Editing Tytania:Volume 4 Chapter 2

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== Chapter 2 – The Nobel “Rebel” ==
=== I ===
“Tytania hereby declares full-scale war against the Kingdom of Elbing.”

When Idris’ declaration was broadcast to the entire universe, it did not, strictly speaking, cause a wave of upheaval throughout human society. After the initial shock, some people simply accepted it, thinking, ''“Ah, so that is how it is?”'' However, this was only true for a portion of the inhabitants of Uraniborg; everyone else, from the leaders of the planetary governments to the common people, was left speechless.

“What? How could Tytania declare war on the Kingdom of Elbing of all places? It is like an elephant picking a fight with an ant.”

“It must mean that the Kingdom of Elbing was aligned with the Duke Jouslain faction.”

“Yet, surely that would not concern Elbing alone.”

Naturally, something far greater than mere agitation struck the Kingdom of Elbing. They had been breathing a sigh of relief, believing ''“our nation is now secure”'' after receiving favour from Duke Jouslain, a member of the unparalleled Tytania’s highest leadership, only to be struck directly by a political and military bolt of lightning. Screams erupted throughout the panic.

“What on earth was the Ministry of Foreign Affairs doing!? If Princess Lydia became favoured by Duke Jouslain, doesn’t it mean that she draw Duke Idris’ hostility in equal measure? Isn’t the net result just zero? No, now that it has come to this, the result is a negative. Why did they not create more options for us?”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, of course, offered a rebuttal:

“Why are you complaining only now? When the Princess came under the protection of Duke Jouslain, did the entire government not rejoice? We all said that Elbing was finally secure.”

“Even so, was the failure to prepare alternatives not the negligence of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs? We should have established friendly relations with Duke Idris as well.”

“That is easier said than done. Besides, with what budget are we to fund such ventures? Has it even existed!?”

As the conversation turned to matters of finance, both men fell silent, doing nothing more than sighing in concern for Princess Lydia’s grandfather, the King, who lay upon his sickbed.

Neutrality.

At that time, it undoubtedly must have been the most significant proposition within the Milky Way galaxy.

In the fields of politics, military, and economics, human society was divided into two: “Tytania” and “the rest”. Within “the rest” were everything from radical anti-Tytania factions to weak organisations that only engaged based on common sense when necessary, otherwise remaining almost entirely disconnected.

In any case, the one fact that had been clearly recognised was that ''“Tytania stands united, while the rest doesn’t”''. However, now, the glass known as the “order of the universe” had been overturned. Tytania had split apart.

Tytania, which had been inviolable and impregnable.

Now, Tytania had divided into two factions, and the sun they worshipped above their heads had become two. Those of higher rank were so shaken they felt like crying out, “My God!”, but that very God had transformed into “Janus<ref name="ftn7">“Two-faced divinity” (双面神) pronounced “Janus”. Janus was a Roman god notable for being represented with two faces and the month “January” is named after him.</ref>”, leaving them powerless to do anything by human strength.

As for the common folk, some enjoyed irresponsible gossip as mere accompaniment to their drink, taking it all quite lightly, while others clutched their heads, worrying about their future businesses. For the vast majority, whether optimistically or pessimistically, they could not escape the excitement.

Among the scattered remnants of humanity throughout space, there was likely no one whose connection to Tytania was non-existent. There were those directly subordinated to them and those in open rebellion, of course, but the list was far too long to count; it included “people whose acquaintances’ acquaintances belonged to Tytania’s subordinate organisations”, “people dining in restaurants owned by a chain that was a subsidiary of a subsidiary of a subsidiary of Tytania”, “those reshaping deserts under Tytania’s planetary development projects”, and even the “devoted fans of music programmes produced by Tytania”.

Driven by varying degrees of anxiety and curiosity, they could not help but engage in conversation with anyone they knew.

“Either way, isn’t Tytania going to win? We might as well let them carry on as they please.”

“And then, once it’s all over, are we to be condemned as mere opportunists? I wouldn’t be happy about that.”

“Well then, are you in any position to judge who will emerge victorious?”

“Hmph. And I suppose someone like you is capable of making such a judgement?”

“There is no way I could. If I were capable of such a thing, I would have become something like a Tytania merchant fleet captain by now.”

At that moment, the tavern door swung open, and as a soldier clad in a Tytania uniform appeared, the flood of rumours was instantly dammed. The Tytania soldier scanned the interior of the tavern with an unfriendly gaze, occasionally making overbearing remarks such as, “Sounds like an interesting tale; let me hear it too,” but in truth, it was they who were more famished for information. A clever soldier would slip into the tavern in civilian clothes and casually lend an ear to the gossip.

“Regardless of anything else, the difference in military strength between Uraniborg and the Ariabert-Jouslain Alliance is vast. Ten to one—no, perhaps even more. Even if they win a fleet battle or two, the AJ Alliance will lose in the end.”

“There is another way to look at it.”

“What is it?”

“Do you wish to hear it?”

“Stop being so dramatic.”

