[Raul's POV]
The survival exam has ended, and now the students are given a 10-day break. Some are returning to their hometowns, while others are staying because their homes are too far from the capital.
At the moment, I'm heading to the Student Council Building to meet the President.
The academy grounds are quite empty, usually bustling with students. I suppose those who remain prefer doing activities outside rather than staying here.
Upon reaching the Student Council Building, I head straight to the President's office.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
After knocking on the office door, I wait a moment for her permission to enter.
"Come in."
I open the door and see a blonde woman sitting, reading a report. Her beautiful blue eyes are like a clear midday sky.
"President, why did you call me?" I ask her.
"Please, have a seat, Raul."
I step forward and sit in the chair in front of her desk.
"Sorry to interrupt your vacation," says President Elena. "I need a partner to attend a meeting at the Palace."
A meeting, huh? It must be important if it requires all of the Emperor's children to attend. Could this have an impact on the succession later on?
"Partner? Wouldn't it be better to call it a guard?" I clarify her statement.
Each Imperial Prince and Princess is allowed to bring one attendant or guard to the meeting. However, Elena has never brought anyone before, as the only noble who supports her—Count Raymond de Chatelon—is always busy with his duties as one of the Seven Grand Espada.
The Grand Espada refers to the seven strongest knights in the Empire. The more Grand Espada who support a candidate, the better their chances of winning the succession.
Each Grand Espada has their own title. Count Raymond de Chatelon is known as The White Knight because his swordsmanship relies purely on physical skills and physical magic.
"Let's not argue over names, okay?" says President Elena, looking slightly annoyed.
"Then, won't others be suspicious about me being your guard?" I ask, seeking confirmation. "What if rumors start that my family is supporting you in this succession, President?"
"Don't worry about that," she replies casually. "No one would believe that just you—the infamous troublemaker noble—guarding me in this meeting indicates that Duke Alvaro is supporting me in the succession."
Hearing someone as beautiful as her insult me so casually makes me a bit irritated.
"What? Do you want to deny it?" Elena asks, smiling mischievously.
"No, I'm someone who believes that 'A lion doesn't concern itself with the opinion of sheep.'"
I got that line from Tywin Lannister in Game of Thrones.
"Sometimes, you have a unique perspective, Raul," says the President, looking resigned. "We'd better head to the main gate; a palace carriage will pick us up there."
We then leave the Student Council Building and make our way to the Academy's main gate.
I wonder what they'll discuss in this meeting? In the game, there were only a few scenes showing a meeting at the Imperial Palace—mainly when Emperor Philip declared war on the Venetia Republic.
Upon reaching the main gate, a luxurious carriage is already waiting, along with several knights for escort.
One of the knights approaches the President and bows in respect. "Princess, we are assigned to escort you to the Imperial Palace."
"Hmm... Isn't this a bit excessive? Besides, it's not that far from here," says Elena, not too pleased.
"Our apologies for any inconvenience, Princess. However, this is part of the security protocol for the Imperial family," replies the knight, bowing again.
"Don't worry about it," says the President as she steps into the carriage. A servant opens the door for her. "Raul, hurry up and get in."
I follow the President into the carriage. The interior is spacious and resembles a limousine.
The servant closes the door, and shortly after, the carriage begins to move.
"Raul, what do you think they'll discuss at the meeting?" asks President Elena. "As a noble supporting me, shouldn't you give me some advice?"
Hmm... Let's think this over.
The major national event to come should be the war with the Venetia Republic after graduation. But this seems too soon, as there hasn't been any confirmed trigger for the two nations to go to war.
Yesterday, I visited the entertainment venue I had set up. Karl Johnson and Mai Khalissa have also started gathering information by placing their agents throughout the Empire.
There are three issues that caught my attention recently.
First, the increasing circulation of illegal drugs in the northern regions of the Empire.
Second, the surge of immigrants from the Kuwalid Nation. The Empire lacks enough soldiers to guard the border, especially in the intense heat there. The large number of incoming immigrants could cause social conflicts, a rise in crime, and slums formed by those who haven't found proper housing.
Third, the issue of forced laborers from the Tyal Tribe, who rebelled against the Empire a few years ago. Many have died this year, reducing their numbers to around 3,000, down from 3,500 last year.
