Chapter 56: Black Ships
CLAUDIO’S carriage headed steadily toward its destination—the Southern Federation. The further south they traveled, the deeper in color the blue sky became. He didn’t recognize the plants and trees growing by the highway either. It wouldn’t be long before they reached the border between the two countries.
The reason they didn’t go directly to San Luenne via an imperial ship was the result of discussions between the Empire and the Federation. I’m not fleeing from the Empire but crossing the border of my own volition. Across the border, dozens of Federation soldiers in military uniform were lined up.
“Claudio, the hour is almost upon us.”
“Yes, it is, Uncle.”
“I’ll deal with this. It isn’t yet time for you to reveal yourself.” Ehrenfried stepped down from the carriage and then addressed the unit in a voice that resonated. “I’m grateful for your escort,” he declared. “Lead the way.”
✦ ✦ ✦
SEVERAL days later, under the Federation army’s protection, they finally arrived in the capital of Ybit. Tall buildings stood everywhere. Claudio had learned about this city in his studies, so he wasn’t surprised by the sights and sounds. Compared to the Empire, there was much more space between buildings here. Colorful pink and red flowers bloomed on the roadside trees characteristic of this country. The sun shone down much more strongly here than it did in the imperial capital.
When they arrived at the capitol building, they found Cecilio waiting out front for them. His black hair was brushed back from his forehead and he was in his snow-white full military dress uniform. He greeted them with a warm smile after they disembarked from the carriage.
“Welcome, Prince Claudio, Prince Ehrenfried.”
“Pleasure seeing you again after so long, Your Excellency.”
“I’ve been looking forward to this day for a very long time, Your Highness.”
The minister of war, Ignacio, and Bertine stood behind Cecilio. Claudio greeted them in order, leaving Bertine for last.
“It’s been a long time since we last met, Lady Bertine.”
“Indeed it has, Prince Claudio. You’re so tall now, I hardly recognized you.”
“I’ve changed a great deal on the inside and out,” he replied.
Led by Ignacio, the six of them entered the building to discuss the plan.
While sipping on hot tea laced with jam, Bertine watched Claudio. He was no longer a boy, but a well-built young man exuding a dignified air. She had no idea boys could change so much in two and a half years. Since it sounded like his voice had only recently started to change, he still had trouble speaking smoothly. It didn’t stop him as he actively participated in their discussion.
Luca, who had joined them shortly after the start of the meeting, trembled with excitement. It’s finally happening. His father’s handkerchief rested in his breast pocket. A keepsake. Father, I hope you’re watching. I’ll avenge you without fail. He occasionally pressed his hand against the keepsake.
The only one who remained calm and composed was Cecilio. He had gone over this plan with a fine-toothed comb countless times. There were no holes in it. It would go off without a hitch so long as everyone executed their duties without panicking. But he was well aware that there were no guarantees when it came to anything people did. So it’s my role to be prepared for unexpected situations, Cecilio thought coolly as he looked at the faces of the other five.