Kays Translations

Chapter 183: “Events in the Imperial Territory (12) – Diaz and Sophia”

—At the same time, in the Dolgaria Empire, Imperial Capital—

“How do you think the Demon Lord Territory will react to that letter?”

This is the imperial capital of the Dolgaria Empire.

In one corner of the palace, Crown Prince Diaz was speaking with a close confidant who served as his scribe.

“There are several purposes behind that letter. Do you understand what they are?”

“Y-Yes, Your Highness.”

The girl addressed hurriedly searched for an answer.

She had served Diaz since childhood as his close aide. She understood his personality well.

Crown Prince Diaz favored those who could anticipate his intentions.

However, he distanced himself from those who spoke out of turn.

Several years ago, there had been a rumor that Diaz disliked Sophia.

Apparently, it was because she said something unnecessary, though the truth was unknown even to the girl. There was only a rumor that someone, trying to anticipate Diaz’s will, had reduced the number of servants in the detached palace where Sophia stayed.

But in reality, very few people could read Diaz’s thoughts.

It was precisely because he had such talent that he was chosen as the Crown Prince.

Strength, ambition, insight—these qualities had propelled Diaz to his current position.

Gazing at the crown prince, the aide murmured,

“The purpose of the letter sent by Your Highness… is it?”

“That’s right. I’d like to hear your thoughts.”

Diaz’s blue eyes stared directly at the girl.

Suppressing the fear that a wrong answer could mean dismissal, the girl responded.

“…To inform the Demon Lord Territory that a messenger from Her Majesty the Emperor is on the way.”

In a trembling voice, the scribe girl gave her answer.

It was the safest response.

Hearing that, Diaz clapped his hands.

“That’s right. As expected, you are capable.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

“But, there are other purposes as well. Can you guess them?”

“…I’m sorry. I cannot.”

Crown Prince Diaz intended to grant Thor Canaan, the alchemist, a noble title and land. He had already reported this to the emperor.

If approved, Thor Canaan would become a baron—or perhaps even a viscount.

After that, he would be granted land for one generation only. Naturally, it would be in the frontier or border regions.

So that the Empire could use him as a point of contact with the Demon Lord Territory…

That much, even the scribe girl understood.

But clearly, that answer alone wasn’t enough.

Crown Prince Diaz wore a faint smile.

It was the expression he showed when dealing with an incompetent subordinate.

Imagining dismissal, a chill ran down the scribe girl’s spine.

“It seems you haven’t arrived at the answer.”

After a while, Crown Prince Diaz shrugged.

“I’m sorry, Your Highness…”

“No matter. If you can’t see it, then those in the Demon Lord Territory won’t be able to either.”

Diaz crossed his legs in his chair and tapped the table with his fingers.

Seeing this, the scribe girl quickly poured some tea.

Diaz took a sip of the freshly brewed tea and began to speak.

“Her Majesty the Emperor will send an official envoy to the Demon Lord Territory. That envoy will bestow a noble title upon Thor Canaan. He will become our point of contact with the Demon Lord Territory. So far, so good?”

“Yes.”

“Then, from now on, Thor Canaan will convey our demands to the Demon Lord and the demons. And then what do you think will happen?”

“Those in the Demon Lord Territory will realize… that he is a man of the Empire?”

“Exactly. Though, that’s not the only purpose.”

Crown Prince Diaz pressed his finger to his lips.

“I have only told Her Majesty the Emperor about the other purposes. You never know where ears may be. We must proceed slowly, without anyone realizing—like water seeping into the soil…”

His voice was calm.

Hearing those words, the scribe girl thought,

When this man becomes the next emperor, the Empire will change.

Crown Prince Diaz would use any means necessary to win.

He would do whatever it took to protect the Empire and gain advantage over others. That was the kind of man he was.

Previously, when he fought against Archduke Kharon, he used dual swords.

That was the result of thoroughly strategizing how to defeat Kharon, who could only use one arm. One sword would seal Kharon’s arm, and the other would deliver a strike.

As a strategy, it was sound.

He may have lost, but the fact that he fought evenly with the former Sword Saint raised Diaz’s reputation.

Diaz himself wasn’t satisfied, but the results were more than enough.

Crown Prince Diaz always looked upward.

Like a hero… or like an emperor destined for legend. Always aiming higher.

(But… it feels like Lord Diaz has been rushing too much lately.)

Recently, Diaz had stopped sparring with his subordinates.

In the past, he often showcased his swordsmanship before them.

He had stopped letting people get close.

He often trained alone or got lost in thought.

(What could have changed His Highness so…)

Was it the appearance of the “new species of magical beasts”?

Was it because Archduke Kharon’s left arm began to move again, making him the strongest once more?

Was it because documents from another world were discovered—ones that said “Heroes explode” and “Hard Creatures also explode,” revealing the dangers of summoning magic?

Or perhaps… was it because the Demon Lord Territory he had long looked down upon was now wielding great power?

