I Am Being Mistaken for a Genius Strategist - Chapter 15

“Everyone, listen closely to my words.”

After parting with Kael, the princess immediately convened in secret with members of the pro-war faction.

“The pacifist faction will take action. Specifically, they aim to sway the hearts of the Empire’s citizens.”

“Is that feasible, Your Highness? Especially after our recent victory against Norvogord?”

“That’s precisely what they are counting on. Not just a victory, but one achieved with minimal losses. Now they will try to persuade us that we can accomplish this while paying less tax.”

It feels somewhat embarrassing to echo the words I just heard.

Yet, I must console myself. Listening attentively to the strategist is a skill in itself.

It is indeed wise to heed the words of those more adept than myself.

“If your Highness’s assessment is correct, it will indeed be quite challenging.”

“Mentioning tax issues will undoubtedly rattle not only the Empire’s citizens but also the neutrals.”

“Sadly, it is true that military expenditures are substantial.”

I acknowledge this. Hence, the princess herself wavers.

They are not mad for war; they are not warmongers.

War is simply a means to solidify their foundation.

Once a resolute order is established within the Empire, they will embrace the pacifist viewpoint.

But until that time, until every neighboring nation has capitulated, it cannot happen.

“If they sway the citizenry with taxes, then we must respond in kind.”

“If you possess foresight, I shall listen, Your Highness.”

Foresight indeed. It is a term I wholeheartedly agree with.

With a smile, the princess untied the pouch presented by the strategist.

****

A few days later, the two factions clashed fiercely once more in the Imperial Assembly.

The victory over Norvogrod is a triumph, yet matters of the Assembly are separate, are they not?

“It is truly time to wield something other than swords and daggers as our weapon. Have we not proven that killing is not the only solution?”

“Ha ha ha. If anyone were to overhear, they would think us madmen for war! Moreover, that proof you speak of was only possible in the peculiar circumstances of the battlefield! Speak with some knowledge!”

“Your words are excessive. If this continues, we will have no choice but to discuss the budget in earnest!”

“Ha! Military costs would be more palatable! Should we engage in dialogue? Diplomacy? What do you intend to offer them?”

This place was not so different from Norvogrod. Save for a few details, it resembled it closely.

They would suppress the opposing political factions, strike hard, and pounce on any revealed weaknesses without hesitation.

Yet, thanks to our recent victory, the atmosphere was not as tense as it might have been otherwise.

“Go ask the citizens directly. If you say their taxes will rise, who among them would not object? Especially if it is due to a conflict that need not have arisen!”

“Rising taxes? It will sound like they are skyrocketing! In reality, it’s only a mere three percent increase compared to last year…”

“A mere increase? Three percent is a significant figure! Indeed! Those who only advocate for force clearly have no concern for the Empire’s economic situation!”

“You, on the other hand, are the ones indifferent to external circumstances! The neighboring countries are still on the lookout for opportunities! It is because you are blind to this that you can suggest such foolish notions of dialogue over the strength of power!”

The pacifist faction relentlessly attacked the hawkish faction over tax-related issues.

They believed without a doubt that the citizens would support their claims.

Such news also reached Kael as he returned to his house through the princess.

‘Indeed. There is nothing more fearsome than the budget in this nation.’

Increased budgets naturally lead to rising taxes.

On that very day, there were whispers of hope that military taxes might actually decrease.

The pacifist faction seemed to have subtly released information to this effect.

No matter how noble they may be, they must ultimately heed the sentiments of the Empire’s citizens.

How many nations have crumbled in such a manner? The study of history is not in vain.

At this rate, the hawkish faction would find the image of warmongers increasingly uncomfortable.

However, the very next day, like a lie, the response of the Empire’s citizens changed dramatically.

It was none other than the princess’s plan (though technically, it was Kael’s) that was prepared.

“Is it true that our Empire will be the first to bow and extend a hand?”

“What nonsense is this! If one were to listen, they would think our Empire had suffered a great defeat!”

“Having defeated the brutish demons of Norvogrod, what could we possibly want?”

This is not unfounded arrogance. The Empire has continuously been victorious.

Had we lost a war, could we have sustained this vast territory?

