Second Act The Villainesses Conceal Their True Natures “I’m told the royal candidate appeared in the United Kingdom of Olgen at the end of last year.” Aileen’s lady-in-waiting, Rachel, didn’t say anything unnecessary until their return to the mansion, but now, helping Aileen prepare for bed, she finally broaches the subject. Naturally, the uproar at the ball reached the room where the servants were waiting, and Rachel has been gathering intelligence. “They say she was traveling around impoverished districts proselytizing with an odd religious group. Rumors about her spread, saying that she can predict the future and foretold a spell of cold weather in distant Kilvas. She won the king’s trust by naming all the aristocrats who had been involved in counterfeiting Olgen’s currency, a troubling incident that seemed unsolvable until her intervention. Her maids and attendants were boasting about it.” “I see. So that story’s already spreading.” “Yes. They also said she has predicted an earthquake since coming here, and there was actually a small one yesterday. Earthquakes are rare in Hausel, so even the people who were suspicious aren’t able to deny her out of hand.” “Who else didn’t get here until yesterday, besides us?” “The Kingdom of Ashmael. They arrived yesterday afternoon, while the earthquake occurred in the morning. Both the chief and the princess of the Island Republic of Gloss were impressed. They think it must be magic. The neutral power of Maiz arrived before the United Kingdom of Olgen, partly to take advantage of the island’s properties as a health resort, so they must know as well. However, the Kilvas Empire doesn’t seem to have heard a word of it. The servants and soldiers were confused.” One must not underestimate information from one’s servants. Rachel is outstanding at intelligence gathering. She is also the villainess of Regalia of Saints, Demons and Maidens 2, and Roxane is the villainess of its sequel. As a rule, villainesses tend to be brilliant people with high basic specs. After all, if they were not, there would be no thrill for the heroine in beating them. This is particularly true of the villainess of Valkyrie of the Magic Lance, a game that compelled its fans to call it “high-minded” and “not just an otome game.” “They must have arranged it quietly, so that Kilvas wouldn’t interfere. Then, once they managed to win over people’s trust, they announced it officially. They got one up on us. Whoever would have thought that she would reappear as a royal candidate…” They won’t be able to apprehend the two women easily, under the protection of the United Kingdom of Olgen as they are. The king of Olgen has united several small countries that were constantly at war with each other. His nation may be new, but it has managed to absorb many different cultures, and its strength is genuine. Olgen’s territory is also vast; it has had no major internal trouble during the past few years, and its population is growing. More than anything else, however, it was a war zone just a decade or two ago, meaning it has an abundance of well-trained soldiers and generals who survived the fighting. Imperial Ellmeyer hasn’t experienced any major battles in the past several decades. It has fallen behind in the development of demon stone technology and is gradually becoming a “former” military power. Olgen isn’t an opponent they can carelessly start a war with. Kilvas would probably support Ellmeyer, but they are all the way across an ocean. Neighboring Ashmael may have excellent sacred stone technology, but holy power won’t work on humans. In geographic terms as well, Ellmeyer will be the front line. “Maiz is a neutral nation; I would imagine they’ll be neither friend nor foe to us. I’ve heard that the citizens of the Island Republic of Gloss are all members of the country’s navy…” It will be far too troublesome if they make an enemy of them as well as Olgen. Not only that, but Princess Dana of Gloss seems friendly with Duchess Nina of Hirikka. They could easily have arranged to form some sort of united front already. “At any rate, we mustn’t act before we know what each nation is thinking and who they have ties to.” “Emperor Claude and the others will be attending the first conference tomorrow, won’t they. Do you suppose that will be all right?” “I will also be inspecting the former site of Hausel’s royal palace with other noblewomen.” It’s likely to be the same group of women Aileen greeted before the first dance. “First and foremost, we need information. Particularly about those predictions. They’ll be a problem. After all, it’s an ability that befits the queen of Hausel…provided it’s genuine.” “I also heard she’s predicted that we’ll have bad weather two days from now, and that whirlpools will form, making it impossible for ships to leave port. She keeps proposing to cancel the second site inspection. Do you think there’s some sort of trick involved?” “I think I might have some idea.” In the game, when Diana and the others attempt to attack Hausel, several great whirlpools form at sea and prevent their ships from approaching. The mechanism that activates them is inside a facility on the ocean floor. If she recalls correctly, there’s an event in which one of the members of Diana’s group blows herself up to break it, leaving the rest of them in tears when they mount their assault. It’s likely that some facilities are still there on the ocean floor…! The place she found in Kilvas has already been destroyed along with its gate, but there could very well be others. Diana’s group may already have control of them. That will be more troublesome than the prophecy business. “I’m not certain yet. At any rate, what we need is information.” “Understood. The people of Olgen will be able to tell us all manner of things about the royal candidate, since we are woefully ignorant, so I’ll instruct everyone else to collect information as well.” “…Have people been unpleasant to you?” The hierarchy of the nations regarding the queenship of Hausel is beginning to fall into place. Naturally, the servants will be at the mercy of their master’s position in it. Rachel responds to Aileen’s concern with a perfect lady-in-waiting smile. “Compared to Lady Serena’s exacting criticism, it was rather endearing.” Aileen smiles wryly, remembering the scathing words of the female bureaucrat who’s positively sprinting up the ladder to success. “I suppose there’s no need for me to worry.” “None at all. Master Keith can speak ill of Master Claude for days on end, while we are constantly helpless in the face of your outlandish behavior.” “Wait, now I’m concerned for other reasons. Are you actively trying to undermine the dignity of your lord and lady?” “We were ordered to do so in the Kilvas Empire.” Oh, that’s right. During their visit to Kilvas, the pregnant Aileen decided that it would be easier to acquire information if she was underestimated. In the presence of Cattleya and Diana, she played the part of a consort who didn’t understand complicated matters and was merely under Claude’s protection. “It would be a great help for you to let us know if you intend to act as the shadow commander in chief this time as well.” “…Let’s see. Since other nations are also watching, we mustn’t let ourselves be the object of too much disdain… What about a consort who’s reflected on her behavior and is overreaching in an attempt to seem more mature?” “I don’t think you’ll be able to deceive Lady Roxane.” “She’s prudent, so she’ll keep silent and watch. In fact, we will need to make sure she doesn’t take advantage of it. Lady Roxane has her own kingdom to protect, after all.” “I’ll let the others know, then.” Now that that’s settled, Rachel finishes helping Aileen ready herself for bed, then leaves the room. She really is a reliable lady-in-waiting. As if to take her place, Claude enters. He goes straight to Claire, who’s fast asleep. “…I’ll wake her if I pick her up, won’t I.” “Content yourself with watching her sleep. She drifted off just a little while ago.” “Did you hear about prophecy and whatnot?” Aileen assumed her husband intended to kill time by talking about how adorable his daughter is, but he’s brought up the subject of work straightaway. Apparently, he understands that, given the circumstances, he can’t afford to simply dote on his daughter. “Yes, from Rachel. I imagine the substance of it is the same as what you heard from Master Keith.” “I see… This has gotten complicated.” “Did Master Vica say anything?” After all, it was the Kilvas Empire that Cattleya and Diana betrayed. “He’s going to gather information for now. He said he’d never heard anything about prophetic abilities before, though. No doubt the United Kingdom of Olgen intends to maintain the stance that their candidate isn’t Emperor Kilvas’s elder sister. The Valkyries are also apparently registered as Olgen soldiers, so we won’t be able to touch them.” “If we aren’t careful, we’ll have an international issue on our hands.” “There’s something else that concerns me. When I proposed a military alliance to Baal, he dodged the question.” Seating herself on the bed, Aileen frowns. “By that, you mean he didn’t turn you down or say he’d think about