Chapter 168 (1/2)

“If I don’t feel so sad about Duke Hubble’s death, am I not the same as Ober? ”

Of course, there was a standard answer to this question. She was set to move on. She was a warrior who already decided not to let go of her weapon, even if the weapon in her hand hurt her a bit.

Although she knew it, she felt she was not strong enough to defend somebody.

“If Ober and Elias joined hands to murder Duke Hubble, as we expected, they did something terrible for their own benefit. In a sense, it might be cunning if we can make use of the changes and cracks in their power,” Marianne said.

Mrs. Charlotte quickly read the anxiety in her face.

“But I don’t think that’s what makes us turn into evil men like them.”

Mrs. Charlotte silently wrapped her folded hands kindly.

“Since the days when he was the crown prince, his Majesty has often made use of the enemy’s harsh tricks. Actually, he sometimes saved his own life by doing so. If that’s the case, do you think the emperor is no different from Ober?”

“Of course not.”

“I believe there is no absolute good or absolute evil in the world. What kind of human being can establish and judge absolute standards unless he or she is God? We human beings are made to believe that the bread and the clothes we have in our hands are more important than the will of the great God from the beginning. ”

Mrs. Charlotte smiled gently at her logic.

Marianne continued, “That’s why everybody runs toward what they believe is right. It’s also human right to determine which of the many definitions is more right and meaningful. So, even on this battlefield for power, won’t the victory be determined by who believes in his justice more desperately?”

Even considering the fact that she looked back on her own decision, thoughts and beliefs, Marianne was much better than Ober. She might not be the perfect example of goodness, but that imperfection was evidence that she was fighting her opponents in a sincere and courageous manner.

“Politics is not a war seeking perfect goodness. It’s a process to win what you believe is just and is a little more beneficial to you than your previous circumstances,” Mrs. Charlotte said.

“… Thank you, ma’am. ”

“Do what you believe is right, Marianne. You don’t have to throw away guilt unconditionally and be as cold as them, but you need to admit that there are things you can’t accomplish with your good intentions. When you lead a life, sometimes there is a time when you have to compromise with reality.”

Marianne nodded silently. At the end of her sigh, her eyes sparkled as vigorously as before.

“I know. Would you please prepare the thinnest paper and a quill with a sharp tip? I need to write a letter to His Majesty. ”

* * *

Tok tok tok.

There was a noise like tapping glass with the tip of a quill. Although the noise was rather vague outside his study, it was very clear to hear in the serene study of the emperor.

Eckart did not move at all after he heard it. He had been disturbed since dawn because of the news about Duke Hubble’s death. As he couldn’t sleep well last night, his head was pounding.

Sitting diagonally in the chair, he pressed his tired eyes with the back of his hand.