“The point is, no matter which side we choose in this next battle, it won’t constitute any real resistance against Tytania. ‘History is written by Tytania<ref name="ftn8">“Winners are loyalists” (勝てば官軍) is the Japanese expression equivalent of “history is written by the winners”. But here, word for “loyalist” is pronounced “Tytania”.</ref>.’ We can decide when the time comes. Don’t you agree?”

“Even if victory becomes apparent…”

“Then you simply side with them. Tytania only cares about maintaining its dominion over the universe; they aren’t looking to destroy everything. They won’t bother paying attention to every little movement made by insignificant small fry like us.”

“I see. However, if that were the case, I wonder why the most insignificant small fry, the Kingdom of Elbing, was targeted.”

The heated conversations of the people drifted through the far reaches of space, showing no sign of dying down.



Why had the Kingdom of Elbing been targeted?

There were those who knew the exact reason, as well as or even more than Idris did. These were kin who resided on planet Bargash, and they were not allies of Idris, but now his sworn enemies.

Duke Ariabert Tytania.

Duke Jouslain Tytania.

Viscount Balamy Tytania.

Though the third of these was not even within Idris’ consideration. He hardly even bothered to remember him, and even if he did, it would only have been in connection to his feud with Radmoth. He believed that the man was of a sort that would perish alongside Jouslain should the latter fall, and even if he managed to escape, he was not worth pursuing in earnest.

Of course, Balamy could not afford to ignore Idris. This had become especially true since Idris had declared war on Elbing.

Balamy grit his teeth. His previous prediction regarding Princess Lydia had proved utterly mistaken. Idris had no intention of letting go the Kingdom of Elbing. No matter how insignificant it might be. Furthermore, now that it had become clear that the kingdom could serve as a powerful weapon against Ariabert and Jouslain, there was no reason for him to hesitate in using it.

“He will surely be loathed.”

Balamy could not help but sigh.

Would Ariabert and Jouslain submit unconditionally to Idris in order to avoid an attack on the Kingdom of Elbing? Such an option was impossible. Regardless of whatever justification they might have, Ariabert and Jouslain will turn their backs on the Kingdom of Elbing. It would mean abandoning the motherland that Princess Lydia loved so dearly. And Balamy would have no choice but to follow the two dukes. It was this sense of helplessness that drove Balamy to make such an emotional and futile outburst.

“Lord Idris is a coward!”

Jouslain’s reaction was calm:

“I do not believe that Idris is a coward.”

“Lord Jouslain…!”

“If I were Idris, I would likely do the same. I would destroy the Kingdom of Elbing as an example while simultaneously advertising our own ruthlessness in failing to save Elbing. It would be killing two birds with one stone.”

Ariabert also interjected with composure:

“Lord Balamy, this is not a battle for justice. This is carnivores preying upon one another.”

“Is there… no other way?”

“There might be, but I cannot commit suicide alongside Elbing. More importantly, Lord Balamy, can you truly leave Princess Lydia to her fate?”

This was an instruction to leave, as the two dukes intended to confer privately. Suppressing his anxiety and frustration, Balamy withdrew.

“Lord Ariabert, I shall leave all matters of troop deployment to you.”

“There is a problem we must discuss before that. You’ve already said this to Lord Balamy, but could you bring yourself to cast aside the Kingdom of Elbing?”

Ariabert levelled this blunt, unadorned question at Jouslain.

“That’s…”

Jouslain hesitated. His mind was not merely racing with emotion but with political calculation. He could not yet fully predict how the smaller nations would react if he stood by and watched the pitiful destruction of the Kingdom of Elbing.

“Lord Jouslain, I had hoped to see you rendered speechless by a question once, just once, before your death. I did not expect it to come about in this manner.”

Ariabert laughed. Knowing that there was such composure in that laughter, Jouslain felt a sense of relief. Knowing that an ally more reliable than himself existed was infinitely reassuring before the coming battle.

“Now then, I wonder how long we can keep this hidden from Princess Lydia.”

“It is not something that can be kept hidden indefinitely. I have even considered informing her ourselves, but… no, let us leave her be. I would prefer to let events take their course.”

“If that is what you say, Lord Jouslain, then let us do so. To be honest, I would rather focus on the battle than dwell on such matters.”

Jouslain nodded and lightly tapped the surface of the desk with the back of his hand.

“Then do that. I find even commanding ten ships to be difficult. I shall leave all operational command to you, Lord Ariabert, or rather, I am entrusting it to you.”

“If you entrust it to me, I cannot refuse.”

Ariabert responded earnestly, uncrossing his arms and straightening his posture.

“Then I shall take up the task. We shall move the troops towards the direction of the Kingdom of Elbing as soon as possible.”

“Towards Elbing?”

“That is the crucial part. It is quite dull not to be able to take by surprise a clever opponent. Instead, we shall move our troops towards Elbing, then change course midway to strike the expeditionary fleet of Uraniborg directly from their flank and rear.”

Ariabert’s expression was filled with quiet confidence.

“Furthermore, if we win that battle, the prestige of Uraniborg will suffer a significant blow. We can unsettle the opportunists, and as for Idris, we shall leave him foaming at the mouth.”

