Garfield Van Elmsworth, a respected general and one of the few honorable lords left in the empire, once held a significant position at the royal court during the previous emperor's rule. However, following the deaths of Crown Prince Johannes and the former emperor, the Theanbe nobles seized the opportunity created by the empire's instability, adopting an aggressive policy against neighboring regions.
In response, Garfield, now back in his fiefdom, took measures to counteract their aggression. He focused on bolstering his infantry forces and stimulating commerce by strategically constructing new port cities and fishing villages in his territory.
However, Garfield faced setbacks in the naval department due to his lack of experience. Competent engineers left for the Theanbe nobles, particularly Count Lawrence, enticed by better pay. Count Lawrence's fief, positioned above Elmsworth Margrave, also boasted a coastline.
Realizing his mistake came too late for Garfield, and as situations worsened, he made a pivotal decision to summon his daughter, Ginny, also known as Luna Van Elmsworth, back from the Imperial Palace. He foresaw an imminent border skirmish and believed Ginny's strategic insight and influence within the palace could be instrumental.
As events unfolded, news arrived that both factions in the capital were supporting him. Initially suspicious, Garfield later learned from his beloved daughter about the potential involvement of Young Emperor Arthur. Trusting Luna's judgment, he began to see a glimmer of hope.
With the situation improving, Luna suggested that Garfield travel to the capital to personally express his gratitude to Young Arthur. This would also prevent the need for further debts to both factions. Entrusting the aftermath to his capable son, Garfield embarked on the journey to the capital alongside Luna.
The timing couldn't have been better, as both Prime Minister Duke Raul and Archduke Aquila were away in their respective fiefs. Reports hinted at movements from both the Nadur Republic and the Triple Alliance, making Garfield's trip to the capital a strategic move.
The unfolding events marked a turning point for the Elmsworth family, and as Garfield and Luna approached the capital, they carried with them not just gratitude but the hope of forging alliances that would secure their fiefdom and protect their interests against external threats.
After reaching the capital, Garfield wasted no time in seeking an audience with Emperor Arthur. It was Arthur's first visit to the grand court room, a vast space usually accommodating over a thousand people. But today, the room was unusually empty, as only a few were present due to the hastily organized gathering.
Earl Volfor, a skilled manipulator, had ensured that both factions' members from the capital were in the minority during this gathering. The Imperial Court, known as Imperia Megium or Celestial Court, had an impressive setup. The Emperor's seat, positioned above grand chairs occupied by ministers, bureaucrats, Imperial Princes, Princesses, and advisors, held a commanding presence. In this grand setting, nobles and vassals stood in the Emperor's presence.
The Imperia Megium represented the highest court of the Eldorion Empire, playing a vital role in governance. The Emperor's seat, grand and magnificent, towered above all others. Ministers, bureaucrats, Imperial Princes, Princesses, and advisors occupied lower grand chairs, while nobles and vassals stood in the Emperor's presence.
Unique hierarchy was evident in the Imperial Court, emphasizing the significance of the Crown Prince and Queen. Their seats, flanking the Emperor, symbolized positions of honor. The Queen's role denoted the chief consort of the Emperor, while the title of Empress was reserved for Imperial Princesses ascending to the throne. In the Emperor's absence, the Queen had the authority to preside over the Imperial Megium.
As Garfield and Arthur entered the Imperial Court, the architectural and symbolic elements conveyed a sense of imperial authority. Earl Volfor's clever maneuvering had ensured the presence of ministers from the treasury and Ministry of Internal Affairs, highlighting the centralization of power within the court.
The term Imperia Megium, meaning Celestial Court, aptly described the imperial essence of the court. The colossal room, designed for grandeur, served as the stage for imperial governance. The hierarchy reflected the empire's political structure, with the Emperor's seat atop the hierarchy. The Crown Prince and Queen, symbolizing continuity and companionship, held esteemed positions.
The absence of the Crown Prince and Queen during this gathering emphasized Emperor Arthur's youth and the intricacies of imperial politics. As Garfield expressed his gratitude to Emperor Arthur, the grandeur of the court heightened the significance of the moment. Earl Volfor's calculated strategies had brought Garfield to the forefront of imperial attention, revealing the complex dynamics within the empire's political landscape.
In essence, the Imperia Megium embodied imperial authority, with its intricate design, hierarchical symbolism, and grandeur. Earl Volfor's manipulation of factions to orchestrate Garfield's audience showcased the strategic maneuvers within the empire's political landscape, ultimately converging within the celestial embrace of the Imperial Court.
