Alistor sighed a little as he beheld the capital city of Wisteria. He was not impressed. Compared to the grandeur of the city back home, this one here was boring and lackluster. Its size didn’t even match. But that alone displays the difference in each nation’s degree of prosperity.

In contrast to Alistor, however, Cilas on the opposite side of the carriage, looked through the glass window with intrigued eyes. His little younger brother had been like this ever since they left the capital city and traveled into the far reaches of home. Cilas was not exactly one interested in going around places, but it would seem all he needed was to actually try going far out.

“What do you think of Wisteria, Cilas?”

“... It’s nice to see how different the landscape is. Wisteria has a lot of forests and grass fields, and flatlands, while ours are more mountainous.”

“I see.”

“Would be nice to actually go out here to this city later.”

“We’ll see about that. I, too, would like to see what this city has to offer.” Mostly to compare it to his home city.

“... There appear to be people carrying weapons. They must be adventurers.”

Alistor glanced outside again, and indeed, as their carriage passed by, they came across groups of armed personnel. They weren’t wearing any uniform, so they could only be adventurers.

“So they allow their presence here, huh,” Alistor said.

Adventurer services were nonexistent in the imperial capital. If there was anything that needed slaying, or monsters present, the empire’s soldiers or knights would take care of them. There was a division of armed forces for that very purpose.

Outside the imperial capital, though, in other states, there were Adventurers. The Emperor just didn’t allow such service in the capital because they were people of promising strength, but not under the service of the crown. It posed a significant risk. The crown wanted powerful individuals to be under their control.

That was why Alistor felt a little surprised that Wisteria would allow such mercenaries in their capital, so close to the monarchs’ palace.

“You think they’re under heavy watch?” Cilas inquired. “Such dangerous people can’t just let be.”

“Don’t know. Shouldn’t that be your department?”

“I didn't quite look into the adventurers of this nation and how they’re being regulated. There wasn’t much significance to it.”

“Then there’s no need to ask, is it?”

Cilas frowned. “It’s good to ask questions sometimes. And I was just feeling curious.”

“Then you should figure it out and tell me what you learn.”

“Mm. We could use mercenaries to our advantage, you know. When the time comes.”

Alistor pondered about it for the moment. “I suppose you’re right. But some may be loyal to Wisteria no matter what.”

“Yes. So we have to pick wisely. Others do anything for a good price. Still, this is just a thought.”

“... Our forces are powerful already anyway. So it’s not like we really need some mercenaries to do some of our jobs.”

“I guess. But we also don’t want them to resist us and bolster their forces. Any additional hands will be good. They could be good double agents.”

“Hmph. We’ll think about it later.”

Cilas sighed. “... Fine.”

Shortly after, they arrived at Wisteria’s royal palace. With Wisteria’s horsemen taking the lead of the convoy ever since they entered the nation’s territory, they got to immediately enter through the gates. The carriage slowed down, and when they came to a stop, what Alistor saw through the window caused him to freeze.

His mind went blank as he stared with unblinking eyes. His breath stuck to his throat.

“Alistor? Hey.”

Cilas’s call snapped him back, and he blinked continuously for a moment as he answered. “Ah, yes. Sorry, just something crossed my eyes.”

“Oh. Just get serious about this.”

“Of course.”

A pair of imperial knights stood by the carriage door before opening it. Alistor stepped out of the carriage, his graceful movements fitting an imperial prince. His back straight and shoulders broad, his gold, black, and red formal outfit neat and opulent. He radiated charm with his smile.

His brother followed thereafter, carrying himself to the same level as Alistor.

This kind of presenting himself was all natural for Alistor, however, for some reason, he was struggling a little. Or, to be precise, it felt like he was more conscious of himself, of how he appeared.

“Wha—” Cilas let out a stifled sound.

Indeed, who wouldn’t react like that?

Alistor subtly gulped before continuing onward with both confident steps and a smile. He walked towards the group of Wisterian royals. He had reviewed the details about them, so he knew which one was which.

