Chapter 142.2
Chapter 142.2. Resolve
However—considering they used Clyde to cause such devastation, it’s clear that their rise won’t lead to anything good.
It’s inevitable—they must be stopped.
At the same time, with that realization comes the purpose of their participation in this conflict.
“You seem to understand. Yes, our primary objective is to expose and eliminate the members of that organization hiding within each faction. For that purpose… it’s more convenient to openly oppose them.”
They agree.
The fact that both the First Prince’s and Second Princess’s factions have been infiltrated means—if they let the succession contest continue unchecked, a king under the organization’s influence will be crowned.
That makes it all the more meaningful to establish themselves as a third force, even if their current candidate has no intention of pursuing the throne.
“…That’s exactly it.”
Taking the opportunity as Jurgen finishes speaking, Liliana opens her mouth.
It seems she had been informed of all this beforehand.
“I have no intention of actively becoming queen. If my brother and sister pursue the throne by their own will, I have no right to stop them.”
She looks down briefly, then raises her head.
“…However, if someone intends to manipulate that ambition for evil purposes—if someone tries to use that ambition to control or harm my brother or sister…
As a member of the royal family, as their family—I cannot ignore it. Even if… it means standing against them.”
She declares firmly.
Though her body trembles slightly, she carries the weight of her words with unwavering resolve.
They are overwhelmed.
The enormity of the burden placed upon this young princess, and her determination to fight despite it, stirs profound respect.
—To protect her family, she has resolved to fight against them.
“…”
There is no doubt that she feels fear. The proof is in the persistent tremor running through her body.
Perhaps moved by sympathy—or maybe admiration—Sara gently embraces Liliana from behind, supporting her firmly yet tenderly with respect.
“W-What are you doing?”
Though Liliana protests, she leans into Sara’s embrace, seeking comfort.
Hermes and Katia watch over them silently.
They understand now—Liliana’s resolve, her determination, and everything she’s prepared to do.
With that clarity, they know what must be done. Jurgen summarizes their next steps.
“Here’s the plan. First, we need to strengthen Princess Liliana’s abilities. If she is to fight, she’ll need every advantage she can get.
And second—we need to strengthen our faction.”
“That makes sense.”
“Right. While I don’t think we’re weak, relying on just one family is risky. We need more influence—so, we’ll approach a powerful ducal family that has remained neutral.”
Then, Jurgen continues.
“The next priority… is reinforcing our forces.”
“…Are we not enough?”
“If I’m being greedy, I’d say we need one more person. It’s not that I’m dissatisfied with your abilities, of course. But—your magic is too specialized, for better or worse.”
He glances around at the three of them, drawing his conclusion with a deep smile.
“So, we need someone to fill those gaps. Someone who might not be as skilled but possesses versatile magic, understands our ideals—and ideally offers perspectives you don’t have.
Though I thought that might be asking for too much… it turns out, we found the perfect candidate.”
With a playful grin, he adds with a chuckle.
“Sending Hermes to the academy turned out to be the right call after all. And speaking of which… the timing is perfect. Come in.”
Sensing a presence outside, he calls out. At the same time, the door opens, and the maid Layla escorts someone inside.
“?”
“!”
“Wow!”
“…I see.”
Liliana tilts her head in confusion.
Katia’s eyes widen.
Sara expresses delight.
And Hermes smiles in quiet understanding.
The person who elicited these varied reactions steps forward—
“…Thank you for summoning me, Duke Trakia. This is my first time meeting you, Princess Liliana.”
With a polite bow to Jurgen, the young man kneels before Liliana.
Then, looking directly at her, he introduces himself.
“Albert von Yelch, eldest son of Viscount Yelch. At the duke’s request, I’ve come to offer my services. Though I am lacking in power and talent, I hope I may still be of use.”
In a way, it was the most proper introduction one could offer to royalty—yet it was also an oddly formal greeting compared to the others.
Liliana, though somewhat nervous, accepts it.
Her three friends, surprised, nevertheless welcome him warmly.
And so, the five children gather.
Watching over them with a sense of pride, Jurgen concludes.
“Hermes, Albert, Sara, Katia, and Princess Liliana. You are the children I believe in—among the most capable in this kingdom.
You will be the heart of what comes next.”
With heartfelt conviction, the duke makes his declaration.
“Now—let’s begin the fight to change this nation.”