Court Sage Artoria Episode 11 "Artoria, Towards National Reform"

Episode 11 "Artoria, Towards National Reform"

Court/Government Affairs Room

A mountain of documents.

Artoria sits at a heavy desk, her gaze serious.

Artoria (inner voice)
(...How did it come to this?)

She flips through a draft of a bill.

Artoria (inner voice)
(It was yesterday--)

Flashback

Royal Palace/Leonis's Private Room

The heavy door closes.
Leonis stands, staring at Artoria.

Leonis
"Artoria, this is a royal order."

Artoria
"Yes."

Leonis
"Lend your strength to the reform of this country."

Silence.

Artoria
"What!? You want me to lend my strength to the country's reform!?"

Leonis does not move an inch.

Leonis
"There is no need to be surprised, is there? You have been to Arzeria for two weeks."

Artoria
"..."

Leonis
"I want you to make use of that experience for our country as well."

Artoria, bewildered.

Artoria
"B-but I am still a young man who hasn't even reached the age of twenty...!"

Leonis
"A country is not run by age."

He takes a step closer.

Leonis
"Your father, Barnes Philia, was about that age when he caught my father's eye."

Artoria freezes.

Artoria
"Eh...?"

Silence.

Artoria
"I haven't... spoken to you about my family...?"

Leonis exhales quietly.

Leonis
"I had my suspicions... and I confirmed them when I asked your father."

Artoria's eyes waver.

Leonis
"You are Barnes's third son, aren't you?"

The air freezes.

Artoria
"..."

Leonis
"I understand why you hid it. But listen."

The King's eyes sharpen.

Leonis
"Blood does not matter. It is ability."

A pause.

Leonis
"I am not asking you because you are Barnes's son. I am asking you because you are 'Artoria Philia'."

Artoria slowly looks up.

Artoria
“...Your Majesty.”

Leonis
“This country is at a turning point. The old noble faction is quietly sharpening its fangs. The conquered territories are unstable. The treasury is near its limit. We need young intelligence.”

A long silence.

Artoria takes a deep breath.

Artoria
“...I understand. I will do what I can.”

Leonis smiles slightly.

Leonis
“Good. Starting tomorrow, we will establish the National Reform Council. You will be at its core.”

Artoria widens her eyes.

Leonis
“Be prepared.”

Present: Government Office

Artoria flips through documents.

Artoria (internal monologue)
(...Prepared, huh.)

She reads the bills.

“Tax System Reform Proposal”
“Conquered Territory Governance Decree Revision”
“Bureaucrat Appointment Regulation Amendment”

Artoria knits her brows.

Artoria
“...This is full of holes.”

She turns the page.

Artoria
“At this rate, the old noble faction will just oppose it and that will be the end of it.”

She places her hand on the desk.

Artoria (internal monologue)
(How would Father... have stood in this position?)

For a moment, Burns's figure flashes through her mind.
Artoria closes her eyes. Then, she opens them.

Artoria
“...Well, I suppose I'll just do what I can.”

She picks up a pen.
She begins to write corrections with a rustle.

Office

Artoria sits in a chair,
and Ilhalem, James, and Daim stand before her.

James
“...Is this truly by His Majesty's order?”

Daim
“...Honestly, I cannot believe it.”

Ilhalem
“To think that my cousin would even get involved in national politics...”

Artoria gives a bitter smile.

Artoria
“I can't believe it either.”

James
“Reform, you say...”

Daim
“You will surely have many enemies.”

Ilhalem has a serious expression.

Ilhalem
“The old nobility faction will undoubtedly make a move.”

Artoria nods.

Artoria
“Yes. That is precisely why I cannot do this alone.”

The three of them look up.

Artoria
“I have gained two collaborators for this.”

James
“Collaborators?”

Artoria
“The Prime Minister's second son and legal officer—Leon Garsa.”

The three of them gasp.

Daim: "From the Prime Minister's house...!"

Artoria: "And the second son of the Foreign Minister, a diplomat—Jean Horn."

Ilhalem: "The Horn family..."

Artoria: "Both of them are young, but they are excellent."

After a beat, she smiles gently.

Artoria: "They hold the same rank as you, Baron."

James: "In other words..."

Daim: "You're going to solidify this with the younger generation?"

Artoria: "Yes."

Artoria places her hands on the desk.

Artoria: "The old nobility faction pushes with 'lineage and tradition.' Then we will counter with 'ability and theory.'"

Ilhalem's eyes gleam.

Daim: "That's interesting."

James: "The two wheels of law and diplomacy..."

Ilhalem: "Cousin, you are serious about this."

Artoria says quietly.

Artoria: "This is not just reform. It is the work of creating a structure that will allow this country to last for the next hundred years."