He intended to utilise the Uraniborg side’s invasion of Elbing as part of the AJ Alliance’s operational manoeuvres. Ariabert had convinced Jouslain that he was not merely a battlefield commander but an exceptional strategist.

A tactical victory as a political triumph. It was a concept Jouslain had not considered. While he had always recognised Ariabert’s military talent, Jouslain realised that he had grown even further.

Of course, at that time, the two dukes did not yet know who the commander of the Uraniborg expeditionary fleet was.




=== II ===
“So, how much military force do you intend to mobilise?” asked Jouslain.

It was a natural question for someone tasked with supporting Ariabert’s operations from the rear.

“Twenty thousand ships.”

Jouslain momentarily doubted his own ears at Ariabert’s instant reply. Twenty thousand ships represented their entire available force.

“You intend to mobilise all twenty thousand at once?”

“That is correct.”

“Is there no need to keep any reserve forces?”

Ariabert’s brow twitched slightly. Jouslain’s question seemed to have caught him by surprise.

“I do not wish to disperse my forces. Besides, that is quite uncharacteristic of you, Lord Jouslain.”

His tone remained calm, yet his gaze seemed to sharpen slightly.

“We have no reserves. Once we are defeated, those who are currently holding their breath and watching the situation will move all at once to join the side of Uraniborg. We may be left with nothing more than the choice of whether to be evaporated amidst the flash of light under the banner of ‘Suppressing the Rebels’, or to blow our own brains out with our rifles.”

“So, we have no reserves, then?”

“Do you not agree, Lord Jouslain?”

“I suppose I do…”

Jouslain was overwhelmed. Within his mind, he had written and erased, drawn and torn up countless plans, but he had never imagined committing his entire available force to the very first engagement. Both sides had even considered seeking a political resolution through a stalemate, but that thought had vanished before Ariabert’s decision as a warrior.

“It is my duty to begin the battle; it is yours, Lord Jouslain, to end it. I am sorry, but it cannot be the other way around.”

Ruminating on Ariabert’s words, Jouslain returned to his private chambers. From behind a large vase, Francia rose to her feet. It looked as though a modest, cream-coloured rose had straightened its stem.

“Lord Jouslain, would you like some tea?”

Jouslain nodded, then, quite suddenly, asked:

“Francia, what do you think of Lord Idris?”

“I dislike Lord Idris.”

“Why?”

“Because, Lord Jouslain, he is your enemy.”

Francia answered without a moment’s hesitation, gazing directly into the face of the master she served. Jouslain met her gaze head-on. There was no need to flinch, and indeed he did not, yet Jouslain was seized by a strange sensation. The word “daunting” was perhaps the only way to describe the feeling.

Francia was a modest girl, and she had no enemies. At least, none that were visible. If, by some chance, Francia did have an enemy, would Jouslain be able to hate such a person? Should he even hate them?

“Lord Jouslain, how much cream would you like?”

“Plenty.”

“As you wish.”

“Ah, wait a moment.”

As Francia, who had begun to depart, paused and turned back, Jouslain gave a light cough. He himself could not fathom his own intention.

“Francia, how many years has it been since we first met?”

“It has been fifteen years, my lord.”

Jouslain was somewhat surprised. If it had been fifteen years, he must have been twelve at the time, yet even then, he had already begun to feel a sense of weariness toward court ceremonies and various parties. For a member of the Tytania nobility, particularly the heir to a ducal house, socialising was an essential duty. Even so, it was only two or three years ago that he had chosen Francia as his lady-in-waiting. If it truly had been fifteen years, wouldn’t Francia have been just a small child?

“Now, now, Francia, surely you must be mistaken.”

“No, with all due respect, I have not forgotten. It was fifteen years ago that we first met.”

In truth, Jouslain did not clearly remember the first time he met Francia. He only recalled that, from among the several young girls provided to serve as his attendant, he had simply picked the one who appeared to be the quietest. She had been a beautiful girl, but she had not been significantly more outstanding than the other candidates. Even so, she had been carefully selected during the candidacy stage.

''“I suppose I was arrogant,”'' thought Jouslain to himself. He had held absolute power over not only Francia but her family as well. Or rather, he had held them at his very fingertips. If Francia’s presence had ever become burdensome, he could have simply sent her back to her family home. Yet, Francia had never given him cause for dissatisfaction.

“Was there something specific that makes you remember?”

“It was quite an unseemly incident, Lord Jouslain, and I am truly ashamed about it. I was quite clumsy; I had wandered deep into the garden during a party where our families had gathered and was lost and crying when you found me and kindly escorted me back to my parents.”

Unless a major catastrophe occurred, there was no reason to remember the trivial happenings of a party. His life was far too busy for such things.

Yet, for Francia, it must have felt like a monumental event. Looking at Francia’s cheeks, which were now flushed a cherry-blossom pink—having apparently perceived that clumsy childhood mishap as something destined—Jouslain was on the verge of a wry smile, though that smile did not last long. It certainly was not impossible to call it fate. Had Jouslain not chosen Francia as his lady-in-waiting, she would not be here now.

