Rosie's Games

Chapter 480: Relative Peace

Kingdom of Wugari

Rothley Estate

Rosalind's expression turned puzzled when she heard Denys' reports about the "Military Seals." She glanced up at him, and he nodded in affirmation. "The Emperor asked them to give up their Military Seals?" she questioned with furrowed brows. The request seemed bizarre, leaving her wondering about the King's motives behind such a sudden demand.

"Indeed," Denys replied with a somber nod. "The Emperor gave them a few days to decide, but the motives behind this request remain shrouded in mystery, leaving many in the empire puzzled."

The mention of Ena Thun's involvement added another layer of suspicion. Rosalind had grown cautious of Ena's schemes, and the fact that Sloryn had readily accepted her help only fueled her doubts further.

Something didn't sit right with the situation, and Rosalind couldn't shake off the feeling that Ena's influence might be driving events in a sinister direction.

"The nobles are divided into two factions," Denys continued, breaking Rosalind from her thoughts. "Some are resolutely against giving up their ancestral Military Seals, while others believe that this might somehow resolve the underlying issue."

Rosalind nodded slowly. For centuries, these Military Seals had been symbols of power and prestige for noble families. Surrendering them was not a decision to be made lightly, and the fact that there were differing opinions among the nobles was hardly surprising.

"And what about Korusta? Any word from their side?" Rosalind inquired further. She found it odd that Korusta had been silent after the initial battle, and she couldn't help but wonder about the potential consequences if this situation dragged on.

Denys responded, "Nothing so far. They have assured us that they will send their finest members of the Hunt."

Curiosity still burned within her, yet Denys next report immediately got her full attention. It seems that a dramatic turn of events had unfolded in Aster Empire.

The Duke of Duance had risen to power, and the once-mighty Emperor now awaited trial with his family. The upheaval was nothing short of shocking, and Rosalind found herself admiring the Duke's swift actions, even if she hadn't expected such an outcome.

The intrigue extended to the Lux Family. Martin Lux's withdrawal from the conflict surprised Rosalind, and she wondered about his true intentions. Moreover, when the troops that the Queen of Wugari sent failed to protect the Emperor!

The Queen of Wugari's failed attempt to support the Emperor showcased Lucas's powerful influence over the throne. In fact, the King's decree to send his own wife away for rest and healing spoke volumes about the shifting dynamics in the empire, and Rosalind couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Lucas's strategic maneuvering.

"Dorothy's allegiance to her father doesn't come as a surprise," Denys mentioned after he reported that Dorothy had to rush back to Aster to support his father and the Lux Family. "With the turmoil in Aster, her support is likely more important than ever."

Rosalind nodded, realizing the depth of Lucas's actions and how they intertwined with her own goals. She couldn't help but marvel at his precision and foresight, which had led to these favorable outcomes.

Just as her thoughts settled, another piece of news arrived, and Rosalind's eyes lit up with excitement. Updates on her building construction near the tower brought a renewed sense of anticipation. The prospect of the six-floor building nearing completion brought a smile to her face, and she couldn't wait to witness her vision materialize.

With a heart full of determination, Rosalind knew that despite the drama and uncertainties, she was ready to face whatever lay ahead.

As the sun set over the Rothley Estate, casting a warm glow across the horizon, Rosalind stood on the tower, feeling a newfound sense of purpose.

As the days passed, Rosalind's focus shifted entirely to the construction of the new building on the estate, with her heart set on creating a functional hub for military training and strategic planning. The ongoing political turmoil served as a constant reminder of the need to strengthen the estate's defenses and prepare for any potential threats.

With each floor taking form, Rosalind meticulously planned the building's layout to optimize its military potential. The lower levels were dedicated to training facilities, armories, and tactical command centers. Here, the estate's soldiers would hone their skills and expertise, ensuring they were ready to defend Wugari at a moment's notice.

Food storage became a top priority as well. Rosalind understood the importance of ensuring the estate could withstand prolonged sieges or emergencies.