Tension runs through the room.

Ilhalem: "...I have been on your side from the beginning, Cousin."

Dime
"Me too. Until the very end."

James
"Likewise."

Artoria looked slightly relieved.

Artoria
"Thank you."

Royal Palace - Grand Dining Hall

Luxurious dishes were lined up on a long, oval dining table.
The royals took their seats, and conversation flowed in the gentle light.

Leonis spoke quietly.

Leonis
"I have entrusted the national administration to Artoria."

For a moment, the air stood still.

Celia
"...You entrusted the national administration to Artoria?"

Leonis
"Yes. I have been entrusting it to her since yesterday."

Gainus crossed his arms.

Gainus
"That was a bold move, Father."

Dorgon grinned.

Dorgon
"As expected of the person I had high hopes for."

Yurina's eyes sparkled.

Yurina
"Lady Artoria is in charge of the national administration..."

Agnis stopped using her fork.

Agnis
"But... isn't she a bit too young for that?"

Furia also nodded gently.

Furia
"As Agnis says. Isn't she still nineteen?"

Leonis slowly sets down his wine.

Leonis
"Age is irrelevant."

His gaze sharpens.

Leonis
"If capable people do not drive politics, this country will not survive."

Silence.

Ellis smiles quietly.

Ellis
"As expected, Father's trust in her is deep."

Celia lowers her gaze.

Celia
"..."

Agnis stares intently at Celia and grins.

Agnis
"By the way, Celia."

Celia
"Yes?"

Agnis
"How have things been with him lately?"

Celia freezes.
Her fork makes a small sound.

Celia
"W-what are you talking about...?"

Gainus clears his throat.

Gainus
"Agnis. Drop that subject."

Agnis
"? Is that so?"

Gainus
"There are various circumstances."

Yurina says in a low voice.

Yurina
“...You mean Lady Arzeria, don't you?”

Celia's face turns bright red.

Celia
“Yu, Yurina!?”

Agnis's eyes light up.

Agnis
“What, what is it!? That sounds interesting!”

Furia smiles with a shrug.

Furia
“We are eating, Agnis.”

Leonis looks at Celia quietly.

Leonis
“...Celia.”

Celia straightens her posture.

Leonis
“Artoria will make many enemies from now on. What will you do?”

For a moment, the joking atmosphere vanishes.
Celia answers with serious eyes.

Celia
“...I will stand by his side.”

Agnis says in a low voice.

Agnis
“I knew it...”

Ellis smiles gently.

Ellis
“That is reliable.”

Leonis nods slowly.

Leonis
“Then that is good.”

Celia's cheeks are still red.

Filia Family Study

Moonlight shines outside the window.

On the desk lie a thick legal code and a map.

Artoria sits in a chair, reading a book.

Only the sound of turning pages echoes quietly.

Before long, her hand stops.

Artoria closes her eyes.

Artoria (monologue):
"...It has already been nine months since I was summoned to the royal palace after solving the drought problem."

She looks out the window.

Artoria:
"I cured Princess Yurina's poison..."

For a moment, the tension of that night at the palace flashes through her mind.

Artoria:
"I went to the neighboring country of Ilkan and stopped the war..."

The atmosphere of the battlefield, the sound of clashing swords.

Artoria:
"I stopped the magical runaway in the royal capital of Alzeria..."

King Johan's gaze, Ilusha's earnest eyes.

Artoria:
"And now... I am involved in national politics."

A bitter smile.

Artoria:
"Honestly, how did things end up like this?"

She closes the book.

A quiet silence.

Artoria's eyes look into the distance.

Artoria
“...Ever since the incident with my brothers, Regnaria has felt stifling.”

A shadow falls for a moment.

Artoria
“I left the capital and grew up working in the fields on the Ermea Plains.”

Memories of wheat fields swaying in the wind.

Mud-stained hands.

The scent of sweat and soil.

Artoria
“I intended to just live quietly.”

She gives a small laugh.

Artoria
“I never imagined the day would come when I’d be reviewing bills in the royal palace.”

She looks at the desk again.

A mountain of documents.

Artoria exhales deeply.

Artoria
“...Father.”

The image of Barnes appears in her mind.

Artoria
“What were your thoughts when you stood on the stage of politics?”

She clenches her fist lightly.

Artoria
“I still haven't caught up to your back.”

Moonlight illuminates her profile.

Artoria
"But..."

Her gaze intensifies.

Artoria
"I won't run. I honed my theories to protect the fields. If that's the case, then this time—I will simply use my logic to protect the country."

A quiet determination.

The wind blows outside.

In the distance, the palace bell tolls.

The young sage stands up quietly.

