Zero no Tsukaima:Volume8 Chapter8 - MTL

After two weeks, the nations conference ended without too much trouble.

The Result was, Tristain and Germania claimed the vast territory of Albion and added them to their territory.

Remaining lands were under the joint rule of three countries: Tristain, Germania and Galia, as it was decided to restore the monarchy. Therefore, the regions, including capital Londonium, were managed by three countries as a joint ruling territory.

As a ruler, Tristain’s old noble duke Marushiyuaque was recommended. He aged and didn’t have much ambitions. His excellent domestic affair ability made sure that the troubled Albion will be restored. From Germania and Galia, a representative will be elected, and placed as the kings advisers.

And, with four countries taking part, the monarchy of Halkeginia was defended, the rise of the Republic stopped, and the Alliance monarchy of four countries was announced.

If a new believer in republic ideology starts to cause a revolt in the kingdom, the three country alliance would be able to start military intervention. As a result, new attempts of revolt will be noticed by four governments at the same time.

With the establishment of this alliance, the nations conference was closed.

They were told to return to their countries tomorrow…

In the room of Havirand palace, Henrietta was desperately looking over documents. Cardinal Mazarini could be seen next to her.

“Her Majesty, take some rest already… Lately you hardly sleep.”

Henrietta attended the nations conference almost round-the-clock. For the Tristain’s interests, she took part in heated discussions. Albrecht the III concluded in a whisper, ‘Not accepting the marriage was the correct choice.’

“Even if we return home, there are piles of work. I want to do as much as possible.”

“However, it is already 12 o'clock.”

“I will rest later.”

However, the queen does not go the bed.

“Leave such table work to the secretary…”

“I want to look over everything. Otherwise, there will be no point of coming on the cloud.”

Mazarini sighed. Because Henrietta was so young, he couldn’t help but worry. However… Mazarini watched Henrietta through half-way closed eyes. He wanted to keep the princess, whom he was watching over when she was just a baby, out of the danger forever.

As if preparing to lecture a student, Mazarini cleared his throat.

“Your Majesty, as I have said repeatedly, we have to be careful of Galia.”

“Uhum.”

Henrietta nodded, not lifting her face from documents.

“Though it was… Galia that brought an end to this war. Yet, their demands were insignificant… They only wanted one port. Also their words, ‘All that we wanted we already obtained.’…”

As a direct control rule territory, Tristain and Germania obtained considerable amount, Galia did not want it. Mazarini is cautious of such Galia’s disinterest.

“Indeed.”

Henrietta nodded.

“Fuaah.” Mazarini let out a big yawn.

“You seem to be sleepy. Please take some rest.”

“No… I won’t leave until Your Majesty goes to bed.”

Henrietta smiled, putting away the documents.

“Will you take some rest?”

“Yes. Because I cannot risk your health.”

“Stay healthy not just for me. Sleeping is also part of work.”

“Yes.” Henrietta nods obediently.

Then… reassured, Mazarini left. Girlishly, Henrietta fell onto the bed. And muttered absent-minded…

“Tired…”

Right now, she could sleep like the dead. But, there was one thing left to do before that. An act which became every days custom before sleep.

Henrietta pulled out a rope next to her pillow.

At once… a court lady appeared in front of the door.

“You called, Your Majesty?”

“Did Agnes return?”

“Musketeer commander, Agnes–sama, hasn't returned yet.”

“I see. Thank you.”

After hearing the footsteps of the court lady disappear, Henrietta shut her eyes tight. Like a child, she bit her fingernail. Looking troubled, Henrietta buried her face into the pillow, with her eyes closed.

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