[Raul's PoV]
The survival exam has come to an end, and the students have now been granted a ten-day break. Some have returned to their hometowns, while others have stayed behind because they live too far from the capital.
Currently, I am heading to the Student Council Building to meet the President. The streets within the academy grounds are completely empty, a stark contrast to their usual state of being filled with students. I suppose those who stayed prefer to spend their time elsewhere rather than remain idle here.
Upon arriving at the Student Council Building, I headed straight for the President's Office.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
After knocking on the door, I waited a moment for her permission to enter.
"Come in."
Opening the door, I saw a blonde woman sitting at her desk, reading a report. Her beautiful blue eyes were like the clear sky on a bright afternoon.
"President, why did you summon me?" I asked her.
"Have a seat first, Raul."
I stepped forward and sat in the chair in front of her desk.
"I'm sorry to interrupt your vacation," President Elena said. "I need a partner to attend a meeting that will take place at the Palace."
A meeting, huh? I assume this meeting is important enough to require all the Emperor's children to attend. Could this influence the upcoming succession?
"A partner? Wouldn't it be better to call me a bodyguard?" I said, clarifying the President's words.
Every Prince and Princess of the Empire has the right to bring one follower or bodyguard into the meeting room. However, Elena has never brought anyone before because the only noble who supports her—Count Raymond de Chatelon—is always busy carrying out his duties as one of the seven Grand Espadas.
Grand Espada is the title given to the seven strongest knights in the Empire. The more Grand Espadas that side with a candidate, the greater their chances of winning the succession. Each Grand Espada has their own unique moniker. Count Raymond de Chatelon's moniker is The White Knight, because his swordsmanship is pure, utilizing only physical prowess and physical enhancement magic.
"Let's not argue over names, shall we?" President Elena said, pouting slightly.
"Then, won't the others be suspicious of me being your guard?" I asked her to be certain. "What if rumors spread that my family is supporting you in this election, President?"
"Don't worry about that," the President replied casually. "They won't believe that just because you—the 'bastard noble'—are guarding me in that meeting, it serves as a sign that Duke Alvaro is supporting me in the upcoming election."
Hearing a woman as beautiful as her insult me so nonchalantly made me slightly annoyed.
"What is it? You want to deny it?" Elena asked with a mischievous smile.
"No, I am a man of principle: 'A lion does not concern himself with the opinions of sheep.'"
I got those words from Tywin Lannister from the series Game of Thrones.
"Sometimes you have unique perspectives, Raul," the President said, appearing resigned. "We'd better hurry to the gate; an imperial carriage will be picking us up there."
We then left the Student Council building and headed for the Academy's main gate. I wondered what would be discussed in this meeting. In the game, there were only a few scenes showing a meeting at the Imperial Palace—specifically when Emperor Philip declared war on the Republic of Venetia.
When we arrived at the main gate, a luxurious carriage was already parked along with several knights for escort. One of the knights then faced the President and bowed in respect. "Yoir Highness, we have been tasked with escorting you to the Imperial Palace."
"Hmm... I don't think such a large escort is necessary, is it? After all, it's not that far from here," Elena said, not looking too pleased.
"Please forgive the inconvenience, Your Highness. However, this is the standard procedure for guarding the Imperial family," the knight said, bowing again.
"Don't think too much about it," the President said, then stepped up into the carriage. One of the servants opened the door for her. "Raul, come on, get in quickly."
I followed the President into the carriage. The cabin was quite spacious, almost like the interior of a limousine. The servant closed the door, and shortly after, the carriage began to move.
"Raul, what do you think will be discussed in the meeting later?" President Elena asked. "As a noble who supports me, shouldn't you give me some advice?"
Hmm... let's think about it for a moment.
The major national-scale event supposed to happen was the war with the Republic of Venetia after graduation. I felt this was too early, considering there has been no news regarding the specific trigger for the two nations to go to war.
Yesterday, I visited the entertainment establishment I had previously built. Karl Johnson and Mai Khalissa have also started gathering information by placing their agents throughout the Empire's regions. There were three issues that caught my attention yesterday.
First, the issue regarding the circulation of illegal drugs, which has begun to increase in the northern regions of the Empire.
Second, the issue of the surge of immigrants from the Land of Kuwalid. The Empire does not have enough soldiers to guard the borders in such hot weather. The high number of arriving immigrants will lead to conflicts between social groups, increased criminality, and the growth of slums built by immigrants who do not yet have a place to live.
Third, the issue regarding the forced laborers from the Tyal Tribe who rebelled against the Empire several years ago. There have been a significant number of deaths this year, leaving their current number at only 3,000, whereas it was still 3,500 the previous year.
