NOVEL NEXT Chapter 15
“Everyone, listen to me closely.”
After parting ways with Kael, the Princess immediately held a secret meeting with the members of the pro-Juhwa faction.
“The pro-Juhwa faction is going to act. Specifically, they aim to sway the hearts of the Empire’s people.”
“Is that really possible, Your Highness? Given that we’ve just achieved victory in the battle against Nobogord?”
“That’s precisely what they are targeting. It’s not just a win; we won with minimal losses. Now they will surely argue that we can manage without raising taxes, can’t we?”
I felt a bit embarrassed, as if I was merely echoing what I had just heard.
But it’s fine. Listening closely to the strategist’s words is said to be a skill, after all.
It is right to heed and act upon the words of someone more accomplished than myself.
“If what Your Highness says is true, it sounds quite challenging.”
“Bringing up tax issues will undoubtedly shake not only the Empire’s citizens but also those neutral parties.”
“It’s unfortunate, but the military budget does require a lot.”
That’s true, I admit. That’s why even the Princess was shaken herself.
They are not obsessed with war. They are not warmongers.
War is merely a means to solidify their foundations.
Once they establish an unshakeable order in the Empire, they will accommodate the opinions of the pro-Juhwa faction.
But until then, until all neighboring countries are subdued, it cannot happen.
“If they disturb the Empire’s people with taxes, we must do the same.”
“If there’s foresight, I will listen. Your Highness.”
Foresight. It is indeed foresight. I believe that as well.
Smiling, the Princess unwrapped the pouch presented by the strategist.
*
A few days later, the two factions clashed fiercely once again in the Imperial Council.
The victory over Nobogord was indeed a victory, yet the matters of the council seemed separate, didn’t they?
“It is truly time to weaponize something other than swords and spears. Have we not proven that killing isn’t the only way!”
“Hahaha! If someone hears this, they might think we are insane with war! And that proof you keep talking about was only brought forth in the special environment of the battlefield! Speak wisely!”
“Your words are excessive. If this continues, we will be forced to discuss the budget seriously!”
“Ha! The military expenses would be cheaper! Talking? Diplomacy? What are we supposed to offer those who constantly test our Empire’s patience!”
This place felt no different from Nobogord; it was nearly identical in several aspects.
They kept the opposing political faction in check, striking hard, and when they revealed a weakness, they attacked without hesitation.
Yet, because they had achieved victory, the atmosphere was not quite as tense here.
“Go ask the Empire’s people immediately. If they hear taxes will increase, who would not protest? Especially if it’s because of a military conflict that doesn’t even need to happen!”
“If they hear taxes are going up, they’ll think it’s some ridiculous increase! It’s only about a 3% rise compared to last year!”
“Only? Just 3%? Do you understand how significant that is! Clearly, those who shout only of force have no interest in the Empire’s economic situation!”
“You are the ones who have no interest in the Empire’s external situation! The neighboring countries are still watching for any opportunity! You must be ignorant to suggest we should talk instead of exerting force!”
The pro-Juhwa faction constantly attacked the pro-Juhwa with issues concerning taxes.
They were utterly certain that the Empire’s citizens would support their claims without a doubt.
Such news also reached Kael, who was returning to the family estate through the Princess.
“Indeed. Nothing is more feared than a budget in this country.”
An increase in the budget naturally leads to a tax hike.
On that very day, expectations arose about whether military taxes would decrease.
It seemed the pro-Juhwa faction subtly leaked this information to the public intentionally.
Even nobles ultimately had to consider the opinions of the Empire’s citizens.
There are too many nations that have fallen apart in such a manner. History is studied for a reason.
At this point, the pro-Juhwa faction would have no choice but to be wary of being labeled warmongers.
But the next day, as if in a twist of fate, the citizens’ reactions changed in an instant.
This was all in line with the Princess’s plan (or more correctly, Kael’s).
“Is it true that our Empire will be the first to lower our heads and extend our hands?!”
“What is this nonsense! Anyone who hears it will think our Empire has suffered some great defeat!”
