Thank you very much for purchasing volume 3 of Imperial Reincarnation. I’m Masekinokatasa, and I’m very relieved to have reached this milestone without incident.
If this volume were to be summarized in a single word, I would say it is the “aftermath” of the coronation. Carmine has finally stepped onto the stage of history, but that doesn’t mean he can start working toward his goals right away. In order to gain the Empire’s trust as its sovereign, he must discard his foolish mask and exhibit true leadership. The nobles, the citizenry, the Western Orthodoxy, foreign countries—will he fight them, or ally with them? If he chooses the latter, will he be able to gain their trust? Such choices will be a constant during his journey.
Additionally, dangerous and capable characters such as Hilaire of the Golden Sheep Trading Company and Charles de Agincarl, among others, made their appearance in this volume. How will they act as the story progresses? How will Carmine interpret their actions, and what decisions will he come to? You’re in for some exciting developments...but that’s for the future, so you can safely forget about it for now.
Finally, this third volume also illustrates the strategy and lead-up time to the decisive battle. You might have noticed that I used a Sun Tzu quote as the title of the prologue chapter. In more recent history, the Battle of Sekigahara was an example of a conflict where the outcome was basically decided by advance planning and preparation. It’s made me think about how it’s vital to include such things when writing about wars or military history. Personally, I’m a big fan of the mentality that a battle is already decided before it begins. Having said that, I also really like the phrase, “fog of war.” Which is a good description for the next part of the story, really.
Speaking of Carmine’s future, he’s in a position where he may be forced out of power if he doesn’t successfully act the part of an emperor with absolute authority. However, the emperor currently doesn’t have absolute authority (otherwise he wouldn’t be having so much trouble). In other words, he must gain prestige if he wishes to survive, which means he must choose the most efficient method available to him. I bet those of you who love Paradox’s games already know, but indeed: That method is victory.
If Carmine loses, though, he’s well aware that it’ll be a disaster, which is why he very much doesn’t want to lose. In light of that, please forgive me for basically spending the entire third volume on war preparations.
Okay, yes, I know that’s just an excuse for my poor pacing...
Lastly, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Kaito Shibano-sama. The third volume’s illustrations are just as incredible as those in the first two. I’d also like to thank everyone at TO Books—I’m sorry for always being such a bother. Your support is greatly appreciated.
And, of course, thank you—the readers who decided to pick this book up—from the bottom of my heart.
August 2022, Masekinokatasa