Chapter 431

If one doesn't want to commit genocide, only Kaguya can address the root causes of Watatsumi Island's problems and resolve this historical dilemma.

That's why she went to Watatsumi Island.

As for a group of sinners who have wrought misfortune upon the common people, it would only elevate their status if the general and the Imperial Advisor even glanced at them; there was really no need for them to do so.

Just before the water mirror disappeared, Kaguya caught a glimpse of a pink mermaid's beautiful figure.

"Oh wow~~"

Kaguya clapped her hands with her folding fan, revealing an interested smile.

Suddenly, the mermaid watching the execution twitched her ears, then her delicate body trembled. As if she had heard something, her previously relaxed expression instantly froze.

After a while, Sangonomiya Kokomi arrived at the gate of the Tenshukaku with humility and respect. She nervously entered the tower and knelt before Kaguya.

"Xin Hai greets the General and the Imperial Advisor!"

"Get up, it is I who want to see you. You have been in the shogunate for some time now, and I have heard from the deputy magistrates that you are diligent and capable, and deserve to be commended."

"No, no, Xin Hai only did a little favor. It is all thanks to the wisdom and foresight of the General and the Imperial Advisor."

Sangonomiya Kokomi said very humbly.

To be fair, although working for the shogunate was busy, it was much more comfortable than life on Watatsumi Island.

What was the situation like when she was in charge of Watatsumi Island?

Internally, the country was plagued by hunger and poverty, and the people were filled with resentment. Among the officials, there were many who were corrupt, bribed, or simply mindless radicals. Externally, the shogunate was increasingly hostile.

Sangonomiya Kokomi had to balance internal power while doing everything she could to maintain the people's livelihood. Later, she even took charge of the war. While managing everything, she also often thought about how her own Great Serpent God of Watatsumi, had fallen, and that there was still a living Electro Archon on the other side... Sangonomiya Kokomi hadn't died suddenly before thanks to the excellent physique of the Living God Shrine Maiden.

But things were different during the shogunate.

Although there was a lot of work, it was nowhere near as much as the chaotic and leaky political affairs she faced on Watatsumi Island. Most importantly, she was no longer the leader; now she had pledged allegiance and was clinging to General Raiden Shogun's coattails. As long as she followed the Imperial Advisor's orders and moved in the direction he indicated, she didn't need to feel any psychological pressure.

After a while, Sangonomiya Kokomi recently felt that her hair and face were more hydrated than before.

Otherwise, how could she have the mind to watch the execution?

"Actually, theoretically, I could put you up there and chop you up along with the leader of the Haizhi rebels."

"Your Imperial Advisor, Xin Hai is utterly loyal to the Muya Prefecture and the General. Please, Your Excellency, see this clearly!"

"Look at you, you're perfectly fine in every way, so why are you such a coward? Just kidding. Since I've hired you, it means I trust you. As long as you do your job well, I guarantee you and Watatsumi Island will be safe."

"Yes! Thank you for your Imperial Advisor. Xin Hai is determined to serve the General and the Imperial Advisor Preceptor to the death!"

Sangonomiya Kokomi trembled with fear as it pledged its loyalty.

Kaguya's lips curled into a slight smile. She found the little mermaid's trembling appearance both amusing and somewhat uninteresting. If he remained so fearful, wouldn't he always keep his distance from Kaguya? That wouldn't be fun.

"How did you feel watching those people die?"

"My heart feels... somewhat relieved."

"Do you think they're the ones who pushed Watatsumi Island to that point?"

"No, the main reason naturally lies with Watatsumi Island itself. But if they hadn't pressed on relentlessly, perhaps I would have had a chance to stop that war... Xin Hai is not trying to shirk the responsibility of Watatsumi Island and myself. In any case, we will offer our absolute loyalty to the General and Inazuma! If we break this oath, please cut off Xin Hai's head just as you would those traitors!"