Large underground storage areas were built, equipped to store enough provisions to sustain the estate's inhabitants for an extended period. These granaries were cleverly concealed beneath the ground floor, with only trusted personnel aware of their location to maintain security.

As she oversaw the building's progress, Rosalind often found herself contemplating the delicate balance between her architectural ambitions and the pressing military needs. While she still valued beauty and artistry, the murals and woodwork were relegated to the interior of the upper levels, leaving the lower levels strictly functional and practical for military purposes.

Amidst the construction and political affairs, Rosalind kept a watchful eye on Lucas's influence and strategic maneuvers. The power shifts within the empire intrigued and concerned her, but she couldn't deny the positive outcomes his actions were yielding for Rothley Estate. Despite her occasional doubts, she knew that aligning with Lucas had provided her with a valuable advantage in navigating the turbulent political landscape.

In her pursuit of creating a haven of strength and unity, Rosalind also focused on forging strong alliances with neighboring estates. She invited their leaders to visit Rothley Estate, establishing diplomatic ties and mutual support systems. The importance of cooperation and shared defense strategies became apparent, and these alliances further fortified her estate's position in the region.

As the completion date of the building approached, Rosalind's excitement grew, but it was tempered by a sense of responsibility. She knew that with the estate's expanded military capabilities and stored provisions, it would be expected to play a significant role in safeguarding Wugari and its people.

....

Meanwhile, as Wugari enjoyed relative peace, the other Kingdoms of the North faced their own tumultuous challenges. Cirid, still reeling from past conflicts and beast tide, was slowly attempting to rebuild itself.

On the other hand, Lonyth was embroiled in a fierce civil war, triggered by the selection of a new King chosen by the people after the death of the previous monarch. The sudden power shift had brought about significant changes within the kingdom, and although Wugari extended a helping hand, they were cautious not to meddle too deeply in Lonyth's political affairs.

The King of Wugari dispatched advisors and soldiers to assist in managing the crisis in Lonyth, especially when the kingdom was attacked by vicious beasts. Yet, he firmly adhered to his principles, refraining from interfering in the selection process of the new King. Instead, Lonyth's nobles and citizens demanded the right to elect their own ruler, an unprecedented event in the history of the North.

The chosen King was a remarkable figure. He had once been a humble General, hailing from the slums, and had earned his way to the prestigious position by proving his valor and compassion in helping Lonyth's people. Though his stern demeanor was well-known, he possessed a genuinely kind heart, which endeared him to those he served.

This historic choice, however, ignited dissent among some ambitious smaller nobles who had coveted the throne for themselves. Thus, a Civil War erupted in the already chaotic realm of Lonyth, compounding its troubles with the ongoing threat of the beasts and the complexities of politics.

Inside the palace, the atmosphere starkly contrasted with the outside chaos. The new King's study was an oasis of calm and order. The aroma of calming sandalwood wafted through the air as he perused the reports presented by his attentive attendant.

"It appears that the King of Wugari has chosen to support the Duke instead of standing by his wife's side," King Henry Lafayette remarked, glancing at the woman sitting across from him, her presence commanding respect.

The woman's lips curled into a knowing smile as she replied, "Wugari is different from the rest of the continent. The King and the Duke share a deep bond, and their alliance has proven to be unshakable. It would be quite unusual if the King were to suddenly abandon his family's longtime ally."

The King nodded thoughtfully, contemplating the complexities of loyalty and diplomacy. He might be a new King, but he was not new to politics in the North. "True, they have been together for years, and, unfortunately, their love may now be strained due to the Queen's desire for a child." He had met the King and Queen of Wugari countless times and had seen them interact. The news about the King's decree was a surprise to him.

The woman's sneer revealed her disdain. "The King already has two sons, securing the succession. He no longer requires another heir, which is why he cast the Queen aside so readily. Regardless, this situation does not bode well for us; it only underscores the King's unwavering loyalty to the Duchy."

"So what do you think of this invitation?" King Lafayette asked. Earlier, they received an invitation from the Duchy. It was for the Hunt that will happen in a few days.

"You should go," the woman smiled. "Isn't this a great opportunity to get close to the Duke and the new Duchess?"