Chapter 54
The Imperial Court could not simply disregard the aristocratic faction that had contributed greatly to the nation.
Eleven years ago, an empress was chosen from the Clarisse Ducal House, a leading noble family renowned for possessing some of the most powerful magic in the Empire.
It was Flare Clarisse who was chosen as the empress.
Naturally, the royalist faction could not stay silent about this. After much debate, they ultimately conceded—recognizing that a rebellion could break out at any moment. Though not unanimous, the majority approved her selection as empress.
“So that means… the royal family wants the Astaire House to align with the royalist faction, right?”
“Yes, that is correct.”
Everyone in the Empire knew the Astaire family’s name and influence. If they were drawn in, it would completely alter the political balance of power.
Both the noble and royal factions would undoubtedly want to recruit House Astaire to their side.
That’s why members from both camps were eyeing this event hosted by the Astaire family.
After all, they hadn’t come merely to celebrate my birthday.
In other words—this was essentially a political gathering.
“Do you know which side the Duke plans to support?”
“For the moment, he remains neutral. It depends on how future developments unfold. What about you, my lady? Which side would you prefer to align with?”
Is he testing me?
Honestly, if a rebellion ever broke out and the royal family lost, then Felio and my sister wouldn’t be able to be together.
“Hmm… it’s a difficult question, but I think, for now, I’d stay neutral. That way, if House Astaire ever faces a crisis, we could use our position as a bargaining chip.”
If it were up to me personally, I’d side with the royalists.
But whatever I said here would probably be reported to the Duke. Since he intends to stay neutral, it’s safest for me to say the same.
“Thank you for your valuable opinion.”
(To use one’s position as leverage—that’s an optimal strategy. The fact that she could come up with such an answer so quickly during a conversation like this is impressive.)
“Not all the royals are attending, right?”
“Correct. His Majesty will attend, accompanied by Empress Flare—who, as you know, belongs to the noble faction—and their son, the Second Prince.”
“Why would His Majesty bring Empress Flare, when she’s part of the noble faction?”
“I apologize, my lady. Even I’m not sure. However, please be cautious of both the Empress and the Second Prince.”
I wonder if there’s a particular reason for that…
“Understood. I want to memorize this list, so I’ll hold onto it for a bit.”
“Of course, my lady.”
After finishing our conversation, Vice returned to his duties.
Honestly, politics shouldn’t really concern me—but still,
I should memorize everyone on this list.
Some of them might become deeply involved in my life later on.
I need to be able to judge them properly—
“Happy birthday, Tia!”
“Thank you very much, Sister.”
My sister gave me a letter and a handbag.
She’d heard about the time I went to town with Gilbert and said she wanted to go shopping with me herself someday.
Tia thought to herself, How cute of her, wanting to go with me like that.
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