Chapter 48 – Plots and Meetings
THE MEETING IN EMERGENT KINGDOM ended abruptly due to the arrival of a United Alliance navy. With the recent increase in the number of new treasure hunters in Aria, the United Alliance wanted to ensure that every member nation was updated and safe. Thus, the United Alliance frequently visits the member nations. But that is not always the case. Sometimes, it even becomes an excuse.
Edmund, the Minister of Public Service and Infrastructures, and the first prince, Prince Rafflesia, met in an empty hallway in the castle. The minister was from a prominent noble family of the Emergent Kingdom. Ever since the days of his grandfather, their family has been the appointed minister for public service. And still, only the rich and middle class has been gaining from their infrastructure projects.
“Prince Rafflesia, you have to do something about that sister of yours,” the minister frustratingly insisted. “She could put an end to our plans with that diplomatic visit of hers!”
Prince Rafflesia slammed the wall behind the minister. “Watch your tongue, Edmund. You wouldn't be benefiting from the ores if it wasn't for her. Her and my parent's little secret is the reason we're making a lot of money.”
“I-I apologize, First Prince. It's j-just that, I-I'm concerned that o-our plan will—”
“Relax, Onageria. In fact, this will be a perfect opportunity for us to infiltrate Shiromori.”
“W-What do you mean?” asked the minister in confusion.
“Once my sister manages to convince the Rogue Archers to talk, then there will be a chance that we will finally know where this hidden Shiropolis is.”
“How can you be sure that those archers will take the princess to their camp?”
“The Rogue Archers will never agree to talk inside the Emergent Kingdom. And the forest is a den of wild beasts and giant insects. Even the so-called safe zones inside the forest are not absolutely safe. The only safe place is surely their hidden village and there they will surely have the meeting.”
The minister started to calm down a bit. “What are we going to do after we find their hidden village then?”
“We will attack the moment we learn the location of that Shiropolis. There are tons of houses, soldiers, and knights loyal to me. And if we need more people, there is no one that cannot be bought with money. Then, we will start mining inside the forest with the manpower that Shiropolis would provide us,” Prince Rafflesia grinned.
“But that’s against the accords!”
“I have that covered as well. Just iron out your plans to extend the mines beneath the forest where the ores are abundant/.”
Soldiers inside the castle that were patrolling marched into the hallway where the two were having a conversation, concluding the secret plot of the two.
“I’ll meet with you again soon, minister,” said Rafflesia in a respectful voice.
* * * * *
Sir Thoras, Sir Lancea, and Princess Cattleya went to the castle’s garden for fresh air. After the meeting, everyone was on the edge, especially during the exchange between the princess and Edmund.
No one wanted an all-out war with the Rogue Archers and free men, but for the safety of the kingdom and of its interest, a battle was always on the table.
“Ugh. My heart is still pounding!” complained the princess whose legs were shaking.
“You were so cool back there, Princess Cattleya!” cheered Sir Lancea.
Without her helmet, Lancea's long blonde hair flowed beautifully and her pearl-white skin glowed radiantly under the sun. With more feminine clothing, she could pass as a noble or royalty herself. And despite her young age, she has been one of the best knights the Emergent Kingdom ever had.
“Thanks, Lancea. It was so difficult to maintain that poker face though.”
“You did well for standing your ground, princess,” Thoras praised her. “And do not worry. The Seven Knights have pledged loyalty to your mother, and we pledged that loyalty to you as per her last request. We are at your disposal.”
Thoras removed his helmet as well. He’s got short salt and pepper hair and a handsomely chiseled face. He has a prominent scar on his right eye, earning him the title 'The Scarred Knight'. He was one of the veteran knights that served the Emergent Kingdom who has never lost a fight, not even once.
Kiana, the princess’s aide went to the garden to fetch the princess. Sir Garanin and Prince Dionaea were accompanying Kiana.
“Princess! Your newly tailored dress has arrived!” Kiana excitingly announced. “Let’s see how well it would suit you!!”
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Sir Garanin showed her the box.
“Well, we enjoyed your company, princess. We still have other tasks to accomplish ourselves,” said Lancea.
“You must rest now, princess. Tomorrow will be a busy day,” Thoras added.
“Thank you, Sir Lancea, Sir Thoras. If you need anything, just speak to Kiana and she will notify me promptly.”
* * * * *
The delegates of the United Alliance met once again with the king of the Emergent Kingdom. It has been their third visit in just three months. The delegates, led by a captain called Nat, were personally greeted by the king at the Emergent Kingdom’s harbor and accompanied back to the castle’s throne room.
“King Daffodil, as always, thank you for your warm hospitality,” said Captain Nat.
Nat has been a member of the United Alliance Navy for a long time. Ever since he was a kid, he has always dreamed of becoming a member of the United Alliance. After just one year of experience, he already reached the position of Commander. Two and a half years after that, he has been promoted to Captain.
“Nonsense. This is the least that I could do for the United Alliance,” said the king humbly. “So, to what do I owe the pleasure, Captain Nat?”
“Your Majesty, as you may have known, there is an even more increase in the numbers of treasure hunters. Recently, a group of treasure hunters even managed to enter the Arcanas Kingdom, as per our reliable sources.”
