Turning Chapter 1034

It felt strangely ironic for Yuder to witness Kishiar—who constantly lectured him on the importance of relaxation—being given similar advice by the Emperor. Yet, Yuder could perceive the true weight behind the Emperor's words.

Prior to his awakening as an Awakener, Kishiar had been under perpetual orders to remain idle. However, that did not mean he had ever truly been stagnant. Despite his physical limitations, he had tirelessly perfected his swordsmanship to become a Swordmaster. He had transformed the desolate lands of Peleta into their current prosperous state and discovered one exceptional talent after another. Figures like Nathan Zuckerman, the Peleta Knights, and Mick Shuden—who now managed a continental trading firm—served as living proof of his industry.

Even when confined to his sickbed, Kishiar had managed to pull the strings of fate by commanding Nathan Zuckerman and his subordinates, ensuring events unfolded according to his design. But regardless of his mental acuity, working from a bed could never be classified as genuine rest.

Even if he possessed a sincere passion for his work, and even if he understood his own limits well enough to avoid total exhaustion, he still required a period of recovery. That appeared to be the essential point the Emperor intended to convey.

However, Kishiar did not immediately concede.

He remained quiet for a moment, searching his brother's expression for a hidden agenda. Eventually, he released a heavy sigh and spoke.

“...Under any other circumstances, I would have accepted with gratitude. But Your Majesty, you recently announced your intention to reinstate my revoked rights and dissolve my restrictions. You must realize such things are not finalized the moment a decree is issued. If I were to vanish from the capital right now, what would the consequences be?”

“Well, I shall simply endure that minor inconvenience myself.”

The Emperor gave his reply without a second thought.

“I apologize, but this is not a matter that can be brushed aside as a mere inconvenience.”

This was the first time Yuder had seen Kishiar display such unwavering concern. Yet, he found it entirely justified.

‘This is essentially a political gamble... No amount of caution is excessive.’

Only days ago, the Duke of Diarca had dispatched assassins after the Emperor and Empress without hesitation. If he learned of today’s sudden proclamation, the palace would effectively transform into a war zone.

Even if the Emperor had become an Awakener and regained his vitality, that alone did not ensure his safety.

Nevertheless, the Emperor was unmoved by Kishiar’s anxiety. Even the Empress maintained her composure.

“Kishiar. That issue is not for you to dwell upon until your sabbatical has concluded.”

“Your Majesty... At the very least, allow me to delay my departure—”

“I will not permit it.”

The Emperor dismissed the proposal with absolute finality.

“Nothing in this life should be taken for granted. You and the talented individuals surrounding me have always been present—but I must not assume that will always be the case. That realization applies to you as well, Kishiar.”

“...Your Majesty.”

“You are bright enough to understand the reasoning behind my decision. The fact that you continue to protest only proves how deeply worried you are.”

But this is a necessary step.

The Emperor’s voice was steady and calm, devoid of any doubt.

“Before I released today’s decree, I consulted with the Prime Minister, Grand General Mucker, the leader of the Imperial Mage Corps, and the Pope. I have restarted the administrative work that had been paralyzed—covering law, diplomacy, and history.”

Each of those individuals was a powerful, politically neutral figurehead.

“They remained inactive for so long because the Imperial Family failed to provide them with certainty. I, who vanished for years without a word, was the primary cause of that failure. To restore that trust and build a foundation for the future, I must discard my armor and demonstrate what I am capable of, even when exposed to danger. That is how one earns conviction.”

“And you believe now is the time to demonstrate that.”

“Indeed. Exactly one month from today, when you return—the world will have changed. You shall see. I will have reclaimed my authority, and no one will be able to feign ignorance any longer.”

“......”

“This is the opportunity I have long envisioned. A strategy that will baffle the enemy, allowing me to seize control of them entirely. It is a chance to validate everything I have prepared. A chance to test my own strength. And a chance for retribution. There has never been a more perfect moment.”

The Emperor’s eyes, framed by his glasses, looked directly at everyone in the room, yet it seemed as though he were staring into the far distance. Though he had the appearance of a refined scholar, his gaze betrayed a monumental will, a fierce passion, and a cold, calculated resolve. Yuder felt briefly overwhelmed by the intensity.

When confronted by a formidable foe, most sensible people would retreat out of self-preservation. But Emperor Keillusa, fully cognizant of the looming threats, remained steadfast.

Just as Kishiar harbored his own dreams and visions, so did the Emperor. And he had no intention of backing down.

That brand of iron-clad determination and icy resolve was a rare trait. Men with eyes like his could not be broken by conventional means, a quality that surely struck fear into his adversaries.

This must have been the true nature of Keillusa before his illness took hold.

Yuder finally understood why the Duke of Diarca had been so intent on destroying the young Emperor before he could come into his own. Keillusa, in his current state, radiated a formidable dignity—one that could make even the most arrogant of enemies hesitate.

The spark of hope rekindled in a man who had once surrendered everything was now a blinding light.

“...I concede.”

Finally, Kishiar held up his hands in a gesture of defeat.

“If this is Your Majesty’s true conviction, how could I possibly object? As your brother and most loyal subject, I shall always follow your lead.”

“I thank you.”

The Emperor’s stern aura softened, and a small smile appeared.

“Therefore, Kishiar. For my sake, take a rest so complete that no one could question it. You may travel with Baron Aile to Peleta, provided he consents and wishes to go, of course.”

For a brief moment, Yuder and Kishiar locked eyes.

Then, Kishiar spoke with a playful, lighthearted tone.

“Ah, as it happens... we have already planned to do just that.”

“...Is that so?”

“Truly?”

The Empress appeared delighted by the news. The Emperor then shifted his attention to Yuder.

“Baron, are you comfortable spending your leave with the Duke? There may be times when you would prefer your own company.”

“I appreciate your consideration, Your Majesty. But I am perfectly fine with it.”

“Do you have any other objectives besides visiting Peleta? If there is anything you require, simply speak. If it is within my power to assist, I shall.”

While he had seemed eager to push Yuder toward Kishiar moments ago, he now seemed equally prepared to help Yuder pursue independent goals. His motives were difficult to decipher, but they did not feel malicious. On the contrary, they seemed born of genuine kindness, so Yuder replied truthfully.

“Beyond visiting Peleta, I do have other arrangements. I have not returned to my village since joining the Cavalry, so I plan to go back and settle some personal matters. There are things I wish to investigate personally, so I will likely be away from the capital for the duration of my leave.”

“Then you will not be in Peleta for long. Do you intend to handle all of that by yourself?”

“No. The Commander... has agreed to go with me.”

“......”

The Emperor fell silent once more. Kishiar, now grinning broadly without a hint of his previous stress, gave an emphatic nod.

“That is correct. I did not wish to boast too early, but I have been invited to my aide’s home. Honestly, the thought of that trip has been my primary motivation lately.”

“I can see why, Duke. It is truly something to be envied.”

The Empress offered a warm, sincere smile. Kishiar’s expression was so bright it felt as if a dozen lanterns had been lit behind him.

The Emperor, however, did not speak again until the meal was over.