Let Cavendil take action, then reap the benefits as the third party...
But...
Tales swallowed.
"But if we do that..."
Miranda's gaze was fervent, while Marius remained silent.
"But this outcome, Tales—you've actually considered it before, haven't you?" A thought suddenly emerged from the depths of Tales's heart, startling him badly.
If the goal could truly be achieved, Tales, then this might not be a better result:
Hmm. With the two Cavendils bringing about their own destruction, Emerald City's greatest troublemakers and thorns would be removed, while all that remained in the memories of the subjects of Southbank Territory would be your benevolence, kindness, and capable governance.
Just as over the past few days, you had employed both force and persuasion to win the submission of everyone in Emerald City, maneuvering skillfully to earn the respect of everyone in the Empty Palace...
Tales subconsciously gripped the arm of his chair.
No. If that happened, Hilaire—Hilaire would...
Even Hilaire couldn't blame you—his thoughts argued back against him. You only had to spare Jann's life, put him in a prison wagon, and send him to Everstar City.
Perhaps that would even be better for the Duke of Iris.
At worst, you could preserve Jann's fate through active remedies afterward and your best efforts at mediation once you returned to Everstar City, allowing Hilaire to understand: for that girl's wish, you had done everything you could.
She would understand.
After all, having shared hardships over the past few days, she already understood you. She regarded you as a comrade, and she would trust you sincerely...
No—Tales shook his head subconsciously, breathing in a daze.
No, that wouldn't do. That wouldn't do... This had nothing to do with Hilaire. Or rather, it couldn't concern Hilaire alone. This involved all of Emerald City.
Then doing