Rosie's Games

Chapter 389: Preparations

Chapter 389: Preparations

The Aster Empire

"The Korusta Empire wanted to meet Brinley Fleur." The Emperor of Aster announced, his face grim. "It seems that they are hell-bent on protecting the Blaize Family."

Martin frowned at that. The Blaize Family were well known for their temper. However, the other reason why no one would actually dare to even fight against them was because of the support of the Korusta Empire.

The Emperor of the Korusta Empire was willing to fulfill any request from the leader of the Blaize Family, which posed a significant problem due to their possession of highly skilled soldiers, considered among the best in this continent.

Nestled between a desert and a cluster of small volcanoes, the Korusta Empire thrived as the primary manufacturer of weapons; specializing in shields and swords. Renowned for their exceptional weapon craftsmanship and cutting-edge war machinery, they possessed an unmatched military prowess.

This reality served as an additional reason for the fearlessness exhibited by the Blaize Family, as they consistently challenged other members of the seven families. The Blaize Family's dominance in military strategy and weapons technology places them in a league of their own.

Martin expressed his concern, stating, "This could be a problem." In addition to their formidable military capabilities, the Korusta Empire also supplied weapons to other empires. This raised further concerns, especially if the erratic leader of the Blaize Family was to instigate a war solely due to Brinley Fleur.

"The Blaize Family has always exhibited fearlessness in their actions," remarked the Emperor. "It wouldn't be surprising if they initiated a war against the Sloryn Empire. However, one must traverse the vast desert of Korusta to reach Sloryn, which would take weeks."

Martin pondered the situation and replied, "Do you believe they aren't willing to undertake such a journey? Keep in mind that the Blaize Family consistently perceives themselves as the most powerful force on this continent. Once provoked, their potential actions become unpredictable."

The Emperor frowned.

"What is your take on this rumor?" inquired the Emperor.

"I believe it to be untrue," replied Martin. "Both of us witnessed Lachlan and Brinley fighting against the beast. Do you truly think that Lachlan cannot defeat Brinley if he desired to? To be honest, Lachlan is incredibly formidable. Even Ena Thun would not dare to face him, as his mastery of his abilities has reached unimaginable heights. He possesses that level of power."

"So why would someone as powerful as Lachlan lose against Brinley? It simply defies logic," Martin continued. "Furthermore, the fact that Lachlan spared one of Brinley's servants, allowing them to witness the entire event, is utterly incomprehensible."

Silence enveloped the room as both individuals contemplated the possibility of an impending war.

"If this event didn't transpire as rumored, why would the Fleur Family suddenly demand an explanation?" questioned the Emperor. "They must be aware that the Blaize Family would never let such an incident slide. That old man Phineas will go to great lengths to demonstrate Lachlan's innocence. And knowing him, the most compelling proof would likely be through a display of strength."

Emperor Goosebourne continued, "I've heard whispers that His Blessedness Lachlan surpasses even his esteemed father in power. It's highly likely that Phineas would challenge Brinley to another duel, seeking to establish Lachlan's innocence."

Martin acknowledged the statement with a nod.

"While these assumptions may sound implausible, when it comes to the Blaize Family, nothing is truly impossible," Martin acknowledged, recognizing the unpredictable nature of the Blaize Family's actions.

"What do you suggest we do about it?"Emperor Goosebourne asked.

"We prepare," Martin said. The looming threat of war was a troublesome reality, but it was not entirely out of the realm of possibility. The equilibrium among the Seven Families had persisted for far too long, and even a minor misunderstanding could easily ignite the spark that led to a full-blown conflict. In anticipation of such an event, it was essential that they make proactive preparations.

"What about our ongoing search for your father?" inquired the Emperor.

"It has been months since his disappearance, and although I firmly believe he is still alive, we must shift our focus toward war preparations," Martin responded, his tone filled with determination. Shouldering the responsibility since his father's vanishing, he had grown accustomed to making weighty decisions that would impact not only his family but also the Aster Empire.

The Emperor nodded in understanding, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

As Martin rose from his seat, the Emperor questioned, "Where are you headed?"

"I will be convening another meeting with the other members of the Seven Families," Martin declared. "While it may be just a flicker of tension at the moment, it is crucial to address it as early as possible. A war may appear inevitable, but I still aim to minimize the damage. I intend to inform both the Korusta Empire and the Sloryn Empire that the Aster Empire has no intentions of intervening, hoping they will refrain from forcing us to choose sides."

Just as he walked out of the Emperor's study, he was surprised to see Dorothy waiting for him.

"You're here..." Martin said, pleasantly surprised. Since Federico's disappearance, his relationship with Dorothy had improved, although it was still far from ideal. Fortunately, his wife Victoria didn't seem to hold too much resentment towards him.

Furthermore, Martin had made the decision to send the other women residing in the estate away, believing that it wouldn't be in his best interest to have another child at this time. He was now waiting for the guidance of the Goddess, hoping She would reveal the path they should take.

"I plan to travel to the North," Dorothy announced.

"Pardon?" Martin stopped in his tracks, staring at his daughter in astonishment. "You plan to do what?"

"I want to go to the North. To be more specific, I want to go to Wugari." Dorothy smiled. "As someone that can heal, shouldn't we visit the place that needs the most healing? I believe that place is Wugari. I want to be at the walls, helping people."

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