The Empror's Trap-Chapter 97: Ch - Banquet

At the banquet, both the guests and the hosts enjoyed themselves.

The Vishi Empire specially prepared dishes that represented their national characteristics for Pluvia. Looking at the steak and exquisite seafood in front of her, Pluvia picked up a piece with her fork and tasted it. The flavor was actually quite good, but for Pluvia, it was more about the novelty rather than the dishes being extremely delicious—she was not used to eating such cuisine.

She and Feit III sat in the main guest seats, facing each other. It seemed that the other party did not intend to discuss overly serious matters at this time. Instead, they continuously chatted about interesting events that had occurred between the two empires, while also commenting on the exchange of talents between the two sides.

Seizing this opportunity, Pluvia observed the Vishi Empire’s ministers who were accompanying them at the banquet.

Many of them were not interested in the topics that could promote relations between the two empires. Instead, they whispered among themselves and occasionally glanced at her. Some were silently drinking on the side. A few seemed to be trying to join the conversation between the two emperors to act as a foil for the dialogue.

Indeed, no matter what country it is, differences of opinion are inevitable. However, judging from the current situation in the Vishi Empire, the emperor is the true center of power. Based on Pluvia’s own judgment, the dukes he controls might no longer be the lords who are second only to the emperor.

While she was chatting and trying to bring those officials who seemed friendly to Camelot and were attempting to join the conversation into the topic, she suddenly realized that Kenji was missing.

During today’s banquet, Kenji had already made excuses to leave several times. In a diplomatic setting, this was not a wise thing to do.

However, here, she could not openly ask, "Where is my Grand Marshal?" in public. She could only continue to have a pleasant conversation with Emperor Feit III.

Kenji certainly did not abandon his own emperor halfway through the meal.

Just now, a Royal Guard found him and informed him of some news.

"The capital of the Vishi Empire is not stable. Through our investigation, it seems that there are still various forces within the city waiting to disrupt the situation. The fact that Her Majesty has personally come here has further stimulated those forces."

The Royal Guard took off her helmet, and her long black hair cascaded down, revealing her delicate face.

"How is the defense of the Vishi Empire?"

"The defense has been significantly strengthened. The information I heard is that their emperor attaches great importance to Her Majesty’s visit this time, so he has doubled the defense forces. However, a strengthened defense does not mean there are no loopholes. We cannot rely on outsiders to protect Her Majesty’s safety."

The Royal Guard handed over the defense map of Vitnan City that she had scouted. It could be said that the Vishi Empire indeed takes this security work very seriously. The number of patrolling guards on the streets alone has increased by at least 50%, not to mention the guards protecting Luin Palace and Thelia Palace.

However, the city is very large. Even if the defense forces are strengthened, if there are indeed individuals who deliberately want to cause trouble, it would be difficult to thoroughly investigate and identify them in a timely manner.

"Have you seen the location for tomorrow’s review?"

"Yes, I have. They have already done a clearance work there in advance, and most of the buildings have been emptied. However, I am still not reassured."

"Your concern is justified. I have also observed that the urban area of Vitnan City is vast, with complex streets and dense buildings and a dense population. It is difficult to ensure security."

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"Tomorrow, I will stay by Her Majesty’s side without leaving her for a moment," Kenji patted the sword at his waist. "Coincidentally, during tomorrow’s events, I will present a bronze sword from Camelot to Emperor Feit as a gift. If nothing goes wrong, they will also have their military leader present a weapon to Her Majesty as a gift. As military officers, you and I have the right to carry a weapon. You must stay alert and make sure there is no mistake."

"I understand," the Royal Guard agreed. "Tonight, before Her Majesty returns to the Luin Palace, we will secretly check for any hidden dangers around to ensure her safety."

"Do it discreetly. It’s best to disguise yourselves before going out so as not to make a bad impression."

"Understood, we will not cause any trouble for Her Majesty."

She agreed to this request without hesitation.

"Alright, you continue with your mission. I need to go back. However, I did not expect you to take the initiative to come and talk to me about this. I remember that you, as the chief of the Royal Guards, seemed to be quite averse to me?"

Kenji stood up, straightened his clothes, and asked casually.

This chief was the leader of the Royal Guards, a few years older than Kenji, and the most capable fighter among the Royal Guards. At the same time, she was a trusted person that Pluvia had placed by her side.

If General Balinos was loyal to Camelot, then this chief was completely loyal to the emperor.

Because of this stance, she had always been lukewarm towards Kenji. Moreover, since the Royal Guards were not under Kenji’s command (the Royal Guards are independent of the Camelot army and only take orders from the emperor), the most they did when they met was to chat about trivial matters.

Now, for her to take the initiative to find him was truly a rare occurrence.

"Regarding Her Majesty’s safety, I dare not be negligent," she looked at him coldly. "Grand Marshal, I think you also do not want anything to go wrong for Her Majesty here, so it is still acceptable to consult with you now."

"I see."

Indeed, she was very wary. If it weren’t for the fact that she inferred that he had no reason to harm Pluvia at this time, she would probably have taken it upon herself to adjust the defense.

"If there is nothing else, I will leave."

After saying that, the Royal Guard disappeared from Kenji’s sight.

Tsk, what can I say, she is indeed Pluvia’s confidant, with her guard up to the max.

However... so what? Does this woman naively think that the Royal Guards are a monolithic block?

Ahem, I shouldn’t think so much, it’s too evil!

Kenji stood up and returned to the banquet.

"Oh, Mr. Kenji, come here quickly, we have been waiting for you for a long time!"

Pushing open the door of the banquet hall, several officials said with excitement.

Kenji looked at these cunning old men and couldn’t help but sigh—they were holding fine wine in their hands, waiting for him.

Another round of a very wonderful drinking session was about to begin. He hoped that these people’s drinking intensity would not be more ferocious than that of the Camelot army...