it?” “Right. He told me we’d discuss it later. It wasn’t like him. I also suggested cooperating, providing security for his mansion during the conference and sharing information, things like that. Holy power doesn’t work on humans, so I thought he’d need my magic if he wanted a barrier. But he turned that down as well.” Considering their relationship with Baal and the Kingdom of Ashmael up until now, that’s an unexpected answer. “He said it would make the other nations wary, so I backed down, but he also told me to worry about myself first. That may have been a warning, come to think of it. There are places protected by holy power all over Hausel, so magic has difficulty working here.” “Now that you mention it, Elefas said that he’s always impeded when he tries to teleport in the vicinity of Hausel. Apparently, teleporting over long distances within Hausel is difficult as well.” “That’s not true for Baal, though. In that sense, having the holy king as an ally would mean a lot.” And this is coming from Claude, the demon king. No doubt the holy king would be valuable to other nations as well. Lady Roxane wouldn’t reveal the source of her information, either… There’s nothing unnatural about that, though. Ashmael probably already has ties to another nation. Could they be hesitating over whether to ally with that nation or Ellmeyer? “Baal has agreed to select the queen by a vote, but Ashmael has nothing to do with demons in the first place. Frankly, they’d ordinarily be opposed to us. He’s probably quite sought after. He’s also more sociable than I am, and he’s got a lot of friends…” “Th-that’s…only because your face is too overwhelming, Master Claude!” “You don’t have to console me. He’s a man who treasures his country, his wife, and his daughter. Just like me.” Claude’s fingertips skim over Claire’s cheek, just barely touching it, then he turns around. He doesn’t seem as dejected as she feared. “You’re close to the principal consort, so I thought it would be better to let you know.” “Goodness, there’s no need to worry. I am always prepared to exchange blows with Lady Roxane. She’s a worthy opponent.” “You’re always so dependable—though I wonder if I should really call you ‘dependable’ for that.” Claude sits down beside her. “Leave tomorrow’s inspection to me as well,” Aileen says. “I’d rather you didn’t overdo it, though. We aren’t trying to antagonize them out of hand.” “Oh? Master Claude, you can’t genuinely be telling me to be considerate toward that royal candidate, whose ties to you run so deep. Are you really saying that to me, your wife?” She smiles at him, the corners of her lips curving. Claude has reached out to take a lock of her hair, but his hand freezes for a second. The next moment, he takes the lock and kisses it. “I meant in general.” “‘In general.’ That really doesn’t sound like the sort of thing a demon king would say. Don’t tell me there’s a situation that plagues your conscience so badly that you truly can’t explain it to your wife. Is it the sort of thing that would make me take Claire and run away from home?” Claude can’t argue properly whenever she brings their daughter into it. Aileen crosses her legs and gives a thin smile, certain of her victory. This is a golden opportunity to torment her husband, and she won’t let it escape her. However, her formidable husband gives her a warning filled with pathos. “Don’t make trouble for me, all right? I’ll start wanting to keep you locked up.” “……” “Right. If I did that now, I’d be able to wait without worrying about tomorrow’s inspection.” “Yes, tomorrow will be busy, won’t it. Let us get some sleep!” Hastily uncrossing her legs, Aileen gracefully relocates to the center of the bed. Claude sighs, clearly disappointed. “I thought it was a good idea…” It’s cruel that he says that seriously. In an attempt to change the subject, Aileen clears her throat. “Have no fear. I intend to act perfectly reserved.” “Reserved? You?” Claude says with a tilt of the head. Aileen entertains the idea of needling him again but calms herself before answering. “No doubt the royal candidate and the Valkyries believe I am.” “Oh. Come to think of it, you were the shadow commander in chief in Kilvas, weren’t you.” Claude folds back the sheets on the bed and gets in. “Well, as long as you behave yourself, I have no complaints. We have Claire now, too. I’d prefer not to stand out in unfortunate ways and provoke hostility.” He snaps his fingers, dimming the lights. “That said, I do think the demons would make protecting Claire their top priority. I’ve shared what we know with Cyril and the others. What options are available to us will depend on how our opponents move, but he’ll do whatever he can.” Claude rests his head on the large pillow, gazing up at the ceiling, and Aileen nestles closer to him. “We’ll be working separately tomorrow, but it is a good opportunity to glean more information. Let’s both do our best.” “Yes. I’d like to work hard at making friends, too,” Claude replies with a straight face, and Aileen’s cheeks almost spasm. However, she won’t say anything boorish. If it comes to that, perhaps I could have him play with Claire and take care of the diplomacy myself. Reassured by the fact that they have a daughter who can keep the demon king pinned down, Aileen closes her eyes. Her conscientious husband doesn’t forget to leave a goodnight kiss on her forehead. While some of the islands are linked by bridges, traveling by water is faster. Apparently, there are teleportation devices somewhere as well, but most of them can’t even be activated without the queen’s permission. Audrey is the one to explain this, after Princess Dana’s constant stream of “What’s that?” over everything she sees wears her down. “That’s a…mazing. Lady Audrey, you know all the things!” “It’s common knowledge. Although perhaps that isn’t true on the northern continent.” There’s a note of scorn in the woman’s annoyed voice, but it completely fails to discourage Dana. “In the north, only Kilvas was permissioned to have exchange with Hausel; that is why!” “…As long as you understand that, as a rule, your position wouldn’t allow you to visit casually.” “Yes, I study, since I’m here now!” If they’re genuinely understanding each other, this conversation is more frightening to listen to than be part of. A strained, polite smile on her face, Nina timidly breaks in. “D-do you suppose Lady Carol is all right? Her seasickness…” Aileen and the others are currently on a boat bound for the central island, on which Hausel’s royal palace once stood. The sky is clear, and the waves are gentle, but Carol complained that she was feeling dizzy and is resting in a cabin at the aft of the boat. Roxane is staying with her, so the tea party on deck has only four participants: Audrey, Nina, Dana, and Aileen. “I gave her our…moving sickness medicine! It works very well!” “There’s no knowing how far we can trust that. It may be what’s left Lady Carol unable to get up.” “It could be. The taste…is outrageous!” So she admits it? While Nina is flustered, Audrey’s eyes widen in anger. “Are you truly aware that you are a princess?! Lady Carol is kind; that’s why she accepted it from you. If anything happens, your country will have to take responsibility, you know!” “But if we get boat-sick, we can’t live…on the sea. Man or woman.” Dana gazes back at her, confused, the color of her eyes deep and dark. “Moving sickness medicine…is valuable. Kindness. Not drop into ocean.” “You’re saying you planned to drop Lady Carol in the ocean?! You antiquated barbarian!” “Y-you see, fishing is very important to the Island Republic of Gloss…! Someone who suffers from seasickness can’t become a fisherman. In other words, they can never be a full-fledged adult. That’s what Lady Dana meant; she certainly wasn’t thinking of pushing Lady Carol into the ocean!” “It’s a cultural difference, then,” Aileen summarizes, and Nina hurriedly nods. “Yes,” Dana says, holding her head high. “I hear Maiz…only land. Cultural difference!” Audrey turns a cold gaze on them. “A convenient term, ‘cultural difference.’ In that case, why don’t you take some of that motion sickness medicine as well, Lady Aileen? You’ve been quiet all this time. Is it because you’re feeling ill?” “…N-no. The thought that we’re headed toward Hausel makes me nervous.” “You, the empress of the nation that destroyed the Queendom?” Audrey says pointedly, and the women all sharpen their gazes. They’re determined not to miss a move Aileen makes, so she acts shy for them. “I know there’s no danger. After all, my husband will protect me no matter what.” “Yesterday…I checked him out. Very handsome! He has…demon king’s face!” It’s hard to tell whether Dana’s complimenting him or not. Nina’s perplexed look is open to interpretation, but Audrey is clearly still annoyed. Aileen gazes at them all with sparkling eyes. “I’m proud of my husband. Still, when I remember the chaos after the declaration of war, I can’t help but feel frightened. Why, even sweets didn’t taste good to me at the time.” “I would imagine not. When I saw the footage of the bombardments from that palace in the sky, I couldn’t stop trembling. I was shocked to see something like that in the latter years of my life.” Carol has appeared on the deck, accompanied by Roxane. Audrey rises, yielding her seat to the older woman, then orders the Olgen servants to add more chairs to the table, and they quickly comply. “Are you feeling better, Lady Carol?” “I feel right as rain, thanks to that medicine. Even if she does have a court lady with knowledge of medicine with her, I simply can’t have Lady Roxane take care of me. I’m sorry for making you listen to an old woman’s tales. I had heard you were compiling a history book, so I couldn’t resist telling you my stories.” “There’s no reason to apologize; hearing about events from one who had actually lived through them was very informative.” Roxane seats herself beside Carol, as if to take care of her. She must have registered Aileen’s gaze, but she doesn’t even glance in her direction. This sense of distance reminds Aileen of when they first met. “We should reach the central island soon. Olgen’s state-of-the-art boats are as swift as one would expect.” As Carol says, the island—which was previously the size of a little fingernail—is nearly upon them. All eyes naturally turn toward it. The ship makes a long detour around the island’s edge, maneuvering to enter the mouth of the port. “The palace…really gone, isn’t it.” Dana’s observation is quiet, but Audrey doesn’t miss it. “Yes, because Ellmeyer and Ashmael shot it out of the sky. May we hear your thoughts on that, Lady Roxane?” “I merely heard about it from my husband, so I don’t have any particular thoughts on the matter.” “…First Lady Aileen, and now you. The consorts of the nations that created this situation apparently have nothing but irresponsible answers. Ladies, allow me to make a proposal.” Audrey looks around the group. “You are participating in this inspection as representatives of your countries—however, this is Hausel. There’s no knowing what consequences imprudent actions may have. Therefore, I insist that you obey the instructions of my own nation.” “Are you ordering us not to go anywhere without Olgen’s permission?” Roxane asks bluntly. Audrey smiles at her. “My suggestion is based in kindness. I simply wish to ensure your safety. Let me ask you this: Is there a place that Ashmael wishes to investigate without informing the rest of us?” “That isn’t what I meant.” Roxane falls silent. Apparently, her relationship with Audrey, who has information about the royal candidate, is tenuous. However, Audrey respects Carol. The news about the royal candidate must have traveled from Lady Audrey to Lady Carol, and then to Lady Roxane, in that order. Audrey looks around at the now quiet group. “Our nation’s Valkyries are already on the island.” “This is the first I’m hearing of that,” Nina replies promptly, showing surprisingly good reflexes. “Because this is the first time I’ve mentioned it.” Audrey isn’t the least bit flustered, and Nina goes quiet. “As I’m sure you’re all aware, there are mechanisms in Hausel that are beyond human understanding. The royal candidate, who is currently staying in Olgen, is capable of working those mechanisms.” Even Aileen looks shocked. In the same moment, a realization hits her. That’s it. That’s the real reason Olgen is backing Cattleya and Diana. Even if they don’t fully believe in her prophetic abilities, if she’s able to work the teleportation devices in Hausel, that’s more than enough reason to support her as the royal candidate. “I’ve not heard anything about this, either,” Carol responds nonchalantly. “I myself only learned of it upon arriving here,” Audrey says. “No one has any right to say I’ve got the upper hand, however; in terms of investigating Hausel, both Ellmeyer and Ashmael began earlier than the rest of us. No doubt they discovered nothing because they did not have the royal candidate.” Audrey slowly drinks the last of her tea, as if flaunting her composure to the silent group. “You’ll also be able to receive the Valkyries’ protection. I believe it will be more efficient for you all to accept Olgen’s guidance.” Aileen exhales a held breath in relief and smiles. “Well, that would be wonderful! Honestly, I had no idea what to do when they told me about the inspection. Though if they’d asked me to host a tea party or a dance, I would’ve had no such problems.” Dubious stares fix on her from every direction. Roxane has frozen up as if she’s had a shock. “I mean, there’s nothing there, correct? Master Claude told me there isn’t, so I would only have to go and look… I did think it would probably be dull.” She notices that the bewildered looks have taken on a scornful edge. This is a unique kind of delightful. Roxane has gone so still that Aileen is concerned she may not be breathing. She’s not even blinking. Aileen softly puts her hands to her cheeks, feigning embarrassment. “Oh—no, I shouldn’t say that. Everyone told me over and over that this wouldn’t all be sightseeing, but I just thought…” “Did you not have…nervousness before?” “When I thought that I could leave this to the rest of you, it was just such a relief.” Evading Dana’s oddly astute observation, Aileen smiles at Audrey. “I will accept your generous offer, Lady Audrey. I believe I shall be able to make a proper report to Master Claude now.” “I shall also accept, Lady Audrey. Walking for long stretches isn’t easy at my age, you know,” Carol also agrees in her ever-calm tone. Nina hesitantly raises her hand. “In that case, then so will I… While there are several inspections scheduled, I believe it best to grasp the whole picture from the outset.” “Me too! I don’t wish…to be leaved out!” “What will you do, Lady Roxane?” Aileen smiles brightly at her, and the other woman blinks, startled. “Oh, um. I…I will…” “Won’t you come with us? If you don’t, they’ll only keep comparing me to you, Lady Roxane. Please?” Aileen puts both hands to her cheeks and tilts her head. The gesture seems to strike the finishing blow. Roxane nods awkwardly, her face stiff and drawn with fear. However, this is only the beginning. She can operate Hausel’s facilities. As I suspected, it isn’t just Diana, but Cattleya as well… When the group temporarily splits up to prepare to disembark, Aileen has Rachel fix her makeup in their small cabin. The boat Olgen has provided for the inspection is a midsize ship, allowing for good maneuverability, but being a state-of-the-art vessel, it also has individual cabins. “It sounds as if the royal candidate and the Valkyries are on the island already,” Aileen says between freshly rouged lips, speaking partly to get her thoughts in order. “I’m beginning to suspect that the priestesses of Hausel, who monitor people coming and going here, may not be genuine. Granted, if she can work Hausel’s facilities, I doubt there would be any complaints anyway.” “Hausel’s facilities… You mean the ones on the ocean floor you spoke of? Do you suppose there’s a way in somewhere?” “We’ll check them all one by one. Prepare yourself, Rachel; I need you to play the part of the harried maid who’s burdened by a spoiled princess unfit to be empress.” “Leave it to me. The bag we’ll take with us contains a picnic blanket and sweets.” That’s Aileen’s most trusted lady-in-waiting for you. She’s always prepared. Twirling her parasol, Aileen walks down the gangway to find she’s the last to disembark. The others are waiting in a little knot; they’ve each brought a couple of guards or maids. Valkyries guard the perimeter. Naturally, that means they must be here as well. “Apologies for the delay! I just remembered I’d brought sweets for everyone… Oh!” Aileen falters and stops partway down the ramp, acting as if her giddiness about the picnic has made her late in noticing. The royal candidate steps forward smoothly. “I am the royal candidate Cattleya.” The woman bows, her face still hidden. “Umm…” Aileen displays exaggerated confusion. “You’re…Emperor Kilvas’s—?” “It is a pleasure to meet you.” Aileen looks bewildered, as if she isn’t sure how to respond. Sure enough, Diana snorts from where she stands beside Cattleya. “Don’t you understand the situation? You’re as stupid as ever, I see.” “Diana, you’re being rude to the empress of Ellmeyer. I’m very sorry, Lady Aileen. This is my guard and the leader of the Valkyries. Please treat her kindly.” At this point, Aileen gives them one more push, just to be on the safe side. “But…isn’t Lady Diana Kilvas’s…?” “She is a soldier of the United Kingdom of Olgen, Lady Aileen. Please don’t make any strange accusations,” Audrey says, coldly shutting her down. “Lady Aileen,” Rachel admonishes her. Aileen pouts and averts her eyes, sulking. She quite enjoys the completely appalled looks from those around her. Roxane’s gaze is distant, while Sahra—the one who Aileen needs to pay attention to—stands beside her blinking rapidly. They only passed by each other on the boat, but Sahra knows Aileen’s personality well. Since she’s being treated like Roxane’s court attendant, they won’t have many opportunities to speak directly. She’s so innocent that she can’t read the room, though, so there’s no telling what she’ll say. Not only that, but Sahra is the Daughter of God, a position which originated in Hausel. Ashmael must have wanted her to come