“Greetings, envoys from the Tornridge Empire. I am the King of Wisteria.”

“It is an honor to meet you for the first time, your majesty, King Leodoule,” he bowed his head. “I am the first prince of the Empire, Alistor Tarquen Celum Tornridge. Serving as an envoy for my home nation.”

Alistor couldn’t help but glance at one specific person among them. She was standing behind everyone, as if she was trying to hide herself. The way she stood, holding her hands together, felt as if she was an extremely gentle person. Fragile. Her face was the softest and kindest, so pure and innocent.

She had white hair, white complexion, both were as white as winter snow that had only passed. Her eyes were bright red, such a unique color. The opposite of what he has. His heart thumped. Even Alistor himself was surprised that he could even feel this way. How? How was he able to feel this when his heart already belonged to another?

His younger brother stepped forward before bowing. “And I am the second prince, Cilas Alvis Celum Tornridge. Serving as an envoy for my home nation.”

“Raise your heads, royals from our neighbor. I hope your travel has not been too difficult.”

Alistor raised his head and plastered on a kind smile. “Oh, it has not. It was interesting to see places aside from home. Although, I didn’t expect to see His Majesty here to greet us.”

Back in the homeland, the envoys, royals or not, would have been sent straight to the throne room for the greeting. The Emperor would never greet anyone outside the castle or anything.

“Here in Wisteria, it is only customary to greet esteemed guests on our doors.”

“Is that so?”

Too humble…

To not attempt to show their absolute power… was a sign of weakness.

The Wisterian King continued. “Anyhow, meet the rest of my family.”

The king's wife graciously nodded. “Greetings, princes of Tornridge. I am the Queen of Wisteria.”

Alistor bowed. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Queen Meliya.”

The next, who stepped forward, was a man a little older than Alistor. “I am the first and crown prince of Wisteria, Eleden Venzura Wisteria.” He gave Alistor a friendly smile and extended a hand. “Pleased to meet you.”

There was one thing that stuck to Alistor’s ear. Crown prince. Apparently, Wisteria already had a definite candidate to take over the throne. Alistor didn’t introduce himself as such, for he was not one. Knowing that, it annoyed him.

Alistor shook his hand. “Likewise, Prince Eleden.”

And then Cilas was the next to shake his hand.

Another man, around the same age as Alistor, introduced himself. “I am the second prince of Wisteria, Estevan Verziniel Wisteria. Nice meeting you.” He said with a neutral expression and voice. It was in between welcoming and not.

Nevertheless, Alistor surmised that this second prince was wary of them. That was to be expected however. Even so, they shook hands, and Alistor forced a friendly smile despite not receiving one himself.

And finally, it was the last member of the Wisterian family. She was timid as she stepped forward. “... Um, I-I’m Princess Estelia Vernisia Wisteria. Nice t-to meet you.” Her voice was so soothing.

Instead of extending a hand for a shake, she bowed her head. Which surprised everyone who saw what she did, for she alone bowed her head to foreign royals. She seemed flustered.

But to think this was the princess of Wisteria. Alistor couldn’t have ever imagined she would be like this. So soft, so pure. So meek.

I’m supposed to kill her…?

Beholding her, he couldn’t understand why they would want her dead. This utterly beautiful young lady. So beautiful. So innocent. Someone seemingly couldn’t even hurt a fly. How could a lady like her even exist? It boggles and blows the mind to even realize someone like her walks this world.

“... Uh, y-yes. I-It is a pleasure to meet you, Princess Estelia.” Alistor stammered around. Him, who was usually confident in the face of women with his powerful charm.

Cilas followed up. “Nice to m-meet you too, princess…” his voice trailed off, overwhelmed at the sight of her.

The Princess of Wisteria was blinding. She was glimmering. Who wouldn’t lose their composure in the presence of such?