With the resonating arrival of Emperor Arthur, the grand spectacle of the Megium commenced. Garfield Van Elmsworth, a figure of stature, gracefully took center stage, offering a sweeping bow that conveyed both apologies and gratitude to those assembled within the majestic hall.
"Your swift attendance is met with my sincere appreciation. I trust your journey here was without impediment," he conveyed in a deep, resonant voice that echoed through the ornate halls of the Imperial Palace. Earl Vofors, standing as the representative of the influential factions, responded, "There were no difficulties encountered. Now, I implore you to elucidate the rationale behind the employment of the Imperial Pass."
The Imperial Pass, a mystical artifact with its origins in the Emperor's favor, was granted to commendable vassals for exceptional service. A decade prior, it was bestowed upon Garfield by the grandfather of the current Emperor, Arthur, in acknowledgment of his outstanding contributions during a significant war.
As Garfield stood there, a subtle glance toward the young Emperor revealed the striking resemblance of confidence in those Celestial blue eyes and a faint undercurrent of nostalgia, reminiscent of the late Crown Prince Johannes. In adherence to the venerable Eldorion Culture, Garfield astounded those in attendance by executing an solemn bow, symbolizing a profound pledge of eternal loyalty to Emperor Arthur.
"I, Garfield Van Elmsworth, alongside my family and the esteemed Margrave, solemnly swear undying loyalty to Emperor Arthur Von Dracon. Your every word shall be my command," he proclaimed, articulating a binding and sacred vow of fealty, marking a significant moment that resonated throughout the hall.
The unexpected display of loyalty from a noble with allegiances to Elmsworth, within the context of a political landscape divided by factions, left those present in awe, particularly those aligned with the factions that had been pivotal in supporting Elmsworth during its challenging times.
In the midst of the eloquent discourse, Garfield Van Elmsworth seamlessly integrated an additional layer of gratitude toward Prime Minister Duke Raul and Duke Aquila for their unwavering support.
With an air of genuine regret due to their absence, he continued, "Regrettably, since they are not here at the moment, I would like to express my gratitude by giving both of them something."
By signaling to the attendants with a simple clap, two servants promptly emerged, each carrying a document of considerable significance. These documents, revealed as contracts, held the key to Garfield's expression of appreciation and acknowledgment toward the absent political powerhouses.
Reading the contents aloud, Garfield outlined his intention to grant Duke Aquila strategic port access, an advantageous position that could substantially elevate the economic and naval prowess of the Aquila domain.
Simultaneously, a representative of Duke Raul was presented with a contract offering a discounted food reserve, a practical and valuable asset that would fortify the resources of the Raul duchy.
It was an exquisite display of diplomatic finesse, as Garfield orchestrated a symphony of gratitude and collaboration, aligning the interests of Elmsworth with the influential factions despite their conspicuous absence.
The contracts, symbolizing a future trajectory of alliance, also included provisions for low tariffs on merchants exclusively from the territories of Duke Raul and Duke Aquila, fostering economic ties and mutual benefit.
The unexpected show of loyalty, coupled with tangible benefits strategically tailored for each faction, underscored Garfield's acumen in navigating the intricate web of Eldorion politics. As murmurs of realization and comprehension rippled through the assembly, it became evident that this seemingly unassuming noble had orchestrated a diplomatic masterpiece, the echoes of which would reverberate in the corridors of the Imperial Court and beyond.
Arthur's Pov
This guy is truly exceptional. It seems I've acquired an outstanding vassal.
By openly declaring his clan as my vassals and swearing loyalty, he recognizes the vital role the Emperor plays in addressing the crisis and ensures that other factions won't exploit the situation.
He's clever in giving the opposing factions a chance to influence commerce in his fief, but I sense he has plans in place to prevent their complete control over trade.
The timing is impeccable, with key figures like Archduke Raul and Aquila absent, and those present lacking the wit to thwart him.
However, orchestrating this couldn't be a solo act; he must have someone on the inside.
My attention turns to the likely person who aided Garfield in entering the capital and provided insights into the city's current state: Earl Volfor, my history tutor and Minister of Intelligence.
It appears he organized a clandestine meeting between us. I hope Ginny is safe.
Hold on, that servant looks familiar. Could it be Ginny in disguise?
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A/N
Here Ginny, disguised herself as a servant of her father Garfield..