistic time—how utterly boorish."
"I don't get what you mean."
Ryo was indignant for some reason, while Abel could not understand how art equaled beautiful time.
To Abel, it seemed like Ryo was simply complaining without reason.
Noon.
The envoy arrived at the palace as scheduled.
The audience was held in the Taiji Hall.
"Envoy of the Choouchi Empire, Lord Berke Holan of House Erdenet."
The herald announced, and a group of five men and women entered, led by a single man.
The leading man was over 180 cm tall, with a commanding presence.
However, what drew the courtiers' eyes was not his stature.
His black eastern robes, edged with gold thread, contrasted with his white hair flowing down to his back.
He appeared to be around thirty years old.
With his dignified bearing, it was clear at a glance that he was someone of high rank in the Empire.
Some of the officials even felt a tightness in their chests and averted their eyes under the weight of his presence.
"Envoy, you have traveled far."
Emperor Tsuin spoke briefly.
In response, Envoy Berke placed his hands together before him and bowed.
In the Eastern nations, an 'envoy' is someone dispatched with full authority by the sovereign.
They are, in essence, the embodiment of their nation.
And thus are treated with the utmost respect by the host country, while the envoy behaves with awareness of their role as a national representative.
"This time, due to a great misunderstanding, an unfortunate conflict occurred. Resulting in our general being taken prisoner. I am here to investigate this matter and engage in subsequent diplomatic negotiations."
Envoy Berke stated.
His tone was polite, and his words carefully chosen, but their substance was far from humble.
'A great misunderstanding', 'unfortunate conflict', 'investigation'…he accepted no responsibility on behalf of his country.
He was claiming it was an accident, not intentional.
"Don't mock us!"
One of the courtiers raised his voice.
He was fairly young… around twenty years old.
Not a minister…
"Prince Bin, even if you say that…"
Envoy Berke responded with a faint smile.
At that moment, several people's expressions shifted.
They were surprised.
That the envoy, who had just arrived from the distant north, could accurately identify who had spoken.
However, some did not show their surprise outwardly but felt it internally.
That was Emperor Tsuin himself.
"Envoy, you mentioned 'subsequent diplomatic negotiations' earlier."
"Yes, Your Majesty. Our nation wishes to establish formal diplomatic relations with Darwei. I have been authorized to negotiate a trade treaty to establish an embassy in the future."
A murmur spread through the court.
Most of the officials knew little about the Choouchi Empire itself.
Only Emperor Tsuin and Prime Minister Byan, who had ordered investigations, knew anything… yet even then, only roughly where it was located.
They did not know its population, resources, or even the name of its capital.
"A treaty will require various preparations."
Emperor Tsuin said, aware of how lacking their information was.
"We understand, Your Majesty. And are prepared for it to take some time."
Envoy Berke replied with a respectful bow.
"Then, we will have your party remain in the capital for a while."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
"Prime Minister."
Emperor Tsuin called upon Prime Minister Byan.
"Yes, Your Majesty. For accommodations, I believe Ryusen Residence would be appropriate."
"Very well, make it so."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Prime Minister Byan responded without delay, and the lodging was decided.
Ryusen Residence was not too close to the palace, yet offered excellent hospitality, making it the most suitable choice, a fact Emperor Tsuin also recognized.
As the details were to be discussed from the following day onward, the atmosphere suggested the envoy's party would now withdraw… but Envoy Berke spoke up.
"If I may, Your Majesty, I have a request."
"Speak."
"I would like to request permission to treat our General Yun, who is currently in captivity."
Envoy Berke's expression did not change; he continued to wear a faint smile.
Perhaps it was the content of this request combined with that smile that irritated someone.
As a voice rang out once more.
"Such a thing cannot be permitted!"
It was again the young voice of Fourth Prince Bin.
Normally, a mere prince would not attend such an audience.
However, in Darwei, an imperial prince holds a rank equivalent to a minister.
So they attend foreign envoy receptions and the daily morning court.