The princess, in her shyness, smiled with trembling lips, and she lowered her gaze before stepping back. Alistor scrutinized the entirety of her face. Her long white hair, her sweet eyes, her cheeks, and her lustrous, enticing lips. He involuntarily gulped. But all of this lasted for a very brief moment as she hid behind her brother, the second prince.

He found how the way she acted quite adorable.

“Pardon, my dear daughter. She gets shy in front of people she just met,” said the king.

“Oh, I don’t mind.”

The king nodded. “Now then, let us all come in. Would you like to rest first or eat? We have prepared a feast for your arrival.”

“We’ll take the feast, please. I’m famished. How about you, brother?”

“Certainly, let’s eat.”

With everyone in agreement, they all entered the palace. The king and the queen walked side by side with the two princes. The rest of the Wisterian royalty followed behind. Alistor couldn’t help but glance a little behind him, to the princess. It was then he noticed a knight following behind her.

Must be her personal guard.

“So, what do you think of Wisteria on the way here?” asked the king. “I’m curious what you have to say.”

As he asked, Alistor instantly turned his gaze at him. “It is a pleasant place, so lustrous and full of life. Surprising, considering that winter had only just passed.”

Compared back to the homeland as spring hit, the green was thicker and healthier here. Almost like the plants grew earlier in Wisteria than in Tornridge.

The king chuckled. “Someone from the Holy Kingdom mentioned that once. Although, I couldn’t really understand why. Perhaps that’s just the way it is. Or the blessing of the Lord and Lady.”

“That’s right. You worship two gods, right?” Cilas showed a hint of interest.

“Oh yes. The Lord of Compassion, and the Lady of Serenity.”

“I learned about your gods. They are a couple, yes?”

“Yes, they are.”

“I see. Why do you call them that exactly? If you don’t mind telling me.”

The king chuckled. “I don’t mind. We’ll talk on the table,” he said as they arrived at the dining hall.

Several servants and knights had already positioned themselves beforehand, standing at their stations. Foods were already placed on top of the long table, covered with steel lids. Alistor was quite looking forward to what dishes they had prepared for the two of them.

If Wisteria didn’t seem better than the Empire, he hoped that their food would be on par. Otherwise, then this place was truly a disappointing one.

“Please, take a seat here.”

The two princes sat on one side of the table. On the opposite side was the royal family, with the king sitting at the head of the table. But because of this, Alistor got to have an obstructed view of the princess, who was at the furthest away from the head, could be because she was the youngest.

The servants came and removed the lids off the food. Delicious aroma immediately permeated the air. The colorful and assorted set of dishes on the table all looked so presentable, Alistor was quite impressed. At least it was promising.

“Let’s eat.”

Once the king said so, everyone started eating. Alistor grabbed the table cloth and hung it on his neck, to avoid any smears on his clothes. He grabbed some food and immediately gave it a taste.

“Hm.” It was delicious enough. Not better than in the homeland, but at least a match. And that was alright.

“As for your inquiry, Prince Cilas,” said the king. “As to why our gods are called as they are?”

“Yes.”

“The Lord of Compassion is called as such because of his compassion to our people. He is often said to spend time with the people themselves and help them with their problems. A wise god, who guides people for the better in a tough life.”

“I see. A god who closely walks beside his people. What about the Lady?”

“She brings and maintains peace and order. If the Lord is mainly for the people, the Lady of Serenity is for the land. For the people to have a safe and happy life. She acts for the future of the entire people.”

“... Protecting the land from chaos?”

“You could say that.”

“I understand. Thank you for explaining to me, your majesty. I appreciate literature, so I was curious about your gods.”

“Is that so? I’m glad to hear that.” He smiled.

They appeared so friendly, however, considering the current situation of both countries, this friendliness was mere surface level.

The king continued. “Then my turn, tell me about your god. You call your god the God of Valor, am I right?”

Cilas nodded. “Yes. He is the god that guided our nation to prosperity. One who blessed us with strength in times of conflict, to overcome our adversaries. The great lord who aided our people of the past in the path of greatness.”

