The Emperor and Roa (3): The Third Prince

“You want me to help forge an alliance between our Empire and Rudek? Of course.”

Just like Lulria, Tsetsie promised to help before even asking why. I was grateful, and couldn’t help smiling.

“What is it?”

“Sorry. It’s just that you said exactly what Lulria said. Thank you, Tsetsie.”

“No, I haven’t done anything yet... And I’m sorry to say this after promising to help, but my father isn’t someone who can be swayed just because it’s his son asking. I’m not sure how much help I can be... In fact, I’m not even sure we’ll be granted an audience. I’ll make the request as soon as I can, though.”

“Oh, right. I’m working on getting an audience through another route, too. So... well, two or three days from now would be fine.”

“Another route?”

“It’s someone you’ve met before, too: Zodia, leader of the traveling troupe Le Pu Zea.”

“Ah, the person who visited our estate recently. Zodia did mention being acquainted with you, Roa-dono. But why would someone from a traveling troupe...?”

I explained the advantage of being able to request a meeting with the Emperor without going through the official diplomatic channels...