Experiencing politics firsthand is important for future successors to the throne.
However…
"Restrain yourself, Prince Bin."
The voice was not loud or harsh… but the long-serving Prime Minister Byan's words struck the young prince.
Struck by the prime minister's words, Prince Bin turned away with a pout.
"Minister of Justice, your thoughts?"
Emperor Tsuin addressed the Minister of Justice, who oversaw legal affairs.
"As long as he does not leave the capital, there is no problem."
The Minister of Justice replied.
Then, Emperor Tsuin glanced toward an elderly man standing at the edge of the court.
This was the Deputy-Director of the Censorate, Secretary Shau, who held police-like authority, handling on-site enforcement and investigations.
Receiving the Emperor's gaze, Secretary Shau gave a small nod.
It meant that all information had already been gathered and was under analysis. So there was no problem in returning the prisoner.
He also understood that this was an extremely political issue intertwined with diplomacy.
And that the nation needed to display magnanimity for future negotiations.
"Very well. We will have him delivered to Ryusen Residence shortly."
"Your Majesty's gracious mercy is deeply appreciated."
Thus, the greeting of the Choouchi Empire's envoy concluded.
-x-X-x-
Comments
ThatOneFatSideCharacter
I feel like the Choouchi Empire is being treated to kindly. Not only did they send an assassin to the king, I'm the open. They have launched attacks on there territory as well.
July 31, 2025
Reply
Chris
The Author probably doesn't want to bore his readers by doing this properly. Normally an empire wouldn't let anyone they don't know about meet their Emperor directly. There would be meetings where they ask junior diplomates to attend. Letters would be sent. Both to convey intentions and answer more general questions.
You would at least expect for an expiation why someone identifying themselves as a general from an unknown empire was attacking the provinces of the empire with a charmed army of monsters. Or the assassination aimed at the Emperor by an assassin claiming to represent the Choouchi Empire. To clear up the misunderstanding. Also a direct challenge to the authenticity of said Empire. How big is the empire? How many citizens are in the empire? Where are the borders of the Choouchi Empire? Who is the Emperor and how did he come to power? What is the Choouchi Empire's history and deeds? What nations did the Choouchi Empire subjugate?
Claiming to be an Empire implies you rule over multiple kingdoms. Is Choouchi really an Empire? Or does its Emperor only wish to claim an equal title?
Oh, and Prince Bin smells like he is being set up to benefit from the Ambassador's next action. He is after all a pawn of the Choouchi Empire even if he doesn't know it.
July 31, 2025
Reply
JackichanPRO
Yeah totally agree. The author just got lazy and decided to forget all logic…..
Maybe all that physics talk that Ryo has sometimes fried his brain.
Who in their right mind would recieve an envoy from an "empire" that you know nothing about and that you have clear evidence that they are hostile towards you (2 assassination attempts and monster attack)
And why tf would you give their general back without negotiating??
Naa LAZY WRITING that is what this is called
October 19, 2025
Reply
YUTA
exactly, the author pmo with how dumb his writting is.. cmon two generals onfessed their plans to assassinate royalty, one already killed a duke and 2 thousands troops, and many of them are already causing stir all across the empire.. yet all that talk about a king shouldn't be too humble and not too sctrict, all that talk about the emperor/king should have a strong aura so other countries don't underestimate them and look down on them YET HE MADE it seem like nothing happened ????? about a country they never heard of and full of illusionkin ??? they don't even know who r these illusionkin but hey OFC LETS MAKE AN EMBASSY LETS HAVE THE ENNEMY LIVE IN THE HEART OF THE CAPITAL..
November 5, 2025
Reply
Anonymous
I feel like Ryo taking out the general so easily made everyone treat him as less of a threat than he actually is. Also since the magic nullification field was sabotaged Choouchi seems to have spys already planted within significant positions in Darwei.
July 31, 2025
Reply
Adam
I kinda displeased with this chapter. Why does it like seems so easily for the envoy to visit/meet the emperor and act like innocently say there are some misunderstandings between them. Like what the…..
