Not-So an Extra

The Conference Hall was a magnificent sight to behold, exuding grandeur and opulence in every detail. 

The walls were adorned with intricately woven tapestries, depicting scenes from the Empire's rich history. 

Banners bearing the symbols of noble families who had ruled the land for generations hung from the walls. 

The hall was further decorated with ornamental objects, such as suits of armor, shields, and weapons. 

Large windows lining the walls allow in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

In the center of the room stood a rectangular podium and behind it, a large banner displaying the coat of arms of the Imperial family hung from the ceiling. 

The seating area was arranged in a semicircle, with five rows of polished wooden seats cushioned with plush velvet, providing comfort and a clear view of the podium.

The guard soon announced the arrival of all military officers and nobles, beginning with the lowest ranking and ending with the highest ranking.

The once-empty seats were now occupied by a crowd of people, and the air was filled with a distinctive clatter.

"His Majesty the Emperor is entering!"

The attendees immediately stood up and bowed in respect as the Emperor made his way toward the podium.

Arthur Leillucis, a man in his early forties, had a striking appearance. 

He had white hair and piercing maroon eyes that accentuated his chiseled features, including a strong jawline and high cheekbones. 

He possessed an impressive physique with broad shoulders and a toned body that spoke of discipline and strength. 

Overall, he exuded power and confidence in every step he took, making him a remarkable figure.

Following closely behind him was his aide, Erudian, a young man with dark blue hair.

Settling on the dais, Arthur gestured towards the chairs.

"Have a seat."

The attendees quickly complied.

Browsing his gaze over the faces of the audience, he was momentarily diverted by the sight of two empty seats in the front row.

Arthur turned to his aide and asked.

"Has Graham arrived yet?"

"Not yet, Your Majesty."

"I see."

Returning his attention to the audience, Arthur opened the conference.

"Today we gather to discuss recent events that have taken place in our land. I implore each of you to set aside any personal differences and unite towards a common goal."

"Yes, Sire!"

They responded with a resounding and he continued.

"Then, let us start with the first topic."

As the discussion progressed, people began to voice their thoughts one by one, and eventually, their voices merged into a single cohesive conversation.

When the discussion finally came to a close, Arthur thanked the attendees for their valuable input and formally closed the first topic. 

Shortly after, Erudian stepped forward to present a summary of the first topic.

"The Knights stationed in the Refugee Camp have shown immense bravery and will be rewarded financially based on their rank and length of service. Additionally, their pensions will be guaranteed."

He paused and resumed.

"In the unfortunate event of knights' passing, they will be posthumously promoted and their name will be recorded in a book of remembrance. The family left behind will receive compensation of five thousand gold coins and food rations every month for six months."

Erudian returned to his position and people were seen nodding in satisfaction upon hearing it.

"Is there any objection?"

Arthur asked, scanning the faces of his people.

Since no one spoke up, Arthur began again.

"Very well, let us move on to the next issue." 

The sound of pages flipping filled the room as they turned to the next subject, and their eyes carefully skimmed every letter written in the report.

Taking a deep breath, Arthur opened the second discussion.

"As you all know, the Kearny Kingdom has announced their defeat, yet they attacked one of our Refugee Camps in the Egberg Region. I would like to hear your thoughts on this matter."

"Ahem!"

A clearing of the throat was heard, and all eyes soon landed on a black-haired man with a few strands of gray hair—it was Duke Delacroix.

"Your Majesty, how dare they attack our people? Doesn't this mean that they were violating the truce we have given?"

Duke Florance, a middle-aged man with lilac hair and purple eyes nodded and added.

"I have to agree with Duke Delacroix. The Kearny Kingdom has violated the truce. Their actions were not only unethical but also against basic human rights."

Duchess Roséria, a middle-aged woman with dark red hair and eyes, shared her thoughts.

"Your Majesty, in my humble opinion, the Kearny Kingdom's actions are unforgivable. Although we were able to defend ourselves during the attack and there were no casualties among the refugees, if we fail to hold them off, we could lose over two thousand of our people's lives."

"Your Majesty, we could use this chance to set an example for other Kingdoms and also to expand our territory once again."

One by one, people expressed the same sentiment: the Empire must not pardon the Kearny Kingdom. 

The room fell silent for a moment until Arthur, the Emperor, turned towards the military seating section.

"Sir Kenneth and Sir Hervey, what is the status of our Army and Marine?" 

Sir Kenneth, a Field Marshal, stood up and began to explain. 

He was a man in his late sixties, with brown hair and deep blue eyes.

"Your Majesty, our army currently consists of 120,000 soldiers, including infantry, cavalry, and archers. We have trained them well and equipped them with the latest weapons and armor. However, if the nobles' faction is willing to send their knights, this number could increase."

Sir Hervey, a Fleet Admiral, also stood up to give his report.

"The Marine was in good condition, Your Majesty, 750 galleons are ready for battle and have recently been restocked with supplies."

"How about our finance?"

The minister of Finance stood and explained.

"Regarding our finances, we could allocate a budget of 4 million gold coins for this war. This amount should be sufficient to cover the costs of supplies, weapons, and salaries for our Knights for at least a year."

"I see. Thank you for the information."

With that, they returned to their seats and Arthur spoke.

"We must ensure that our army is well-prepared and well-supplied for this war. We cannot afford to lose—"

Suddenly, a voice echoed throughout the room, interrupting Arthur.

"With all due respect, Your Majesty, we cannot send our army there."

—Bang!

The door that abruptly opened caused the people in the room to turn toward the entrance.

There, they saw a white-haired boy standing in the doorway.