Royal Palace: Reform Council Office

Documents are stacked neatly on the desk. Artoria is busy writing with her pen.

Artoria
"...The clauses for tax reorganization are still too lenient."

The door is knocked on modestly.

Knock, knock.

Artoria
"Come in."

The door opens.
Leon Garsa, a young man with neat black hair and calm eyes, bows.

Leon
"Excuse me."

A quiet voice.

Leon
"These are the bills submitted today."

He places a thick stack of documents on the desk. Artoria looks up.

Artoria
"...What is the content?"

Leon begins to explain in a matter-of-fact tone.

Leon
“This is a proposal from the old nobility faction. It is nominally about a ‘financial subsidy system for the stabilization of conquered territories.’”

Artoria moves her eyebrows slightly.

Leon
“However, in substance, it is a plan to return a portion of tax collection rights to influential local nobles.”

He opens the page and points with his finger.

Leon
“The wording of Article 7 is ambiguous. The term ‘exceptional discretion’ is dangerous.”

Artoria continues reading the document.

Artoria
“...I see.”

Leon
“It appears moderate on the surface, but in ten years, central control will be weakened.”

Artoria
“What about the funding source?”

Leon
“It is a plan to use a portion of the royal treasury as collateral. In the future, the crown’s financial flexibility will be eroded.”

Artoria slowly looks up.

Artoria
“...You are the younger brother of the Crown Princess, yet you are remarkably thorough in your work.”

A moment of silence.

Leon’s expression does not change.

Leon
“Blood relations have nothing to do with my duties.”

Indifferently.

Leon
“If anything, now that my sister has married into the royal family, I cannot afford to be looked down upon.”

Artoria smiles slightly.

Artoria
“I see.”

Leon
“If this bill is passed, the influence of the old nobility faction will increase. If it is rejected, they will make a fuss about how ‘a young upstart has rejected tradition.’”

Artoria
“...It’s clever.”

Leon
“Yes. It smells like Lord Kahn.”

The air grows slightly heavy.

Artoria
“How do you see it?”

Leon, immediate response.

Leon
“A total rejection is not a wise move.”

Artoria narrows her eyes with interest.

Leon
“We should propose amendments and take the initiative. Change the ‘exceptional discretion’ to include an audit agency. Make tax collection subject to central approval. Switch the funding source to temporary national bonds.”

Artoria smiles slightly.

Artoria
“...That’s good.”

Leon
“Thank you.”

Artoria
“You aren’t on the side that upholds the law, are you?”

Leon
“?”

Artoria
“You’re on the side that uses the law to move the pieces on the board.”

Leon narrows his eyes just a fraction.

Leon
“...If that is the form you desire.”

A quiet resonance.
Artoria stands up.

Artoria
“Alright. Let’s draft the amendments.”

Leon
“Understood.”

The two sit side by side at the desk.
Young intellects begin to reconstruct the future of the nation.

Immediately after Leon left and silence returned, the door was knocked on again.

Knock, knock.

Artoria
Come in.

The door opened.
A young man with a bright smile, Jean Horn, bowed.

Jean
Excuse me.

His tone was light, but his eyes were serious.

Jean
Information on the surrounding countries has arrived, and I have come to report it to you.

Artoria
Let me hear it.

Jean quickly spread out a map.
A map of the entire continent was laid out on the desk.

Jean pointed to the north of the map with his finger.

Jean
The King of the northern Logo Kingdom passed away the other day.

Artoria
...And the successor?

Jean
Three factions are in conflict over the succession. It is currently in a state of de facto civil war.

Artoria said quietly.

Artoria
Northern trade will be stalled, then.

Jean
Yes. If it is not resolved by winter, there is a possibility of an influx of refugees.

Jean slid his finger to the east.

Jean
The Ilkan Kingdom.

Artoria's expression shifted slightly.

Jean
They are continuing their war with the neighboring Barachatta Kingdom. It is said that King Georges himself is leading the command on the front lines.

Artoria
“...That sounds like him.”

Jean
“If they win, they gain momentum. If they lose, they destabilize. Either way, the East will be shaken.”

Jean casts his gaze toward the west.

Jean
“The Kingdom of Arzeria.”

The atmosphere changes slightly.

Jean
“King Johan is preparing for formal alliance negotiations with Regnas.”

Artoria
“...That’s fast.”

Jean
“Yes. He is a wise king, after all.”

Jean says this with a hint of deeper meaning.

Jean
“He may also establish ‘formalities’.”

Artoria
“Formalities?”

Jean
“Blood ties, marriage, academic cooperation... various things.”

Artoria falls silent.
Jean moves the map to the south.

Jean
“The Bernard Union in the south. The former states are in a state of internal conflict over the seat of the next leader. There is no will for unification.”