Isn't the other two generals from the empire stated that their goals were measured the Darwei empire's strength and lure out the rolays to kill them? And didn't Marie stated in front of Darwei's emperor that she got ordered to kill the emperor? This development story makes me kinda angry and fed up. Where the Darwei Empire dignity if they show the envoy such a hospitalities like this??
Isn't the emperor should press them or act like dumbfounded with their statement. Aaaarrrgggggghhhhhh….
September 2, 2025
Reply
Scorn
The Eastern Empire is the biggest and most powerful empire that we know of so far but they don't feel that way at all. As others already mentioned, it feels like the long running empire is just being bullied by a start-up nation that no one has even heard of at this point.
They clearly have people already planted among different places including the capital. Not to mention that moronic Prince Bin who only knows how to throw a tantrum, is clearly being used and manipulated by the enemy already.
Not sure what the Illusionkins are entirely planning, but they clearly want to rule over everyone with how they keep trying to invade and replace royalty from different kingdoms and territories.
September 14, 2025
Reply
YUTA
literally I hate how dumb the author is.. cuz what happened to all that talk about the Empire being terrefying, if the princess assassinated they would kill all ppl in kingdom of Botsunar ?? all that talk about emperor/king should be a strong figure no one should disrespect him by 2 assassinations attacks + several incidents all over the country YET he accepted the envoy demands like nothing happened ?? ridiculous
-x-X-x-
-x-X-x-
"Huh? Your Majesty?"
Even Ryo was startled when Emperor Tsuin suddenly appeared while he was reading in Chouonkaku.
After the Choouchi Empire's envoy departed, Emperor Tsuin visited Chouonkaku.
Because he had heard that Duke Rondo—Ryo—was there.
The biggest reason was that there were various matters he wanted to communicate personally.
Normally, even within the palace, there would be prior notice if the Emperor were to visit.
That is, through the eunuchs, it would be announced that the Emperor was coming.
However, this time, without any of that, he appeared at Chouonkaku unannounced.
Ryo was not the only one surprised…
"Your Majesty!"
Ron Shen, the Workshop Chief, immediately stopped practicing the violin and bowed deeply.
The eunuch from Shouhoukan also came rushing in to bow, clearly unaware of the Emperor's visit. (TLN: Shouhoukan – The organization with eunuchs that oversees Chouonkaku and other facilities in the imperial palace of Darwei)
"I heard Duke Rondo was here. I came to inform you that we have decided to return that prisoner of war… and then I heard the sound of a violin."
Emperor Tsuin said this and looked directly at Ron.
"Was that you playing just now?"
"Yes… I was practicing under Albert-dono's instruction."
"I see. So, you finally have an instructor of similar build, as you had long hoped."
Tsuin glanced between the bowing Ron and Abel, who was standing beside Ryo.
And then, with a small smile, proposed:
"Ron, could I hear your performance for a bit?"
"W-With pleasure!"
Ron nodded happily.
Thus began an impromptu recital by Workshop Chief Ron.
He played three pieces.
All of which were unknown to Ryo originally.
However, over the past few days, Ryo had heard them repeatedly during Ron's practice and had memorized them…
None were technically demanding pieces.
Rather, they were slow, gentle tunes.
What stood out the most was Ron's expression as he played.
He looked so genuinely happy, so thoroughly absorbed, so clearly enjoying himself.
He truly loved the pieces.
Truly loved the violin.
Truly loved music itself.
"His playing is on an entirely different level from before your instruction, Abel. It's amazing how much he's improved in just a few days."
Ryo whispered to Abel, standing next to him.
"It's because he spent weeks, even months, practicing constantly before I started instructing him. He kept at it daily without giving up, even when he saw no immediate results."
Abel's expression softened as he continued.
"He must have tried various approaches, thinking through what worked and what didn't. That accumulation allowed my instruction to trigger his breakthrough."
"A breakthrough…"
It was an expression often used for athletes.
