abcnovels
Chapter 496
Chapter 496
Chapter 496
Chapter 496: Departure of the Envoy
The next day, I was formally summoned by my father. Of course, it was about going to the Albatro Duchy as an envoy.
"Do you understand the situation?"
"Up to a certain extent."
"The key to the war against the kingdom depends on how we can separate the Albatro Duchy. The kingdom has become more serious than we expected. They might have already extended their hands to the Duchy."
"Do you want to call off my dispatch?"
"We can't just cut off our frontline forces. You're the only one who can go."
As long as Leo is preparing for the final battle against the kingdom, someone else must go to the Albatro Duchy. However, as long as the Albatro Duchy is supporting them, the kingdom is impregnable. Once it starts, it will become a mired war that lasts for years. Neither side will retreat, and both will only be injured.
"We currently have two plans in mind. One is strict protection by the royal guard."
"That would probably just provoke them."
"I agree. I also think showing off our military power is a bad plan."
Prime Minister Franz agreed, and he began to speak about the second plan.
"It's somewhat risky, but I believe we should limit the number of guards. Emphasizing dialogue with the prince is key. Ever since Prince Leonard and Prince Arnold went to the Duchy, the prince has consistently been a pro-empire person."
"Do you believe the prince has the power to move the country?"
"The kingdom and the duchy have been in a long alliance. There are many people who feel grateful for that. However, the situation has changed. It would be futile for us to explain that. The new generation should do it."
"Surely, the favor towards the empire versus the favor towards the kingdom, there's no need to compare them. The Duchy is a small country. They can't just be observers. They have to side with one. It's a tough choice. It would be easier for them to listen to the prince's words than mine. So, what happens if we fail?"
If the Duchy decides to side with the kingdom, I could become a prime hostage. I would be handed over to the kingdom. If the number of guards is limited, escaping would be extremely difficult.
"For that, well... I was against it..."
"If we can't bring more than necessary guards, preparing for the worst is difficult. Therefore, we need to make sure the worst doesn't happen. That's why we'll increase the number of potential hostages."
"To put pressure on them, saying 'You know what happens if something goes wrong?'"
"Exactly. The problem is who to choose..."
"It should be just me and Finne. If that's not enough, add someone from the royal family. Either Christa or Rupert."
"Don't joke around! It's unthinkable to involve the children!"
"The children are part of the royal family too. But if that's the case, let's go with me and Finne."
"The two of you would provide enough pressure. Putting too much pressure could hinder negotiations, so this should be just right."
The discussion wraps up quickly. Father grimaces. As a father, he was probably against sending Finne. But he outright denied involving the children at first. Now, he can't object to Finne going, or the discussion won't proceed.
"If Finne agrees... I have no objections."
"Then, I'll persuade her."
Saying that, I bow and turn my back. Father calls out to me as I do.
"Arnold."
"What is it?"
"Don't do anything reckless. If you become hostages, that's fine. If they see value in you, they will treat you well."
"Is that not shameful?"
"Your life is more important than shame."
With a nod to my father's words, I left the room.
Several days later, Finne and I were in a carriage leaving the imperial capital.
"Take care. Brother, Finne."
"Yes! We'll be back! Lord Leo."
"Well, if it's too much, we'll come back. Don't worry."
I said that to Leo, who had come to see us off.
Of course, it was just to make him feel better, and Leo understood that. But, if he starts worrying now, it would be too much for him to handle.
"I'm not worried. If you become hostages, I'll come to rescue you."
"I look forward to it."
"Yeah, keep looking forward."
After such a conversation, Elna hurried out from the castle.
She seemed to have rushed to finish her work.
"Finne! Arn!"
"Lady Elna."
"Geez! I wouldn't worry if I could go with you... but the Chancellor dismissed it! Don't be reckless. Both of you."
"There's no need to worry. We have Sebas with us, and Captain Fin is part of our escort."
"But still..."
Elna grabs Finne's hand with a worried look.
Normally, she would be the one calming down a nervous Finne.
Honestly.
"It's about time. Let's go."
"Arn!"
"Don't worry. We have a good chance."
"Really...?"
"Really. So, get ready. When I return, it'll be a full-fledged war with the kingdom. We'll make our mark there and surpass Brother Erik. The throne is right before us, right? Are you prepared?"
"Of course. I'm ready."
"Good. Then, we'll be on our way."
Waving our hands at the two, Finne and I set off for the Duchy.
"I'm excited to go to the Duchy!"
"If the kingdom has reached out, we're jumping into a trap."
"There are things you can only gain by diving into danger."
"That's true... I feel reassured with you around."
"I feel secure being by your side too, Arn-sama."
While we're having such a conversation, a white flying dragon cries in the sky.
Looking up, Fin was flying in the air as an escort.
"Well, let's see what's going to happen."
I mumbled and closed my eyes.
TL's Notes:
Early chapter, I will be away on a business trip on Friday so yea....
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