Artoria
“...The south is not a threat for the time being.”

Jean
“Yes. However, other countries will target the power vacuum.”

Jean points to the edge of the map.

Jean
“The maritime tribes are becoming active. The eastern grassland tribes have begun to move. Alliances between small nations are also being reorganized.”

Artoria stares quietly at the map.

Artoria
“...The continent is shaking.”

Jean
Yes. And—

Jean looks straight at Artoria.

Jean
In this situation, if Regnas is shaken from within...

Artoria
The surrounding nations will move in unison.

Jean
That is correct.

Silence.

Artoria
In other words, domestic reform is also a diplomatic strategy.

Jean smiles.

Jean
Yes. If the country is strong, we can form alliances on favorable terms. If it is weakened, we will be interfered with.

Artoria
...You are quite calm for someone so young.

Jean
I am the son of the Foreign Minister, after all.

With a slightly mischievous look.

Jean
Besides, I often debate with Lord Ilharem.

Artoria laughs lightly.

Artoria
I see.

Jean
I have one proposal.

Artoria
What is it?

Jean
If we take too long to form an alliance with Arzeria, other countries will become wary. We should proceed quickly.

Artoria nods quietly.

Artoria
...Understood. That is one more reason to hasten domestic reform.

Jean
"Yes. The continent will not wait for us."

Artoria stares at the center of the map—Regnas.

Artoria
"...Then, let us hurry."

The young sage's gaze was already looking beyond the borders.

Royal Palace, Audience Chamber (Private Report)

The audience chamber is vast, but it is currently cleared of people.
Artoria stands before the throne. Leonis sits quietly.

Leonis
"Report."

Artoria bows.

Artoria
"Yes. First, regarding the financial subsidy proposal for conquered territories submitted by the old nobility faction—"

She presents the documents.

Artoria
"In essence, it is a proposal to return a portion of tax collection rights to the local nobility."

Leonis narrows his eyes.

Leonis
"...As I thought."

Artoria
"The 'exceptional discretion' in Article 7 is dangerous. It will weaken central control in the future."

Leonis
"Do you have a counterproposal?"

Artoria
"An amendment to establish an audit agency and implement a central approval system. We will temporarily cover the funding with government bonds rather than the royal treasury."

Leonis relaxes his mouth slightly.

Leonis
"Was it Leon?"

Artoria
"Yes. He is excellent."

Leonis
"He takes after his father, then."

Artoria
“...Most likely.”

Artoria spreads out a map.

Artoria
“I will also report on the situation in neighboring countries. The Kingdom of Logo is in a state of civil war due to a succession dispute. There is a possibility of an influx of refugees.”

Leonis
“Let us strengthen the vigilance of the Northern Army.”

Artoria
“The Kingdom of Ilkan is at war with Barachatta. King George is commanding the front lines himself.”

Leonis
“If they win, they expand their influence; if they lose, they become unstable, is that it?”

Artoria
“In any case, the East will be shaken.”

Artoria
“The Kingdom of Alzeria.”

A moment of silence.

Artoria
“King Johan is preparing for formal alliance negotiations.”

Leonis
“...So it comes.”

Artoria
“If we take too much time, other countries will be on guard. A swift decision is necessary.”

Leonis
“Including the marriage proposal, then?”

Artoria lowers her eyes slightly.

Artoria
“The possibility cannot be denied.”

Leonis looks at Artoria.

Leonis
“Are you wavering?”

Artoria
“...I will prioritize the national interest.”

Leonis nods quietly.

Artoria
“The Bernard Alliance is in internal conflict. They are not a threat for the time being.”

Artoria looks straight at Leonis.

Artoria
However, we must hasten domestic reform. The outside world is unstable. If we are weak internally, we will certainly be interfered with.

Silence.

Only the sound of their breathing echoes in the vast space.
Leonis slowly stands up.

Leonis
You see things clearly.

He descends from the throne and stands before Artoria.

Leonis
You are a sage. But from now on, you are also a politician.

Artoria looks up at him directly.

Leonis
Your enemies will increase. There will be betrayal. Can you still proceed?

Artoria says without hesitation.

Artoria
Yes. As long as there is reason.

A moment of silence.

Leonis says forcefully.

Leonis
Then I will support you. Do as you see fit.

Artoria bows deeply.

Artoria
Thank you, Your Majesty.

Royal Palace, near the courtyard

Artoria returns.
There, Ilharem, James, Daim, Leon, and Jean—the five of them are gathered.

Artoria
He said... to do as I see fit.

For a moment, silence.

The next moment, the five of them bowed their heads in unison.

Ilharem
I will accompany you.

James
To the very end.

