Alistair had spent the past week dealing with noble stupidity, and it seemed the universe had decided he hadn't suffered enough.
The Emperor leaned forward on his throne, hands clasped together. "Alistair, I have an assignment for you."
Alistair exhaled slowly. "What kind of assignment?"
The Emperor smirked. "You'll be representing the Empire at the upcoming Imperial Academy Summit."
Alistair froze.
"…Pardon?"
The Emperor chuckled. "You'll be attending the event as the Imperial Council's representative. Nobles, scholars, and foreign envoys will be present. It's an opportunity to showcase the Empire's stability and governance."
Alistair's mind raced. The Imperial Academy. That meant—
"My brother studies there," he said flatly.
The Emperor's smirk widened. "Exactly."
Alistair could already imagine Felix's terrified reaction upon seeing him.
"…Your Majesty," Alistair began slowly, "I fail to see how my presence at an academic event benefits the Imperial Council."
The Emperor waved a hand lazily. "Oh, come now. You're always buried in government affairs. Consider this a… diplomatic assignment."
A headache pounded behind Alistair's eyes.
A public event filled with noble brats, foreign dignitaries, and the potential for endless small talk?
Alistair was 99% sure this was punishment for something.
"…When is this event?"
"In three days."
Alistair clenched his jaw. "And when were you planning to inform me?"
The Emperor grinned. "Just now."
Alistair fought the urge to commit treason.
Later – Back in His Office
Cedric, his ever-loyal aide, looked like he wanted to laugh.
"So, you'll be visiting the Academy?" Cedric asked, barely hiding his amusement.
Alistair rubbed his temples. "Apparently."
Cedric coughed. "Your brother will be… delighted."
Alistair gave him a deadpan stare. "No, he won't."
At that moment, a messenger burst into the room, out of breath. "Sir! Urgent message from the Academy!"
Alistair's brow furrowed. "Already?"
The messenger handed him the sealed letter. Alistair broke the wax seal, unfolded it, and began reading.
His expression darkened.
"…Cedric."
"Yes, sir?"
"Prepare my schedule."
"What happened?"
Alistair sighed and tossed the letter onto the desk.
It was a formal request from the Academy.
Apparently, there had been a disciplinary issue involving his younger brother, Felix Ashencrest—and the Academy requested Alistair's presence as his legal guardian.
Cedric blinked. "Oh."
Alistair leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling. "Why. Why is my life like this."
Cedric did not answer, mostly because he was too busy holding back laughter.
End of Chapter 3