Chapter 105: Farewell
The Edo Shogunate, led by Tokugawa Kagura, emerged from the war in victory. Soon after, an official proclamation was issued: the passing of the Tokugawa Shogun was formally announced, along with the establishment of an alliance with the Empire. Furthermore, it was decided that Satsuma and Choshu would henceforth be absorbed into shogunate territory, while Hizen would fall under the domain of Tosa.
Though the town of Edo had escaped widespread destruction, the harbor had been left on the brink of total collapse. Vast manpower and enormous sums of money were poured into its reconstruction. The Imperial forces and Ryu himself worked tirelessly, overseeing logistics, security, and planning. And within a month, a harbor grander and more expansive than the original stood proudly upon the coast, its new docks stretching like open arms toward the sea.
And now—today.
“Ambassador-dono, here are the trade agreement documents.”
“I accept them with due solemnity.”
Stamped upon the parchment was the unmistakable seal of the Tokugawa family.
(…With this, my mission is complete.)
Though it came late, the culprit behind the earlier incident had also been uncovered.
“Regarding the poisoning at the guesthouse the other day, the Tokugawa conducted an independent investigation… The perpetrator was a ninja of the Satsuma domain.”
“I see. So it truly was Togo who tried to kill me back then.”
“Yes. Rest assured, that ninja will be executed alongside enemy officers such as Yoshida and Okuma.”
“Understood. Is there anything else you wish to discuss? I will be returning to the Empire today. This will be our final conversation.”
The Princess paused, gathering her thoughts.
“…Then please tell me your opinion regarding the Principality’s next move.”
In this war, the Principality had lost both its Hero and its fleet in a single stroke. Would they fly into a rage and launch another invasion? Or would they concede defeat?
It was a troubling uncertainty.
“I suspect they won’t act for some time.”
“I see… That is somewhat reassuring. Even the Principality must reconsider after losing such strength.”
“No, that’s not it. To be blunt, aside from the Hero, that fleet was little more than peripheral strength for them. It would be unwise to underestimate a great power.”
“I—I understand… Then why?”
“Simply put, they fear the Empire. When the Imperial State and the Empire clashed previously, the Principality did nothing. They likely know that if they confronted us directly, they would lose.”
“They have even dispatched vassal troops to the Duchy of Mondo, have they not?”
“Yes. That is how formidable the Astoria Empire truly is.”
In short, thanks to the Empire, Hinomaru’s future was secure—for now.
Ryu exhaled softly and spoke with deliberate clarity.
“Princess. This is what it means to stand in alliance with the Empire…”
“…………”
“Sheltering beneath a great umbrella while gathering strength is not such a bad arrangement, is it?”
“Yes… We have lived in near isolation for a thousand years. All the more reason…”
“I am glad to hear you say that. Then I shall take my leave.”
“Understood.”
Ryu bowed and turned to exit the chamber—
“Ambassador-dono. There is one final thing I wish to say.”
“…What is it?”
“Thank you for your devoted efforts on behalf of the shogunate. Had you not been here, Edo would likely belong to the Principality by now. Ryu-dono, you will always be welcome here. When you find yourself with time to spare, please visit again.”
The Princess lowered her head deeply—more deeply than before.
“I understand. And this is merely a personal aside… but if you ever find yourself in difficulty, I suggest you seek out Sakamoto of Tosa. I believe he would lend you his aid.”
With those words lingering in the air, Ryu departed.
Passing through the castle gates, he was greeted by the lively bustle of Edo’s streets. Merchants called out their wares, children darted through crowds, and the scent of grilled food drifted on the wind.
Tracing Axel’s magical presence, he soon heard the familiar cry—
“Nuuooooo!!!! This is delicious beyond words!!!!”
“There you are, Ryu.” munch munch
“Finished with your duties already?” munch munch
“Gyau.” munch munch
“Burururu.” munch munch
“Thanks to you all, my work in Edo is complete. …Which means it’s time to buy souvenirs and return to the Empire.”
After purchasing an excessive quantity of gifts—each choosing whatever caught their fancy—they made their way to Edo Harbor.
On the way, Ryu and Ryoma exchanged few words.
Soon, it was time to part.
“I dislike parting with Ryoma… It makes me lonely.”
“I, too, feel sorrow… Though it was only three months, it felt far longer…”
“Well, Ryoma. I hear Hizen is now under Tosa. You’d better give that new responsibility your best.”
“Indeed. And you, Ryu, must not neglect your duties as Viscount.”
“…………”
“…………”
“…Next time we meet, I shall win.”
“Hah. I’ll knock you down again.”
“Farewell, everyone. Remain well.”
“Mm! Ryoma, you must come to the Empire someday!”
“Gyau.”
(Lord Ryoma, take care!!!)
“Burururu.”
Ryu and the others headed toward the Imperial vessel.
Halfway there, Ryu paused—and turned back.
“See you, Ryoma.”
“We shall meet again, at the proper time. Farewell, my friend.”
When dragons part, they require no lengthy speeches.
Once aboard, the ship sounded its horn and departed without delay.
As Ryu rested at the stern as usual, a sudden gust of wind rose from behind—strong and steady, as if urging them forward.
“…Hm?”
“Ryu, look over there.”
Gripping the railing, he narrowed his eyes toward the distant harbor.
There stood not only Ryoma—but Princess Kagura, Sakai, Ii, Itagaki, and many others.
“Hmph… None of them are honest. They should’ve just said they were coming to see us off.”
“And yet, you look rather pleased.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. I’m just happy to be returning to the Empire. I can finally see Rena again.”
“Mm, we shall leave it at that.”
“Gyau.”
“Burururu.”
Thus concluded the Hinomaru Turmoil Arc.