along on the inspection… Magic isn’t useful in the Queendom, but sacred power is a different story—or at least, that had been the storyline in Regalia of Saints, Demons, and Maidens. The Daughter of God, in particular, has the power to break seals and heal the holy sword. It’s very likely that she could repair the facilities and items connected to Hausel that appear in Valkyrie of the Magic Lance. Cattleya looks around slowly, then raises her voice slightly. “Everyone seems to be present. Now then, let us show you to the former site of the royal palace. We’ve provided a large carriage for transport. Please, right this way.” “My, that’s helpful. I’m impressed there are still roads for carriages to run on,” Carol says. Cattleya smiles in a way that doesn’t go past her lips. “The palace was all that vanished. That said, the ground is unstable, and the roads are unmaintained. There are also places where construction was rushed for the inspection. In order to keep you safe, I ask that you abide by our instructions. I trust that is fine with everyone?” They all nod. At Diana’s direction, the women climb into a box-shaped carriage with a canopied roof. However, for some reason, Aileen is told to board a different carriage. It’s a shabby one meant for servants; it isn’t even enclosed. The only similarity is that both are guarded by Valkyries. Rachel grimaces, but before she can cross-examine the Valkyries, Aileen does it herself. “What is the meaning of this? Why must I be the only one to ride in such a wretched carriage?” “It’s for your own safety. You are the empress of Ellmeyer, the nation that conquered Hausel. There’s no telling who may target you, or from where. Lady Cattleya and Lady Diana have ordered the Valkyries to keep a close watch on you.” “But…that’s so mean. You’re saying I’m different from everybody else? And this carriage…” “You did agree to obey our instructions, don’t forget,” Diana calls out carelessly from a distance, apparently having heard the commotion. Cattleya has been greeting the other nations’ consorts and princesses, but she turns toward Aileen as well. “I promise you will be safe. Or would you rather return to Ellmeyer?” “Lady Aileen, we should do as they say,” Rachel chides her. Aileen turns on her heel, not even attempting to hide her dissatisfaction. Rachel climbs into the carriage after Aileen and takes a seat next to her. “Calm yourself, Lady Aileen,” she whispers softly. Her brilliant lady-in-waiting pays attention to the tiniest of details. She’s even aware of the watchful eyes of the Valkyries. “I am calm,” Aileen says with a huff, averting her gaze. Now she’ll be able to avoid saying anything she shouldn’t. They’ve given her the perfect excuse, overtly excluding her from the group right from the start. However, the Valkyries’ attitude likely isn’t because they’re wary of Aileen. If they’re being this obvious about it, I suspect something’s also going on with Master Claude… She can think of so many reasons the Valkyries might be hostile to them that it’s a genuine problem. Now then, I wonder what they’re planning. In Kilvas, Diana once let a game spoiler slip. Although Vica never transformed before, she called him the “red-eyed demon”—the final boss. Aileen has had a certain vague inkling ever since, and this is a good opportunity to test her hunch. Do Diana and Cattleya have knowledge of the game…from their past lives? If so, is it only knowledge of Valkyrie of the Magic Lance? She will unmask them while simultaneously ensuring that they don’t learn her secret. “…Just you wait.” Aileen intentionally mutters a remark that’s a mixture of acting and what she really feels. The carriage rattles and rocks, heading toward what’s no longer there. However, the corners of Aileen’s lips curve up into a smile—just as they did when she faced down that palace floating in the sky. The grandfather clock chimes, announcing the beginning of the conference. However, only the tick of the second hand echoes quietly in the spacious, recently renovated conference room. “…Nobody’s coming?” Claude asks. His cousin responds dutifully from his seat at the very back of the round table. “Doesn’t seem like it.” “Do you think they all slept in?” “They could be lost.” “You’re very calm, Vica. Even though you’re the host.” “Ha-ha-ha.” Vica gives an easygoing laugh. “Last night, I resigned myself to the fact that anything could happen. I’d imagine Ernst is angry, though.” “Vica! Emperor Claude!” Ernst dashes into the conference room, forgetting to use his own emperor’s title. He was bright red with anger when he left, but now he’s dead white. “This is bad. The others haven’t gotten the time or location wrong, nor does it seem like something’s happened—” “That figures.” “How can you be so calm?! They’re holding the conference in another room at this very moment! Olgen, Maiz, Hirikka, Gloss—even Ashmael is participating—and they’re discussing the next queen! Do you understand what this means?!” “They’re bullying us.” Hearing Claude’s conclusion, Ernst bangs his fists on the table. “Why are you so laid-back?!” “Easy, easy,” Keith says to him. He’s heard the ruckus and come to investigate. “Demon kings are often bullied, you see. Shall I make some tea?” “Still! Even if that’s true…he’s shouldering the weight of an empire…!” “Vica, these cookies are from Ellmeyer. You should try one. Though if you do, you may get bullied as well.” “It’s all right as long as I’m with you, Big Brother Claude. That said, getting bullied sure is a different experience from being treated as a puppet, isn’t it.” “Oh-ho? How so?” “When I’m a puppet, everyone attends my meetings and flatters me; it’s just that no one actually listens. I’ve never been ignored this completely before. Oh, these are really good.” “You’re so…carefree…!” Ernst has slumped face-down on the table. Keith offers him a cup of tea, perhaps because he feels bad for the prime minister. “I’m sorry. Milord has been a bad influence on Emperor Vica.” “Don’t be rude, Keith. So? What’s their story?” There’s no way they’re just shoving the fact that they’re having fun without Claude and Vica in their faces. Ernst gasps, then straightens up and gives his report. “They are all in agreement about making Cattleya the next queen of Hausel. If we agree as well, they’ll hold the conference according to schedule beginning with the next session. If we do not, they said the matter would be determined by vote at the final meeting.” Claude intended to propose a vote at today’s meeting. He gives a little laugh. “Baal’s as good at maneuvering as ever. He’s arranged it so he’ll be able to go either way.” “Is Ashmael still our ally, then?” “It would be better not to get our hopes up. We both have our own nations to think of.” At the sight of Claude’s thin smile, Ernst’s expression grows tenser. “I never dreamed our empire’s first major diplomatic endeavor would turn out this way.” “It’s a good chance to take an objective look at the situation. Now that Kilvas has lost its Valkyries’ military power, it doesn’t scare anyone. The Valkyries must know that the demons of Kilvas can’t fly, even if Vica’s able to control them.” The countries in the southwest won’t sense any looming danger in the situation, and they only have to tell the countries in the northeast that they’ll protect them. “It’s the same for us. If we can get the holy king on our side, we won’t have to fear the demons.” “Hmm. It seems as if we’re fairly well checkmated, doesn’t it.” “The demon king has a country under his thumb and is getting involved with the human world. We were checkmated already.” Claude laughs with Vica, and Ernst clutches his head again. Understandably, Keith glares at him. “Master Claude. Enough jesting. You as well, Emperor Vica. You’ll make Sir Ernst collapse from anxiety.” “It’s all right, Ernst. It’ll work out somehow.” “You’re just saying that! I’m well aware that’s the sort of person you are…!” “But Diana hasn’t divorced me,” Vica says, and Ernst raises his head quizzically. The emperor gives him a kind smile. “That means my sister wants you to do something about this, Ernst.” “Me? What am I supposed to do with Cattleya? She’s even denying that she’s a princess of Kilvas.” “If you can’t, then leave it to my brother, Claude.” “Do your best, Ernst,” Claude chimes in. “I’ll be cheering you with everything I have.” Vica’s lovable cousin’s way of casually pushing troublesome things off onto others means he can’t let his guard down around him. “All right, milord, what next? Your guards seem bored.” “I’ll table the matter of the royal candidate for the moment, but tell them I agree to the vote. They’ll probably accept that. After all, as things currently stand, they’ll win five to two.” “Very well. You’re certain you want to go with the ballot system?” “Either way, there’s only one big problem at the moment: my wife, who’s away on that inspection.” A soft “Oh!” escapes Vica, and Ernst’s face stiffens. “If they’re acting this blatantly here, then they’re probably doing the same over there.” Keith promptly crosses himself. The man gives up very fast. Claude doesn’t want to resign himself, though. “I want her to come home safely, without causing any problems.” That’s