What would become of Francia if Jouslain perished alongside Ariabert? What would happen to her?

The relationship between himself and Francia was not one of equals. Jouslain reflected upon this fact even now. Though he had hardly given it a thought before. It was partly because Jouslain possessed little interest in his own private life, but perhaps it had been allowed because of Francia’s selfless devotion.

Jouslain felt unsettled. It was enough to disconcert him that such sentiments had invaded his thoughts just as the conflict with Idris’ faction was on the verge of breaking into open warfare. As Francia brought the hot tea and cream and set them quietly upon the tea table, Jouslain spoke:

“Francia.”

“Yes.”

“I’ll have no need of you for a while. Go and rest in your room.”

“… As you wish. Please call for me should you require anything.”

With a bow, Francia withdrew. Her modest, obedient manner instilled in Jouslain a sense of ''déjà vu''. After a moment of thought, he felt a sudden gloom. It was the back of his mother, just as he had seen it when he was very small.




=== III ===
Some called it “The Longest Week<ref name="ftn9">“Longest week” (もっとも長い一週間) is pronounced “longest week”.</ref>”, while others referred to it as “The Shortest Seven Days”. The days and nights passed, as if each individual were struggling in vain within a flow of time different from all others.

Planet Bargash was gripped by a strange sort of vitality. Although it sat under the occupation of the Tytania forces, which possessed over twenty thousand vessels, the two Tytania nobles who were meant to hold the highest authority were, officially, individuals without rank or office. The Bargash military was also clearly present, yet they showed no signs of defiance against the Tytania forces. While the government remained diplomatically silent, it continued to carry out the minutiae of domestic routine. As for the citizens, they were utterly excited. Unable to focus on their work, they allowed rumours to blossom into full bloom. Tytania did not commit the folly of over-regulating speech.

“Rumours is what is driving the situation.”

It was said that a high-ranking officer of the Blaze Flag Army had made that ironic observation, though it was not certain.

“Soon, a great fleet of fifty thousand ships will descend upon Bargash from Uraniborg.”

“No, it will be one hundred thousand.”

“I reckon it will be one hundred and fifty thousand ships.”

The numbers were being bid up, much like an auction. If the attacking force had been merely twenty or thirty thousand, it would have been a discouraging prospect.

Of course, there were those who were gripped by terror, imagining a day when an unprecedented, massive army would launch an indiscriminate assault. Those people were the rational ones; the more resourceful among them had already devised plans to flee to other planets or to digitise and move their entire fortunes abroad. Yet, such digitised assets would merely be swallowed by the Tytania financial network, and as no place of absolute safety could be found, it could be said that many people, driven by a sort of desperation, had sought refuge in drink, romance, and gossip. After all, the “enemy” was so gargantuan that it was difficult to truly grasp the reality of it.

“But if Tytania were to disappear, I wonder what would become of us.”

Whether they were nobles or commoners, wealthy or poor, not a single living soul had ever experienced a “universe without the rule of Tytania.” An unknown era might be arriving, and regarding that possibility, it was impossible to suppress a sense of profound unease.

“Better the devil you know than the god you don’t.”

It was exactly as the proverb went.

As for Ariabert and Jouslain, who were considered the rulers of Bargash, it could be said that people were bewildered as to how to respond to them. They could not judge whether they were allies, enemies, or merely troublesome guests bringing the enemy along with them.

Ariabert and Jouslain brushed off the declaration issued by Idris with chilling indifference.

“There is no need to go through the trouble of providing a negative response.”

Seeing Ariabert nod, Jouslain gave the order to his subordinates:

“Ignore them.”

And so, as a day passed and then a second, no response came from Bargash. For Idris, the situation was becoming increasingly unpleasant with every passing moment.

Since Jouslain and Ariabert were in agreement, it was futile for Balamy to raise any objection. While he had never imagined they would succumb to Idris’ threats and surrender unconditionally, Balamy could not discern how they intended to handle the matter.

“Total silence, huh?…”

Upon reflection, there was no obligation to respond, whether Idris chose to provoke or threaten. Ignoring or disregarding him was the best way to wound Idris’ pride, and it served as a psychological tactic as well. However, the deadline set by Idris was drawing closer, silent and inexorable.

On the second day, Balamy tried questioning Jouslain.

“Will you not meet with Princess Lydia?”

“… I will not.”

“And why is that?”

“I have no face to show her.”

Having said only that, Jouslain returned his gaze to the three-dimensional star chart he had been studying and sank into a state of deep contemplation. Balamy exited the room in silence.

Internally, Balamy was incensed. He was unsure how things were being handled at Uraniborg, but Jouslain was supposed to be Princess Lydia’s protector. Furthermore, the Kingdom of Elbing itself was Jouslain’s responsibility. Or rather, it had been his responsibility until his position was stripped away. While ignoring Idris’ threats was one thing, if the result was leaving the Kingdom of Elbing in ruins, what kind of impact would that have on future political and military strategies? Balamy desperately wanted to know the thoughts of both dukes, particularly Jouslain’s, but it did not seem as though they would tell him.