If left unchecked, more workers will continue to die, creating a dangerous sentiment among other tribes of the Noors, who might see their kin treated like animals.
"Hmm... I think they'll focus on the Tyal forced labor issue, President," I say earnestly. "Specifically, what steps should be taken for the Empire's benefit."
Listening to my explanation, the President touches her chin, appearing to think. "Isn't my brother Felix handling this issue?" she asks.
"That's right. The First Prince handled the rebellion five years ago and is still overseeing the punishment of the Tyal Tribe," I answer, explaining.
We then discuss these three issues in preparation for the meeting throughout the journey.
Before long, the carriage stops. The door opens to reveal the servant from before.
"Princess, we've arrived."
We step out, greeted by the sight of magnificent buildings surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.
The Imperial Palace complex is vast, almost like a small city. Besides the Emperor and his family's residence, there are numerous other buildings, including important ministries like trade, security, and finance.
"Please follow me, Princess," says the servant, intending to guide us.
We begin walking through the expansive castle grounds. Knights passing by the President stand at attention to pay their respects.
Becoming an Imperial Guard Knight isn't easy. Their loyalty and bravery must be tested in the field.
Before long, we arrive at a large gate guarded by several knights.
This is the entrance to the Inner Palace, where only authorized persons are allowed to enter.
Seeing the President, the knights open the gate. She nods in gratitude, and the knights respond by standing at attention.
We enter the Inner Palace, and an astonishingly large and beautiful palace comes into view, adorned with exquisite gardens. The architecture of the Palace adopts an early 19th-century Victorian style.
We were then led into the palace, where countless staircases led to different areas within. We followed a servant who guided us up the stairs directly to the third floor.
"Master Raul, this is your room," the servant said, opening the door. "The meeting will be held tomorrow at 9 a.m."
The leader then approached me. "Come to my room tomorrow, and we'll go to the meeting room together," he whispered to me.
I nodded in response, and both the leader and the servant left me here.
As I entered the room, I noticed that its interior was far more luxurious than my dorm room at the academy.
Lying down on the bed, I tried to rest and close my eyes so I would look refreshed for the meeting tomorrow.
.
.
.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
"Master Raul, Princess Elena has summoned you to her room."
I woke up at the sound of knocking and the servant's voice. Checking my pocket watch, I saw it was already 6 a.m.
"All right, wait a moment. Let me freshen up," I replied.
"Master Raul, if you'd like, there are some maids who can assist you with preparing yourself," said the servant from behind the door.
"No, thank you, I can manage on my own."
Speaking of a maid, I haven't hired anyone since Sephira passed away. Do I really need one?
Thinking it over, it is annoying to come back to a messy room after a long, exhausting day.
I guess I'll ask Mai Khalissa to find someone suitable for me later.
After cleaning up and changing into formal attire, I left the room and followed the servant to the leader's quarters.
Before long, we arrived in front of a large door. Several maids sat nearby, ready to attend to the Imperial Family's every need. I guess they're like ladies-in-waiting back in my original world's medieval era.
"Princess Elena has summoned Master Raul de Garcia to her room," the servant who accompanied me announced.
"Understood. I'll inform the Princess."
One of the maids opened the door and entered the leader's room. A moment later, she returned and approached us.
"Master Raul, you may enter now," she said, giving me permission. "Please have a seat in the waiting area inside."
I nodded and entered the leader's quarters.
The scent of something refreshing filled the room as I walked in, and I noticed a table and chairs. It seemed the leader's room consisted of several separate areas.
I took a seat, admiring the luxurious decor of the room.
"Hey."
Hearing someone call out, I turned to the side.
Hearing someone calling, I turned my head to the side.
There was a woman with beautiful shiny blonde hair, her blue eyes were like a beautiful sea in summer, her dazzling smile could undoubtedly bring all the men in the Empire to their knees to obey her orders.
Seeing the President wearing something other than her academy uniform was a new experience for me. Rarely did she wear anything besides her military or academy attire in the game.
"You look stunning and captivating, President," I said, complimenting her.
"Hey, isn't it time to drop the formalities when it's just the two of us?" the Chairwoman said, stepping toward me.
"Alright, Princess Elena," I replied, addressing her properly.
She frowned. Did I say something wrong? But that didn't seem to be the issue.