“Do I take it that he himself once walked with your people?”

“Oh yes. I surmised the gods were personally active in the far past. And learning about your gods further supports my conjecture.”

“... Your god must have really given his precious time to your nation’s growth.”

“Indeed. We are forever grateful to him.”

“I see… Being grateful to our gods is what we must really do.”

Alistor smirked. Indeed, one must be grateful. Wisteria must truly had gratitude, for because of their gods that the Empire failed to conquer Wisteria in the past. There were records of war, where Tornridge came into conflict with Wisteria during its infancy. Wisteria was an easy target.

However, the gods between the two nations fought. And Tornridge was driven back. One could guess who won that fight.

Lady of Serenity, huh.

The goddess who protects her nation from chaos. This part of history was not commonly known in the Empire at the current time. But those high up knew the rough story. It’s a wonder whether the king of Wisteria knew about this.

In any case, the Empire has long desired Wisteria. With the gods no longer personally present, they can succeed. Centuries of preparation to conquer the entire continent, none will stand in their way.

As Alistor focused on his food, he sensed a gaze pointed his way. He glanced back, it was from the princess. And as if to avoid eye contact, or not making it obvious she was staring, she instantly looked away.

Alistor couldn’t help but subtly grin. She was cute.

Maybe she likes me already.

Stemmed from his own self-esteem, he could say that with confidence. But there were different kinds of how someone likes some stranger. In the end, she was still royalty, unlike the maids that go head over heels for him back in the imperial castle.

Once they had finished eating, the king spoke. “We have a banquet prepared for you tomorrow. A number of our nobles will be attending. I’m sure they’re looking forward to meeting royals from another nation.”

Alistor nodded. “I also would like to meet your trusted people, your majesty. We will prepare accordingly for the party.”

“Alright. As for the main matter at hand, the purpose of your visit. Would you like to talk about it now or after tomorrow? I don’t mind getting serious after the party.”

“Our mission is to make peace. But I would like to show first that we are to be trusted. I believe serious discussions will best take place after the party.”

“I see. Indeed, I would like to get to know the royals of the Empire before getting into it. Although, to be honest, we were quite surprised that you would propose peace.”

“Your majesty, peace is of highest priority to us. For peace and harmony brings prosperity to us all.”

The king paused for a brief moment. “... Is that so? I would like to believe that. However…” his smile vanished. “Your army has shown an unsettling amount of activity at our borders.”

Alistor’s smile grew. “That was not for Wisteria, your majesty. I apologize for any problem that we may have caused. It is for Myra, we are bolstering the defense of our borders.”

“Myra?”

“Tornridge and Myra do not particularly have a good relationship. We just want to ensure that we are guarded.”

“Is that so…?”

That was a lie of course. Just a false surface reason to prevent conflict. However, none has addressed the elephant of the room. That was the conflict with the agents of the Empire in Wisteria. Alistor knew very well that Wisteria was aware of the Empire’s actions within their borders. But neither broached the topic yet.

Likely because they want to avoid provoking either party, to not fuel the fire. If the Empire admits such actions, or Wisteria accuses it, there would be no easy room for peace. They cannot publicly announce any transgression with each other. However, such an issue will likely be tackled in a more serious discussion.

Still, Alistor wondered, what was Wisteria waiting for? What the Empire did, other nations would have lost patience. Was Wisteria really just avoiding an outright war with the Empire? And willing to forget what was done to them? Perhaps Wisteria was hopeful about this prospect of peace.

Alistor turned his gaze and saw the princess staring at him again. And she frantically turned away.

“Very well, envoys of the Empire. I want our nations to like each other’s company before our discussion of peace. I’m expecting to hear fair terms when the time comes.”

“I think it will be of your best interest, your majesty.”

***

At night, before going to sleep, the two princes were about to have a brief meeting. On the palace second floor, each was given a room of their own, right beside each other. But at the moment, the two were in Alistor’s bedroom.