Balamy searched for Princess Lydia. He soon spotted her sitting in her favourite window seat within her favourite observation room. She sat perfectly still, wearing her other favourite small, feathered hat.

As he prepared to call out to her, Princess Lydia spoke first, her back still turned to him:

“Is that you, Bal?”

“Yes, Princess.”

“Do not come any closer.”

Balamy could not hide his astonishment. Usually, it was Princess Lydia who would cling to him, to the point of exasperation.

“I am making an unpleasant face right now, and I do not want you to see it, Bal.”

So that was the reason?

“I believe that Lord Jouslain and Lord Ariabert will surely save my country. But even though I believe this, a part of my heart thinks it is impossible. That must be why I am making such an unpleasant face.”

“How do you imagine they might save it?”

“I do not know. I am still only a child.”

Though she was but a child, her voice carried a profound gravity.

“I want to become an adult quickly. If I did, I would be able to do something for myself. As I am now, I can only watch.”

Balamy managed to respond:

“That is true. You can watch. Make you not let a single thing escape your sight.”

Balamy thought to himself for a moment. Perhaps it wasn’t that Jouslain and Ariabert had chosen the Kingdom of Elbing, but rather that they had chosen Princess Lydia over the Kingdom of Elbing? If that were the case, it was heartless, yet only natural, for they had chosen that which held the greater value…

Having thought this, Balamy found himself wondering why he had even thought such a thing.

Beyond the transparent wall, countless constellations glittered. Before them, a young girl stood with her back turned. Gazing upon both while bathed in the pale light, Balamy stood frozen in a somewhat indecisive position. He could not decide whether it would be better to leave the place in silence or not.

A streak of meteoric light flowed across one corner of the transparent wall, from the upper right to the lower left. Several cheers erupted within the interior of the observation dome. The people behind those voices were blameless, yet to Balamy, it felt somewhat shameful.

A cold-blooded ambitious man who justified his ends by any means necessary. That was the kind of person Balamy had desired to be, and during his late father’s lifetime, and when purging the high officials of the Vardana Empire, he had demonstrated behaviour close to that. However, what was the case now? He found himself shamelessly subservient to Ariabert and Jouslain, his attention captured by the lamentations of a girl no more than ten years of age.

Balamy was not so foolish as to deny that this was reality, yet facing the unpleasantness of it was still difficult.

At last, Balamy spoke:

“Princess, what if you were to ask Dukes Jouslain and Ariabert to save the Kingdom of Elbing?”

“I cannot ask them.”

The reply came instantly.

“I know how many impossible requests I have already made them accept. Do you truly think that on top of all that I could ask them to save the Kingdom of Elbing?”

She must have thought on it deeply, even with a child’s heart. Her words were clear, but her voice trembled, and in the end, it seemed as though tears began to well up. Balamy stood frozen, flustered and tormented by regret. It was a young, soft female voice that saved him:

“Lord Balamy, I shall attend to the Princess…”

“Lady Francia.”

He had not realised when she had arrived, but that did not matter. Never before had Balamy held Jouslain’s lover in such high regard. Upon spotting Francia, Princess Lydia rushed towards her, embracing her like a younger sister would.

With a bow, Balamy departed from the scene.

Even amidst such circumstances, information was flying wildly across the cosmos, a mixture of truth and falsehood. As Ariabert and Jouslain failed to issue any official response even after several days, an irritated Idris made the following announcement, intending it as a second strike:

“The commander is Rear-Admiral Fan Hyulick.”

When that was announced, Ariabert and Jouslain exchanged glances and gave a bitter smile as if in agreement. So, that was his move? To conquer a mere place like the Kingdom of Elbing, neither elites nor a massive army were required. They had assumed the selection of the commander would be made haphazardly, but upon reflection, it was exactly the kind of thing Idris would do.

“One point for Idris,” commented Ariabert. “Even if the Kingdom of Elbing is destroyed, he avoids staining his own hands. Conversely, Fan Hyulick’s reputation will plummet. The anti-Tytania forces, who had been elevating him as a hero, will surely be disappointed.”

“And at the same time, one point against Idris,” replied Jouslain. “Even if he was chosen as commander, Fan Hyulick will likely lack enthusiasm for operational duties. Furthermore, it is unthinkable that the Tytania troops would willingly follow an outsider, Fan Hyulick of all people.”

“A net-zero then?”

“Well…”

Idris’ gain was political, while his loss was military. Had Idris prioritised political manoeuvring, deciding to turn a blind eye to the military disadvantage?

On the surface, Idris’ intention could be settled with a single word: “cowardly”. But was that all there was to it? In the first place, just how seriously did Idris intend to force the unconditional surrender of Ariabert and Jouslain?




=== IV ===
Some days later, Ariabert took an action that won the favour of the citizens of Bargash. As he was leaving the hotel that served as his headquarters, he encountered a beautiful young woman with whom he was already acquainted.

“Edna.”

“Captain Edna Fredericks, reporting for duty, Your Ducal Grace Ariabert Tytania.”