A small trigger can suddenly make something impossible possible.
But that only happens because of the buildup of experience and thought.
It is never something that happens all of a sudden… without effort.
One continues to practice,
to think,
to challenge oneself—
and despite failing repeatedly,
Even if results don't appear, one repeats the process again and again.
And one day, you simply break through.
"Well, honestly, his technique is still quite rough… but above all, the way he plays with such joy is wonderful."
"Agreed! "
Abel said with a laugh, and Ryo nodded.
It's the same with anything.
Seeing someone do something with joy, with a smile, makes those watching feel good, too.
It makes them want to cheer them on for some reason.
Human emotions are strange that way.
As a calm time flowed by…
Ron's performance came to an end.
"Splendid."
Emperor Tsuin praised him with a warm smile.
"Thank you!"
Unable to place both hands together in a formal bow due to holding the violin, Ron bowed his head deeply instead.
His cheeks were flushed with joy,
and a sense of satisfaction was visible.
"You have practiced well. Workshop Chief Ron Shen, I grant you permission to perform on the Chouonkaku's outdoor stage."
"Huh…?"
Ron froze in shock at Tsuin's words.
"Hm? Weren't you told you could not perform on the outdoor stage before?"
"Yes, I was told so."
"From now on, you may perform there."
"Th-Thank you very much."
Ron glanced briefly at the eunuch,
Who nodded happily.
At last, Ron's performance was officially recognized.
Then Emperor Tsuin turned toward Ryo and Abel.
"Duke Rondo, Albert-dono, I thank you for instructing Ron."
"Not at all, Your Majesty. I am glad we could be of service."
Ryo answered with a smile.
Everyone was smiling.
"Indeed, Ron is a craftsman. However, I firmly believe that even craftsmen can create better instruments if they themselves are skilled performers."
"I agree completely."
Ryo concurred with Tsuin's words.
It is precisely because one is a skilled player that one can understand what is needed and what is critical.
Whether you acquire that understanding as data or through your own sensory experience…
Makes a big difference when feeding it back into production.
And when inspecting the final product… those who can play well will also be better judges, wouldn't you agree?
"Your Majesty, it is nearly time for the Censorate to arrive."
The one who whispered this to Emperor Tsuin was the shadow-like figure who was always at his side.
Ryo had previously learned from the eunuchs in the Shouhoukan that this was the Chief Eunuch.
The boss of all the eunuchs.
"Ah, yes. Duke Rondo, I came here today because I have a request."
Prompted by the Chief Eunuch's words, Tsuin seemed to recall the reason for his visit.
"About that general frozen in ice at your mansion—we have decided to return him to the envoys. The Censorate will handle the escort, but I would like you to unfreeze him."
"Understood. I will return to the mansion immediately."
Thus, General Yun, who had been held prisoner, was returned to the envoys staying at the Ryusen Residence.
The next day at the Ryusen Residence.
"What is the meaning of this!"
"Y-Yes…this is all the information we were able to extract from General Yun…"
"It's completely insufficient."
The man who shouted wore glasses and had long black hair tied in a single bundle.
His hands trembled with anger as he glared down at the report…
Anyone who had been at the Taiji Hall yesterday would have recognized him as one of the envoys who had accompanied Special Envoy Berke.
"What is wrong, Juran?"
It was Berke who entered the room and spoke.
"Y-Yes, Berke-sama. We have completed the analysis of the information extracted from General Yun… but we failed. I am terribly sorry."
Juran said this as he handed over the report.
Berke skimmed it and furrowed his brows slightly.
"Hmm. Less than one-tenth of the information we had hoped for. And we were unable to obtain the most important magic formula for the 'Starry Veil'."
"My deepest apologies."
Juran bowed in response to Berke's words.
Sweat was pouring down his face.
He understood the gravity of this failure.
"It is fine. It is likely not your fault, Juran. The magic formula embedded in General Yun was written by me. It is possible there was a flaw in it."
