?|THE LAST PIECE|?{Wmmap}

A splendid carriage glided through the capital of Cicilia at a leisurely pace, accompanied by our protagonist, Ashaya De Alger Obelia.

She sat astride a striking jet-black horse, a ride worthy of a division captain and a princess, adorned in her uniquely tailored white uniform emblazoned with the Obelian crest, complemented by heavy armor.

Her typically jewel-like blue eyes were conspicuously absent, replaced instead by a pair of crimson orbs that resembled pools of blood.

She was as tall as an adult woman unlike her age, it was all due to magic, although it was starting to take a toll on her, she had no choice but to continue keeping her disgusie.

As she took in the sights, Ashaya marveled at the distinct culture of Cicilia, so different from her own homeland of Obelia. This was her inaugural experience in a foreign land, and the effort of throwing a tantrum to come here felt entirely justified.

The empire had a large population resulting in the need of immense resources, while Cicilia was a country filled with greenery, they say the land is favoured by the gods.

But it doesn't necessarily mean they have everything, they lack resources like coal and oil, which the empire doesn't lack, so it's natural for them to form an alliance and enjoy what they can give each other.

Her role was that of a bodyguard for the imperial envoy, who was tasked with forging the alliance.

Her father the emperor dismissed the significance of such a small nation, Ashaya held a different perspective; every alliance, whether robust or fragile, held value.

She could not allow this opportunity to slip through her fingers, as it presented a chance to expand her influence over the court and would provide her with a ally outside the empire.

Despite her father's objections, she had insisted on accompanying the envoy, and  for some reason he had agreed.

Having the eldest daughter of an emperor serve as a bodyguard for the envoy was no trivial matter; it would undoubtedly convey the sincerity of their intentions.
Cough,
let's not think about the trouble it will bring.

Upon arriving at the royal palace, they were greeted with a warmth that was tinged with an underlying chill.

Ashaya perceived this immediately but chose to overlook it, recognizing that the initial fault lay with them.

Once, Obelia and Cicilia enjoyed a flourishing alliance, which led to the beloved daughter of King Herion being sent to the empire as the emperor's concubine.

Natasha Von Cicilia, celebrated for her exquisite beauty and grace, captivated hearts throughout the kingdom and beyond.

Her allure swiftly elevated her to the status of consort; however, like many in the harem, she soon fell from the emperor's favor, leading a life of quietude until she gave birth to a prince.

Fate was not on her side, tragically, thirteen years ago, she and her son met a brutal end alongside the other women of the harem.

Heron Von Cicilia, who cherished his only daughter deeply, severed the alliance and took actions that defied the empire.

Although his daughter's death was not necessarily the only reason of his actions