probably not going to happen. However, perhaps it’s because they’re being considerate, but no one tells him so. The streets she can see from the carriage are in decline. The palace took up more than half of the space on the island, so there isn’t much usable land. There are buildings, but the shops aren’t open. Even when she does spot people, many of them are Valkyries. She sees peddlers here and there, but they seem to be doing business with the lady knights and the artisans who are working to repair the crumbling buildings. As things stand, the island belongs to the Valkyries. Letting ruffians do as they please with the central island now that there’s no queen would also be problematic, though… A wall on the verge of collapse catches her eye. Although they’ve faded until they’re nearly illegible, there are words written on it: Give Hausel her next queen. The carriage passes through a large gate, then comes to a stop just inside it. None of the Valkyries give her a hand, so Aileen disembarks from the carriage with Rachel’s help. “There don’t seem to be any residents,” she hears Carol say in the open space a little ways ahead. “There are issues with the ground, so they were told to evacuate. Most ordinary civilians will have done so.” “Weren’t the ones who stayed here fanatics who believed the queen of Hausel would return? I’m surprised they left.” “It seems they trusted me.” “In Hausel, many people hope that Lady Cattleya will become queen,” Audrey says. Dana claps. “Wonderful! Popularity…matters much! Right, Lady Roxane?” “Yes. I also feel that, first and foremost, being accepted by the citizens of Hausel is important.” “Um… Lady Aileen is…,” Nina says anxiously. “Oh!” Dana waves dramatically. “Lady Aileen, over here!” “How cruel you all are. Making me ride in a shoddy carriage like that all by myself.” Three of the women—Roxane, Nina, and Audrey—immediately look wary. Dana lowers her hand, seeming troubled. Everyone present knows that if Aileen starts shrieking and carrying on, it could easily become an international incident… Although Roxane likely differs. Cattleya and Diana are the ones who set this up, so naturally, they’re calm. Carol isn’t perturbed, either, perhaps because of her age. After she’s registered all their reactions, Aileen lets her shoulders slump dejectedly. “I brought sweets and everything. I thought we could eat them together…” The air goes slack with relief. Upon hearing the word sweets, Dana gets excited. “I eat some!” “Here, without our food tasters checking for poison? Don’t be absurd. This isn’t a picnic,” Audrey says, appalled. Roxane subtly averts her eyes from Aileen. “The palace ruins are a bit farther ahead, then? Even if we’re merely talking, wouldn’t that be a better place for it?” “Quite true. There are many things I’d like to explain as well. It’s just a short walk.” “What did you all talk about in your carriage?” Aileen asks bluntly, acting innocent, but the other women walk off without her and pretend not to hear. Not everyone, though; Dana looks distressed, and Nina is apologetic. They’ve put some idea or other into their heads, then. This development is far too entertaining. “Lady Aileen, you’ll ruin your makeup,” Rachel cautions her. This won’t do, Aileen thinks. She’s too eager. Aileen looks toward them, and although they’re all avoiding her eyes, Sahra is stealing glances at her. When Aileen smiles at her, the girl blanches and flees. The Daughter of God is pathetic. They pass through one thick defensive wall, then another, and the view abruptly opens up. They’re on the brink of an enormous pit. Audrey steps forward, murmuring gravely, “So this is where Hausel’s palace stood…” “Don’t go too close to the edge, please. The ground crumbles easily.” Even as Cattleya warns her, small rocks are dislodged and fall away. Aileen doesn’t hear them hit the bottom. The base of the pit is visible, but if one of them were to slip and fall in, they’d be very lucky to escape with just a sprain. Rubble also protrudes from the hole in places. “So this hole is all that remains within the wall? Nothing else?” Nina asks, looking around at the crumbling wall and the forest. “The treasure house, chapel, and other buildings that were somewhat removed from the palace are still here,” Cattleya tells her. “Many of them are falling to pieces, though, so please refrain from carelessly approaching them. The rose garden and gazebo over there have been repaired, so you may rest there as you like.” “Hausel really is gone, then. It was such a lovely palace,” Carol murmurs, sounding as if she genuinely means it. Dana bends low, peering into the deep hole. “The palace…clearly big. What sort of person was queen?” “She was a very intellectual, just woman. I never had the privilege of meeting her, though.” “You met her, Lady Carol?” Roxane asks. Carol nods calmly. “Yes. It’s been thirty years or so, but I attended her coronation. She even spoke to me. ‘I will be neither your friend nor your foe,’ she said. I’d come seeking Hausel’s support, or their counsel, at least, but it was as if she saw right through me, and she admonished me for it.” “Thirty years ago… That would have been before the United Kingdom of Olgen was founded. The time when the south was at its most violent,” Roxane says, a little pensively. “Yes, even though we were neutral, the situation wouldn’t allow us to stay out of it. To be honest, I thought the queen was cold for telling me what she had; however, the knowledge that we couldn’t rely on her helped me finally steel myself. After all, that is what it means to be neutral. And yet here I was, being lectured on the proper way to run a nation by a young queen who’d just been crowned… I was deeply moved by her dignity and deep insight, even more so than if she had given me a prophecy.” Aileen looks down into the great pit. Amelia, the queen of Hausel, deceived the world for centuries and was out for revenge. She couldn’t have reigned for hundreds of years on the strength of that alone, though. Even with the ability to see the future and Hausel’s technology, there were limits. Amelia was a great queen. This enormous pit might very well be the hole her absence left in the world. I must tell Lady Grace about this once I’m home. Her mother-in-law had adored her little sister, so Aileen is sure she’ll be happy to hear that. Her father-in-law will be, too. “And you, Lady Aileen? What are your thoughts?” Cattleya quietly comes to stand beside her. Apparently, there’s no time to indulge in sentimentality. “What do I think…? It’s a big hole, and it frightens me.” “I see. A little while ago, Lady Roxane informed me that you are known as the Maid of the Cursed Sword. It wasn’t a term I was familiar with, so it interested me. I’m told you had the sacred sword for a time?” “Hmm? Yes… It was entrusted to the d’Autriche duchy. Since we have strong ties to Ellmeyer’s imperial family and inherited the blood of the Maid of the Sacred Sword, Master Claude left it to me.” Cattleya is watching her closely, and at the mention of Claude’s name, her eyes narrow slightly. Well, well. Could this possibly, just perhaps, be…? “I see,” Cattleya continues. “Now I understand why a coined term like ‘Maid of the Cursed Sword’ would have come into it… May I ask one more question? Would you tell me the name of your lady-in-waiting?” “Her name is Rachel. Has she done something unfortunate?” “No, I simply thought there might have been a mistake in the register of names. Just to confirm, could I ask her family name as well?” “Rachel Lombard.” Cattleya frowns, thinking hard. The fact that she’s concerned about that means… In all likelihood, Cattleya knows the face and name of Rachel Danis, the villainess of Regalia of Saints, Demons, and Maidens 2. Only allowing herself to chuckle internally, Aileen cocks her head, a puzzled look on her face. “Hmm…?” “No, I see. It was a misunderstanding on my part, then. I’m sorry. However, Lady Aileen, let me give you a word of warning: Everyone knows what you did to Diana in Kilvas.” Cattleya lowers her voice and whispers in Aileen’s ear, possibly in an attempt to be kind. I was wondering what they put into the women’s heads inside the carriage, but was that all? It isn’t a bad move, though. Groups are wary of people who try to manipulate things covertly. “Wh-whatever do you mean? I left Kilvas right away.” “Yes, of course. No doubt you’ll tell me it was something your retainer and the journalist you’re close with did of their own accord. That’s how these things are. I don’t intend to pressure you to reveal the truth.” It was Claude who used the journalist and her retainer to throw the Kilvas Empire into chaos. He set a trap for them at the end by leaking information to the effect that it had all been Aileen’s doing, and apparently, Cattleya is still operating under that misunderstanding. Even so, that was a pretty strong warning. The gaze that intersects with hers at close range tells her the reason behind it. “As Emperor Claude’s wife, please refrain from doing anything to embarrass yourself. It’s unsightly.” Her lips may be smiling, but she’s close enough now that Aileen can see her eyes through the lace veil. There’s no smile