To help Sif accept better, Rupert started telling the story of a rebel friend.
This Duke Ricken was also an unfortunate fellow.
Strictly speaking, he wasn't a rebel at all; he was rather a loyalist.
It's just that his loyalty was to Prince Feino.
This man was skilled in army warfare, and although his family's discipline wasn't strict—some years ago, he was ridiculed harshly by the nobility for his daughter's chaotic private life—his abilities were unquestionable.
If this were the world line where Prince Feino ascended the throne, his future position would be Minister of the Army.
Feino is a prince, the Emperor's designated successor. Duke Ricken, not integrated into the old Emperor's circle and unwilling to retire from politics, what's wrong with befriending the prince?
His problem wasn't with him but with Feino.
Feino died, and so the Prince Faction lost its foundation.
