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After several days of interrogation, it was revealed that Benno was a former prince of the Metus Empire located east of the Lakisen Kingdom.
The usual group, now including Hina, gathered in (Cordelia)’s room. Fenrir’s massive body sat in a corner happily enjoying fruit sandwiches.
Isaac, under everyone’s gaze, read from the written testimony.
“‘Born as the Seventh Prince of the Metus Empire, Benno lost his mother to assassination in his homeland. He himself was nearly killed and defected to the Lakisen Kingdom with supporters over a decade ago. Taking advantage of the Holy Maiden issue, he plotted to seize this nation and take revenge on his homeland.’ …He also confessed the recent great fire was to cause chaos.”
(I see, so that was the role prepared for him. As expected of one of the “Lakisen Flower” heroes — being a former prince fits.)
Cordelia nodded in odd admiration. Beside her, Hina still looked dejected from being kidnapped.
“Sorry Kana-chan. He was easy to talk to, so I told him a lot…”
According to Hina, they were summoned by Benno under the pretense of inspecting the healing venue. But when they arrived, Benno wasn’t there, and before they knew it they had lost consciousness — and everything was over.
“It’s fine. The fact you can reflect is admirable… I mean, just be careful next time. So what will happen to Benno?”
After patting Hina’s head, Cordelia asked cautiously. Isaac narrowed his eyes.
“He endangered countless innocent citizens and plotted the kidnapping and murder of two Holy Maidens. The crime is grave. Normally execution… however he is undeniably a former prince. A conclusion will take time.”
(That makes sense…)
This could not be decided within the kingdom alone. Executing a foreign prince could spark diplomatic conflict with the Metus Empire. Talks would be required.
Seeing Cordelia’s serious face, Jean spoke.
“We figured out Benno, but isn’t there something more important?”
“Oh — right. We must deliver additional aid to those who lost homes.”
“No, not that! Well that too, but tomorrow!”
“That’s right! Tomorrow the Grand Holy Maiden will finally be decided!?”
Lily exclaimed.
“Ah!”
Cordelia finally remembered.
The capital had been frantic — festival preparation, disaster relief, rebuilding homes. With the nation supporting victims and Cordelia and Elrina helping tirelessly, she had forgotten tomorrow was the Founding Festival.
“So tomorrow… one way or another, the Grand Holy Maiden will be decided.”
“Maybe I should charm the noble uncles once more?”
Hina said seriously.
Isaac’s investigation showed Cordelia leading, but elections were unpredictable. Hina’s charm could sway votes — her greeting visits were effective.
“…Perhaps I should also go charm the nobles.”
Everyone gasped — except Hina, who hugged her happily.
“Shall we go together Kana-chan? The uncles would be happy!”
“Yes, but not only them — we should greet their wives. Many who boast publicly still obey their wives privately. You should also focus on women.”
“Ugh… I’m bad with women… I don’t know how to please them… somehow they get mad…”
Cordelia laughed at her sudden meekness.
“They’re not demons. If you’re polite, they’ll be kind. …As long as you don’t act strange.”
“Then Kana-chan, will you scold me if I do?”
“Of course. Let’s go greet them today. Not too disruptive… and we need gifts.”
It was risky introducing a political rival — yet Cordelia wanted Hina to build friendships. In her past life Hina was adored by men but rarely played happily with girls.
(Hina deserves to gain something new instead of the mistaken setting she lost.)
She still called herself Hina and Cordelia Kana — but she had clearly changed.
“Kana-chan…”
“Yes?”
Hina fidgeted.
“Hina… no, I… from now on I’ll use my real name. Elrina.”
Cordelia gasped.
“I think… Mom and Dad would be happier… is it strange?”
Cordelia smiled warmly and held her hands.
“No. It’s wonderful. Hina was lovely, but Elrina is even more beautiful.”
Elrina shyly smiled — a fresh blossoming flower.
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