Brother Roland’s Resolution
Once we failed and a tornado occurred, but in the second experiment, the power was reduced to the extent that it could overturn a magic vehicle.
Even so, it had enough power to blow a person several meters away.
At this level, it would cause injuries, but not fatal wounds.
I instructed Emmy to install the magic circle metal plate onto the magic tank being built in the workshop, to imbue it with the wind magic function.
A week after the modifications to the magic tank began, I was summoned by Brother Roland and headed to the throne room.
When I entered the room, Brother Roland, Prime Minister Sylberg, Sister Emilia, and Brother Adel were all waiting for me.
Looking around at everyone, each had a stern expression.
Feeling an unpleasant premonition, I cautiously asked,
"Did something happen?"
"A messenger from the Elfast Magic Kingdom arrived. They demand we hand over Arya."
Since we sheltered Arya, several assassins have infiltrated the castle.
Knight Commander Bamberg and Captain Lyshiria handled the assassins.
Moreover, there might have been spies hiding in the castle without us noticing.
In any case, it was only a matter of time before the Elfast Magic Kingdom found out.
Prime Minister Sylberg sighed deeply, feeling the weight of the situation.
"The Magic Kingdom claims that the magician was trained by them and thus belongs to them. Therefore, they demand that the Kingdom of Critonia promptly hands over the magician."
It's disturbing that they don't treat the magician as a person, but their argument is somewhat reasonable.
Brother Roland placed his elbows on the desk and clasped his hands.
"We told the messenger that Arya, being a magician, sought asylum in the Kingdom of Critonia, and the castle accepted and is protecting her. Then the messenger accused us of illegally acquiring the Magic Kingdom's secrets."
The techniques and knowledge of magic circles that Arya possesses are certainly confidential information of the Elfast Magic Kingdom.
It was within expectations that the messenger would say this.
However, considering that Arya sought asylum in the Kingdom and the Kingdom was merely providing protection from a humanitarian perspective, it can't be entirely labeled as illegal.
Since we've been researching magic circles and equipping the magic tank with Arya's knowledge, it's inevitable that the Magic Kingdom would accuse us of illegally stealing their secrets.
It was expected that negotiations between the two countries would be at an impasse, so it's not surprising.
Brother Roland continued, looking around at us.
"Of course, our diplomats argued that the Kingdom is merely protecting someone who sought asylum. In response, the Magic Kingdom's messenger said that if we do not cease holding the Magic Kingdom's secrets, military sanctions would be considered."
"So, it's finally war with the Elfast Magic Kingdom. We are ready for battle. We can always make the Magic Kingdom regret it."
Brother Adel said excitedly.
"Why are you so excited about the possibility of war? Think a bit about the soldiers who will be fighting.
Brother Roland showed a bitter expression as Sister Emilia admonished him.
"So far, this is just as you predicted, Ian. Do you think it will lead to full-scale war?"
"Even if the Magic Kingdom is a strong nation, they won't immediately go into full-scale war. But for the small Kingdom of Critonia, it will still be a significant conflict."
"Do you think we can win if we refuse the Magic Kingdom's demands?"
"We can probably repel the Magic Kingdom's army."
If too many enemy soldiers are killed in the initial battle, it could leave lasting resentment, making the Elfast Magic Kingdom serious about going into full-scale war.
That would eliminate any opportunity for future negotiations.
Without negotiations, the war could drag on, putting the small Kingdom of Critonia at a disadvantage.
We must avoid that at all costs.
Moreover, if we go into full-scale war with the Magic Kingdom, the Bardhain Empire could attack from behind, leading to the destruction of the Kingdom of Critonia from both sides.
Even if we go to war with the Elfast Magic Kingdom, it should be a fight to show that the Kingdom of Critonia is an equal.
By hinting that fighting us would cause massive damage, we can prevent the Magic Kingdom from going into full-scale war.
To achieve that, we must end the initial battle quickly, with minimal casualties on both sides, and achieve an overwhelming victory.
That way, the enemy will lose their morale and have no choice but to retreat.
A tense silence filled the room.
In that silence, Brother Adel raised his arm and showed his biceps.
"Brother Roland, you've already reported your resolve to Father. Why hesitate now? We have no choice but to trust ourselves and move forward."
"That's right. It's infuriating that the Kingdom of Critonia is seen as easily submitting. It's time we make them understand that we are equals.”
Sister Emilia agreed, following Brother Adel's lead.
I pressed a hand to my chest, took a deep breath, and looked straight at Brother Roland.
"Brother Adel and Sister Emilia are right. Now is the time to reclaim the Kingdom of Critonia's stance."
"I understand everyone's opinions. I must also steel myself. From now on, the Royal Castle will steer the Kingdom of Critonia towards preparing for war with the Magic Kingdom. Hear the decree of the Acting King. Inform the Kingdom's soldiers to prepare for battle."
What do you think about this chapter?