Her expression and her voice remained entirely unchanged. Ariabert made a face that fell just short of a wry smile.

“I still haven’t figured out what kind of attitude or conversation is appropriate in situations like this.”

“Some people never know until the day they die.”

“I certainly hope I don’t end up like that… May I speak with you for a moment?”

Edna seemed to hesitate. Ariabert sensed it by the slight pause that preceded her reply.

“… Please do.”

“I am glad you are not turning me down.”

“However, my break time is not very long…”

“I understand. Let us find somewhere to sit.”

The two of them made their way to a nearby open-air café. They ordered black coffee and a ''café au lait''.

“Are the preparations for departure complete?”

“At the very least, my ship can depart within the hour. However, the ''Austra'' arrived here strictly as His Grace Jouslain’s flagship. In what capacity will the next departure take place?”

The man thought to himself that this was not a conversation between a man and a woman.

“There are no changes… No, actually there is one. The flagship shall be the ''Golden Sheep''. The ''Austra'' will serve as Jouslain’s vessel.”

Their order was brought to the table. The young waitress’ hands trembled slightly. She likely recognised Ariabert’s face.

“Your duty is to protect Lord Jouslain. That is all.”

After handing the bill and a tip to the waitress with a magnanimous air, Ariabert’s tone grew more forceful.

“The future of Tytania exists only because he is here. Therefore, as a precaution, he and I shall travel on separate ships.”

He picked up his coffee cup and elegantly took a sip.

“Planetarica beans? They are passable. Now then, becoming Tytania’s Clanner was synonymous with establishing a unified rule over the universe… until now.”

“Will it be different from now on?”

“It seems Lord Jouslain believes it will be. That Tytania is sufficient as one of the powerful forces that will form human society in space.”

Ariabert gazed intently at Edna.

“What do you think, Edna?”

“… I am a soldier. Political judgements exceed my authority and station.”

“I am well aware of your ascetic loyalty to the uniform. Although, by the laws of Uraniborg, I am no longer your superior…”

After giving a slight shake of his head, Ariabert picked up his cup once more.

“Thank you for joining me. Perhaps you will meet me next time when I am in civilian clothes.”

“… If time permits.”

“I hope it will be for as long as possible.”

For a mere moment, Edna’s lips seemed to part in a faint smile. After she saluted and departed, Ariabert sat before his coffee for a while.

“The one controlling the situation is none of the three dukes, but Clanner Ajman. Just whose side is he on, anyway? And when exactly does he intend to appear before the public?”

He could hear the voices of the guests at the surrounding tables. That was exactly right, Ariabert murmured to himself. As long as the Clanner remained well, that was certainly true. However, at a time when it appeared that Tytania had undergone a Great Schism, he wondered what significance there was in his deliberate decision to remain out of the public eye.

“Hey, look, this is…”

A panicked voice rose, and the area around the table fell silent. It seemed a group of footmen had spotted Ariabert in his plain clothes. Ariabert turned his gaze towards them and gave a slight raise of his coffee cup.

The Tytania nobles, who lived amongst the clouds, were met with a mixture of bewilderment and admiration at his casual gesture. A middle-aged man, who had raised his own cup towards him, shouted almost half-heartedly, his face flushed with excitement.

“Please, you must win, Your Grace!”



Idris was once again overcome by a sense of unease. It had gone well enough to use the Kingdom of Elbing as bait and drive Ariabert and Jouslain into a corner, but once the waves of temporary victory and satisfaction had receded, doubt had crept in.

“Was that truly the right move? Have I overlooked something critical?”

He slumped back in his chair, legs stretched out across the desk, lost in thought.

The root of Idris’ psychological instability was, quite simply, his lack of absolute confidence in facing both Ariabert and Jouslain at once. While a one-on-one duel was one thing, a two-on-one fight made a complete victory uncertain. It was precisely because Idris was well aware of this that he required the powerful support of Clanner Ajman. Yet, the Clanner remained confined to his hospital room, playing the part of a sphinx<ref name="ftn10">“Silent colossus” (無言の巨像) pronounced “sphinx”.</ref>. Even when Idris pressed the attending physician and the nurses, they merely replied, “By order of His Clanner Highness, we cannot disclose anything,” leaving him with no further recourse. In this one respect, Idris shared the same doubt as his two adversaries.

“Lord Idris, you truly are soft-hearted.”

A woman’s voice spoke suddenly.

“Watch your words, Theodora. I am in no mood for such levity right now.”

However, Idris did not reprimand Countess Theodora Tytania for entering the room without permission. She had only just been released from house arrest a few days prior.

“Well, nevermind, but what exactly do you mean by soft-hearted?”

“You are simply letting slip through your fingers a precious opportunity to eliminate a source of anxiety. It is true that I lost my way with my words. And for that, I offer my deepest apologies. However, I must say that your approach, Lord Idris, is far too soft.”

The heel of Idris’ boot struck the desk. Theodora continued, appearing outwardly composed:

“When those wandering pirates who call themselves the Blaze Flag Army first arrived at Uraniborg, you received them with great courtesy, did you not?”