"..."
She grabbed my tie, pulling me to my feet.
Our faces were close, her blue eyes gleaming like jewels, even more striking from this distance.
Her red lips reminded me of that intimate experience we shared during the first exam stage. She had pinned me down, and I felt her soft body against mine, her tongue dancing in my mouth as we exchanged saliva when she retrieved the crystal from inside me.
I averted my gaze, trying to push away those impure thoughts.
"I understand, Elena."
"Good," she said, releasing me. She adjusted my tie and patted my chest. "Alright, let's head to the meeting room. It'll start in an hour."
Elena walked ahead, and I followed close behind.
Looking at her from this angle probably wasn't a good idea. I quickly caught up and walked beside her. This reminded me that whoever ends up marrying Elena would be a very fortunate man.
If I remember correctly, in the game, Elena was set to be engaged to Prince Vlad of the Draconia Kingdom, ruled by the Dracus dynasty, known for its unique blood-controlling magic.
Legend says that the Dracus dynasty originated from a marriage between a Vampire and a Human.
Soon, we arrived at the entrance to the meeting room, guarded by two knights who opened the door for us.
Inside, several people were already present.
Among them was the Third Prince, Terantio de Aragon, with his long blonde hair tied back. He had just graduated from the academy early last year. His companion, if I recall, was Marquis Velocio—a general of the Empire responsible for the Northern region.
Next was Princess Annabella, currently a Senior Wizard at the Castille magic tower. Her guard was one of the Grand Espada, and the youngest among them, Danilo de Asturias—the son of Count Allaro de Asturias.
"Good morning, brother and sister. How have you been?" Elena asked as she took her seat while I stood behind her.
"Hmm... Elena, who is that guard of yours?" asked Princess Annabella. "I don't recall seeing his face."
Princess Annabella had an excellent memory, which indicated that Raul was so insignificant to her that she hadn't remembered him. This realization stung a bit.
"He is Raul de Garcia—the son of Duke Alvaro," Elena introduced me, although she had already done so in our first year.
"Ah, the son of the Snake Duke, is it?" she said, nodding. "No wonder I didn't remember! Their family always operates in secrecy."
This was typical of Princess Annabella—blunt and unfiltered, no matter who she was speaking to.
"Where is that old man, Elena? I want to duel him again to settle our last match!" asked Prince Terantio, looking at Elena.
"I believe Count Raymond is up in the Roundabout Mountains, hunting the wyverns that have been troubling the locals," Elena replied casually.
They started chatting while waiting for the others to arrive. Soon, Prince Ramon and his female guard entered.
He greeted his siblings as he took his seat.
"Brother Ramon, I've told you before to dress your guard appropriately for the palace," Elena commented on the attire of Ramon's guard.
It was true—her outfit was revealing, highlighting every curve. If I recall, this woman was an assassin from a well-known clan of specialists.
"Isn't it good, Elena? Everyone else in uniform looks dull," replied the Prince.
As usual, this particular Prince had a few loose screws. In the game, he would eventually win the succession battle, but he was merely a puppet controlled by someone behind the scenes.
I would have to face him someday. For Prince Ramon, it was better to die than to disappoint that person.
The doors opened again, this time admitting Prince Felix, accompanied by a female guard in military uniform. He took a seat without acknowledging his siblings.
I looked over at the Prince's guard.
Her brown hair was tied back, her expression focused, her gaze sharp. There was no mistaking her—she was Judas Viktariot, alias Tyra—the woman who would assassinate Prince Felix after graduation.
All the chaos that would unfold in the Empire would begin with her. Somehow, I would have to prevent that chaos from happening.
"His Majesty the Emperor has entered the room!"
A knight announced the Emperor's arrival. All the Princes and Princesses stood. Shortly after, a man in his early fifties entered.
This was the ruler of the world's most powerful nation—Emperor Philip de Aragon.
After he sat down, the Emperor gestured for everyone else to take their seats.
"Let's not delay and start this meeting," the Emperor said. "I don't have much time, so let's begin, Guilford," he instructed his guard.
"Yes, Your Majesty." The man named Guilford stepped forward and took out a paper. "The Princes and Princesses are here to discuss issues that will affect our National Security."