If left unchecked, the number of dying workers will continue to increase, causing other tribes from the Noors nation to harbor dangerous thoughts upon seeing their fellow countrymen treated like animals.
"Hmm... I think they will focus on discussing the issue of the Tyal Tribe forced laborers, President," I answered earnestly. "Specifically, what steps should be taken to align with the Empire's interests."
Hearing my explanation, the President touched her chin as if thinking. "Isn't Brother Felix the one handling this problem?" she asked.
"Correct. The first Prince has been handling the rebellion issue since five years ago and the sentencing process of the Tyal Tribe up until now," I answered, clarifying the President's question.
We spoke about these three issues to prepare for the meeting throughout the journey. Not long after, the carriage stopped. The cabin door opened, revealing the same servant from before.
"Princess, we have arrived."
We stepped out, seeing several magnificent buildings surrounded by beautiful garden decorations. The Imperial Palace complex was extremely vast. This place even resembled a small city. There were many buildings besides the residence of the Emperor and his family here, such as various important ministry buildings for trade, security, and finance.
"Please follow me, Your Highness," the servant said, intending to escort us.
We began walking around this massive castle complex. The knights who crossed paths with the President snapped their feet together and stood at attention to salute. It is quite difficult to become an Imperial Palace Guard. Their loyalty and courage must have already been tested in the field.
Shortly after, we arrived at a large gate guarded by several knights. This was the entrance to the Inner Palace, where only those with official business are permitted to enter. Seeing the President's arrival, the knights opened the gate. The President nodded, giving a gesture of thanks, and the knights responded by snapping their feet together in a perfect stance.
We entered the Inner Palace gate, seeing a stunning and massive palace adorned with beautiful gardens. The architecture of this palace adopted the Victorian style of the early 18th century.
We were then escorted into the palace, seeing many staircases leading to specific areas. We followed the servant, who took a staircase leading directly to the third floor.
"Lord Raul, this is your room," the servant said, opening a bedroom door. "The meeting will be held tomorrow at 9 AM."
The President then approached me. "Come to my room tomorrow; we will enter the meeting room together," she whispered to me.
I simply nodded in response to her words. The President and the servant then left me there. Entering the room, I saw that the interior was far more luxurious than my room in the academy dormitory. Laying my body on the bed, I tried to rest and close my eyes so I would look fresh for the meeting tomorrow.
.
.
.
Tok! Tok! Tok!
"Lord Raul, Princess Elena is summoning you to go to her room."
I woke up hearing the knock on the door and the servant's voice. Looking at my pocket watch, I saw the time already showed 6 AM.
"Alright, wait a moment. Let me clean myself up," I said.
"Lord Raul, if you wish, there are several maids who can help you clean yourself," the servant said from behind the door.
"It's okay, I can do it myself."
Speaking of a maid, I haven't recruited a single one since Sephira's death. Do I actually need a maid? Thinking back, it's quite annoying when you're tired from a full day of activities and return to a room that is still a mess. I think I should ask Mai Khalissa to find one suitable for me later.
After cleaning myself and changing into formal clothes, I left the room to head toward the President's room, escorted by the servant. Shortly after, we arrived in front of a large door. Several maids sat on guard nearby, tasked with fulfilling all the needs of the Imperial Family. I suppose they are what were known as Ladies-in-Waiting in my original world during the medieval era.
"Princess Elena has summoned Lord Raul de Garcia to come to her room," said the servant who escorted me.
"Very well, I will inform the Princess."
The maid opened the door and entered the President's room. Not long after, the maid returned and approached us.
"Lord Raul, you may enter the room now," she said, giving me permission. "Please have a seat first in the waiting room inside."
I nodded and entered the President's room. A refreshing aroma hit me as soon as I entered; I saw a table and chairs in this room. It seemed the President's chambers consisted of several rooms. I sat in the chair while looking around at the luxurious interior.
"Hey."
Hearing someone call out, I turned to the side. I saw a woman with beautiful, shimmering blonde hair. Her blue eyes were like a beautiful ocean in the summer; her enchanting smile could undoubtedly make every man in this Empire kneel to obey her commands.
"How do I look?"
Seeing the President wearing something other than the academy uniform was a new experience for me. She rarely wore clothes other than military or academy uniforms in the game.
"You look very beautiful and enchanting, President," I answered, praising her.
"Hey, isn't it time you dropped that formal title when it's just the two of us?" the President said, stepping toward me.
"Very well, Princess Elena," I answered, calling her correctly.
She looked like she was pouting; did I say it wrong? It seemed that wasn't the problem, I think.
"...."
