Bab 215: The Situation In The Imperial Capital
The three young girls were terrified by the sudden attack and froze in place, letting out a simultaneous scream.
As for the incoming attack, Kaguya was unconcerned. With a graceful step, she shifted her position, allowing the sharp blade to pass right in front of her. She extended her fair fingers, lightly touching the blade's surface. With a crisp sound, the glinting long blade was deflected far away.
The attacker seemed to have anticipated this outcome and was not discouraged. She stepped forcefully, spinning her body and shooting out like a streak of light. The long sword traced a perfect arc, once again aiming for Kaguya's neck.
Kaguya retreated, her soft body bending to dodge the attack. The attacker did not let the opportunity slip and pursued relentlessly. With another step, utilizing the counterforce, she charged like lightning, swinging her long blade in a torrential storm of slashes, raining down countless blows in an instant.
Caught in the onslaught, Kaguya was like a small boat in a storm, tossed amidst the towering waves, seemingly on the brink of capsizing at any moment.
Seeing Kaguya on the defensive, with the situation growing precarious, the attacker allowed a smile to creep across her face. Her blade swung even faster, the gusts it generated like wind blades, lifting fallen leaves into the air and filling the space with swirling leaves and dust.
Suddenly, Kaguya extended her snow-white arm, fingers spread, like lightning, reaching for the attacker's wrist. Instead of being frightened, the attacker was delighted, accelerating toward her target. Twisting her wrist, the long blade traced a brilliant arc, slashing toward Kaguya's fingers.
The blade aimed straight for Kaguya's fingers, poised to cut them in two should she dare to catch it barehanded.
But just as the attacker felt assured of her victory, Kaguya vanished from her sight. Her expression shifted dramatically as panic set in. She knew something was wrong and quickly tried to retreat, but it was too late. She felt a tightness in her chest, a white hand had gripped her, numbing her elbow. Her long blade slipped from her grasp, arcing through the air before clattering to the ground.
"Not bad, you've improved, Kurome."
A crisp, pleasant voice whispered by her ear, sending a shiver down her spine.
The attacker, a black-haired girl, was none other than Kurome, long unseen.
Feeling the warmth by her ear, Kurome blushed from her neck to her ears. She knew she had failed her ambush, and as punishment for her failure, she bit her lip, enduring Kaguya's hand on her chest.
"Who is she?"
The three young girls ran over, curiously observing the black-haired girl. They had thought she was an assassin, but now it seemed she was acquainted with the Princess.
Kaguya paused, realizing the presence of the three little ones. She thought it best not to set a bad example for them. She released Kurome, who quickly backed away, sheathing her blade, looking a little flustered.
"Her name is Kurome. You can call her sister from now on."
"Really?"
"That's great."
The three girls surrounded her, inspecting Kurome with curiosity and admiration. She was about their age, yet so skilled. They wished they could be as strong as her.
Kurome, however, seemed unaccustomed to their enthusiasm, appearing uneasy. Her delicate face showed embarrassment, which amused Kaguya. Perhaps these little ones would help soften Kurome's introverted and bloodthirsty nature.
Suddenly, a guard hurried over, knelt down, and whispered, "Princess, there is urgent information from the palace."
This guard was a member of Kaguya's intelligence division. Months ago, Kaguya had established this division, recruiting many talented individuals and investing heavily to build a network primarily aimed at monitoring the ministers and Night Raid. Normally, nothing significant should be happening. What could have occurred?
Kaguya's mind raced, yet her expression remained calm. She turned to the girls and said with a gentle smile, "You play here for now. I have some matters to attend to."
"Farewell, Princess," the girls curtsied in unison, lifting Kaguya's spirits.
Kaguya turned, signaling the guard to follow her to her office, where they went to discuss the matter.
"You're saying the minister wants me to leave the capital?" Kaguya asked in surprise.
"Exactly, Princess. The minister brought it to the Emperor's attention three days ago, stating that since you are nearly of age, it is inappropriate for you to reside in the palace. You should return to your domain," the guard continued. "He also claimed that you are too young to manage affairs, suggesting to the Emperor that your territory be reduced."
"That sly fox, aiming to strike at the root," Kaguya muttered, furrowing her brows. She had anticipated the minister would target her eventually due to their opposing stances. She had ignored his insinuations, likely making herself a thorn in his side.
But Kaguya hadn't expected the minister to act so soon, catching her off guard. Her loyal followers were not yet in place, her army just beginning training, and the information and relationship network was still in its infancy. If she was forced to leave the capital now, all her previous efforts might go to waste.
"Princess?" the guard prompted, seeing Kaguya lost in thought.
Kaguya snapped back to the present, nodding to the guard. "Return and keep this matter quiet for now. Also, reassure the subordinates."
"Yes."
Watching the guard leave, Kaguya tapped her chin, contemplating her next move. The minister was a cunning fox, exploiting the young Emperor's trust to form factions and eliminate dissent, having replaced much of the court with his loyalists. Now he sought to target her.
Kaguya frowned, her face grim, exuding an icy aura.
Minister, if you know what's good for you, I might let you live a little longer. Otherwise, I'll send you to hell first.
A glint of coldness flashed in Kaguya's eyes.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone