Chapter 230

TL: TangSanFan

ED/PR: Tanthus

To the One Who Survived (5)

"Zix, why that expression?"

"Huh? No... it's just, there are some things I need to think about...."

When Zix arrived at the student library to pick up Elka, the closing ceremony had already started in the central plaza.

A much-anticipated event for every student, as all the grand stages were gathered there. Although Zix would have wanted to watch the event from the central plaza, he came to fetch Elka instead which made her feel both grateful and sorry.

Elka's chronic asthma was getting worse day by day. Her coughing had become so severe that sometimes it was accompanied by bleeding when she sneezed.

Nevertheless, to accommodate Elka's wish to continue her studies despite her illness, Zix took it upon himself to move into the dormitories to take care of her.

From Zix's perspective, it was just the natural thing to do.

If he had not met Elka during his wanderings through the grassland regions and been taken in by the Islan family, he might never have been able to attend the Sylvania Academy or have his talents blossom.

Elka was like a benefactor to Zix, so taking care of her in her weakened state never felt like a hardship to him.

Without Elka, the chance of him attending the academy might never have surfaced.

"Recently, I've been thinking that I might be living quite a peaceful life..."

"To hear that from someone who spent his childhood being chased by giant wolves across the grasslands... Plus, wasn't every day filled with mishaps back when you were with the Islan family?"

"Listen... Elka... that... is not even worth calling 'incidents'..."

"... What kinds of things have you been through while working for the student council, Zix?"

"I've been through a lot..."

"... Aren't you overwhelmed with both taking care of me and doing student council work?"

"No, it's not too tough. There's a sense of fulfillment in it too."

It positively impacts his grades, and belonging to the Sylvania student council will be a highly regarded resume item even after graduating and leaving the academy.

Unable to rely on the Islan family indefinitely, Zix, who was considering independence, saw this as a pretty good opportunity.

"And... being close to power has its benefits."

While escorting Elka, Zix walked with her down the slope beneath the student library.

"Benefits...? Zix, have you become accustomed to the taste of power?"

"No, it's more that power can be troublesome at times... but being close to it allows you to witness numerous rare scenes up close..."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Never mind... Anyway, I've been finding school life quite enjoyable lately. I wouldn't have had these experiences if I hadn't met you."

"Well... I was just a circumstance, and everything you achieved at Sylvania is due to your own ability. There's no need to give me all the credit. Plus, you're helping me in my weakened state."

Rather than explain something so obvious it hurt, Zix just let out a soft chuckle as a substitute.

"Recently, I heard you've been assisting President Tanya, how is that?"

"Well... Elka, what's your impression of her?"

"From what I've heard, she's quite a remarkable person... apparently, there's never been someone like her among the past presidents. How is it, being someone who assists her up close? Is she someone to be admired?"

"Hmm..."

Compared to his childhood of being pursued by wolves in the wilderness, chasing after Tanya in his student council duties didn't feel like much of an improvement, though at least his life wasn't in danger, which was fortunate.

Busy days chasing after Tanya and caring for Elka... but occasionally he had this peculiar feeling.

-'If, truly, my brother goes ahead and gets engaged to Princess Selah...' And thus becoming the defacto ruler of the royal house, all my plans of retirement would fly out the window...!'

Exiting the royal lodgings and on the way to the central stage, Zix who had been assisting Tanya.

Watching Tanya fret and sigh, it seemed as if she couldn't stand the idea of working and might drop dead from the mere thought.

-'I almost saw my peaceful retirement life in the countryside go up in smoke... It's a good thing my brother turned it down...!'

-'Ordinarily, people would be puzzled about why he'd reject such a favorable opportunity.'

-'I don't need power or authority...! I just want to rest...! I want to rest...!!'

An irresponsible youngling. A pitiable human who desperately struggles to avoid work. A fool who sits on the throne of presidency through fortune alone, relying solely on the prestige of her family name and kicking her own luck to the curb.

Some might look at Tanya's behavior and think such things.

However, after a brief silence, Tanya's naive, childish tone subsided, and she whispered in a quiet voice that seeped into the darkness.

-'Well, we'll have to revisit the plan that involved linking the Callamore and Bloomriver families to dethrone Princess Sella as the top figure in the royal house.'

Tanya Rothtaylor, after all, is the heir to the Rothtaylor family and president of the Sylvania Academy student council.

Despite grumbling and whining, when it comes down to crucial moments, she never leaves any openings.

Following a trail through the woods, Tanya mumbled with her head down... There were moments when a certain eerie presence seemed to cling to that figure from behind.

-'Whether it benefits the Rothtaylor family or not, we'll have to keep watching.'

In the dark corners of a wooded trail, a glint of light flickered in the eyes of Tanya with her head bowed down.

"Truly a simpleton, to the point where it makes you wonder if it's really okay."

Descending the slope in front of the student library, Zix spoke while supporting Elka's shoulder.

"But, you definitely can't take her lightly."

In the world, many people seem utterly simple, behaving casually as if they're nothing special.

Mostly, they are indeed simple and empty-headed.

But among them, some conceal their sharp senses like hidden daggers, blended within the masses.

Those are the ones to truly be feared.

Zix narrowed his eyes and relayed this to Elka with solemn earnestness.

"Let's cut to the chase; what do you want?"

The event in the central plaza would not last long.

After hastily wrapping up the highlight acts in succession and following up with a grand fireworks display for the president's closing address, the event would come to an end.

While the sequential fireworks would indeed provide a spectacular show, the other performances were merely a collection of various acts that had been scattered across the academic stages until this point.

Some new performances by orchestras, theater, and magical acts might be presented, but none piqued my interest to a notable degree.

Rather, what had my nerves on edge was Princess Sella, who had followed me to the student plaza, settling me across from her on a bench, frowning as if utterly annoyed.

"I have never made concessions like this for anyone before."

Pushing her blue-tinged hair to one side revealed her seductively bare shoulders, a gesture only those confident in their appearance would attempt.

Her dress, clinging snugly to reveal her shoulder, was more extravagant than usual, befitting the attention-drawing Princess Sella was known for.

Unsurprisingly, this caused many student onlookers to gather their gaze around us.

While most students' attention was directed towards the central plaza stage, it was challenging to simply pass by such an extraordinary sight of a princess seated with a student.

-'Isn't that... isn't that Senior Ed over there?'

-'Last time, he was sitting with Saintess Clarice, and now he's with Princess Sella ...?'

-'I... I'm seeing Princess Sella in person for the first time... But, what exactly is happening between those two?'

Amidst the beginning murmur of the surrounding crowd, I barely contained a sigh.

Regardless of the situation, she was royal. It was impossible to openly sigh or behave rudely in her presence.

"Yes, I acknowledge your significant position. I didn't expect even my father to pay heed to your words. Indeed, a man skilled in statecraft."

"It's not so. I simply spoke candidly."

"Do you still think I'd fall for such naive talk? State your terms plainly, without reservation. I'll see to it that your demands are met as far as possible."

Princess Sella spoke while grinding her teeth in frustration.

Though still condescending, making such an offer must've been a significant blow to Princess Sella's pride.

I'll see to it that your demands are met as much as possible.

Just saying those words must be like a death sentence to her pride.

Pride personified, she is a creature of arrogance.

Even in this turn of events, she refuses to bow, never stooping so low, even if the world itself tried to beat such an act out of her. She would never grovel or plead with one of lesser status - those were her convictions, almost to the point of absurdity.

"I've decided, of my own volition, to grant your every request."

"I don't particularly have anything to request."

"Still... you say such things...?"

-'No matter what, you must never succumb to Sella's persuasion. This is not merely about my political standing, but it directly affects your position as well, Ed.'

-'What Sella yearns for is solely what she cannot possess. Once something is in her hands, she loses interest and casts it aside... So, the only way to maintain your integrity is not to yield.'

Sure, take Phoenia's advice for what it's worth.

I'm also well aware of the notion that I must resist, no matter how demanding Sella becomes.

But until when?

When it's acceptable to give in to Sella's demands, to show signs of breaking...? From what point can one assume she has completely surrendered...?

Unfortunately, there's no clear standard for that.

Just resist, and keep on resisting... That was all the guidance given. And it makes sense. Given Sella's character, it's obvious there will be clear limits to her concessions and humility.

But the whole situation took a rapid turn with Emperor Clorel's involvement.

The realization that Ed Rothtaylor could become a more valuable variable in the struggle for imperial authority than anticipated prompted Princess Sella to humble herself more than she might have initially thought.

Although it seemed to cause her unbearable humiliation, grinding her teeth to the extent she could barely breathe, she continued to utter her offer.

"I said I would grant your every wish, did I not?"

"..."

"Even if they're somewhat unreasonable... state them..."

To the very end, she maintains her higher ground. She'd rather perish than admit that she's bestowing favors.

Her pride, soaring to the heavens, insists on keeping her head held high, even if her body is aflame.

"My terms are not extraordinary... I pretty much have an idea. My father has almost decided on me as the next ruler. If just one more influential person would lend their ear... my father would surely relent completely..."

The last key might very well be Ed Rothtaylor.

