The South Palace was in turmoil. The ministers were worried because guards from the capital were patrolling throughout the town. However, Prince Bogandilla was more worried about Amaryllis and Magnolia.
The head guard from the capital had already left, but they had stationed several guards in the South Palace under the Queen's orders.
"What do you think about these guards from the capital?" Bogandilla asked.
"They are definitely not here for our protection," General Gaura replied.
"They are here to keep an eye on us for the capital," Bogandilla said. "And I don't think they're going back anytime soon."
"Do you think we should do something?" General Gaura asked.
"The way they're acting, it looks like they already believe we're involved. If we make any move, they'll come after us."
"But do you think Head Guard Magnolia had something to do with Anemone's assassination attempt?" General Gaura asked.
Bogandilla fell into thought. Why did they say there were four people? If one of them was Magnolia, then another was definitely Amaryllis. But who were the other two?
"I trust Magnolia," Bogandilla finally said. "I'll speak with him."
"Everyone in court is waiting for an explanation. What should we tell them?" Gaura asked.
I can't tell them Amaryllis is with Magnolia. If the Queen finds out, no one will believe we're innocent.
"For now, assure them that everything is fine," Bogandilla said.
"Understood," Gaura replied.
"Did you send someone to bring Magnolia back?" Bogandilla asked. I hope they're safe.
"I already have," Gaura answered.
"What about the East? Any news?"
"So far, no one has been found alive... including Princess Syring," General Gaura said in a low voice.
"You may go and continue your work," Bogandilla said.
Queen Violas sat calmly in her chamber, sipping tea. General Ivy entered and greeted her.
"What is so important that you couldn't wait until court?" the Queen asked.
"Forgive me, Your Majesty, but..."
"Speak. I don't have time for this."
"The ministers... I'm worried they are planning to target you."
"With whom?" the Queen asked.
"Anemone," General Ivy replied.
"They can't do anything. Don't worry."
"They are calling for a court meeting to discuss accountability, but I heard their real intention may be to replace you."
The Queen stood from her chair.
"Call the court. I want to see what they can do."
Anemone sat in his chamber with two of his closest ministers. As they spoke, he rose from his seat, walked to the balcony, and looked out over the palace grounds.
"You want to remove her?" Anemone asked.
"The whole empire is burning. So many people have died, and now even you have been attacked," Minister Mamane said.
"This is the perfect opportunity. Isn't this what you wanted?" Minister Lobel added.
Anemone turned toward them.
"But we'll need more support. What about the other ministers?"
"We've convinced almost everyone except General Ivy," Lobel replied. "He's causing problems. I think he's too loyal to the Queen."
"We need something else if we want to remove her," Anemone said.
"Like what?" Lobel asked.
"Chaos."
Just then, a guard entered.
"Your Highness, the Queen has summoned everyone to court."
The court session began. All the ministers took their seats. Everyone stood as Queen Violas entered.
"Long live the Queen."
She sat on her throne.
"What is the status of the investigation?"
After everyone sat, General Ivy answered,
"Your Majesty, we are monitoring every location and every suspect."
"So... still no progress?" the Queen asked.
Minister Lobel bowed.
"Forgive me, Your Majesty, but the ministers are frightened after what happened to Anemone."
"General Ivy?"
General Ivy knelt.
"Your Majesty, we have strengthened security. No one can enter or leave without permission."
The Queen looked toward Minister Lobel.
"Any other concerns?"
"The people are frightened as well," Minister Mamane said. "They're saying Gladiolus is no longer safe."
The Queen stood.
"What do you think? Is it safe or not?"
Minister Mamane immediately knelt, feeling the pressure of her gaze. No matter how he answered, he knew he would lose. He silently hoped someone would come to his rescue, but no one spoke.
Anemone finally stepped forward.
"Your Majesty, if the people are afraid, then we should reassure them... or do something to make them feel safe."
"So why don't you suggest something, Anemone? What should we do to make the people feel safe?"
"By holding those responsible accountable."
"And who do you believe should be held accountable?"
"Your Majesty, I am a Dianthus. This is not my responsibility."
"Then seek advice from others and present your suggestion later."
The Queen turned to leave.
"Your Majesty," Anemone called out, "I heard you sent royal guards to the South, and some are still there."
"Yes. To investigate."
"What did Prince Bogandilla say?"
"General Ivy."
General Ivy answered,
"The investigation is still ongoing. We cannot disclose any information."
"Then everything is settled."
The Queen left the court, with General Ivy following behind.
Minister Lobel helped Mamane to his feet before quietly approaching Anemone.
"Don't you think that for the past few years the Queen rarely attends court? And even when she does, she leaves almost immediately."
Anemone simply nodded.
The Queen stood among the plants in her private garden, breathing in the fresh air.
"General Ivy, come inside."
"Your Majesty, Prince Bogandilla denied any involvement by the South Palace."
"What about Guard Magnolia?" the Queen asked calmly.
"The Prince said Magnolia's presence in the palace proves nothing."
"Tell me what's bothering you."
"I don't know if I should say it without evidence."
"Speak before I lose my patience."
"It's about Anemone. I don't believe the South would do something like this. I've known Prince Bogandilla for many years."
"Then what do you think?"
"I believe we should investigate everyone—including Anemone," General Ivy said. "He's the one who wants to remove you."
"You think he orchestrated the attack himself?"
"It's possible. During the entire incident, he didn't receive even a single scratch."
"Investigate everyone, but don't let anyone know," the Queen ordered. "And find out about Anemone's fighting skills. I've never seen them myself, but I've heard many stories."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"But don't let the South escape suspicion either. Continue investigating them."
General Ivy bowed and left.
The Queen sat beside the plants, deep in thought.
Or perhaps... I'll have to investigate the South myself.
Marantaceae waited until everyone had fallen asleep before leaving. He stood at the entrance of the house, turning back one last time as though saying farewell to both the place and the people sleeping inside.
Then he began walking toward the capital beneath the dark moonlit sky. The road was empty, and the cold wind brushed against him.
Suddenly, something struck his left shoulder.
A nut.
He turned around.
"You? What are you doing here?"
Amaryllis walked toward him.
"I'm following you."
"Why?" Marantaceae asked.
"I'm already upset that you were planning to leave me behind."
"I did that because I don't want anyone coming with me."
He continued walking.
Amaryllis hurried after him.
"You can't do this. We agreed we'd stay at that house for a few more days."
"I can't."
"You can't enter the capital alone. It's dangerous. They've probably increased security."
"Then that's perfect for you. Stay here and get some rest."
"They're searching for both of us now, so we're partners."
Marantaceae stopped walking.
"If you want to come with me, then tell me... when did you first find out about me?"
Amaryllis was caught off guard.
"Those kinds of things aren't important between friends."
"Friends? Not until you answer my question."
Amaryllis sighed.
"You know... you're really heartless."