there. “Y-you really are Lady Cattleya of Kilvas, aren’t you! I certainly don’t mind telling everyone about that!” “There, that’s exactly what I mean. Queen Audrey will be angry with you again.” Aileen recoils and averts her gaze, feigning fright, then takes off running. “Lady Aileen,” Rachel calls after her. “Where are you going? You were told not to act imprudently!” “Please don’t follow me!” Hearing that won’t keep anyone from following. After all, Aileen is the empress of Ellmeyer. Is she making for the stairs that descend into the pit? —No. As Cattleya explained, like the wall, some structures remain. It’s this way, I’m sure of it! Aileen is bound for the chapel. Instead of taking the path, she goes into the underbrush. “Diana, the chapel is that way! Lady Aileen may be in trouble!” Cattleya seems to be preoccupied with her long skirt and what’s behind her, because she isn’t chasing after her as quickly as she could. Still, since she’s in a panic, Aileen hears her warning clearly. Diana clicks her tongue in irritation. “Valkyries, stop her!” she yells. “Hit her if you have to; just don’t let her near it!” As if she’d let them hit her! Those words make it clear, though; both women know about the mechanism in the chapel. The one that activates when a person who is qualified to become the Maid of the Sacred Sword attempts to enter the locked chapel—a warning event that triggers in Regalia of Saints, Demons and Maidens 4 if the heroine chooses not to slip into the queen’s private chambers from the treasure house. “That’s far enough, Empress of Ellmeyer! Come back!” As one would imagine, the Valkyries’ physical abilities are formidable. One catches Aileen by the waist and drags her back. However, her fingertips have skimmed the door of the chapel, and it’s enough. An alarm wails across the sky. She can’t tell where it’s coming from. It’s a demonstration of Hausel’s transcendent knowledge. “You— I swear…! This is why I can’t stand thoughtless, spoiled little princesses!” “Diana, calm down. Let’s hurry back. The Valkyries have been told how to handle this. As long as we stay here, nothing will happen.” “But the defensive wall has closed up, hasn’t it? We’ll be locked in for a while.” “It will open in three hours. Listen, for now—” Cattleya cuts herself off and gives Diana a look. She’s concerned about Princess Dana, who’s caught up to them. Seeing Aileen in the custody of the Valkyries, she tilts her head. “Lady Aileen, they catch you? Were you the noise?” “Lady Dana, let’s rejoin the others,” Cattleya says. “I’ll explain later. It was just a minor accident.” “Um…d-did I…do something…?” Aileen asks timidly. Diana turns cold eyes on her and takes a step forward. Cattleya catches her shoulder and shakes her head. Then she turns a kind smile on Aileen. “Lady Aileen, you’ll come back with us quietly, won’t you?” “B-but…did I do…something dangerous…?” “Have you forgotten the warning I just gave you? You’re blessed with luck and a good pedigree, nothing more. Don’t do anything else unsightly— I can tell you didn’t mean to.” Cattleya’s words are gentle, but there’s contempt in her voice. She can’t completely conceal the emotion that burns darkly in her eyes. Does she have an unexpectedly impulsive personality? Or is Aileen’s husband simply too sinful? This is getting entertaining. Aileen keeps her head down as she bites back a smile. Only Dana gazes at her, looking puzzled. When the inspection boat returns to the mainland significantly later than scheduled, people from each of the nations are waiting for them on the wharf. “Master Claude!” As soon as Aileen disembarks, she trots over and flings herself into Claude’s arms. He freezes up. “I was so frightened. They all said it was my fault…!” “So you did do something.” Claude’s eyes have gone distant. In his arms, Aileen shakes her head. “I didn’t. Not a thing. I just tried to rest in the chapel, promise.” “She abruptly ran off, triggered the chapel mechanism, and set off the alarm. It prevented us from leaving the ruins of the palace; that’s why we were late. Of all the thoughtless—” “Please, Lady Audrey, let that be enough. I’m also to blame for having failed to watch Lady Aileen properly. I should have told the Valkyries more firmly.” Cattleya quietly walks toward them from behind Audrey, who’s staring daggers at Aileen. Diana frowns. “We warned her, yet she ignored us and acted without permission. Why would that be our fault? A blind man could see that she was responsible.” “I’m terribly sorry, Master Claude,” Cattleya says. “I’ll explain what happened to the groups from the other nations as well.” Everyone saw Aileen act on her own, but Cattleya is trying to demonstrate her own maturity by taking responsibility and apologizing anyway. Diana looks dissatisfied, but Cattleya is the older sister of an emperor, so she’s probably used to this sort of a maneuver. “My apologies,” Claude replies. “We’ve made unnecessary work for you. I’ll give my wife a stern lecture.” “Even you’re saying it was my fault, Master Claude?! You’re awful…!” Covering her face with her hands, Aileen begins to fake cry. Nina, Dana, and Carol all exchange looks, and Audrey watches her as if she’s eyeing a caterpillar. For some reason, Roxane is gazing at the setting sun as it sinks into the ocean, even though it must be very bright. Claude heaves a long, deep sigh. “At any rate, I’m glad all of you are safe. I’m sorry, but it looks as if our apology will have to wait.” “My kingdom doesn’t need one. I don’t want any more noise,” Audrey says curtly. She turns to the servants who’ve come to meet her. “Where is His Majesty?” “Since he heard that you are safe, he’s waiting for you back at the mansion. Tonight’s soiree has been canceled.” “I would imagine so. I’ll return to the mansion, then. Everyone, please allow Olgen’s carriages to transport you to your villas. After a fiasco like this, not seeing you safely to your doors would only add to my shame. That said, since Lady Ellmeyer’s kind husband has come to meet her, I doubt she’ll need any assistance.” Audrey’s tone is frosty. Claude nods to her. “Yes, you’ve certainly returned my wife to me safely.” He’s let the sarcasm roll right off him, and Audrey’s brow furrows. However, the queen isn’t foolish enough to publicly bait the emperor of another nation. “Well then, ladies, after you.” She’s provided two four-horse carriages that bear the crest of the United Kingdom of Olgen. The other nations’ noblewomen climb into them. No one speaks to Aileen. Gloating quietly, Aileen calls out to them apologetically, “Um, I’m very—” “Enough, Aileen,” Claude rebukes her, hugging her shoulders tightly, and she makes a noise in her throat. In the sunset, the demon king’s eyes shine red. “I want you to behave and come home with me, or I’ll never be able to let you out again.” She wanted to cement their impression of her a bit more firmly, but her husband’s eyes are serious. Aileen has no other choice but to stay silent, and only once she’s surrounded solely by people from Ellmeyer does she complain. “I had hoped to have a public falling-out with you, Master Claude.” “Why? What for? What did you do anyway?” “Hmm? It’s just as you heard. I quite foolishly went against orders from Lady Cattleya and the Valkyries, activated the alarm of the chapel in the former site of Hausel’s palace, and got the entire group locked in. After all, they shunned and bullied me!” Aileen tells him, smiling. Claude covers his face with a hand. “I did think…that would probably happen, but…” “I’ve never seen anyone so positively giddy over being bullied before,” Keith says. He approaches with Walt and Kyle, having so far been watching his master and mistress from a distance. “Sweet Ailey, you’re seriously scary when you’re getting bullied. Is this a joke or something?” “Are you sure you don’t mean you bullied them?” “My, how rude. I found out all sorts of things as a result, you know. First, Hausel’s facilities are still operational. However, the Valkyries don’t have a complete grasp of them, nor can they freely control them.” If they really knew everything about Hausel, they could have released the security system Aileen activated, but Cattleya and the others weren’t able to. She already knows why: It’s because the chapel mechanism moves according to the scenario in Regalia of Saints, Demons, and Maidens. Only someone who is qualified to become the Maid of the Sacred Sword—in other words, a woman of the Maid’s bloodline—can operate it. In short, Aileen had been the only person there who could have stopped the alarm. If she had touched the device inside the chapel that was modeled on the sacred sword, the barricade would have been released. She couldn’t afford to tell the others that, though, so she’d waited for it to release naturally. Kyle cocks his head. “Didn’t they win over the other countries by saying they could do that?” “It might be that they just know how to get it working,” Walt chimes in. “Oh! Could we use this? That claim of theirs is a big part of why they have the upper hand. If we hit back with ‘Look, you obviously don’t know how to use it,’ the other nations might change their tune.” “Possibly. However, some members of the other