“The Empire will change from now on. We will grow stronger using every means available.”

Unaware of the concerned gaze from his subordinate, Crown Prince Diaz made his declaration.

“The meaning of strength may change. But the Empire will become greater and more prosperous. That’s a wonderful future, isn’t it? Don’t you think so?”

And with that, Crown Prince Diaz began reading documents about the Demon Lord Territory.

—At the same time, in the town of Nosa. (From Princess Sophia’s point of view)—

“So that’s what was written in the letter sent to Thor Canaan-sama…”

“Everyone was so surprised.”

This was the lodging of Princess Sophia, located in the town of Nosa.

Sophia was in her room, talking with the winged fairy Pixie, Soleil.

Several days had passed since she sent a letter to Thor.

The winged fairy Soleil had come to visit her.

Soleil had brought two letters with her.

One was from Thor Canaan. It was a reply to the letter Sophia had sent.

The other was from Demon Lord Rukie Evergard.

That one included a copy of the letter sent by Crown Prince Diaz, along with a request to consult with Sophia about its contents.

“They really do trust me in the Demon Lord’s domain…”

She couldn’t help but smile.

Sophia was a member of the Empire.

And yet Demon Lord Rukie had shared the contents of Diaz’s letter with her.

This implied that Sophia hadn’t seen the letter herself.

It meant that Demon Lord Rukie considered Sophia not on the Empire’s side, but as an ally of the Demon Lord’s domain.

“Princess Sophia is our friend.”

The winged fairy Soleil whispered in Sophia’s ear.

“Thank you very much.”

Sophia smiled gently and bowed to Soleil.

“I also consider everyone in the Demon Lord’s domain my dear friends.”

“Thank you. That makes me so happy.”

“Yes. I’m happy too.”

Soleil dove into Sophia’s chest.

Sophia stretched out her slender fingers and gently stroked Soleil’s hair.

Soleil rubbed her cheek happily against Sophia’s neck.

“…Her Majesty the Demon Lord and the Prime Minister said, after reading that letter, ‘Could the Empire be trying to win over the Alchemist?’”

Soleil suddenly said that.

“They talked about it. ‘It’s strange that such a letter would arrive so soon after the matter of “that box.”’ ‘They must have suspected that the Alchemist was involved and made their move.’”

“As expected of Her Majesty and the Prime Minister of the Demon Lord’s domain.”

“They always worry about the Demon Lord’s domain.”

“I can imagine the heavy burden of protecting a nation.”

“Exactly. That’s why they were able to see through the Empire’s true intentions.”

“May I hear more?”

“The Demon Lord and the Prime Minister concluded that, ‘The Empire’s aims are to officially establish diplomatic relations with the Demon Lord’s domain and to win over Thor-sama. But their real target is Thor.’”

“…As expected of Her Majesty and the Prime Minister.”

Sophia agreed with them.

It was indeed suspicious that Diaz, the Crown Prince of the Empire, would send a letter to Thor.

It was entirely possible that the letter was a ploy targeting Thor.

“But they still don’t know exactly what the Empire plans to do.”

Soleil tilted her head.

Floating in the air, she held her head and groaned, “Mmm…”

“I don’t understand complicated things, but I want to help the Alchemist.”

“I understand. I feel the same way.”

“Princess Sophia, what do you think about this letter?”

“Well…”

If this really was a scheme to win over Thor—

“Could it be that Prince Diaz intends to offer Thor Canaan-sama a title and land?”

“A title and land!? Wh-Why!?”

“To make Thor Canaan-sama a point of contact with the Demon Lord’s domain.”

Sophia nodded.

Diaz’s letter hinted that the Emperor himself might send a handwritten letter.

If so, then someone under the direct command of the Emperor would be dispatched as an envoy.

Such a person would have the authority to bestow a title and land using the Emperor’s mandate.

The title and land were likely bait to win over Thor.

With Thor on their side, they could counter the ‘Hard Creatures.’

The Empire would then have a clear advantage over other countries.

(I don’t believe Thor Canaan-sama desires a title or land… but the Empire probably has nothing else to offer.)

Sophia thought it was foolish.

If she were Empress of the Empire, she wouldn’t resort to such tactics.

If it were Sophia…

She would first establish a department called the Alchemical Ministry and build a massive research facility.

Then she would create the position of Minister of Alchemy and recruit Thor.

Next, she would issue a decree across the Empire calling for those interested in alchemy or the world of heroes to gather and serve as Thor’s subordinates.

Then she would declare that Thor would receive full funding and complete autonomy.

Finally, she herself would assume an honorary post within the Alchemical Ministry to ensure his comfort.

(—If they truly want Thor Canaan-sama, that’s the level of effort they should go to.)

Satisfied with her fantasy—or delusion—Sophia nodded.

Then, with a more serious expression, she said:

“The Empire likely plans to establish formal diplomatic relations with the Demon Lord’s domain and then appoint Thor Canaan-sama as their diplomatic liaison. To do that, they intend to grant him land near the border and a noble title.”

