How to Survive as a Princess in a Reverse Harem Game - Chapter 28

“You’ve all heard about the severe rains in the central region lately, causing most of the prunes to rot. Even the prunes that survived the downpour are too damaged to sell.”

……This was the first I’d heard of it.

“Several central territories that primarily cultivate prunes have requested assistance due to their difficulties.”

“Is the situation that serious?”

“Since they need to sell the prunes to prepare for winter provisions, naturally it is.”

Her Majesty replied with a nod to Meliana’s question.

I still wasn’t quite sure what prunes were, but given the talk of cultivation, they must be some kind of fruit or vegetable…… some sort of crop.

“However, I hesitate to provide aid without careful consideration, as the requested amount is quite substantial. If we assist with this incident, other dukes will surely seek help when similar situations arise, and we won’t be able to provide the same level of support then.”

“They would likely complain about fairness.”

“Precisely. That’s why I wanted to hear your thoughts.”

Ding!

[Quest: Evgenia’s Concerns

Due to torrential rains in the central region, several territories’ prune harvests have been severely damaged.

The dukes have petitioned Queen Evgenia for aid, but the required budget is excessive. Offer suggestions to help alleviate her concerns.

―Success Reward: Increase in Queen Evgenia’s Affection, Improved Standing and Recognition

―Failure: Decrease in Queen Evgenia’s Affection]

[Cancel] / [Confirm]

So if I offer good suggestions here, I can gain Her Majesty’s favor and make a political impression… is that how it works?

As this was an important matter related to the main quest, I was deep in thought when Meliana spoke up first.

“Your Majesty, may I share my thoughts on this matter?”

“You may.”

“Thank you. I would suggest we provide aid as the dukes have requested.”

“Even knowing we’ll face resistance and complaints from other dukes?”

“We cannot turn a blind eye to immediate hardship simply because we fear future discontent. These are, after all, subjects of our kingdom. We must help without hesitation. Furthermore…….”

After speaking at length without pause, Meliana took a breath before adding:

“To support this aid, I offer the Woollo Plains, which I received as a gift from Duke Futurum when I was nine, Your Majesty.”

“The Woollo Plains? While that would certainly help… wouldn’t Duke Futurum be displeased?”

“My uncle will surely approve of my decision. More importantly, knowing when to extend aid to allies and taking decisive action are among the virtues of rulership that Mabel spoke of.”

A middle-aged man spoke up—Duke Morris Futurum, Meliana’s father and Her Majesty’s First Duke.

“To apply the principles of sovereignty so skillfully already…… how admirable!”

As he looked around the room, his words seemed to demand agreement, prompting Duke Equus Cecil—Her Majesty’s Second Duke and Cirilla’s father—to nod in approval.

“As expected of Princess Meliana. Most astute.”

“Duke Cecil, you always praise me too highly.”

“I merely speak the truth.”

Ah…….

So the Second Duke was trying to curry favor with both the First Duke and Meliana.

This was a political dynamic I couldn’t have learned from the character codex alone. I felt even more keenly that I needed more information. I resolved to read through the borrowed book thoroughly once the banquet ended.

“Nepheli.”

I was startled at the sound.

I hadn’t expected Her Majesty to address me directly, and I instinctively met her gaze.

“What are your thoughts?”

“Ah…….”

“If you have no opinion to share, don’t feel obligated to speak.”

“……I do have something to say.”

After a moment’s hesitation, I spoke up. Though uncertain how it would be received, this was a chance to gain Her Majesty’s favor. Even if my suggestion seemed foolish, I had to say something.