Chapter 99. Side Story 4 - Truth?

Imperial Calendar Year 12, November 4th.

As the Empire's might grew day by day and the nation strengthened, we found ourselves facing a serious dilemma for the first time in a long while.

"What... what in the world is she?"

"Perhaps she's drawing Divine Power from the Goddess's remains?"

"No one has entered there in the last five years, as far as I know."

'Because our marital relations have cooled?'

Impossible. I may be in my 40s and my Empresses in their 30s, but our passion is still burning. Except when I'm away on official business, we enjoy ourselves together about twelve times a week.

'Because of the Imperial succession?'

The principles of succession have long been established, and the order of successors has been designated and announced. I even had laws enacted, so there should be no room for dispute. I don't want such matters causing discord in the family.

'Because we're getting old and losing our stamina?'...