Daim
Even if it costs me my life.

Leon
I will support you with the law.

Jean
Please leave the diplomacy to me.

Artoria felt embarrassed.

Artoria
No, no, no, that's too dramatic...

She scratched her cheek.

Artoria
Please, lift your heads...

At that moment.

From behind—

Agnis
Whoa!

Artoria
Waaaah!

A sudden loud shout. Artoria was so startled that she lost her balance.

Thud.

Artoria fell over. Ilharem and Jean were dragged down with her.

Ilharem
Whoa!?

Jean
Ugh...!

Agnis burst into laughter.

Agnis
"Oh, Ilharem, you're here too! Seriously, you should be used to this by now!"

Artoria
"P-please stop..."

Agnis pats her on the shoulder repeatedly.

Agnis
"Wait, were you surprised too?"

He stares intently at Jean.

Agnis
"Uh, and you are..."

Jean hurriedly straightens his posture.

Jean
"I was assigned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs last month... I am Jean Horn, the second son of Teiral Horn..."

Agnis
"Huh? The second son of Lord Teiral...?"

For a moment, the air freezes.

From behind him comes a low, cold voice.

Tiana
"Y, o, u, r, H, i, g, h, n, e, s, s, ?"

Agnis stiffens.

Agnis
"Ti... Tiana..."

Tiana approaches with a smile. But her eyes are not smiling.

Tiana
"What are you doing to my younger brother?"

Jean cannot stop the cold sweat.

Artoria (Inner Voice)
"Ah... I knew this would happen..."

Agnis
"N-no, I was just, you know, saying hello..."

Tiana takes another step forward.

Tiana
"To my little brother?"

Agnis
"Hii..."

Tiana
"Did you do something violent?"

Agnis
"I did not!!"

Tiana smiles.

Tiana
"Then—there is no need to run, is there?"

Agnis
"Woooooah!"

Agnis flees with all his might, and Tiana chases him gracefully.

Tiana
"Wait, Prince!"

Artoria and the others are stunned. Jean says in a low voice.

Jean
"...My sister is scary when she's angry."

Ilhalem says as he gets up.

Ilhalem
"I can see that."

Artoria stands up, brushing off the dirt.

Artoria
"...It's peaceful."

Leon says quietly...

Leon
"It might be... the calm before the storm."

James smiles.

James
"At the very least, our allies are lively."

Artoria looks around at her companions.
The younger generation. An atmosphere where laughter and tension mingle.

Artoria
“...Alright. Shall we begin the reforms?”

A scream from Agnis echoes in the distance.

Kahn Residence

A stately stone mansion. The fire in the fireplace flickers.

Two old men are in the study: Barnes Philia and Antonius Kahn.
And Pierre, waiting a short distance away.

A quiet silence.

Antonius chuckles lowly.

Antonius
“...It has been a long time, Barnes.”

Barnes says gently.

Barnes
“It has been a long time, Antonius. We used to talk like this until late at night in the old days.”

Antonius
“We were young. We truly believed we could move the country.”

Barnes
“You are still moving it now, aren't you?”

Antonius scoffs.

Antonius
“Only in form... I hear your son is serving as a court sage.”

Barnes says proudly.

Barnes
“Yes. I am happy he has grown into such a fine man.”

Antonius slowly swirls his wine.

Antonius
“Even though you have already lost your eldest and second sons...”

The fire in the fireplace flickers.

Antonius
“Are you pinning your hopes on your third son?”

The air freezes for an instant.
Pierre's hand moves slightly.

Barnes answers quietly.

Barnes
“...It is only natural for a father to place his hopes in his son.”

Antonius
“How foolish.”

Barnes
“Perhaps so.”

Their gazes clash.

Barnes
“But that child is strong.”

Antonius
“The stronger they are, the louder they snap when they break.”

Silence.

Barnes stands up.

Barnes
“I only came to see your face today. As an old friend.”

Antonius smiles, but his eyes are cold.

Antonius
“...Ah. A friend, you say.”

In front of the Kahn residence

The night wind blows.
Barnes and Pierre head toward the carriage.

Pierre
“Brother. That man is truly untrustworthy. He is like a lump of ambition.”

Barnes says as he climbs into the carriage.

Barnes
“I have seen that for a long time.”

Pierre
“Then why...?”

Barnes
“We served in the court together, and we were both summoned by the late king.”

Barnes looks up at the night sky.

Barnes
"I want to be the one to stop him."

Pierre
"...Brother."

The carriage begins to move slowly.

Kahn Residence - Study

Antonius stands by the window, looking down at the departing carriage.
The fire in the fireplace dyes his back red.

Antonius
"...You can't go back anymore, Barnes. Not like in the old days."