Guilford then began explaining the three issues I had briefed Elena on. It seemed the Emperor believed that these three issues needed to be quickly addressed by the Empire.
"Now, what do you think about the situation concerning the forced laborers from the Tyal tribe? How should we handle this? A week ago, the Ministry of the People and Security reported something regarding this issue," the Emperor asked his children.
"Father, 500 deaths in one year is excessive," said Prince Torentino. "It seems like someone deliberately arranged for them to die by the end of their sentence."
Hearing his words, Prince Felix looked irritated. It was true—the nobles responsible for managing the forced laborers were from Prince Felix's faction, which held ultranationalist views like the Prince himself.
"Torentino, if you would look for yourself, the workers there have been provided with enough food and living quarters," Prince Felix argued. "It's not the fault of those responsible if they still die despite having their basic needs met."
"Brother, this isn't about fulfilling our duties to the best of our abilities or assigning blame," said Elena, countering Prince Felix. "But their deaths will be seen by other minority groups within the Empire. What will they think when they see people of another minority group allowed to die while serving their sentences? They may believe the Empire never views them as equal to the Majority Race, like us."
"What do you mean, Elena? We are not the same as them! We are the Victorious Nation; we deserve to be above them," retorted Prince Felix. "Besides, the Tyal tribe are rebels! They should be grateful we even let them live."
I noticed Judas's expression as Prince Felix spoke. Her body trembled, her fingers clenched tightly, as if holding back her anger.
"Elena is right, Felix," said the Emperor. "I received a report from Duke Alvaro that minority groups in the Empire have been talking about the plight of the workers."
In the game, this would lead to a large-scale demonstration by minorities demanding justice—a movement that would later trigger a civil war within the Empire.
Could this event be the catalyst for that movement?
"So, how can we address this issue to maintain the stability of the Empire?" asked the Emperor.
"We should have addressed this when the first unnatural deaths occurred in the initial year," said Elena, sharing her opinion. "Besides, punishing members of the Tyal tribe who aren't proven to be involved in the rebellion seems unjust. Just because some of them defied the Empire doesn't mean all should bear the punishment."
"But Elena, they harbored the rebels," said Prince Felix, disagreeing. "If they were truly loyal to the Empire, they would have driven out the rebels instead of sheltering them!"
Hearing this, the Emperor sighed and said, "What's done is done. Let's focus on finding a solution to this issue."
"We handled this issue poorly and inhumanely. When their numbers were high and deaths started happening, no one paid attention," Elena said passionately. "But now that their numbers are dwindling, suddenly people are concerned for them like they're endangered species. We've treated them like animals, not humans."
This is why I chose Elena as the next Candidate for the Throne. She could empathize with all people of the Empire, regardless of their background. She always acted fairly and honestly. This quality could bring lasting stability to the Empire.
"I propose reducing the sentences as compensation for what happened to the forced laborers," said Elena, finally offering a solution. "We should also publicly apologize for what happened."
Bang!
Prince Felix slammed the table.
"That won't happen! Our nation's honor will be tarnished if we apologize publicly!" Prince Felix argued. "How will the international community view us? They'll think we're weak!"
"Elena, Father agrees to reduce the sentences," said the Emperor. "However, a public apology would lower our credibility as the enforcers of public security. How will people view our family if this incident is spread?"
"If we lose credibility just by apologizing for a mistake, then we never had credibility in the first place," Elena replied firmly.
In the end, the Emperor agreed to Elena's proposal to reduce the Tyal tribe's sentences and to issue a private apology.
For now, I think what the Emperor is doing is enough to quell the wave of discontent among the minority.
The meeting continued into the afternoon to draft a plan to address the issues discussed. These plans will then be discussed with the relevant ministries for review before implementation.
.
.
.
In the evening, I was looking at the view of the stars in the sky on a balcony of the Imperial Palace.
The meeting with the appearance of the candidates reminded me of the succession war that would occur later. This war would weaken the Empire and the Demons would take advantage of this condition to start attacking.
It's a very scary future to think about.
How can I prevent this great disaster? How do I get the innocent citizens out of the madness?
I don't know...
One thing is for sure, I will do my best to save people at any cost. Doing so will definitely require me to get my hands dirty with the blood of innocent people. However, this is what must be done so that many people who are not involved in this can be saved.