nations may have caught on already,” says Aileen. “Why don’t we wait to see how they react, Master Claude?” Walt scratches the back of his neck. “You think they’ll pick up on it? The Valkyries will probably gloss it over nicely.” “After all, just knowing how to get them working is technically enough of a threat,” Kyle says. “But if they aren’t all on the same page, this may cause some internal discord.” And what’s more, Aileen has a trump card. This uproar has confirmed that either Cattleya or Diana—or both—has knowledge, not only of Valkyrie of the Magic Lance, but of the Regalia of Saints, Maidens, and Demons games. However, they haven’t realized that the same is also true of Aileen. If they underestimate her, it’s bound to create a vulnerability she can exploit. What’s more important, though, is that Lady Cattleya… Aileen glances up at Claude, who notices her gaze and blinks. “What is it?” It must be nice, being oblivious to the anxieties of a wife married to a popular man, she thinks, feeling jaded. On the other hand, it is rather adorable of him. She smiles at her husband. “Oh, it’s nothing.” “You were definitely looking at me as if you blamed me just now.” “Oh my, is something on your conscience?” “No.” He knows when to back down, too. “At any rate, the conference is still on its first day. There’s no need to be impatient. If the soiree’s been canceled, let us return to the mansion and have a quiet evening,” Aileen says. “In that case, I’ll take Claire for a walk on the beach tomorrow.” “Would you mind if I accompanied you?” “That was the plan all along.” Tomorrow sounds as if it will be a nice, restful day. Claude holds his hand out to Aileen, and she takes it with a smile. Even though it may not actually be the case, it is the duty of the emperor and the empress to appear completely composed to those around them. While there were no major problems, it has still been a frustrating day. “I swear, every single thing that Aileen woman does annoys me.” “Diana.” “Oh, sorry. I’m going too fast.” Cattleya’s long train compels her to walk more slowly than usual, and Diana has passed her in the long corridor. She stops and waits for her to catch up. While her friend’s movements are slower than usual, she carries herself gracefully. Diana loathes princesses and queen consorts, women who dress themselves up to curry favor with men, but Cattleya doesn’t look anything like that. She looks as if she was born to be queen. “Being late for the dinner party would be a problem as well. Let’s hurry.” “…You’re not tired?” “This is my job now,” Cattleya says firmly. Diana knows she means it, so her words sound dashing. Cattleya isn’t like those women who eat sweets and wear extravagant gowns and have pointless conversations. She’s also not like the men who say it’s “for work” as they gorge themselves on wealth and power like fat pigs. “This is a crucial moment,” Cattleya continues. “Lady Audrey says she would like me to explain the uproar in the chapel to the assembled guests.” “It was clearly that Aileen woman’s fault. What other explanation does she need?” “She must have noticed that we weren’t able to release the security system. There’s also one other thing: She wants to ask about my successor.” Her successor—in other words, producing an heir. Diana breaks out in goose bumps. “Oh, gross. I hate women who jump straight to that sort of thing. As if they think you’re not a grown-up until you’ve had a child. I bet she’ll try to match you with a husband to control you or something.” “Probably. Still, there’s no changing the fact that we physically can’t bear children.” Sterility is a side effect of the Valkyrie surgery. The fact that Cattleya has gone to the trouble of pointing this out makes Diana uneasy. “What’s the matter? Are you saying you want to get married and have kids once you’re queen?” “No, not that. If I’m going to be queen, someone will have to take over the position eventually. A queen who’ll inherit the country and protect it.” Diana never considered that. “It will be more convenient if the queen has the blood of the Maid of the Sacred Sword, too. Don’t you think so?” “You’re not saying we should let Lilia Reinoise in on our plans this late in the game, are you? That won’t work. We can’t use a heroine who ditched the role of Maid of the Sacred Sword.” “No, not her. I’m told Lady Aileen successfully carried her pregnancy to term. The demon king has a daughter. Don’t you remember? Even in ValLance, there were a few people who tried to run Hausel in the queen’s place.” “But she’s our enemy—” “The child hasn’t even turned one yet. If we start educating her now, we can make her our ally.” Diana blinks, then thinks about it. “…Yes, that could work. That’s a really good idea. We just have to raise her from the time she’s small.” “It has other merits as well. Eliminating Ellmeyer from the ground up would be dangerous and a whole lot of work. Everyone besides the United Kingdom of Olgen is still vacillating.” Each nation seems prepared to cooperate with Cattleya, but they aren’t entirely certain. “It isn’t as if we want to conquer the world. There’s no benefit in having them be excessively wary of us. We’ll have to show them how magnanimous we can be.” “I see. If you raise Ellmeyer’s princess to be the next queen, then Ellmeyer will fall in line behind you, and we’ll have a solution that leaves everyone happy. In which case…” Couldn’t the demon king and Cattleya have a second chance together? Diana can’t just blurt that out, of course, but now that her friend has shouldered the responsibility of being queen, she thinks it might be a really wonderful thing to hope for. He’s indifferent and irritating, but he has a nice face… Oh, his face is the same as Vica’s. He got in their way all over the place in Kilvas, but he never seemed to be mocking Cattleya. Although Diana doesn’t think he’s a good man, she doesn’t feel like he’s a bad one. Still, will this be all right? She doesn’t even want to think about it, but would Cattleya actually marry the demon king? Like one of those stupid, hollow women who do nothing but cling to a man…? “I’m sure we’ll be able to raise a magnificent future queen.” Cattleya’s remark blows away all her unease, though. I’m sure we will. “All right. In that case, it might be good to establish a rule that each nation’s princesses must be sent to study in Hausel on exchange, as apprentice Valkyries.” “Eventually, yes. Voting for the queen means our side won’t need to fight, either, which is a great help, but there’s also a chance that they’ll turn the tables on us.” “It should be fine. It’s five against two now. Even if one country betrays us, we’ll still be ahead, and we’re the ones who know Hausel best. Most of all, no one would generally think of cooperating with the demon king.” “Just to be sure, we’ll also hint at the existence of the sacred sword. They won’t even consider betraying us after that.” Their recent loss has made Cattleya cautious. Diana nods gravely. “…Good idea. Having them know about it won’t do us any harm. Even Lilia Reinoise hasn’t vanquished the demon king. She’s no threat to us, and the other Maids of the Sacred Sword are in different eras…” “In the first place, ValLance’s and RegaMaid’s sacred swords are different.” Exactly. Although the name is the same, the sacred sword they’ve acquired isn’t the one that belongs to the Maid. It’s the key to saving a ruined world. “That’s settled, then.” Perhaps it’s because they’re walking slowly, but the door to the dinner party isn’t yet in sight. “Still, why are all the dinner guests women? Why won’t the holy king or the king of Olgen come in person? That doesn’t sit right with me. And earlier today, you went on the inspection, Cattleya, and only men attended the conference.” “They were probably trying to be considerate, assuming women would have more fun talking with each other. In fact, it wouldn’t have been possible to attend both the inspection and the conference. We mustn’t damage the king of Olgen’s reputation, either.” “I hope they at least understand what you’re saying.” The women attending tonight’s dinner will all have been born and raised in high society. In other words, they’ll have been sheltered by the patriarchy since birth. “I suspect this is going to be a waste of time.” “Still, they’ve invited you, too, Diana. They must want to hear tales of the Valkyries. Princess Dana is aggressive, so she may understand us better than you think. Duchess Nina is good friends with her, and you’ve seen what her husband is like. It wouldn’t be odd for her to idolize women who fight.” “Oh, that incredibly annoying, nagging man? Yes, it does look like he’d cause her trouble. I’m impressed she’s still married to someone like that. What about Queen Audrey, though? We’re just using her, but she keeps talking as if she’s important or something…though you said she’s being made to raise a mistress’s child?” “It sounds as if Queen Carol has had it rough as well. Rumor has it that it’s largely her achievement that the Kingdom of Maiz has managed to stay neutral so far.” “So she got old giving her all for her husband. What a wretched life,” Diana says with a snort. “Consort Roxane must have had