The Celebration and the Budget

Marquis Krilos got out of the carriage and slowly walked toward the imperial palace. Along the way, every palace guard on duty solemnly performed the hand-over-heart salute to him, expressing their respect for Marquis Krilos.

In just three short years, this disabled man with two frightening scars across his face had brought the finances of the reunified Krissen Empire into perfect order. Not only had he assisted His Majesty the Emperor in rebuilding the empire's three great legions, but he had also found the resources to develop several industries that improved the people's livelihoods. The empire's economy was no longer as strained as it had been immediately after reunification. In fact, over the past two years, even His Majesty the Emperor and Her Majesty the Queen had been able to lavishly hold various royal court events...

"Greetings, Your Excellency Lord Earl." Sir Hendry, the palace steward, respectfully came forward to welcome Marquis Krilos and performed a standard half-bow court salute. "His Majesty is having afternoon tea with Her Majesty the Queen in the rear garden. Because of His Highness the Little Prince's birthday, Her Majesty is preparing to hold a grand celebration banquet. His Majesty summoned you because he wishes to set aside funds to organize His Highness the Little Prince's birthday celebration..."

As Sir Hendry led the way, he revealed every detail of the reason His Majesty had summoned Marquis Krilos. Marquis Krilos smiled and nodded at him. "Thank you, Sir Hendry. I remember your wife mentioned while shopping at the merchant house a few days ago that the beginning of next month will be your thirtieth wedding anniversary. As it happens, I received a bottle of Forest Moon Dew yesterday, supposedly elven perfume. I think it would make a very suitable anniversary gift..."

Sir Hendry was delighted. Forest