The Empror's Trap

Ch 7 - A Compromise

No one spoke. Or rather, no one dared interrupt right now.

Pluvia narrowed her eyes at the man standing before her.

"Is there a difference, Marshal?" Pluvia's voice had a sharp edge that made the air around them feel colder. "All the armies of Camelot obey me. If I expand the troops, that's my army growing. Do you have a problem with that?"

"I wouldn't dare oppose you." Kenji glanced at the other military officers before speaking again. "But there are some words I must say: if Your Majesty has personal concerns about me, I accept that. Still, I hope that Your Majesty will keep the empire in mind. Please consider carefully what's truly important."

"Lord Anos!" An elderly minister among the civil officials finally couldn't hold his tongue. His white beard quivered as he stepped forward. "Matters of state are for Her Majesty to decide. Look at you... no respect, no regard for authority. What are you planning?"

"Chancellor Long, with all due respect, that's a bit much." Kenji turned to the elderly man. "I'm only laying out the pros and cons for Her Majesty. Our empire has always carried a powerful martial legacy since our founding, but we must consider the root of our strength. Why keep expanding our forces without end? Chancellor, you hold the highest position over government affairs. You should have been the one to propose these policies to Her Majesty, yet you remain silent. You left it to me, a grand marshal in charge of the army, to address these issues. Aren't you neglecting your duties?"

"Marshal," Pluvia said with a small icy smile, "let's not be upset. The Chancellor is getting on in years, so why argue with him? And Chancellor, don't worry yourself. Marshal Kenji's words make sense, even if they're uncomfortable to hear."

She smiled beautifully, a smile that could've melted ice if she were any ordinary woman. Many men would have been entranced.

But she was an emperor.

Though she was trying hard to appear friendly, everyone there-Kenji included-could tell that her smile was only for show.

How did Kenji know?

The delicate hand gripping the throne's armrest so tightly he thought she'd shatter it.

"I was too blunt," Kenji said quickly, taking the opportunity to back down. "Chancellor, pardon me. I was anxious and forgot my manners, offending Her Majesty. You're right, I'm a subject of the court, and I should behave as such. Please guide me in the future."@@@@

She glanced at him again.

He'd been glaring at her a moment ago, and she had no idea why. But it felt like he was annoyed at her foolishness...

Strange. He's not my father, so what's that look about?

Never mind.

Pluvia nodded. "That should work. I see no issues with this plan. Then this matter shall be handled by... "

"General Balinos can take charge." Kenji turned to Balinos with a polite gesture. "He has enough standing in the army and understands military affairs. He's the best fit for carrying out this reform."

"Very well, but allow me... "

"...Huh?"

Pluvia froze for a second.

Wait, he's not trying to claim that job for himself?

She'd been prepared to argue with Kenji over this, sure he wouldn't let go of such an opportunity, especially with her earlier probing. He would surely fight for it.

But instead, he pushed the job onto someone else?

The late emperor must be watching from above, because this made no sense. What was happening?

Kenji just smiled and backed up two paces.