“Are you suggesting that instead of summoning the Blaze Flag Army, I should have simply slaughtered them?”

In truth, Idris had also considered that very point. To him, the Blaze Flag Army was nothing more than a group of criminals whom he could never truly trust, either in spirit or in mind. However, he had welcomed them after calculating that they possessed certain utility.

“How shortsighted. Doing so might allow you to avoid trouble in the future, perhaps. But if you invite them as guests in name only, only to cause them harm, it will bring disgrace upon the honour of Tytania. If you are unable to grasp even something of that magnitude, then you ought to renounce the honourable name of Tytania.”

Theodora remained perfectly composed.

“It appears that Duchess Theresa does not seem to understand that. Would you say the same to her?”

Regarding Duchess Theresa—that is, the mother of the late Zarlisch and his brother—interfering without the Clanner’s permission was frowned upon, and because of that, Idris became even more displeased, and it provoked unexpected suspicions.

“Theodora.”

“What is it?”

“Was it not you who incited that foolish mother of Zarlisch?”

He did not possess absolute certainty about it. Consequently, Idris’ choice of words was subtle; he did not say, “It must be you,” nor did he say, “It is you,” but rather phrased it as a confirmation rather than an accusation. Theodora noticed this before Idris himself did.

She laughed without making a sound.

“My, how outrageous! Are you suggesting that I was the one who instigated such a foolish act?”

“Hmph. It is exactly the sort of thing you would do.”

Duchess Theresa Tytania had lost her eldest son, Zarlisch, and her second son, Arses, at the hands of the Blaze Flag Army. Therefore, Idris had believed it was only natural that she would seek vengeance for her sons, but…

“I should not have restrained the Duchess back then.”

“Are you suggesting it would have been better to let her kill Fan Hyulick and his group?”

“Yes. Had that happened, Lord Idris, you could have eliminated a public enemy of Tytania without ever staining your own hands. Am I wrong?”

“And then Duchess Theresa would have achieved the glorious feat of avenging her foolish sons.”

“And she would have passed away in satisfaction, I presume.”

“……!”

“The vengeance against Fan Hyulick remains a purely personal matter for Lord Zarlisch’s family. As you stated yourself a moment ago, Lord Idris, if guests were to be murdered, it would bring shame upon the prestige of Tytania. The Duchess would have to bear the responsibility for such an outcome.”

“You mean, kill her?”

“Requesting that she take her own life with dignity. To serve as the true proof of her blue blood<ref name="ftn11">“Noble blood” (高貴な血) is pronounced “blue blood”.</ref>. Surely, the Duchess would not stoop to such unsightly behaviour.”

“I should hope so.”

Responding with a voice laced with sarcasm, Idris gestured for Theodora to leave the room.




=== V ===
''“Let those two meet in Bargash. You can be certain they’ll be plotting something.”''

Once, Idris had cried out exactly such words. His malice-filled prophecy had proven true. Or rather, it would be more accurate to say that his malice was what had ultimately forged the bond between Ariabert and Jouslain. Idris did not wish to admit his own blunder, yet he could not shake the bitter feeling that disposing of the two of them one by one might have been the best course of action and that perhaps he should have waited for the opportunity with more patience.

It was then that a new guest arrived.

“Brother Idris.”

“Zelpha? Well, come and sit.”

Idris’ expression softened. It was a rare thing for this young nobleman, who usually kept his features sharp and guarded to ensure no weakness showed in either offence or defence, to show such a gentle impression to another. For Ariabert or Jouslain, such a sight would have been difficult to even imagine.

“Though we both reside in Uraniborg, we have not had an opportunity to meet for some time.”

“That is because you have been so busy, Brother. I have longed to see you, but I have endured my patience. I hope I am not causing you an inconvenience today?”

Idris’ youngest brother gazed upon his eldest brother with heartfelt devotion.

Idris let out a sigh. It appeared to be a sigh that released his true feelings.

“Zelpha, if only you and Radmoth had been born in the reverse order. I would have had a most dependable lieutenant.”

“I am sorry.”

“No, you are blameless.”

Idris gave a wry smile.

“It was my wording that was at fault. Forgive me.”

Inwardly, Idris cursed Radmoth. ''“If only just once he could try saying something as charming as Zelpha.”''

“It is a pity that I cannot be of use to you presently, but Brother Idris, when you become Clanner, I shall serve you with utmost loyalty as your foremost subject. I hope that day comes as soon as possible.”

Idris’ expression, which had begun to soften, changed abruptly. Almost unconsciously beginning to glance around the room, Idris rebuked his adorable younger brother.

“Zelpha! Mind your words. To speak of ascending to the Clanner throne is an act of high treason. Have you forgotten your propriety and your loyalty?!”

Zelpha’s complexion changed instantly, and his body went rigid. A sense of awe toward the Clanner was ingrained in the very spirit of the Tytania nobility. From the time they were children. Furthermore, if anyone were to overhear talk that undermined the Clanner’s prestige or speculated on his life or succession, there was no telling what manner of calamity might descend upon them.