Antonius slowly closes his eyes.

Antonius
"Not since you killed your beloved sons—Charles and Hans."

The flames flicker.

Antonius
"And Artoria, too..."

A cold voice.

Antonius
"I might end up killing her as well."

Night - Artoria's Mansion

The light in the study is still on.
Artoria is at her desk, looking over a bill.
A modest knock comes from outside.

Knock, knock.

Artoria
"...? At this hour?"

Artoria stands up and heads to the entrance.

When she opens the door, Celia is standing there.

Artoria
"Pr... Princess...!?"

Celia, a gentle smile.

Celia
"Good evening."

Artoria, completely frozen.

Artoria
"A-at this hour..."

Celia
"Was I a bother?"

Artoria
"N-no! Not at all!"

She hurriedly opens the door wide.

Artoria
"P-please, come in...!"

Celia enters quietly.

Living Room

A simple but tidy room.
Celia sits in a chair. Artoria is strangely nervous.

Celia
"I heard."

Artoria
"Heard... what?"

Celia
"That you are involved in state affairs."

Artoria
"It's already spread, then."

Celia
"Rumors travel fast in the royal palace."

Celia looks a bit serious.

Celia
"Are you... alright?"

Artoria blinks.

Artoria
"Huh?"

Celia
"Are you pushing yourself too hard?"

Artoria averts her gaze.

Artoria
"Pushing myself..."

She smiles slightly.

Artoria
"Honestly, I am."

Celia
"I thought so."

Artoria
"But—I have no choice but to do it."

Celia stares at her intently.

Celia
"Your enemies will increase, you know?"

Artoria
"I am prepared for that."

Celia
"...Your life might be targeted."

The air turns cold for a moment.

Artoria
"...Even so, I will move forward."

Celia stands up slowly.

Celia
"Then..."

Celia takes a step closer.

Celia
"I will be your shield."

Artoria
"Princess..."

Artoria lowers her eyes.

Artoria
"...Why go that far?"

Celia blushes slightly.

Celia
Are you going to make me say the reason?

Artoria
...

Celia looks away.

Celia
If you collapse, I'll be in trouble.

Artoria smiles quietly.

Artoria
...Thank you.

Celia
Save your thanks for after you've succeeded in the reforms.

Celia stares at Artoria.

Celia
...I'm staying here tonight.

Silence.

Artoria
...Huh?

Celia
I'm staying over.

Artoria
Whaaaaaa!?

She starts to stand up and bumps into the chair.

Artoria
N-no, this is my house, after all...!

Celia
I know.

Celia smiles slightly.

Celia
But it's too late to go back to the castle.

Artoria
...That's true.

A slightly awkward silence.

Artoria
"There is a guest room."

Celia
"You're well-prepared."

Artoria
"My father visits from time to time, so..."

Celia nods.

Guest Room

Artoria opens the door.

Artoria
"Right this way."

Celia looks around the room.

Celia
"It's cozy."

Artoria
"I hope you find it comfortable..."

Celia
"Yes. It's more than enough."

Silence.

Artoria
"...Well then, good night."

Celia
"Wait."

Artoria turns around.

Celia
"...Please, don't push yourself too hard."

Artoria
"...Thank you for your concern."

A slightly close distance.

Celia
"...Good night, Artoria."

Artoria
“...Good night, Princess.”

Celia smiles. The door closes quietly.

Artoria (inner voice)
(...My heart can't take this.)

Late at night

Celia, in her white nightgown, hesitates for a moment before stopping in front of a door. It is Artoria's room.

Celia (whispering)
“...Just a little bit.”

She slowly opens the door.

Artoria's room

On the desk is an open book and a stack of bills. The lamp is off.
Artoria is fast asleep in bed. Her breathing is calm.

Celia approaches softly.
Moonlight illuminates Artoria's profile.

Celia crouches down quietly.

Celia (whispering)
“...Such a truly beautiful face.”

Her fingertips tremble slightly.

Celia
“To think you are trying to carry the weight of the country with a face like this.”

Artoria is sleeping peacefully. Defenseless.
Celia's eyes soften.

Celia
“You are strong, yet somehow fragile.”

She smiles, looking a little lonely.

Celia
“That is why I cannot leave you alone.”

Celia closes her eyes and slowly leans in.
Gently, she presses a kiss to Artoria's cheek—a soft, fleeting touch. Then she pulls away.
Artoria does not wake up.

Celia stands up.

Celia (whispering)
“...I will protect you. More than anyone else.”

She heads toward the door.
She looks back one last time.

Celia
“Good night, Artoria.”

She quietly leaves the room. The door closes without a sound.
Only the moonlight remains.

