The Empire of Reimia (3)

— ... — Romeo muttered something in response to Moriner’s words, and then he exploded. — I don’t understand these brothers!
— Romeo... — Azarina looked worriedly at her classmate.
— Whether it’s one or the other! Imperial duty, imperial title — these are not toys that can be ignored or refused based on one’s whims!
— Romeo... Maybe the emperor was just ill and felt that he couldn’t cope with his duties. You yourself saw what state he was in on the day of the inauguration.
— If he’s ill, appoint a regent! If there’s not enough time, strength, or competence, there are advisors who can fill those gaps.
— Romeo...
— I will accept the emperor’s decision, whatever it may be, but I will never be able to understand what happened.

Moriner listened silently to the agitated nobleman, not knowing what to say and already cursing himself for even starting this conversation. Now, changing the subject to the weather or the Competitive events was hardly possible, but continuing the conversation would certainly not improve anyone’s mood.
-For me... as a simple person, unfamiliar with the customs and unable to fully appreciate the deep meaning that you put into such concepts as imperial duty to the country, it is difficult to fully grasp them, but even I perfectly understand what you are talking about, and I completely agree with you. Even if we look at it on a slightly smaller scale, within the framework of our academy, for example... no one simply wants to die in battle, but in the event of a war with foreign enemies, or even demons, many will do anything to contribute to the defense of their homeland. This is honor and duty for me. The emperor must also have something similar, only on a much larger scale. If one soldier, neglecting his duty, can decide the outcome of an entire battle, what can be said about a commander or an emperor...
After a short pause, Moriner dared to continue:
-But you know, yesterday we took a history test, which I had been preparing for all last month, and I was surprised to find that very often, in order to preserve their title and fulfill their duty to the country, rulers — not only the Reimi emperors, but others as well — made terrible mistakes that led to terrible tragedies... I mean, maybe sometimes you need to be able to listen to what your own heart and intuition tell you? - he said the last part with a hint of uncertainty, so that it sounded more like a suggestion than a firm conviction.