Chapter 142: Official Appointment
“…What did you say?”
Just as Prime Minister Fox prepared to mobilize the neutral faction, an imperial order arrived.
“Establish relations with Wa?”
The order instructed him to use the presence of the Lunoa delegation to help build diplomatic ties between the Orline Empire and Wa.
The Emperor himself had signed it.
“This is the work of diplomats!”
Fox couldn’t defy an imperial command, but he made no effort to hide his displeasure.
“Why must I build relations with those monkeys from the Far East?”
“Your Excellency, the order came directly from His Majesty,” an official reminded him.
“I know. Wa is growing stronger, and the Empire can’t ignore it forever. That isn’t the problem. I’m already about to become extremely busy.”
“Because of the pro-war faction?”
“Most likely. They have moved first and arranged to send me away.”
The Orline Emperor belonged to neither faction. He valued balance and supported whichever policy he believed would benefit the Empire.
Assigning Fox was therefore reasonable. He was one of the government’s most capable officials and had repeatedly completed important tasks outside his normal responsibilities.
“Leave matters here to us,” said one of the civil officials. “We’ll prevent the other faction from moving while you’re away.”
“I have little choice.”
Wa had no direct diplomatic channel inside the Orline Empire. Its nearest known base was in a country in northern Africa, so Fox would have to travel there.
“Will you ask Major General Willard to introduce you?”
Fox gave a dry laugh.
“They already know what I did. There’s no possibility that I can rely on him.”
He rose and looked around at the officials who had served him for years.
“I leave the country in your hands.”
“Leave everything to us, Your Excellency.”
“Continue using our existing channels to stop the repair materials. While they struggle with the battleships, I’ll complete this assignment and return.”
“Understood. We’ll await your return.”
Fox departed believing his plans would continue in his absence.
He had no idea that the battleships no longer depended on the supplies he intended to withhold.