The imperial authority that seemed forever out of reach now whispers in my ear, as if to say it's right within grasp.

This craving for power, this ambition for success, will continue to chant into Sella's ears.

Just this once, if you relent, you will be the next emperor.

This irresistible temptation is bent on forcing her to bow. Here, she's urged to lower her head.

To apologize for past transgressions and, from now on, to foster a friendly relationship. To beseech, with all her might, for support just this once.

Any ordinary person would have succumbed by now, begged until their hands and feet turned to jelly - and it wouldn't be surprising.

And yet.

And yet, in spite of everything.

Even the most compliant of people would have given in.

In front of the brilliant glory and immense power within reach, even in this situation, Princess Sella... she never bows her head. She asserts until the end that she stands above all. Such steadfastness would astonish even the emperor of a nation, to the extent that even the gods might marvel at her unwavering determination. It's almost as though she has reached the realm of convictions.

"Or do you think I will... beg you...? Are you saying that I seem like I would bow my head and plead? I am Sella Aeineir Clorel. I am the First Princess of the Clorel Empire."

"..."

"You must understand this fact. I never bow my head. Even if the imperial power were before my nose... do you think I would ask the likes of those beneath me for favors?"

"Princess Sella."

It can't be helped.

No matter what Sella says, I must move according to the pre-established plan. Driven by impulse to go beyond the plan might lead to unforeseen complications.

"I belong to Princess Phoenia's faction."

At those words, Sella kicked the table and stood up as if having a tantrum.

"Again...! Always Phoenia...! What debt do you owe her...?! Are you truly in love with her or what?!"

"... That's not it. I am not swayed by such personal emotions."

"Then why are you so loyal to Phoenia?! Haven't I offered you everything?! Money, power, the restoration of the Rothtaylor family, a key post in the royal court... Haven't I said I'd grant it all to you, even pledging my support in front of my father?! There's a limit to the so-called devotion...! It's incomprehensible to be this undiscerning!"

Princess Sella momentarily lost her reason, raising her voice loudly, but then, she gritted her teeth to regain her composure.

"So, you really want me to bow down and beg?"

"That's not..."

"Will you abandon Phoenia for me? You are truly of bad taste. You want to see my pride broken, and me bowing down?"

I shook my head vigorously, strongly denying such intent.

Instead, Sella's expression twisted even more.

"Then what exactly will make you leave Phoenia! I have been telling you, I will even ensure Phoenia's well-being! What is it that you are dissatisfied with?!"

"I am not convinced because it is not Princess Phoenia's will."

Sella swallowed down an odd sound and, brushing her face, expressed a look of disbelief.

"When I meet the Emperor, I plan to recommend Phoenia as a candidate for the emperor."

"That is something we will consider when the time comes. As I have repeatedly said, I believe that Princess Sella fits the role of emperor better. However, I am inspired by Princess Phoenia's approach and choose to follow her. Loyalty doesn't necessarily have to align with power. While I cannot offer advice that is disadvantageous to Princess Phoenia, neither can I tell lies... which makes things... somewhat challenging..."

"It's that indecisiveness, that feeling you might give in, that is the most irritating...! Better if you just outright despised and loathed me...!"

Sella said as such, gasped for breath, and then sat back down abruptly.

In her repeated provocations and attacks on pride, ironically, she herself was taking a step back, not intending to do so.

This tightrope walk of gnawing on one's nerves makes one feel seasick.

Whether she is conscious of it or not is utterly indiscernible.

For someone like Princess Sella, such an attitude is nothing short of poison.

Sella grinded her teeth again and put her hands back on the table.

Then she relaxed her back... maybe she would finally bow her head... genuinely agonizing over the decision.

The seduction of unbearable power tried to pull her head down... but at the last moment, strength returned to her arms.

Pride etched in the realm of instinct kept her from bowing her head. Her neck stiffened, and though she gritted her teeth, trying to bow... the head would not drop.

It was difficult for me to just observe this, so I reached out to her.

"Princess Sella. I assured you that there's no need to go through this..."

"Shut up... Shut up...! Be quiet, shut your noisy mouth...!"

In Sella's stern gaze, a sublime determination could be felt.

"A fallen noble you are... Do you realize who I am...? Do you understand the difference between you and me...? Do you comprehend how infinitely high above, how noble I am compared to the likes of you...?"

Though Sella clenched her teeth as she spoke... ultimately, she forced herself to half-bow.

And then, with her head lowered... she spoke her request.

"Please."

It was a sight that would have had all in the royal court doubting their eyes. Everyone would have thought it was a dream.

"Leave Phoenia and stand with me."