And this has been possible thanks to a remarkable emperor, dutiful nobles, and diligent commanders.

Above all, it was due to those like them—soldiers who fulfilled their obligations—that it was achievable.

Yet now, before such individuals—to suggest that our Empire must concede somewhat.

To state that we should step back to open the floodgates for dialogue…

“Taxes will decrease? Of course, that is a fine notion! But I will not trade my pride for a single coin!”

“If you wish for dialogue, they must do the same! Why must we bow first?”

The Empire is fundamentally a conscription-based military. However, at times, it also implemented partial drafts.

This means that the number of individuals who have served in the military within the Empire is far greater than one might think.

And they are all heroes, returning triumphantly as victors.

But when faced with the choice of a coin or one of the Empire’s prides, would they choose the former without hesitation?

Kael could confidently answer ‘no’ to that question.

‘At first glance, one might think of war too lightly. They might call us warmongers, or some such nonsense.’

If one appears weak, it is all over. Ultimately, everything is a battle of momentum. Half the battle is won there.

Why do neighboring countries fall silent when the Empire mobilizes its armies to the borders, despite their dissatisfaction?

Because they know that if they truly engage, they will face dire consequences. They do not forget fear.

‘The prince’s ideals are undoubtedly the right path for the future. But if they are limited solely to the Empire, they are of no use. One must grasp the circumstances of the neighboring countries as well. The hawks undoubtedly hold a clear advantage there.’

With this thought in mind, Kael quietly gazed out the window.

It seemed that the tranquil life in this other world had long since drifted away.

****

“Alexei. How do I look?”

“You look splendid.”

“Right? Hmph. This ought to spare me from any nagging.”

“Hmm… honestly, if it were Lady Kaya, she would likely nag you regardless of how handsome you are.”

Oof, come on. Don’t hit me with such brutal honesty.

At times like this, a simple, “I’m sure she will!” would suffice to bolster my spirits.

The Count of Bertie, I arrived at our family estate.

But instead of heading straight into the castle, I paused for a moment.

And then I began adorning myself with various items I had procured from the market.

“Brother! You need to dress up! What is this shabby appearance? What will other women think?”

“No, Kaya. I’m just going for a stroll around the estate…”

“No way! You must always look dashing!”

Do you know what’s truly unfair? Her persistent nagging actually coerced me to finally dress up.

Only for a fresh wave of Kaya’s nagging to crash over me like a tsunami.

“What is this?!”

“Why are you complaining again?!”

“You look too handsome! If you go out like this, everyone will stare at you! I don’t like it!”

“What do you want me to do?!”

No matter where I turn, it’s a problem. It feels as if she’d devour me whole.

Casting a glance at my father, hoping for some intervention, he merely sighed deeply.

My mother smiled, remarking on how well the siblings got along. I thought I might lose my mind.

After that, I finally discovered a balance that could withstand Kaya’s nagging.

‘Not too handsome, yet not shabby either, but somewhere in between.’

It’s a bothersome task, but what can I do? It’s a request from our Kaya, so I must comply.

She probably wishes to see her brother looking splendid while simultaneously feeling a twinge of jealousy.

Maybe she thinks I’ll soon grow distant when I get older and meet my future spouse!

“Sire.”

“Yeah? Is everything done?”

“I just received word. They’re wondering why you haven’t entered the estate yet, considering you arrived some time ago…”

“Is Kaya asking?”

—Nods

Some time ago? Kaya, my sister. Frankly, twenty minutes ago is hardly “some time”…

Is it too much to ask for you to wait a moment after nagging so incessantly…?

“Let’s hurry.”

I quickly wrapped things up and headed toward the main estate.

The jolting carriage gradually began to slow.

Then, I heard a brief commotion outside, followed by—

—Jolt!

“Goodness!”

It wasn’t in the garden or indoors that they awaited me, nor even at the castle gates.

As soon as the carriage rolled in, someone burst forth, flinging the door open with fervor.

“Brother Kael!”

“Hello, Kaya.”

“Brother!!”

Oh dear. My sister. You’re no longer a little child, are you?

As she rushed in for a hug, I thought I might suffocate…!