She pulled my tie, forcing me to stand up. My face was level with hers; her blue eyes, shimmering like jewels, were very clearly visible from this close. Her red lips reminded me of the erotic experience I had with her during the first stage of the exam. She had pinned my body down; I could feel the softness of Elena's body at that time, her tongue dancing in my mouth, and I think we briefly exchanged saliva when she took that crystal from my mouth.
I averted my gaze from her face to clear those dirty thoughts.
"I understand, Elena."
"Good then," she said while letting me go. She then straightened my tie again and patted my chest. "Alright, let's go to the meeting room. It starts in one hour."
Elena then walked ahead of me, and I followed from behind. Looking at her body from this angle seemed like a bad idea. I quickly caught up to her and walked right beside her. This reminded me of something—the man who gets to marry Elena must be very lucky.
If I'm not mistaken, in the game, Elena was to be betrothed to Prince Vlad from the Kingdom of Draconia. The Draconia Kingdom is ruled by the Dracus dynasty, who possess unique blood-control magic. Legend says the Dracus dynasty are descendants of a marriage between a Vampire and a Human.
Shortly after, we arrived in front of the meeting room. Two knights were guarding the entrance. They then opened the doors for us. Entering the room, I saw that several people had already arrived.
Among them was the Third Prince, Terantio de Aragon, who had long blonde hair tied in a ponytail; he had just graduated from the academy early last year. The guard who came with him, if I'm not mistaken, was Marquis Velocio—an Imperial General responsible for the Northern territory.
The second was Princess Annabella; she currently holds the status of a Senior Wizard at the Castille Magic Tower. Her guard was one of the Grand Espadas and the youngest among them, Danilo de Asturias—son of Count Ferrel de Asturias.
"Good morning, Siblings. How are you all?" Elena asked after sitting in her chair, while I stood right behind her.
"Hmm... Elena, who is that guard of yours?" Princess Annabella asked. "I don't think I remember his face."
Princess Annabella has a good memory; this indicates that Raul was not worth remembering at all. Knowing this fact made me slightly annoyed.
"He is Raul de Garcia—son of Duke Alvaro," Elena answered, introducing me to her, even though she had done it once before during the first year.
"Ah, the son of that 'Snake Duke', huh?" she said while nodding her head. "No wonder I didn't remember! Their family is always operating in secrecy."
This is the character of Princess Annabella; she is always blunt regardless of who she is talking to.
"Where did that old man go, Elena? I want to have another duel with him to avenge my defeat!" Prince Terantio asked Elena.
"I believe Count Raymond is currently in the Roundabout mountains to hunt a Wyvern that is distressing the local residents," Elena answered casually.
They then began to chat while waiting for the arrival of the others. Shortly after, Prince Ramon and his female guard entered. He then sat down while greeting all of his younger siblings.
"Brother Ramon, I told you to give your guard clothes that are fit to be worn in the palace, didn't I?" Elena said, commenting on the clothes worn by Prince Ramon's guard.
It was true; the clothes worn by Ramon's guard were not very modest and showed off all her curves. If I'm not mistaken, this woman is an Assassin from a Clan famous for that.
"Isn't this nice, Elena? Everyone here wearing the same clothes looks boring," the Prince replied.
As usual, this Prince has a bit of a problem with his brain. In the game, he is the one who will win the succession election later. However, in reality, he is just a puppet controlled by someone behind the scenes. I will have to face him someday. Because for Prince Ramon, he would rather die than disappoint that person.
The door opened again; this time, Prince Felix entered with a female guard in military uniform. He then sat in his chair and did not greet his brothers or sisters at all. I then looked at the Prince's guard.
Brown hair tied back, a ready expression, and a sharp gaze. No doubt about it, she is Judas Victariot, alias Tyra—the woman who will kill Prince Felix after graduation. All the chaos that occurs in the Empire will start from her later. No matter what, I must prevent that chaos from happening in the future.
"His Majesty the Emperor has arrived in the room!"
We heard a knight announce the Emperor's arrival. All the Princes and Princesses present immediately stood up. Shortly after, a middle-aged man in his early 50s entered the room. He is the leader of the strongest nation in this world—Emperor Philip de Aragon.
After he sat in his chair, the Emperor gave a gesture for the others to sit as well.
"Let's not take too long and start this meeting immediately," the Emperor said. "I don't have much time, so get straight to it, Guilford," the Emperor ordered the guard beside him.
"Yes, Your Majesty." The man named Guilford then stepped forward and took out a piece of paper. "The presence of the Princes and Princesses here is to discuss several issues regarding matters that will affect our National Resilience."
Guilford then began to explain the three issues I had explained to Elena yesterday. It seems the Emperor thinks these three issues must be resolved quickly by the Empire.
