SWNOVELXO Chapter 198
“They’ve agreed to accept military-related personnel from the Dedorant region into the Military Academy.”
As I confidently declared that, Paelus’ face lit up with joy.
Though the Empire was genuinely focused on rebuilding this area, it made sense considering the Empire’s future benefits.
However, their feelings toward the original residents living here might differ.
Is the perception of the people still a complete mess? How can we soothe the public sentiment of the Empire?
The newly appointed Count of the West and a native of Dedorant wore an expression of deep contemplation.
“To be honest, I’ve been working hard on internal persuasion regarding that matter as well.”
Is it really necessary to bring personnel from the Dedorant region into the Military Academy?
Even though it has become part of the Empire, the memories of war still linger in the air.
Even if they are junior officers, they were once the enemy, so wouldn’t it be pointless to spur unnecessary hostility?
It’s inevitable for such opinions to circulate, and it was a natural progression.
The Imperial Military Academy—a place that nurtures those who will become the backbone of the Imperial Army.
A venue for discussing over ten years of field doctrines and various tactics and strategies.
Yet, it doesn’t make sense for those who were fighting fiercely just a while ago to come to this academy.
““I understand the concerns of the esteemed ministers gathered here. However, thinking it through, that’s precisely why it’s even more necessary to place them there.”
Fortunately, being in my position, everyone listened attentively to my next opinion.
Since the Empire has seized power, peace should be maintained for at least the next ten years.
Unless neighboring countries join hands to pressure the Empire or if something happens to the Empire,
or unless a remarkable figure like Prince Georg of Dedorant emerges,
we won’t face any issues.
Therefore, to avoid forgetting the bloody lessons during this period of peace, even greater efforts are needed.
No, mere effort won’t suffice. We must gather everything we can without hesitation.
It is only right for those who have experienced war and fought firsthand to be placed in advance.
In doing so, that battle experience flows down to the juniors, preventing the same mistakes from being repeated.
“This occupied territory of Dedorant—or rather, the Empire’s New West—is, as the name suggests, a new territory of the Empire. Count of the West. So, shouldn’t we engage in activities that will benefit the Empire further?”
The people here will obtain a path to rise, and the Empire will win their hearts.
Betrayal is committed when there’s a chance for greater benefit or when one wants to erase their anger.
And embracing them in the current situation was the key to eliminating both of those.
Plus, it was a great opportunity to absorb various tactics and strategies from Dedorant.
The Dedorant Army was one of the strongest on the continent, aside from our Empire.
It would be a terrible loss to let the expertise of their commanders go to waste like this.
“Of course, I will have to endure unfavorable glances.”
“…I am prepared for that.”
Yes. All I can do is pave the way for them. Beyond that, it’s up to those who were from Dedorant but are now citizens of the Empire.
To prove their loyalty and abilities, becoming a sturdy pillar in the West for the Empire,
or to become a burden that belongs nowhere and be poorly treated.
Unless one is a fool, they’ll work hard for the former. In fact, there’s no other choice.
Unless there’s another country capable of standing against the Empire, the continent is under the single hegemony of the Empire.
Even if they escape this fence and enter elsewhere, they can’t guarantee a better treatment than this.
“I’m sorry, but I can’t do anything about that. Changing those gazes to loyalty and skills will be one of the tasks of this New West Region. At the center of it all, there must be you, Count of the West.”
“Is there any question about that? I will do my utmost to proceed in a way that benefits the Empire.”
Paelus will surely do well. That’s why I placed him in that position.
I’ve seen him on the battlefield. That man knows what needs to be done and what he must do for it.
He knows what he should be doing, and my father-in-law also recognized him as quite capable.
“The Military Academy will announce its opening right at the start of the new year next year.”
“If it’s at the start of the new year… that’s just a little over half a year away. Understood. I will do my utmost to select those worthy enough to set foot in the Academy.”
He knows and the people here know too. Those selected will be the hope of this place.
There’s absolutely no way he would make casual selections. He’ll likely prioritize loyalty to the Empire.
After all, Dedorant has fallen, and there’s no answer but the Empire to rise in the military field.
Furthermore, the royal family, the foundational element of rebirth, has completely vanished, so there’s no need for concern.
“…Thank you. I hadn’t expected the Chief of Staff to care this much.”
“When you put it that way, it sounds strange. I’m just someone who judges based on what’s best for the Empire. Don’t mistake me for someone unconditionally merciful towards the occupied territories of Dedorant. Conversely, if there’s something that harms the Empire, I will act even more coldly and ruthlessly than anyone else. Count, just don’t say later that you misjudged me.”
