Father’s Return
The discussion between Brother Roland and me in the throne room focused on Aria's fate and the future direction of our Kingdom.
The Kingdom of Critonia lags behind in magic circle technology.
Up until now, we've relied on magic tools from the Elfast Magic Kingdom.
Thanks to the cooperation of the dwarves from the Primitive Sea of Trees and Emmy, we've managed to develop magic vehicles and magic pools, but we still can't create complex magic tools on our own.
Aria, who researched magic circles at the Elfast Magic Kingdom's research institute, is an invaluable asset.
With her help, we could significantly advance in the analysis and development of magic circles.
For Critonia, she's a highly desirable resource.
Personally, I'm also very interested in magic circles...
With magic circles, we could imbue various machines with magic properties.
For instance, we could make a magic vehicle emit flames like a flamethrower from its front.
It's something that truly excites the child in me.
Brother Roland placed his elbows on the desk, clasped his hands together, and wore a troubled expression.
"We've already secured Aria. If we persuade her repeatedly, she'll likely cooperate with us. But the real problem is the Elfast Magic Kingdom."
"Yes. The fact that Aria was in the Royal Capital will eventually reach the Magic Kingdom. If they can't find her, they'll suspect the castle is hiding her."
"We can hide her from the Magic Kingdom temporarily, but we can't shelter her forever. Eventually, they'll find out."
"Exactly. We can't keep her hidden indefinitely, and confining her like a caged bird in the castle would be no different from what the Magic Kingdom did. Though we have no choice while she's being targeted by assassins."
Upon hearing my words, Brother Roland's expression turned grim.
"So, considering that Aria's presence will eventually be known to the Elfast Magic Kingdom, we should plan for the future."
"Right. The Magic Kingdom might see us as an obstruction and friction could arise. If Aria's magic circle technology advances Critonia's magic tools, we might clash with not just the Magic Kingdom, but also the Bardhain Empire."
"Developing our Kingdom will draw the ire of these two powerful nations. But we can't let that fear hinder our growth. We need to make a decision now."
Brother Roland sighed deeply, furrowing his brow in thought.
As the Crown Prince and Acting King, Brother Roland bears the heavy burden of deciding the Kingdom's direction, a weight far greater than I can imagine.
However, I voiced my long-held thoughts.
"If we continue to cower between the Empire and the Magic Kingdom, Critonia will eventually be invaded and destroyed. We need to take action now to prevent that."
"I agree. But I've been conflicted about changing the direction of Critonia that His Majesty Linus has protected. However, we can't hide Aria indefinitely. I'll make up my mind. I'll report to Father now. Ian, will you come with me?"
"Let's bring Sister Emilia along. She'll surely support us."
"Yes, having the consensus of us siblings will help convince Father."
Nodding firmly, Brother Roland stood up, and we left the throne room together.
The notion of sibling consensus... completely overlooks our brother Adel.
Adel is currently investigating Spider with the Royal Knights and isn't in the castle.
Brother Roland and I met up with Emilia in my room and headed to the top floor of the castle.
The top floor is reserved for the King, and even Royal family members usually avoid entering.
Since Father fell ill with an unknown disease, I've rarely been up here.
Healers' magic and alchemists' potions can cure minor illnesses like injuries or colds but struggle with severe diseases.
Sister Emilia frequently visits Father's room to use her Saint's Blessing and healing light magic.
Thanks to her efforts, his condition has been gradually improving.
We knocked on the heavy door and entered the room in the order of Brother Roland, Sister Emilia, and me.
The room was empty except for our Father, lying in a large, luxurious bed.
Brother Roland sat on a chair beside the bed and spoke softly to Father.
"I've come with Emilia and Ian. We have something to report."
"... Hmm... speak..."
Father opened his eyes slightly and looked at us kindly.
What do you think about this chapter?