"Impossible! There could be no error in something created by Your Highness, the Crown Prince!"
"Even I make mistakes. Well, many matters concern me… perhaps I should ask him directly. Summon General Yun."
Two minutes later, General Yun entered the room and knelt before Berke.
"Seven Star General Yun Chen, reporting as summoned, Your Highness."
"Ah, General Yun… on this visit, I am here as a special envoy. Not as Crown Prince Berke. Here, it is fine, but near the Darwei people, refer to me as Special Envoy."
"Understood."
"Given how Darwei operates, they likely have no real grasp of our country's information anyway."
Berke laughed heartily.
Then, after collecting himself, he questioned Yun.
"General Yun, we analyzed the information you gathered, but it was far less than expected."
"What…?"
General Yun's face fell in shock at Berke's words.
And it was only natural.
This mission was literally a life-risking infiltration.
The plan was to attack the palace, forcing Darwei to recognize their country as a challenger.
General Yun would rampage within Darwei, get captured by the Darwei army, and be imprisoned in the high-security prison of the Censorate next to the palace.
While imprisoned there, the magic formula inscribed within Yun would activate, gathering information about the alchemical defenses known as the 'Starry Veil' that protected the palace.
Because the 'Starry Veil' covered the Censorate, it should have been possible to gather sufficient information from within the prison…
Then, while the special envoy conducted negotiations, Yun's body would be retrieved, and the information extracted.
That was the plan.
And yet, it had failed?
"Indeed… the place I was held was not the high-security prison."
"Oh? Then where was it?"
"I do not know where it was. After I was captured on that plain, I was only conscious for the two days of interrogation. During that time, I was kept in the garden of a mansion. However, as I could hear music constantly during the interrogations, I believe it was a mansion within the palace grounds."
"Hmm."
Berke tilted his head slightly.
Understanding that the lack of information made it impossible to reach any meaningful conclusions.
"General Yun, do you remember how you were captured? While capture was part of the mission… it was also your duty to assassinate any royal who appeared on the battlefield, correct?"
"Yes. I was stopped by a powerful water-attribute magician. While in captivity, I was apparently frozen in ice. During interrogation, only my head was free…"
"A water-attribute magician, huh? Among the Darwei, the only water-attribute magician of such power would be Sir Rowon of the Six Saints. To think he would still appear on the battlefield even past seventy…"
Berke nodded repeatedly as he spoke.
"Most likely. However, when he stood before me, he appeared more like a young boy."
"Hmph, for a magician of that level, appearance is easily manipulated."
Berke laughed.
Juran, who had been listening silently, asked Berke.
"What shall we do?"
But it was General Yun, not Berke, who answered.
"Your Highness, please remove my eyeballs."
"Hm? Ah, yes, the magic formula was inscribed within your eyes. You wish me to extract it?"
"Yes. Please remove them and bring them to the negotiation table. The negotiations will likely take place within the palace, so information can still be gathered."
It was a harsh and severe proposal.
Berke gave a small smile and answered.
"I deeply appreciate your loyalty, General Yun. However, keep your eyes as they are."
"But…"
"You can simply accompany me to the negotiations yourself."
"Eh…?"
Both General Yun and Juran were left speechless at Berke's words.
Juran was the first to find his voice.
"But General Yun has already been captured by Darwei once. Bringing him to the negotiation table may harden Darwei's stance, may it not?"
"It matters not, does it? After all, I have no intention of making these negotiations succeed."
With that, Berke laughed.
It was no longer a warm, gentle smile… but a sinister, ominous laughter.
"After all, Darwei will be destroyed eventually anyway."
