GATE: Thus The Imperium of Man Fought There

Saderan Affair pt 1

-M29.671. Falmart. Saderan Imperial Palace-

In the solitude of her luxurious bathroom, Pina contemplated her life's journey since meeting the leaders of the Imperium. Her mind was filled with heavy considerations about what lay ahead. Despite being blessed with power by Lord Malcador, the mental burden weighed heavily on her, sapping much of her psychic energy.

"Can I truly face it all with grace?" Pina murmured as she submerged her body in the warm bath. She felt a profound responsibility to lead Sadera through this monumental change, and doubts and worries always accompanied her.

In the quiet moments, Pina sought solace within her chaotic thoughts. She ruminated on her commitment and determination to lead Sadera towards a better future under the protection of the Imperium. Despite the numerous challenges ahead, she knew that with determination and the support of those closest to her, she could overcome anything.

As Pina contemplated these thoughts, she recalled the figure of the transhuman who never removed his helmet, always standing by her side through the various challenges she faced. Raias had been a steadfast pillar of support in matters of bureaucracy, economics, and diplomacy, often leaving her astonished by how effortlessly he handled the complex burdens that rested on his shoulders. Pina knew that transhumans possessed a level of intelligence that even the cleverest mortal humans could only dream of attaining. Yet, witnessing Raias's intellect at work never failed to amaze her.

Beyond all of this, Pina felt a flutter in her chest every time Raias extended his assistance. Perhaps, she thought, this was what humans referred to as love. Nevertheless, Pina strenuously attempted to bury these feelings deep within herself. Not because of any aversion but because she was, at her core, a mere mortal human, destined for a lifespan that might reach fifty years, while Raias had the potential to live for millennia.

"If only I were a transhuman too," Pina murmured, submerging her head beneath the water.

After successfully clearing her mind, Pina promptly got out of her bathtub, where the servants quickly covered the princess's body with a towel.

"Your Highness, Lord Raias has been waiting for you," one of the servants informed her.

Pina simply nodded and proceeded to exit the bathing chamber, entering her dressing room. With the assistance of the attendants, Pina swiftly changed into a white toga adorned with various accessories symbolizing her status as Sadera's princess. Upon opening the exit door, Pina spotted Rennias, who was also dressed in a toga. She couldn't help but notice the significant difference between her attire and Rennias's, with the latter incorporating the Gothic aesthetics of the Imperium. Raias had once spoken about the cultures present on Macragge, leaving Pina in awe of how ancient traditions had flourished within the Imperium. Nonetheless, Raias still wore his helmet, which now matched his outfit, reminding Pina of the knightly orders that Sadera had once conquered, the Templar Knights if she remembered correctly.

"It seems you're ready, Lady Pina," Raias remarked amiably.

"Yes," Pina nodded. "Now we can proceed to the Senate Chamber and explain our next plans to the senators."

"Indeed." And so, they began to walk. Their journey remained silent, with neither party eager to initiate conversation. However, after a while, Raias cleared his throat.

"Lady Pina," he called.

"Yes, what is it?"

Pina slowed her pace, turning slightly to face Raias.

"You already know, don't you? About the Japanese slaves scattered throughout Sadera," Raias stated bluntly, his gaze fixed directly on Pina.

Pina swallowed her bitter saliva. "I understand, Raias. I will negotiate with Japan to prevent further public outrage. Moreover, I've obtained the locations of all those slaves through the assassins. Now we just need to wait for the right moment," she replied.