The sleeping young sage does not yet know. The resolve of the one who intends to stand by their side.

Royal Palace - Administrative Office

On the desk are piles of documents and maps.
Artoria sits in a chair, looking at the documents with a serious expression.
Surrounding them are Ilhalem, James, and Daim, as well as Leon and Jean.

Jean spreads out a map.

Jean
“Regarding the civil war in the Logo Kingdom, the struggle for the throne is still ongoing.”

Artoria
“Does it look like it will settle down?”

Jean
“It will be impossible for the time being.”

Leon hands over a document.

Leon
“This is the revision for the tax reform bill.”

Artoria
“Thank you.”

Artoria quickly reads through the contents.

Artoria
“...This clause is good.”

Leon
“I made it in a way that the old nobility faction will find difficult to argue against.”

Ilhalem
“Clever.”

James
“It closes the loopholes in the law.”

Daim
“With this, we might be able to get it passed by the council.”

Artoria
"Yes. Let's go with this."

Corridor

Celia is peeking from behind a pillar.

Celia
"..."

She is looking into the government affairs room.
Quiet footsteps approach her. It was Ellis.

Celia
"Ellis?"

Ellis
"Eek!?"

Celia
"What's wrong?"

Ellis blushes slightly.
Celia smiles a little mischievously.

Celia
"Could it be... you came to see Ilhalem?"

Ellis
"Y-yes..."

Celia
"Hehe."

Celia
"Then let's watch together."

Celia pulls Ellis behind the pillar.
The two of them secretly peek into the government affairs room.

There is one more person at another pillar in the corridor.
Lina is peeking desperately.

Lina
"Lord James..."

Celia notices immediately.

Celia
"Oh?"

Lina turns around.

Lina
"Eek!?"

Celia
"It's rare to see Lina of the Six Generals looking at another man..."

Lina panics.

Lina
"N-no...! I was just acting as a knight...!"

Ellis chuckles.

Ellis
"You don't have to make excuses."

Lina
"N-no, that's not it! I was just...!"

Celia
"Just?"

Lina turns bright red.

Lina
"..."

She cannot find the words.
Celia says happily.

Celia
"Hehe. There are a lot of people peeking today."

The three of them look at the government office again.

Government Office (Interior)

Artoria is speaking seriously.

Artoria
"The old noble faction will definitely strike back. That is why we will strike first."

Jean
"I will also make moves in diplomacy."

Leon
"I will prepare the laws."

Ilhalem
"I will finalize the financial plan."

James
"Please leave public security to me."

Daim
"I will also strengthen information gathering."

Artoria
"Thank you. To make this country better."

Celia and the others are watching from the hallway.

Ellis
"…She is working hard, isn't she?"

Lina
"Lord James…"

Celia looks at Artoria and smiles gently.

Celia (whispering)
"…Truly, she is someone I cannot leave alone."

A little further away—Yurina and her maid Lilia are walking. Yurina suddenly stops.

Yurina
"…"

Lilia
"Princess?"

Yurina stares at the shadow of a pillar.

Yurina
"Big Sister Celia and Big Sister Ellis are both… peeking into the office."

Lilia peeks in as well.

Lilia
"You're right. Even Captain Lina of the Six Army Generals is there… What could the three of them be doing?"

Yurina smiles a little.

Yurina
"Oh, you don't know?"

Lilia
"Eh?"

Yurina whispers…

Yurina
"It's love, love."

Lilia
"Ehh!?"

She almost shouts. Yurina hurriedly covers her mouth.

Yurina
"Shh!!"

Lilia
"Mmph!?"

Yurina
"They can hear you!"

Lilia nods repeatedly.
Yurina gently lets go.

Lilia (whispering)
"No way..."

Yurina
"Hehe. The royal palace is surprisingly a famous spot for romance, you know."

Lilia
"I-is that so..."

Yurina
"So let's be quiet. We shouldn't disturb them."

Lilia
"Y-yes."

The two quietly leave the area.

By another pillar were Gainus and his wife, Mariel.
Jack is in Mariel's arms.

Gainus is looking inside the government office.

Gainus
"Your brother... he's been working hard even though he hasn't been a legal officer for long."

Mariel smiles softly.

Mariel
"Yes. He is a brother I am proud of."

Gainus
"If he teams up with Artoria, it looks like something interesting will happen."

Mariel
"Yes."

Jack laughs softly.

Mariel
"By the time this child grows up... I'm sure this country will have changed."

Gainus nods.

Gainus
"We must change. By the hands of these young people."

The two of them gaze quietly at the government office.

Inside—the young sage and her companions are discussing the future of the country.

Office

Artoria and the others are in the middle of a discussion.
Just then—

Knock, knock.

The door is knocked upon.