"Alright, what do you think about what is happening to the Tyal Tribe forced laborers? How do we overcome this problem? A week ago, the Minister of People and Security told me something about this matter," the Emperor said, questioning the Princesses and Princes.
"Father, 500 people dying in a year is already too many," said Prince Terantio. "It's as if someone is intentional so that they all die when their punishment period ends."
Hearing his younger brother's words, Prince Felix looked annoyed. It was true; the party responsible for the lives and the projects worked on by those forced laborers were nobles from Prince Felix's faction, most of whom hold Ultranationalist views like the Prince.
"Terantio, if you were to see for yourself, those workers have already been given enough food and a place to live by those responsible there," Prince Felix said, trying to evade. "It is not the fault of the responsible party if they still die even though their life necessities have been met."
"Brother, this is not a matter of whether we have done the task as best as possible or seeking fault for what happened to them," said Elena, refuting Prince Felix's statement. "But their deaths will be seen by other minority nations living in the Empire. What will they think when they see people from other minority nations being left to die while serving their punishment? They might think that the Empire never considers them the same as the Majority Nation like us."
"What do you mean, Elena? We and they are indeed not the same! We are the Victorious Nation; it is only right that we are above them," Prince Felix replied. "Besides, this Tyal Tribe are rebels of the State! Just being given a chance to live, they should already be grateful."
I saw Judas's expression when Prince Felix said that. Her body appeared to tremble, and she clenched her fingers into fists as if holding back emotion.
"Elena is right, Felix," said the Emperor, starting to speak again. "I received a report from Duke Alvaro that the minority nations in the Empire are currently frequently discussing what is happening to the workers."
It was true; in the game, a massive demonstration by the minority nations occurred, demanding justice. This movement is also what will trigger a civil war later in the Empire. Is this event what triggers that movement?
"Then, how can we calm these voices so that the Empire's stability remains maintained?" the Emperor asked again.
"We should have handled this immediately when the unnatural deaths occurred in the first year," Elena said, giving her opinion. "Besides, the punishment for the Tyal tribe members who were not proven to have joined the rebellion is, I think, unfair. Just because some of them were defiant toward the Empire, it doesn't mean all other members must bear the punishment as well."
"But Elena, they were proven to be hiding those rebels," Prince Felix said, disagreeing with Elena's opinion. "If they were indeed faithful and loyal to the Empire, they would have expelled those rebels and not given them a place to shelter!" Prince Felix argued.
Hearing this, the Emperor sighed and said, "Let what has passed be passed; it's time to find a solution to this problem."
"We handled this problem incorrectly and inhumanely. When their numbers were still high and deaths began to occur, no one wanted to pay attention," Elena said with a passionate voice. "However, now that their numbers are few, only then do people care about them like a rare species threatened with extinction. We treat them like animals, not humans."
This is the reason why I chose Elena as the next Emperor Candidate. She can understand the feelings of all the Empire's people across all walks of life. She always acts fairly and honestly in doing things. This is what can keep the Empire stable for a long time.
"I propose to perform a reduction of the punishment period as compensation for what happened to the forced laborers," Elena said, finally giving a solution. "We will also openly apologize to the public for what happened to them."
Bam!
Prince Felix was seen slamming the table.
"That will not happen! Our nation's pride will fall if we apologize before the public!" Prince Felix exclaimed. "How will the international world view us? They will think we are a weak nation!"
"Elena, Father agrees to the reduction of the punishment period," the Emperor said. "However, a public apology will lower our credibility as the party that provides security to the people. What will they think of our family later if this event spreads?"
"If we lose credibility just because we apologize for a mistake, then from the start, we indeed had no credibility at all," Elena said firmly.
In the end, the Emperor agreed with Elena's proposal to provide leniency in punishment for the Tyal Tribe and apologize to them privately. I think, for now, what the Emperor did is enough to dampen the wave of dissatisfaction from the minority nations.
The meeting continued until the afternoon to draft a plan for overcoming the issues discussed. This draft would then be discussed again with the relevant Ministries for review before being implemented.
.
.
.
At night, I was looking at the view of the stars in the sky from an Imperial Palace balcony. The meeting with the appearance of the candidates earlier reminded me of the succession war that would occur later. This war will make the Empire weaken, and the Demons will take advantage of this condition to start attacking.
It is truly a very terrifying future if one continues to think about it. How do I prevent this massive disaster? How can the innocent residents escape the madness later?
I don't know...
What is certain is that I will try my best to save many people by any means. Doing so will certainly require me to also stain my hands with the blood of innocent people. However, this is what must be done so that many people who are not involved in this can be safe.