“If that day truly comes, it will be because I and the residents here have shown ourselves unworthy of your expectations. Since we’ve entered the Empire’s territory, I will do my best.”
I hope so. Please. Though it’s unlikely, what if something were to happen?
In that moment, public sentiment toward this region from the Empire would sharply rise once more.
In the worst case, it would be said to be the Empire’s land, but in reality, it would practically be tantamount to an exile.
“Are you heading back right away?”
“Yes. There are other matters to attend to. There’s an overwhelming amount to discuss.”
“I’ve heard you’ll be receiving the title of Duke. I’m not too familiar with the Empire, but I was told there has never been an official Duke in the Empire until now.”
From Paelus’ perspective, it must seem a bit strange.
Since there’s some time before his return, I decided to tell him more about the Empire.
“While the title of Duke isn’t officially established, there have been instances where it is granted when linked to the Imperial family. It just so happens that this time, His Majesty the Emperor has graciously decided to bestow this generous title upon me.”
“I understand that the Crown Princess is in the Empire right now. Does that mean your Highness’ partner—”
“Oh, that’s not the case. The Crown Princess’ partner will receive the title of Archduke, not Duke. The difference is that unlike me, he will genuinely have no authority. It will merely be a nominal position.”
In the Imperial family, I am the capable son-in-law of the current Emperor and the loyal brother of the next Emperor.
Generally, I wouldn’t shake up the line of succession, and doing so would damage my own standing.
On the other hand, the next Emperor’s partner needs someone who supports their reign quietly.
They should literally be a shadow. Absolutely should not stand out.
In my case, since Bel has no connection to the throne, I can engage freely.
My sister-in-law must shine brightly as the future Emperor of this Empire.
And the title of Archduke carries the meaning of “the one who receives this title must keep silent.”
“The case with the Chief of Staff certainly is special. I realize once again how impressive you are.”
“Well, it seems your tongue has sharpened in my brief absence. Count of the West. Have you already become an Imperial noble?”
Our conversation continued for about another ten minutes after that.
Once, we fought as commanders of different nations, battling over victory and defeat.
But now, we are subjects serving a single ruler, loyal to one country.
It really shows that no one can predict how the world turns out.
*
I conveyed some good news to Paelus and returned to the system.
My afternoon schedule involves discussions with the Minister of the Palace at the Imperial Palace.
However, upon entering, I was unexpectedly met by a certain individual waiting for me.
“How did things go in the West, son-in-law?”
The Emperor. My father-in-law urged me to sit down.
I quickly greeted him and approached him decorously, and he offered me a cup of tea.
“I heard from the minister. He said to conduct the Title Award Ceremony as simply as possible.”
“That’s correct.”
“May I ask why?”
“With the grandeur of Your Majesty’s grace, I will be receiving the first official Duke title in the history of the Empire. However, I must admit that if it draws too much attention, I’m concerned it might convey a mistaken message to others.”
This was something I had been contemplating since the announcement of receiving the Duke title.
Since the wedding was held with the utmost splendor, we should simplify the Title Award Ceremony.
After all, my father-in-law personally announced it at the Return Ceremony, meaning no one in the Empire is unaware of me becoming a Duke.
I am already the eldest son of a Duke. Already the partner of a Princess. That alone earns respect among the nobility.
Shouldn’t we reduce the state expenses from something everyone is already aware of?
“My son-in-law, were you secretly worried about the excessive military expenses due to the war?”
“To be honest, that’s exactly it.”
I always feel gratitude toward the Ministry of Finance. They’ve adopted all my views, for the most part.
So, I too want to avoid using taxes where I feel it’s unnecessary.
There needs to be significant funds for the restoration and advancement ahead.
“Right. I should heed my son-in-law’s request.”
My father-in-law nodded, showing his understanding with a smile.
Well, it makes sense. The Empire has been denying the existence of Dukes until now, thus creating a precedent.
If we go too grand right from the start, it could potentially lead to negative occurrences later on.
It’s reassuring that I didn’t add excessive burden on my father-in-law and the Imperial family.
*
“…Excuse me? Minister. What did you just say?”
[ The Chief of Staff’s Title Award Ceremony will be held at the Imperial Palace, gathering all nobles of Count rank and above from the Empire. Additionally, foreign guests from various regions of the continent will also be invited, and the day of the ceremony will be declared a National Holiday to celebrate the birth of the Duke. ]
“Oh no. What on earth….”
[ Lastly, His Majesty the Emperor added that all expenses incurred during this event will not come from the Empire’s taxes but rather from the Imperial treasury, so there’s nothing to worry about. Since you asked for simplicity, it will be handled with regard to His Majesty’s standards. ]