-x-X-x-
Comments
Adam
Uuhhh…. This is why I get mad from previous chapter
September 2, 2025
Reply
Dalba
felt the same, they tried kill the king and yet are no facing a army???? wt****
September 4, 2025
Reply
YUTA
literally I was so pissed off… not once but twice tried to attack royalty if someone from Butsnar did that they would've burned their whole damn country.. cuz what happened to "if the princess refuses the marriage they will demand the execution of royal members" ??? they were so intimidating but now they're welcoming the assassin inside the palace…
November 5, 2025
Reply
Reader_
So Ryo's suggestion of held captive him within his mansion, and Ron practicing there became a train of coincidence that fail their purpose and blur the location
September 18, 2025
Reply
JackichanPRO
What a crappy plot to be honest. It is impossible to logically justify any of the actions that have happened.
Mr.Author decided to create a problem out of thin air.
This is like drowning in a pool where water only reaches your knees
October 19, 2025
Reply
Touch Me
I don't like how retarded this plot has become
-x-X-x-
"Wow, he's really working with complete focus."
"Yeah. That's probably the real Ron."
Ryo and Abel were quietly peeking into the workshop adjacent to the Chouonkaku from outside.
In truth, Workshop Chief Ron's intensive violin lessons had ended the day after he received permission to perform on the outdoor stage.
That was yesterday.
"Starting tomorrow, I'll be dedicating myself to instrument-making."
Ron had said,
bowing his head to Abel in gratitude for accompanying him during all those long practice sessions.
Of course, he would still practice every day.
To keep his fingers from forgetting.
But as the Workshop Chief, he also needed to return to his primary duties…
And so, curious about what that would look like, Ryo and Abel decided to sneak a peek at Ron's work today.
Seeing him, they both nodded.
Ron had told them they were free to use any of the workshop's instruments whenever they wanted, whether it was Abel's violin or Ryo's piano.
Still, both of them had their own responsibilities and were busy.
"…Are you busy?"
"Technically, being summoned to the palace today is work, too."
"Ah, right…"
Ryo insisted, and Abel nodded with a complicated look.
Today, they had been summoned personally by Emperor Tsuin.
He had invited them to join him for lunch,
saying there was something he wanted to tell them…
"I wonder what he wants to tell us."
"Who knows…"
Abel tilted his head at Ryo's question.
Even when told there was something the Emperor wanted to convey directly, he couldn't think of what it might be.
"Abel, I actually have an idea."
"What?"
Ryo spoke with a smug expression.
Abel knew that Ryo's ideas in moments like this were usually wrong, but he decided to humor him anyway.
"Alright, I'll humor you."
"How rude to call it humoring me!"
"Come on, I'd love to hear it. Please tell me!"
"How suspiciously eager."
Ryo pretended to be hurt by Abel's tone.
But eventually stated his theory.
"I think he's going to ask us to do something only we can do."
"Specifically?"
"He's going to ask us to bring a piano back with us to the Central Countries and spread it there."
"…What?"
Abel was left speechless at Ryo's confident declaration.
Even prepared for nonsense, Abel found that Ryo's imagination exceeded his expectations.
In the worst possible way.
"You see, the Emperor wants to spread the piano across the world…"
"Ron did mention that."
"This is clearly the first step in achieving that dream!"
For some reason, Ryo was brimming with confidence.
"Isn't that piano thing really heavy?"
"Yes. Probably around 300 or 400 kilos."
"Wouldn't it be a pain to bring it back…"
"Abel, you can do it!"
"Don't just shove it onto me!"
Abel barked in protest.
But quickly calmed down.
"Well, that's just your delusion."
"Abel, you never believe what I say."
"Because it's unrealistic. Besides…"
Abel paused, letting out a small sigh before continuing.
"When exactly are we supposed to depart for the Central Countries?"
"Huh? We're only staying here because of you, Abel."
Ryo spoke as if to say, "What are you even talking about?".
Leaving Abel completely confused.
"How is it my fault?"
"Technically, it's because of what you're wearing."
Ryo sharply pointed at Abel's wrist with a dramatic snap of his finger.
"The Flight Ring?"
"Yes. It only works in the 'Chuo Chuang' region, right? So you want to stay here until you're satisfied with flying, don't you? I understand completely."
Ryo nodded repeatedly, confident in his analysis.