Artoria
"Come in."

The door opens.
Two heavyweights enter: Prime Minister Robert Garsa and Foreign Minister Teiral Horn.
The atmosphere tightens in an instant.

Artoria and the others stand up immediately.

Artoria
"Prime Minister, Foreign Minister."

Leon and Jean also straighten their posture. Everyone bows their heads.
Robert waves his hand lightly.

Robert
"There is no need for such formality. I just came to see how my son is doing."

Teiral also says while crossing his arms.

Teiral
"Same here."

Leon and Jean are completely frozen.

Leon
"..."

Jean
"..."

Artoria gives a slight wry smile. Robert places a hand on Leon's shoulder.

Robert
"Please take care of this one. He may not look it, but he is a sensitive child."

Leon
"Father..."

Teiral looks at Jean.

Teiral
"This one too."

Jean
"F-Father..."

Teiral
"He's sharp, but he tends to get a bit carried away."

Jean
"That is called diplomatic confidence."

Teiral
"Cheeky."

Artoria bows her head slightly.

Artoria
"Yes. Both of them are extremely capable."

Robert smiles with satisfaction.

Robert
"I see."

Teiral
"Then I am relieved."

Ilhalem steps forward.

Ilhalem
"The young ones are working together."

James
"For the sake of the country."

Daim
"We will certainly produce results."

Robert's eyes become serious.

Robert
"...I have high expectations."

Teiral
"The current court needs a breath of fresh air."

Both of their gazes turn toward Artoria.

Robert
"Do you fully understand the meaning behind His Majesty entrusting this to you?"

Artoria answers straightforwardly.

Artoria
"Yes. I will certainly improve this country."

Silence.

Robert nods slowly.

Robert
"Good."

Teiral
"Then we shall also provide our backing."

Royal Palace, Throne Room

A majestic space lined with massive pillars.
Subjects, nobles, bureaucrats, and military personnel enter one after another.

Before long, the royalty also take their seats.
Then, King Leonis walks to the throne and sits down.

The royal guards strike their spears.

Guard
"His Majesty, take your seats!"

The room falls silent all at once.

Leonis
"Today's agenda concerns national reform. Artoria."

Artoria steps forward to the center.

Artoria
"...Yes."

Leonis
"Report to everyone from your own lips."

Artoria bows.

Artoria
"Currently, the situation surrounding our country is changing significantly."

A map is spread out.

Artoria
The Logo Kingdom in the north is in a state of civil war due to a succession dispute, the Ilkan Kingdom in the east is at war with the Barachatta Kingdom, the Alzeria Kingdom in the west is preparing for formal alliance negotiations with our country, and the Bernard Union in the south is in internal conflict over the leadership.

Murmurs.

Artoria
In this situation, our country must hasten internal reforms.

Ilhalem, James, Daim, Leon, and Jean step forward.
Artoria holds up a document.

Artoria
Tax system reform, restructuring the governance of conquered territories, renewing the bureaucratic appointment system, and reorganizing our diplomatic strategy. These are the proposals we have compiled together.

One of the old nobles stands up.

Old Noble A
Don't mess with us!

Another noble shouts as well.

Old Noble B
What is this youngster talking about!

Old Noble C
Regnas is the strongest country on this continent!

Old Noble D
Then we should just suppress them with force!!

The noble seating area is in an uproar.

At that moment, Celia stands up.
The atmosphere changes completely.

Celia
Be quiet!

Silence.

Celia's gaze pierces the old nobles.

Celia
What have you done until now!? You took taxes from the citizens! You treated the people of conquered countries like slaves! You exhausted the country! What was the result of that!?

Celia continues.

Celia
Riots! The gap between rich and poor! Deteriorating public safety! Everything is the result of your politics!

The old nobles are left speechless.

Celia
"That is why His Majesty entrusted the state affairs to Artoria! Can you not understand that!"

The throne room falls silent.

Artoria steps forward.

Artoria
"...I will rebuild this country."

The voice is quiet, yet strong.

Artoria
"As the Court Sage! And—as the third son of the former Prime Minister, Barnes Philia!"

An uproar erupts.

Subject A
"What!?"

Subject B
"Prime Minister Barnes's son!?"

The royal seating area.

Gainus
"...I thought it was a coincidence that he shared the surname Philia."

Agnis
"...So that's how it is."

Dorgon smiles with satisfaction.
Yurina looks surprised.

Leonis slowly stands up.
The room falls silent under his overwhelming presence.

Leonis
"You have heard it! This person is—the last hope of this country! I shall place my bet on him!"

The King's voice echoes throughout the throne room.

Silence.

And then—someone slowly kneels.
A new era begins to move.

Episode 11 End