The open wilderness plain stretched out before them. Early spring vegetation, unafraid of the cold wind, had already spread layers of green across the endless fields. The wheels of the magic-infused vehicle rolled over the hardened road, while lampposts and signs steadily receded beyond the windows. Farther ahead, the towering walls of Pact Fortress had come into view.
Matilda, dressed in a court gown with black hair cascading over her shoulders, gazed out at the wilderness beyond the window. Her expression was calm, her eyes deep, as though she were lost in thought.
She and the delegation she led had completed their visit to Cecil, and were now riding a magic-infused vehicle sent by Longwind Fortress toward Pact Fortress. The reception party dispatched from Winterwolf Fortress was already waiting there—the magnificent castle built for the signing of the Ansu-Typhon peace treaty still served its purpose today. As a landmark on the border between two empires, it remained a symbol of "peace." Yet the kings who had signed that treaty were gone, and a dynasty had come to its end amid war. Now only the stone castle still stood at the frontier, flying the new Imperial Flag and proclaiming the peace of the New Era.
How much was there to lament in all this, and how many historians and philosophers would leave their words behind for it?
Matilda withdrew her gaze and looked at the imposing officer seated opposite her—the commander of Longwind Fortress. General Maryland personally escorted the delegation, a sign of the Cecil Empire's sincerity.
"Princess Matilda, we're almost there," General Maryland said with a slight nod after noticing her gaze. "I hope your visit to Cecil left you with a favorable impression."
"It was an impressive and pleasant journey," Matilda said with a faint smile. "General Maryland, thank