“Brother, I…”

“No, I spoke too harshly as well. There is no need to be afraid. But mark my words: be extremely careful with your language, and ensure you do not invite any unnecessary misunderstandings.”

“Yes, I shall take great care.”

“Very well. You may go now.”

Idris embraced the shoulder of his youngest brother, who looked as though he might burst into tears at any moment, offering him as much kindness as he could muster before seeing him out of the room. At that same moment, a new visitor appeared. It was a communications officer, his expression taut with tension.

“I bring urgent news. According to reports from the Bargash region, both Dukes Ariabert and Jouslain…”

“They are no longer dukes.”

“I… excuse me…”

“They are traitors. Refer to them as such.”

“Very well. Regarding the traitors Ariabert and Jouslain…”

“Have they offered to surrender?”

“No, quite the opposite. They have set out from the planet Bargash, leading a fleet.”

“What?”

Idris’ voice rose involuntarily. The deadline he had set for them had not yet arrived.

“It appears to be their entire force, or at least most of it. The total number of vessels is approximately twenty thousand. There seem to be almost no deserters.”

Idris furrowed his well-shaped brows.

With what intention had Ariabert and Jouslain moved three days ahead of the deadline Idris had provided? And they had done so with their entire strength. Were they mad, mobilising twenty thousand ships merely to save the Kingdom of Elbing? No, wait, assuming they were sane…

The heel of Idris’ boot struck the floor.

“I am going to the Combat Command Centre right away. Prepare the three-dimensional star charts.”

“Understood!”

“And we shall simulate their future course. Gather the necessary personnel and materials.”

As its name suggested, the Combat Command Centre was intended to be the most vital location during the military engagements of Uraniborg. Conversely, as long as Uraniborg was not under direct attack from external enemies, it remained a useless relic. Although it had undergone maintenance for over a century, it had never actually been put to use. Idris had decided to open the doors to that room, which had long been known as the “unopened chamber”. Having received his first reactions from Ariabert and Jouslain, Idris was invigorated to the point of near-exhilaration, for better or worse.

Though he was not particularly favoured by Ariabert or Jouslain, Idris was a possessor of the kind of ambition befitting a duke of Tytania.

Both Ariabert and Jouslain appeared to be posturing as brave dissenters, but that was only possible because they were far removed from Uraniborg. For Idris, who had managed Uraniborg alone while always feeling the Clanner’s gaze upon his back, this was an opportunity to show them what he was truly capable of.

If Clanner Ajman were to appear and declare, “I support Lord Idris,” the chaos and disorder currently tossing the universe about would, in an instant, vanish. If that could not be hoped for, Idris would have no choice but to tilt the situation in his favour through his own strength. Once he had made his decision, even a slight lack of confidence was of no consequence.



Twenty thousand vessels had gathered in orbit around the moon of the planet Bargash. From the night hemisphere, they appeared as a cluster of light that overwhelmed the very stars in the sky, and people watched, breathless, captivated by their dangerous beauty.

“Idris gave us a deadline of one week…”

“You intended to make your move before that from the very beginning, did you not, Lord Ariabert?”

“That is correct. Why should I blindly obey Idris’ orders?”

The conversation between the two took place via the communication screen connecting the ''Golden Sheep'' and the ''Austra''.

“In that case, Lord Ariabert, I shall be serving under your command from this moment forth. I am no great man, but I look forward to working with you.”

“Well then, I shall leave the fleet’s movements and combat to you.”

“By the way, what is our destination? As it stands, there is no longer any necessity to head for the Kingdom of Elbing. Even the Uraniborg fleet, which should have been bound for Elbing, will likely not depart as originally intended at this late stage.”

Ariabert responded to Jouslain’s question with a smile.

“We are heading for Uraniborg.”

“Hum, I see.”

It was a light remark, yet Jouslain caught his breath.

“Lord Jouslain, if we are to strike directly, it will be at Uraniborg rather than the Elbing expeditionary fleet.”

“Was that your intention from the very beginning?”

“Indeed.”

“I could never have imagined it. I clearly lack the qualities required to be a military leader.”

“I am telling you to leave such trivial matters to me. All you need to do, Lord Jouslain, is take your time considering how to make Idris capitulate. Now, I shall take my leave.”

“Understood.”

Jouslain adjusted his seat slightly and turned his gaze to another screen. He could hear the sharp, commanding voice of Captain Edna Fredericks. It appeared that the ''Austra'' was also cautiously changing its position. The entire army, which had been in a spherical formation, was transitioning into a wedge formation.

“Bal, I heard that Lord Jouslain and Lord Ariabert will manage somehow.”

“I’m impressed by your keen insight.”

From a nearby seat, the conversation between Princess Lydia and Balamy drifted over. The girl’s voice bounced with joy, and the young man’s voice seemed almost drawn in by in.

Jouslain looked towards the seat on the opposite side. Wearing pearlescent overalls that seemed to accentuate her elegant curves, Jouslain’s lover returned his gaze with a soft look, without saying a word.

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