"There are three requirements on the path to kingship. First, talent. In that respect, Hailancha and Xiusenya were much the same early on. This time, I gave Hailancha a chance as well, to see how he performs."
"Second, personal interests. Although forming factions for private gain is frowned upon, I know it is unavoidable. Without it, how could one establish a core of supporters?"
"Third, public duty. Private interests provide the foundation, but only a commitment to the public allows one to govern a country. In that respect..." the king said with a sigh.
Count Feikam stood with his hands at his sides, offering no comment.
After sighing, the king continued, "What have you found in the matter I asked you to investigate?"
"There is something that requires Your Majesty's judgment."
"Oh? Tell me."
"While investigating Viscount Teta Xiao, I found two points worthy of your attention. The rest can be set aside." Count Feikam paused briefly before continuing, "The first concerns the Ice and Snow Kingdom."
"Oh?"
"According to my investigation, the matter is not so simple. There seem to have been divine forces behind this tsunami. Moreover, a prince died in it. Viscount Teta Xiao was likely involved, which is why that queen has taken a particular interest in him," Count Feikam said. "But her reasons for doing so must be ones that cannot be made public. Otherwise, she would have sent an official diplomatic letter rather than acting in private."
The king nodded. "Indeed. If her reasons were legitimate, she would not have acted this way."
After thinking for a moment, he asked, "And the other point?"
"Viscount Teta Xiao may be about to reach the sixteenth level."
"What?" The king's expression changed at once. He rose from his throne and took several abrupt steps. "Are you