Mios wasn’t entirely unprepared for gunpowder. For instance, during the earlier council between the Queen and the generals, they had deliberated on methods to counter fire attacks. The royal palace was always known for its elegance, with all manner of flowers, plants, and trees planted throughout its grounds. The nobles, influenced by this aesthetic, filled their own estates with greenery….
That night, there were no stars, no moon, just an impenetrable darkness. The flowers outside the house stood still, but their leaves rustled slightly, as if a breeze stirred, yet there was no wind. Perhaps it was just her imagination. In truth, Wakako hadn’t sensed anyone’s presence. She had simply smelled something different. There was something outside the courtyard. As…
The mercenaries who were ambushed and killed were cremated and buried in the royal cemetery. Only members of the royal family or commoners who had performed great deeds were granted the honor of being buried there. To avoid causing public panic, the incident with the gunpowder and their deaths were not publicized. Instead, patrols within the city were discreetly reinforced….
To take their place? These four words caused Wakako’s face to change, as though some unspoken, indescribable thoughts had suddenly been laid bare. Her gaze locked with Miki’s, and with a determined look as if steeling herself for a battle, Wakako denied it, “I am only concerned for the Saint’s safety.” “Oh?” Miki questioned again, “Is that so?” “It is.”…
That evening, the three “carefully selected” guards were presented before the Saint. The girls were young, and before they arrived, they had been carefully told how to serve the Saint properly. They were warned to watch what they said and did, which left them feeling a bit nervous and on edge. At this moment, they stood side by side, not…