"But if something like that happens again, don't come rushing over like a fool. Just because I'm not afraid doesn't mean you shouldn't be."
He had guessed why the Third Prince had come over. Whatever else one might say, the Dimon Kingdom was a dependable ally.
"Are they really more frightening than the forces of Chaos?"
"The question is whether the forces of Chaos are more frightening than they are."
Annan had never found the forces of Chaos particularly troublesome. If anything, with them, he only had to focus on the war. Victory and defeat were both straightforward.
"But an enemy like yourself is different. You have to contend with corruption seeping in everywhere, officials turning traitor, sanctions on your trade, and morale that never seems to recover. Ratfolk and demons, at least, only meet you on the battlefield."
To civilians, all the gangsters on the streets, marauding bandits, and gnolls in the outskirts put together were less frightening than one cruel lord.
Annan patted the shoulder of the Third Prince, whom he had just scared, with the air of an old hand. "Relax. With me and the Empire backing you, the Orr Empire will think twice before making trouble for you."
If it came down to strength, Annan might have had to think twice himself.
But when it came to talking, he had never lost to anyone! He had dared to talk his way around the Blue Dragon Princess back when he was still an apprentice sorcerer. He had talked Olmedo, who should have been his sworn enemy, into becoming a friend, and left the onrushing ratfolk so thoroughly confused they didn't know which way was north—
"Hm? A demon?"
No sooner had Annan made that boast than someone came along to spoil his mood.
Following the voice, Annan