I am not unaware of the great significance held by Princess Sella's act of bending her pride.

Honestly, considering this much effort... from my perspective, needing only troops for Bellbrook, it wouldn't hurt to casually accept.

But... I had a set policy.

Accepting Princess Sella's request now could introduce unpredictable variables...!

Honestly, on what basis should I trust?

Most would have fallen for Sella having gone this far, and I, too, am swayed...

But since I do not know how Princess Sella might change her attitude after all is over. My life is at stake.

Therefore, with the competing thought that I could now accept despite everything...

I clenched my teeth and said.

"If I nod here, Princess Phoenia would be saddened."

With a cry of anguish—

BANG!

Princess Sella slammed the table and fell into a fit of screams and sobs.

* * *

'What exactly does this man want?'

To persuade someone, you must grasp what they desire.

If you can satisfy that, most will yield.

But this man, Ed Rothtaylor, even though I've fulfilled all conceivable desires, he remains unshaken.

'Didn't he used to be just a man who would have been nothing without my father's favor? Of mere status, why does he stand so firm...?'

Sitting on the opposite seat, Sella watched Ed, grinding her teeth again.

To bow one's head to a lesser being was as soul-crushing as it was humiliating for Sella. And yet, he knew it. He would have understood the sincerity underlying that gesture.

Yet, shaking his head in response, Ed's behavior now seemed miraculous. For the first time, she had seen someone withstand so much.

Everyone has their limits of loyalty.

No one is free from the logic of self-interest.

If persuasion fails, it is because one's true desires were not entirely understood.

'I've humiliated myself this much, given up all this...?'

It may be possible.

The towering pride of Sella, which would never bow to anyone, holds an immeasurable value to her own self.

However, it might be worthless to this man. Understandable, but...

It isn't just a day or two.

Even after days of writing letters and persuading, the man's unyielding heart remained strong. The reason why it doesn't change even after going this far...

Can he really stand firm just by that single devotion?

Sella Aeineir Clorel, the commanding First Princess, lowers her head as though sinking to the ground; can it be that the child left behind by a declining duke will not be swayed?

The very thought churned within Sella. It seemed her last desperate attempts and her most valued honor were being cast aside without any worth.

Unbelievable.

Facing the turmoil as if caught in a stormy sea, she could not just accept the situation. The feeling of denying her own lofty authority was overwhelming.

Everyone has psychological defense mechanisms.

When Princess Sella, who has cherished her pride her whole life, must accept the futility of her effort.

To protect that high pride... she breaks her train of thought. After all, it is a natural occurrence.

'I... I have no reason... to bow to such a man... for such a petty reason...'

She didn't want to be a person who discards a lifelong conviction just to see if she could break someone's loyalty.

Therefore, she needed a justification to rationalize to herself.

Twisted convictions impact even one's own reasoning.

Furthermore, the contents of the letters she wrote day after day are firmly imprinted in her mind.

The words of courtship towards Ed Rothtaylor that echo in her head, desiring to embrace him, bring him into her fold, to keep him by her side as an advisor to the very end.

Only then does Sella begin to make sense of her own actions.

The trigger does not matter. In the end, as long as the conclusion reached is satisfying, that is all that matters for the mind's deception.

A romantic opportunity is no different. After all, it's the same human heart.

'Could it be... that I... truly...? No, that can't be...'

Suddenly, Sella looked up sharply at Ed Rothtaylor.

He was the man she had desperately tried to seize, the man who never bent his strong resolve.

A heated feeling rose through her neck, and she was momentarily flustered.

Sella herself did not comprehend the sensation, it prickled at the back of her head and forced her to bow deeply again. This couldn't be real. Her lifetime was not spent dominating others.

Faced with this unfamiliar feeling, Sella was as though confronting an immense wall. It was the fear one experiences when faced with the unknown.

* * *

"When do you think we should schedule a meeting with the Elfellan family?"

"Let's wait until the festival is over and the situation has calmed down. The sooner, the better, though."

"Understood. I'll convey that to Princess Phoenia."

Phoenia instructed Clair this way, then collected all the correspondence sent by the Elfellan family and tucked them into a drawer.

She then exhaled a sigh of relief and settled back into the guest sofa.

"Everything is... proceeding smoothly..."

The prideful Princess Sella will never find common ground with Ed. The more drawn-out the situation, the more restless the Elfellan family will become.

But the moment things seem to be going well is precisely when one should not let their guard down.

After all, plans never unfold exactly as expected.

"There don't seem to be any other factors that could complicate things... But..."

Phoenia glanced at the documents spread out on the table, sighing to herself.

The night grew deeper.