“B-But even if they do that, there’s no way they’ll win over the Alchemist—”

“If that happens, Thor Canaan-sama would become a spokesperson for the Empire.”

Sophia spoke firmly.

“He would be in a position to convey the Empire’s demands and interests to the Demon Lord’s domain. They’re likely hoping that this will cause the people of the Demon Lord’s domain to distance themselves from Thor Canaan-sama.”

“Hmmm. But if it’s just the Empire making selfish demands, it’s not the Alchemist’s fault, right?”

“Exactly.”

“Yes! We would never start hating the Alchemist over something like that!”

Soleil puffed out her cheeks.

I understand how she feels.

The Empire is probably underestimating the bond between Thor Canaan and the Demon Lord’s Domain.

Or rather, there’s no way he would ever accept a title of nobility from the Empire, let alone act as its spokesperson. Anyone who knows him even a little would understand that.

But what if Crown Prince Diaz is thinking beyond that?

For example—

“If… imperial soldiers were to be stationed permanently in the territory, what would happen? And if the only person who could remove them was Thor Canaan, who had received a title of nobility?”

“…Ah.”

“Brother Diaz is a clever man. I don’t believe he would act for a single purpose. It’s better to assume there are two… no, three or even four purposes behind his actions. One of them could be the stationing of troops.”

Sophia continued.

“By granting Thor Canaan a territory and forcibly stationing troops there, Brother Diaz could place someone under his influence as the commander. And if that person were to conduct military training, like what Minister of War Zagran once ordered…”

“Everyone in the Demon Lord’s Domain would get really mad.”

“They might be planning to place the blame on Thor Canaan.”

“But the alchemist doesn’t even want a title or land…”

“That’s true. In that case, the territory would likely be given to someone else. Someone belligerent, who holds a grudge against the Demon Lord’s Domain. If Thor Canaan refuses, the Empire could threaten to do just that.”

If Thor obediently accepts the title and land, all is well.

If not, then a situation disadvantageous to the Demon Lord’s Domain will be created.

That, Sophia believed, was Crown Prince Diaz’s plan.

“Then, what should we do…?”

“I will… come up with a countermeasure.”

Sophia rose from the bed.

She took parchment and a pen and began preparing a letter.

“I will write a letter. Could you deliver it to Her Majesty the Demon Lord and to Thor Canaan?”

“I-I understand.”

“It will take a few days for a reply from the Demon Lord’s Domain to reach the Imperial Capital. There’s no need to rush. Please deliver my letter when Her Majesty and Thor Canaan have free time.”

“No need to hurry?”

“This matter must be dealt with carefully. I want them to be able to focus on it, after finishing their other work.”

“O-okay. But what kind of countermeasure?”

“I will make full use of my status as a princess.”

Sophia gave a fearless smile.

This plan would likely involve Archduke Kharon as well.

If it’s him, he won’t oppose it.

Liana… might be surprised, but she would probably cooperate.

(I won’t allow you to cause trouble for Thor Canaan, Brother Diaz.)

From here on, it would be a battle of wits between Sophia and Diaz.

Sophia, who wants to protect Thor, and Diaz, who prioritizes the Empire’s interests.

(Brother Diaz doesn’t know that I stand with Thor Canaan. That gives me an advantage. Brother Diaz—no, His Highness the Crown Prince—has no interest in me, after all.)

Sophia had barely spoken with Diaz.

The only time they exchanged words was during a high-ranking official meeting before she was sent to the borderlands.

So, Crown Prince Diaz knew nothing about Sophia.

But Sophia knew a lot about Diaz.

Even from the detached palace, she had heard stories of the brilliant crown prince—about his personality and abilities. Rumors she’d heard there were now proving useful. Based on them, she could predict his thoughts and form countermeasures.

(…If only I’d had a chance to speak with Brother Diaz. Then I could’ve formed even more solid plans.)

Diaz and Sophia had different mothers.

But both were apparently daughters of high-ranking nobles.

They were close and shared a deep friendship.

Because of that connection, Diaz’s uncle had once visited the detached palace.

He had come to boast about Diaz’s talent in interpreting magic texts in front of the emperor.

However, there had been a slight error in that interpretation. Sophia remembered that she couldn’t help pointing it out.

The man, a devoted admirer of Diaz, only laughed it off.

Diaz probably has no interest in Sophia.

But Sophia is very interested in him.

Not as an ally—but as someone disrupting the peace of the borderlands.

Sophia’s goal is to become a bridge between the Empire and the Demon Lord’s Domain.

She can’t allow a ridiculous conspiracy to get in the way of that.

For Agnis, who called her a friend, and for the people of the Demon Lord’s Domain who trust her.

More than anything, for the person most important to Sophia.

“I just hope my feeble wisdom can be of some help.”

With that thought in her mind, Sophia began to write swiftly across the parchment.

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