Alistor was by the closed window, looking through the glass. Cilas sat down on the chair by a small desk.

“What do you think, Cilas?”

“They are really trying to act friendly with us. But underneath it all, they harbor hostility.”

“Indeed, they’re wary. Likely, they suspect us with all the mess their kingdom is in.”

“But they still received us gracefully. Are they perhaps interested in peace?”

“Could be. But that doesn’t matter. As long as everything is formal and political, we’ll be fine. For the matter at hand, our plan.”

Cilas sighed and pondered for a moment. “Security is tight. Even the outside walls are heavily guarded.”

“Wisterian knights patrol the palace halls. And with our presence, they are more alert.”

“We can’t do anything yet, it’s too risky.”

“I agree. We need to study this place first before we act. Besides, I don’t think our forces are fully ready yet.”

“We need time. You think the day after tomorrow will be enough? Because I don’t think it is.”

“Of course. But we’re envoys from the Empire, it’s not right to drive us away just after arriving. You have been wanting to have a tour, right?”

“I guess we can have a reason like that.”

“We’ll give them and us time.”

“But I imagine we can only have a week at most.”

“A week is enough. We just need to be wary of powerful foes here. From what I heard, their king is a warrior, is that right?”

“Yes. It is best to assume he could be as strong as our father.”

Alistor placed a hand on his chin. To make things easier and less risky, they had to avoid fighting the king directly in the early stages, while there were other fighters around. But if they were only fighting the king on his lonesome, then there’s a chance they’ll succeed. If there was no other choice though, then disregard the casualties and just send all men to the king.

“Perhaps there is a way to lower the guards here… Maybe a distraction.”

“If we’re in a tight spot, we can always use the dust Delray has in possession. Send in something to start chaos and distract them.”

“At most we can reduce the number of knights at the palace in half with it. We have the most elite at our disposal, there’s no need to overthink this.”

Cilas sighed. “I’m just worried. I would rather lower the risk as much as possible.”

“We’ll be fine. Besides, I’m here. I’m strong and reliable. We can manage.”

“Alistor, I warn you, do not be overconfident.”

“Yeah yeah, just send the Puppet Courier and get some updates.”

Cilas opened a wooden box, where inside was a puppet bird that almost looked like a genuine one. After tapping on the bird, he whispered something. Once he was done, Alistor opened the window and they released the bird, it flapped its wings and flew into the darkness.

After closing the window, Cilas then broached another matter. “As for the matter of the princess.”

Alistor paused for a moment and conjured Princess’s Estelia’s face in his mind. “She’ll be easy target.”

“Of course…” Cilas lowered his gaze. “She… is quite unique…”

“What’s that?”

“Nothing, just my observation. In any case, as we have discussed, you take care of her.”

“Sure. For now, we’ll observe things and adjust our plans accordingly.”

“Alright… Then I’ll be leaving.”

Once Cilas left, Alistor locked the door. He sat down on the side of his bed, taking a deep breath. He couldn’t take her off his mind.

How could a girl be that beautiful?

She was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. And his heart throbbed just thinking about her. To think there was someone more beautiful than his beloved sister Zara. And her features, Estelia’s features, were so unique.

Her manners, the way she moved, were so endearing. She looked so soft, so fragile. He was almost tempted to try breaking her just a tiny bit, just to try. He laid his back on the bed. With closed eyes, he recalled the princess’s beautiful form.

Her dress so fitting, her hair, her eyes, her face, her cheeks, her… lips. His chest warmed up. He kept recalling her pretty and adorable face. He imagined touching her cheek, whispering to her ear. Curling his arm around her waist. To hear her soft voice. To sniff her scent. To hold tightly something so frail.

Her entire appeal was perfect. So full of purity. He swallowed his saliva and licked his lips. His heart beat faster in excitement.

“Estelia…” he muttered.

Her perfect being was burned into his mind. But then, there was an overlap. One that was carved into his heart — his sister, Zara. He rose from his bed and sighed. Conflict grew within him.