“Ah, yes. Words indeed came out that the Arcanas Kingdom was attacked by treasure hunters. Their magical treasures were almost stolen, but their mages still managed to prevail.”
“Aside from these treasure hunters, there is also news about artificial powers. Is there any news here in the Emergent Kingdom regarding the same?”
King Daffodil tried to recall if there were any. “Hmmm. This is the first time I heard about such a thing. If you don't mind me asking, what’s the issue with these artificial powers?”
“For the United Alliance, there is still a debate about artificial powers, but the Supreme Council firmly believes that easy access to power could potentially increase the number of treasure hunters even further,” Nat explained.
“Of course, the people of the Supreme Council will take this seriously. Karma is such a dangerous ability after all if possessed by the wrong person.”
“Exactly. Also, those who are developing artificial powers can pose a serious threat themselves. They could either be amassing power users to create an army-for-hire or be selling the powers to insurgent groups and even treasure hunters for unbelievable profit.”
King Daffodil knows very well how both dangerous and beneficial Karmas were, even though his kingdom doesn’t have one. He was also aware of an ancient technique of passing a Karma, but it was different from the artificial Karma that Captain Nat was talking about.
The Emergent Kingdom has no power users and their magic users were limited to runestones, healings, and protective spells. As such, they have been relying on their strong soldiers, their knights and their unique weapons, agreements and treaties with other kingdoms, and membership with the United Alliance.
“Anyway, Your Majesty, we have an important request.”
“What is it, Captain?”
“To tell you the truth, the U.A. Aria Division has mobilized various fleets, army, and aviation units to U.A. member nations because of these recent events. With your permission, I would like my crew to stay in your harbor for three days. Just for precautionary measures.”
“Is this an order from Division Commander Garou himself?”
“I’m afraid so, Your Majesty. New treasure hunters, artificial power users, and civil war in the Colosseum Empire, we just have to make sure that the members of the U.A. are safe from any threats. Is this going to be an issue? I was told that this year’s Zentolian Accords Auctions will be held again here in the Emergent Kingdom after three years of it being held in other nations.”
“That is correct. Every year, the members of Zentolian Accords hold an auction for various treasures and valuable items. Last year, we were nominated and selected to host the auction for this year. Do not worry though. The U.A.’s presence is not going to be an issue.”
“We are glad that that would be the case then, Your Majesty. Would it be alright if I order my men to start settling now?”
“Go on! Go on! You and your crew are more than welcome to stay here in our kingdom.”
*
*
*
One day before the arrival of Captain Nat to the Emergent Kingdom, Garou, the Division Commander of the United Alliance - Aria Division, has gathered several officers for a secret mission.
Captain Nat of United Alliance Navy and others were sent to different United Alliance members that do not have United Alliance headquarters and perform observation for the possible presence of an avatar.
“Listen up, ladies! What you are about to hear is strictly classified! Normally, we do not deal with these kinds of stuff, but since the safety of our people comes first, we have to make an exemption.”
Garou told the involved officers about the information from Jack that an avatar was currently traveling Aria. Instead of waiting for the probable recording of the battle between the avatar and Diabolia from Jack, Garou has decided to send United Alliance officials to several possible nations that Jack and the group could enter, including the Emergent Kingdom, which does not have United Alliance headquarters.
“Remember your cover story. You are simply doing a preventive visit for three days due to the new hunters and the threat of artificial power users.” Garou added.
* * * * *
A day later at Shiropolis, Daisuke has finally woken up. As he opened his eyes, he started to wonder where he was. He went up from the bed and saw the unfamiliar room he was in. There are quite a lot of open windows where the fresh cold breeze of wind enters the room.
The door of the room opened where Riku and Robin entered. They have brought a basket of food in case Daisuke wakes up.
Riku ran towards Daisuke. “Thank gods you’re finally awake!”
“Riku. W-Where are we?” asked Daisuke who is still disoriented.
Robin walked closer to them. “Take it easy. You’re safe here. This is Shiropolis.”
“W-Where are the others?” asked Daisuke.
“They’re still sleeping,” said Riku. “Do you remember anything? Before you passed out?”
Robin took a cup of tea and offered it to Daisuke and Riku as well.
Daisuke tried to recall. He remembered going down from the hill they were to the forest below to see the mysterious light he saw. After he saw the light, he saw two people dancing and cuddling, and talking.
Robin choked on the tea she was drinking when she heard it and almost spilled it.
“Robin! Are you okay?” asked Riku.
“Y-Yeah, just...hot,” Riku cleared her throat. “Please. Continue.”
Daisuke continued his story where he decided to leave the forest but got caught in a trap, then got stung by something. When he woke up, six people were already taking him somewhere. He saw familiar items and weapons and decided to use his power.
“I remember trying to fight six guys because they have our stuff. I know I wasn't supposed to use my power, but my instinct kicked in. I forcefully tried to use my power and before I knew it, a gigantic cherry blossom tree erupted below me, then I guess I passed out?”
“Daisuke, just don't do that again, okay? We'll ask Brunnhilde when she can start making the runic circle that could help you,” asked Riku.
Daisuke nodded.