"Well, I do want to improve my flying, but… If you're going to say that, aren't you the one who wants to stay here even more?"
"Me? Why?"
"You said you wanted to figure out why the Flight Ring only works in Chuo Chuang, didn't you? You thought if you solved that, you might be able to fly elsewhere, too."
"Ugh… I did say that…"
In the end, the romance of flying captivated them both.
They sighed at the same time.
Of course, the real reason they couldn't return to the Central Countries was that the Corridor remained closed.
The two were shown into a room in the northern part of the Forbidden Palace.
They still didn't know the name of this room… but they remembered it as the place where they briefly met the Emperor during lunch on the day of Prince Ryun's wedding to Princess Shio Fen.
Three meal trays were already prepared, and as they entered, Emperor Tsuin entered as well.
"Duke Rondo, Albert-dono, please, this way."
Tsuin gestured to their seats.
It seemed there was even a meal prepared for Abel, not just Ryo.
"Your Majesty, thank you for preparing a tray for Albert as well."
"Think nothing of it. Albert-dono did help guide Ron, after all."
Ryo expressed his gratitude, and Tsuin replied with a warm smile.
They enjoyed their meal, chatting pleasantly…
"I asked you here today because there is something I decided and wanted to tell you personally."
Tsuin's expression grew serious as he continued.
"Soon, I will bestow the title of Imperial Prince upon my sixth son, Ryun."
"Oh…"
Tsuin's clear declaration surprised Ryo.
And Abel beside him looked equally taken aback.
The room had been cleared for privacy.
Apart from Ryo and Abel, the only other person within earshot was the Chief Eunuch standing silently behind Tsuin.
The Chief Eunuch showed no reaction to the Emperor's words.
Likely having been informed beforehand.
"I know that it was Duke Rondo who was at the center of capturing General Yun and defeating the monsters, but there should be no issue with acknowledging that as Ryun's achievement. Of course, I confirmed Ryun's wishes as well. He said he wishes to become an imperial prince."
"I see."
"And so, I wanted to tell you directly."
"It is an honor, Your Majesty."
Ryo bowed deeply in response to Tsuin's explanation.
Prince Ryun hadn't mentioned that it was Ryo who had led the capture of General Yun.
As Ryo had asked him to keep it quiet.
Still, seeing Yun return frozen in ice would have made it obvious enough.
At this point, there was no way for Ryo to say, "No, it wasn't me".
Besides, apart from Abel, the only others present were Tsuin and the Chief Eunuch,
who was essentially the Emperor's shadow.
What the Emperor knew, the Chief Eunuch knew as well…
Ryo understood that.
After they left the Emperor's presence, Ryo and Abel were guided toward the exit.
"So Prince Ryun… is finally going to become an imperial prince."
"It's going to be rough from here on out."
Ryo's expression was a complicated mix of excitement and worry,
while Abel's was one of clear concern.
In a vast court, rising in rank wasn't something that ended with a simple 'congratulations'.
Just like in a large company, the larger the organization and the more people involved, the more people there were trying to drag others down.
That was a timeless truth known across all ages and lands.
Both Ryo and Abel knew that much.
Furthermore, simply becoming an imperial prince meant nothing.
Unless he could gather capable people to support him. Otherwise, he would be crushed by the other imperial princes.
Whether called a faction or retainers, gathering such people was essential for any future ambitions toward the throne, as those people would form the core of his government one day.
"Becoming an imperial prince means joining the fight for the throne, doesn't it?"
"Of course it does. You can't become an imperial prince and then say you have no interest in the throne. No one would believe that. In a country this massive, if you want to aim for the throne, you need to gather exceptional people. But Ryun is already way behind in that regard…"
Most of the capable officials who should form the backbone of a government were already aligned with one of the other three imperial princes.
"Before anything else, and immediately, you need to lay a solid foundation. You have to do what others have spent years preparing for, right at the moment of your appointment, without delay."
Ryo spoke as if reading aloud.
"That's not Sun Tzu… that's Machiavelli, isn't it?"