“We defeated those brutish demons of Nobogord; what are we lacking?!”
This wasn’t some baseless overconfidence. The Empire had been a constant victor.
If we had ever lost even once in a war, would we have been able to manage this vast territory?
And that was thanks to the great Emperor, the duty-bound nobility, the diligent commanders, and to those like them who fulfilled their duties as soldiers.
But before such individuals, to suggest that our Empire must yield is simply…
“Taxes may decrease? That’s certainly good news! But I won’t trade our pride for a single silver coin!”
“If you want dialogue, they must also do the same! Why must we bow our heads first?!”
The Empire primarily relied on conscription. However, in certain situations, partial conscription was also applied.
This meant that there were far more individuals who had served in the military than one might think.
And all of them, in return, were heroes who proudly returned home as victors.
Yet, if they were to choose between a silver coin and one of the Empire’s prides, what would they choose?
Could they truly choose the former without a second thought?
Kael could resolutely answer ‘no’ to that question.
“On the surface, it may seem easy to think of war or call someone a warmonger.”
Appearing weak spells doom. Ultimately, everything is a matter of momentum in such matters.
Why do neighboring countries fall silent when the Empire moves its troops?
Because they know they are truly facing a threat. They have not forgotten the fear.
“The Crown Prince’s ideal is undoubtedly the right path for the future. But if it is limited only to the Empire, it holds no meaning. Let’s consider the situations with the neighboring countries. The pro-Juhwa faction likely has a clear upper hand there.”
As Kael thought this, he quietly stared out the window.
It seems that a calm life in this other world is merely a distant dream.
*
“Alexei, how do I look?”
“You look wonderful.”
“Right? Hmmm. At this level, I shouldn’t be lectured, right?”
“Umm… Honestly, if it’s Lady Kaya, I feel like she would still lecture you no matter how splendid you look.”
Ah, damn it. Don’t hit me with facts like that.
At a time like this, just say, “I bet she would!” and boost my confidence a bit.
The Duke of Bertier Empire has arrived in the territory of our Clausewitz family.
However, instead of heading straight to the castle, I paused for a moment.
And then I began to adorn myself with all the items I had bought beforehand.
“Brother! You need to dress up! What’s with this every day! What would other girls think!”
“No, Kaya. I’m just taking a quick tour of the estate.”
“No way! You must always look splendid!”
Do you know what’s unfair? I get lectured so much that when I finally decide to dress up?
Kaya’s second wave of comments comes crashing down like a tsunami.
“What is this?!”
“Why are you complaining again?!”
“You look way too good! If you go out like this, everyone will stare at you! I hate it!”
“What do you want me to do?!”
No matter what, it’s a problem either way. She presses me hard, almost as if she wants to eat me alive.
I looked at Father for help, but he just let out deep sighs.
Mother smiled, saying the siblings get along so well. I was about to lose my mind.
After that, I found a balance that allowed me to bear Kaya’s lectures.
“Not too splendid, but not too shabby either.”
It’s such a bothersome task, but what can I do? It’s a request from my Kaya.
She probably wants her older brother to look good. At the same time, her jealousy leads to these lectures, so I decided to understand her feelings.
Once I get older and become an adult and meet someone, I’ll probably become indifferent!
“Duke.”
“Oh, what? Is everything finished?”
“I just got a message. They’re asking why you haven’t entered the estate when you were just outside…”
“Was it Kaya?”
Nods
Just outside? Kaya, my little sister, honestly, 20 minutes ago is not “just outside”…
You keep whining, and then you can’t even wait for a moment?!
“Let’s go.”
I quickly finished up and headed towards the main castle.
The rattling carriage gradually slowed as we approached.
And just as a commotion was heard outside—
Clack!
“Whoa!”
Not waiting in the hall or the garden, not even at the castle gate, but as soon as the carriage entered—
A person rushed up and flung the door open with enthusiasm.
“Kael Oppa!”
“Hello, Kaya.”
“Oppaaaa!!”
Oh my. My little sister. But you’re not a kid anymore, you know?
If you dive in like that for a hug, I’m going to suffocate…!