Very Wrong Reincarnation: Isekai with Game Nation

Vol. 2 Chapter 16

Leticia had also served as a bridge for limited cultural and trade exchanges between Cignus and Aloran, as well as two other Kashim member states, before relations were severed three years ago. The declaration of open annexation of Mineas and the worsening tensions with Cignus—fueled by Kashim’s repeated demands for demilitarization, opening of the country to the entire continent, and the sharing of advanced technology—had fractured those ties. Leticia, however, had remained in touch, largely because of her marriage to a Legrandian soldier she had met eight years prior. Now living in Cignus, she was no longer an Aloran citizen but still maintained a connection to her homeland. 

She stepped forward into the room, her presence commanding immediate attention. “My king,” she began, her tone unyielding. “Lord Nathan of Cignus has requested the full, unconditional surrender of this country. This includes relinquishing its authority and the abdication of the current royal family’s sovereignty over the nation and its future.” 

The room fell into silence. Leticia did not kneel, nor did she wait for permission to speak. She no longer held allegiance to Aloran as a spy, nor as a citizen. Yet her heart still ached at the thought of her homeland being erased from existence. She had come not out of duty, but out of desperation to save what little could be salvaged.

“I guess 400 years of this kingdom's existence ends with my reign,” the king muttered, his voice heavy with resignation. He wasn’t a particularly competent ruler, nor an awful one—just an unremarkable figure, barely adequate by the standards of an average monarch.

“Yes,” Leticia responded, her tone devoid of emotion, as if she were simply confirming an inevitable fact.

The king sighed deeply, his gaze drifting upward toward the ceiling. “But perhaps... this is the best choice. My people, my family—they will survive to see another day without the fear of death and suffering.”

“That is a wise sentiment,” Leticia acknowledged calmly. “Nevertheless, because of this surrender, I believe you are bound to be granted a Federal Noble rank—perhaps a baron or viscount. Due to the small size of this country, you won’t wield any real power or authority over people. But you and your family will enjoy privileges, including receiving approximately 2% of the annual tax revenue from the federal territories you’re tied to.”

“However,” she continued, her tone shifting to one of subtle encouragement, “depending on your loyalty and competency, there is potential for more. Take Count Palus, for instance. He retained his power over his territory and even expanded his domain by absorbing neighboring lands. My king, don’t lose hope. You preside over vast lands that are... Let's just say, sparsely populated. In the coming years, you could appeal to integrate these lands more deeply into the federal territories of Cignus. This could lead to a rebirth, a resurgence under the banner of Cignus”

Her words seemed reassuring at first, but then the king and his vassals felt an eerie chill crawl down their spines. They saw it—Leticia’s eyes gleaming with a fervent fanaticism, a zealous without a doubt. Yet none dared to voice their discomfort. The fear of death loomed too heavily over their hearts, silencing any objections.

“Yes... I am very grateful, Leticia,” the king said, swallowing his unease as he forced a polite tone. “Please convey my words, the people of Aloran owe Lord Nathan a debt of gratitude, and our loyalty will always belong to Cignus.”

Leticia’s smile widened at his declaration, her satisfaction was clear as day as she nodded in acknowledgment.

“A few things to follow,” Leticia began, her sharp gaze sweeping the room. The tension in the air was heavy as her voice carried tone of authority and warning. “First and foremost—do not foolishly push your daughters toward His Excellency. Such an act would be seen as an open hostility to all senators, federal nobles, beastmen, high elves, and demi-humans throughout the Federation. It's not illegal but a definiteness — declaration of war to all — who wished to become consort of His Excellency. It's a well-known and easiest way to commit suicide back on the Federation. Your family, regardless of your status — might just disappear by morning. Do you understand?” Her voice dropped into a hiss, and the assembled officials and the king nodded quickly, fear etched on their faces.