"Ah, as expected of you, Abel!"
Ryo praised him for getting it right.
"I've started to recognize the patterns in your quotes."
Abel nodded.
"Someday, you might be called the 'Schemer King Abel'."
"Isn't that… kind of unpleasant?"
"Your enemies all die of illness or accidents. And you conquer the Central Countries without a single battle… Causing no suffering for the people."
"Well, maybe, but…"
Abel frowned.
"What's wrong? Would you rather wage a direct war even if it brings suffering to the people, just for your own satisfaction as a king?!"
"No, I'd rather not have a war at all."
"Well, of course, that would be best… but what will you do if they attack first?"
"I guess the ideal is to have enough power to make them lose the will to attack…"
"Yes, that's ideal. But military strength needs to be balanced with national power… mainly economic strength. If you build up so much military power that your economy collapses and your people suffer under heavy taxes, then it's completely backward, isn't it?"
"Yeah, that's true."
Running a country was clearly no easy task.
"Well, enough about the kingdom."
"Right. What we need to focus on now is Prince Ryun."
They decided to steer the conversation back.
"So, Prince Ryun is moving up to the title of imperial Prince… In that case, the people who tried to assassinate Princess Shio Fen back home were correct in their assessment."
"After all, without a formal consort, he wouldn't have been eligible to become an imperial prince. If they had succeeded in assassinating Princess Shio Fen, it would have bought them time…"
Abel pointed out, and Ryo nodded in agreement.
"But in general, Prince Ryun doesn't have a high reputation, does he?"
"Yeah, that's what I heard. Maybe not quite dull-witted, but while he's popular with the people, he doesn't have the sharpness expected of someone seeking power. Or so they say."
"Yeah. Director Mogok mentioned that."
They remembered when Director Mogok, Mifa's father, had explained that back in Bosuntar.
However, having met Ryun in Fenmu and seen him in the suppression forces, they had formed a different opinion.
"He's been hiding his true capabilities."
"Sometimes, to protect your life, you have to appear dull on purpose."
Both Abel and Ryo believed that Prince Ryun was indeed capable.
Moreover, he possessed the caution needed to live inconspicuously and avoid being dragged into power struggles.
Despite that, he was highly regarded by Emperor Tsuin,
who was prepared to elevate him to Imperial Prince.
Had he managed to demonstrate his worth without standing out?
If Ryo had been in that position, he wouldn't have known how to achieve that.
"In other words, Prince Ryun is a capable man."
"It's better for someone in the heart of government to be capable than incompetent, at least."
As they chatted while walking toward the palace exit, a group walking down the opposite corridor caught their eye.
About twenty people were being guided down the same hallway as the two.
They wore Eastern clothing but did not appear to be Darwei locals.
"Those people aren't from the palace, are they? I get that feeling."
"Yeah… Maybe it's because they aren't wearing their hair up."
"Oh, I see!"
Ryo nodded at Abel's observation.
Right, the group had their hair down.
In Darwei, it was customary to tie up one's hair.
Especially in the palace.
Those of higher status typically wore beautiful fist-sized crowns to secure their tied hair.
As a matter of etiquette.
However, everyone in this group wore their hair down, flowing behind them.
And…
"The person at the back… isn't that the guy who was frozen?"
"Frozen? You mean that General Yun?"
"Yes, that's him!"
Ryo nodded and called out to their guide.
"Excuse me, but is that group the imperial envoys?"
"Yes. Those are the Special Envoys of the Choouchi Empire."
Their guide responded without hesitation, evidently well-informed.
"Incredible. They're actually bringing the captured general back to the palace with them."
"Yeah. It's… bold, I guess you'd say."
Abel spoke with a tone of mild astonishment.
In that moment, Ryo turned to Abel and declared,
"Abel, you should learn from them!"
"Huh?"
"Imagine leading the monsters you defeated on a parade through the palace…"
"I'd get arrested!"
And so, the 'Project to Train Abel as the Fearless King' ended in failure.