trouble in the harem, too. And now, Ashmael has begun dismantling that very same harem, which probably means they don’t have the money to maintain it.” “The holy king does look as if he’s quite the womanizer. I suppose that does make me feel a bit sorry for her.” “If I’m going to be queen, I’d like to help other women with their troubles.” Diana nods in heartfelt agreement. Once they’ve climbed a flight of stairs and turned a corner, the door to the dinner party finally appears at the very end of a corridor. “All right. In that case, I’ll also think of it as work… Oh.” A second hallway cuts across the one they’re walking down, and Diana stops in the very middle of the intersection. Cattleya does the same. “…Vica.” “Go on ahead.” The emperor has noticed them, too; he’s coming straight toward them. Vica is Cattleya’s younger brother. It isn’t as if Cattleya hates him, and Diana doesn’t want to cause her any unneeded stress. “Sorry.” With a quiet apology, Cattleya makes for the door. Vica’s eyes follow her, but he doesn’t call after her. He simply stops in front of Diana. “What do you need?” she asks him, raising her chin. Vica smiles as if he’s entertained. He’s not taking her seriously, and it irritates her. “I heard there was going to be a dinner party that was all women. I know it’s rude of me, but I thought I’d stop by for a bit myself. I am the host of the conference, you know.” As things currently stand, there isn’t a woman from Kilvas whose rank is high enough to attend the dinner party. Diana snorts. “Get over yourself. ‘The host.’ You really need to wake up a bit. Why do you think you even managed to host this conference?” “What do you mean?” “We pulled strings so we could have this conference. We’re why both the United Kingdom of Olgen and the Kingdom of Maiz decided to attend. They said they’d come if we allied with them.” Vica looks at Diana blankly. Up until that very moment, he must have been positive that these had been his own achievements. “It wasn’t for long, but you did manage to look like an emperor. Good for you. Well done.” “…Oh, right. So you’re claiming you helped me host it.” “Huhn?” “Because you’re still the empress of Kilvas.” Diana hadn’t been expecting that, and she isn’t sure what to say to it. “Will you be attending the dinner party?” he asks. “…Y-yes. I was invited, after all.” The implication—unlike you—is clear in her words, but Vica just nods. “I guess that’s all right, then. Very well; I’ll go relax for the evening.” He could at least look a little frustrated. Maybe it’s because he’s used to being a puppet, but Vica doesn’t offer any resistance. Cattleya’s spoiled him too much, Diana thinks, inwardly clicking her tongue in disgust, so she gives him a firm reminder. “Just so you’re aware, there’s no point in trying to win Cattleya over. That goes for the other nations, too.” “This has all been very educational.” From what he says, Vica could be admitting defeat, but he’s smiling. The words didn’t sound like sour grapes, either. “So I’d like you to grow up already as well.” With that parting shot she doesn’t really understand, Vica turns on his heel. “Y-you’re the one who needs to grow up…” He’s an incompetent emperor who’s always been protected by Cattleya and couldn’t even leave the capital, yet he’s begun to cling to power. Somewhere along the way, he started defying Cattleya. He’s still emperor only because he was lucky. In the game, he’s a final boss who dies without achieving anything. Why do her thoughts feel so muddled? She doesn’t know. Shaking her head, Diana tears her eyes from Vica’s back and hurries to the dinner party. It’s fine. Everything’s going well. When she opens the door, Cattleya is the center of attention, boldly speaking to the assembly. Still, Diana isn’t happy that the ones she’s speaking to aren’t the rulers themselves, but their lower-ranking wives and daughters. “Is that also a prophecy?” “Yes. It’s necessary in order to save Ellmeyer, which has fallen under the demon king’s control, just as it is for expelling Emperor Vica of Kilvas. Without it, the fires of war will inevitably envelop the world.” Some of the women are shaken, and some look troubled. Others are deeply intrigued or expressionless. Cattleya looks around at all of them, then raises her voice. “However, to be perfectly frank, Empress Aileen isn’t capable of raising a queen. Surely you know this.” There are no objections. The trouble during the inspection is working in their favor. “Therefore, we will be the ones to bring up Princess Claire Jean Ellmeyer.” “So you’ll install a new ruling empress in Kilvas, and although you’ll leave Ellmeyer’s emperor on the throne, it will become a vassal state of the Queendom of Hausel? No doubt it’s better than Hausel becoming Ellmeyer’s puppet…but does Imperial Ellmeyer not allow women to inherit the throne?” “I can’t imagine Lady Aileen will accept this.” “True. The child is her daughter, after all, and she must still be at the peak of her cuteness.” “She only gave birth to her; it isn’t as if the empress is taking care of her daughter herself. If the child’s going to be made queen, I bet she’ll hand her over gladly. Princesses and princes are born to be pawns for their nations anyway.” Diana’s opinion makes some of the women frown, but they’re probably just making a show of it. These princesses like keeping up appearances and hiding things with pretty words. They just don’t want to admit that what she’s said is true. “Sorry, but I won’t sugarcoat things. I’m sure your husbands won’t object. In that case, is there any point in you objecting?” These women can do nothing but accept the decisions of the men in their lives. That’s what queen consorts and princesses are like. Even if there’s fighting, they only have to shriek that they’re scared and run indoors. Cattleya clears her throat, pulling the group’s attention back from Diana. “The question is how her family, the d’Autriche, will react. As you may already know, they seem to have significant influence over the current emperor as well.” “A little while ago, the third son came to Hirikka to pay his respects, though…” “Gloss, too. They gived—gave us lots of presents! Son Two was strong!” “Prime Minister Cyril is the oldest son, isn’t he? I met him when he was quite young.” “So the d’Autriche family runs Ellmeyer’s internal affairs, diplomacy, and military affairs?” Audrey asks. “That’s right.” Cattleya nods. “I would imagine even the emperor isn’t able to take a firm line with them. Members of the empress’s inner circle and her subordinates throw their weight around considerably as well. The person who wrote those articles to fan the flames of internal strife in Kilvas also held the empress’s favor. If they don’t hesitate to cause trouble abroad, it must be even worse within Ellmeyer.” Diana is positive that, if they’re clever and they think about it, these women will see that the two of them are right. “So you feel the empress of Ellmeyer is dangerous, Lady Cattleya.” “I do. The empress is the reason she came to us for help as well.” All eyes turn to follow Cattleya’s gaze. The woman doesn’t raise her head; she just sits very still in the farthest seat away, trembling. It really isn’t an attitude one would expect from the protagonist of Regalia of Saints, Demons, and Maidens. In a way, her figure is an inspiration to Diana. I won’t become like that. She’s all that remains of a female character who didn’t fight, fell in love with a male character, and became irrelevant. They aren’t hoping for anything from their homeland. That said, they aren’t merciless enough to arbitrarily decide that the rest of the world is that way as well. They’re giving it a chance to wake up and see the truth. “The next queen…after Lady Cattleya. Isn’t suggestion premiu…premature?” “I’m incapable of having children. Resolving the issue now should reassure everyone. If we don’t, we’ll have this same debate again in a few years.” “I do think that this may be premature, considering the fact that she isn’t even a year old yet… It may be one thing now, when there is no queen, but shouldn’t we follow Hausel’s custom and determine future queens through a royal exam?” “If we register Princess Claire as a royal candidate, it won’t be a problem later.” It’s possible for Diana and Cattleya to do something like that. Everyone else falls silent. “If the emperor of Ellmeyer allows us to raise the child as the one and only royal candidate, the future queen, we will let him keep his position. After all, he has held the throne for two years, and unlike the emperor of Kilvas, he certainly hasn’t been a fool.” “…I see. So you’ll try to resolve this through discussion first.” “Yes, we will. Let us make our proposal at the conference’s second session, then have him hand over Princess Claire before the final session. Once he votes for me, that will conclude our deal.” If Claude demonstrates that he understands their vision for the future, there will be no major conflicts, and everything will end peacefully. If he doesn’t, they simply need to reset everything, just as the game does. They’ll end the game—along with Regalia of Saints, Demons, and Maidens—in a single stroke.
Chapter 149
64 min read