Chapter 13
Only then did Argana realize she had been lost in thought, staring at nothing.
Her fist was clenched so tightly that her palm throbbed from the pressure.
“…No, it doesn’t hurt. Sorry. I must’ve startled you.”
“You scared me! You just sat there, eyes blazing like fire, and didn’t say a word.”
At her younger brother’s innocent description, Argana couldn’t help but laugh. And at the same time, she scolded herself inwardly.
I can’t let everything show on my face. Until now it didn’t matter much, but if I’m going to uncover the one who killed me, I need to master the art of acting.
If Kartak or anyone else had been here, they would’ve said, “How many more skills are you planning to add to your list?”
But she was right. To observe others, she first had to conceal her true thoughts.
And then there’s Yoschmut… That fool will trip over his own feet sooner or later, but it’s a waste of time to sit around and wait.
She would have to make him lose his temper, force him to act rashly, blind to reason, consumed only by petty rage. That way, he’d fall straight into her trap.
“Well then, Tirzalan, how are your studies these days?”
At the mention of studying, Tirzalan winced like a child caught misbehaving. But Argana’s next words brought a blush to both of his cheeks.
“The tutors say you’ve been learning mathematics? Solving even difficult problems with ease?”
“They… they said that?”
“Yes. And history as well—they say you’re doing well. Haven’t you already memorized half of Dumajisa?”
Among the many books the Khan’s children were expected to study, Dumajisa was the most basic of basics. It chronicled the history from the days when their people were mere nomadic tribes, long before the Kingdom of Kaimdal existed, up until the coronation of Astrahan Khan and the founding of the Dar Empire.
For one who would one day be Khan, or at least a pillar supporting him, it was required knowledge. But its vast content made it grueling to study.
Tirzalan fiddled shyly with his teacup, his expression half-embarrassed, half-proud.
“It’s not that impressive. Compared to you, I’m really slow. The tutors said that you started reading Dumajisa when you were only four, and by six you had memorized the entire thing.”
“There’s no need to belittle yourself by comparing to others, Tirzalan.”
“I’m not belittling myself! Even if I’m young, I’m not that petty. It’s true you’re incredible, isn’t it?”
Argana smiled in the same way her brother did and patted his shoulder encouragingly.
“How about the other subjects?”
“Well… in astronomy, I’ve started Celestial Star Points. For military strategy, I’ve learned about a third of the Command Sutra…”
“Really? That’s good. You’re doing well.”
That should be enough. Argana smirked inwardly. She had plenty of tinder to light Yoschmut’s temper, and more than enough oil to fan the flames.
“Tirzalan, do you know why Father has been so unsettled lately?”
“Oh, yes! I heard about it. Tatullai of Jindan invaded the east again, didn’t he? But General Orchai went to war, so I’m sure we’ll hear good news soon.”
“Yes, that’s right. A victory from Orchai is practically guaranteed. And if, during such a time, the youngest son shows Father how hard he’s been studying, it will please him all the more.”
“You think I can bring Father joy?”
The boy’s face lit up with hope. Argana felt a faint pang of guilt for using her innocent, sweet younger brother like this, but in the end, wasn’t it all for him?
Someday, even if Tirzalan learns the truth, he’ll forgive me.
Smiling gently, she ruffled his hair.
“Of course you can. I’ll arrange for us all to dine together, and you can show Father how hard you’ve been working. That will cheer up Mother Sorcate as well.”
“I’ll do it! I’ll make her proud, Sister!”
Tirzalan jumped up and bowed formally.
“Sister, I should go finish my homework now.”
“All right, go on then. And give Mother Sorcate my regards.”
“Yes, I will!”
Argana watched the boy run off, his attendant maid trailing behind him, and then called the maid over.
“See that Tirzalan can concentrate on his studies. Sweets may help him stay alert, but too much will harm him, so give them sparingly. And once he finishes his homework, make sure he reviews today’s lessons.”
“Yes, Your Highness. With such care from you, not only will the young prince be happy, but Her Majesty the Empress will be as well.”
“Go on, then.”
The maid bowed and withdrew.
Now, I should see the Grand Tutors.
Stretching lightly, Argana rose to her feet.
Argana arrived at the Imperial Academy, where the Khan’s children were educated, and summoned the tutors responsible for Yoschmut’s studies.
“I trust all of you are aware of how much my father values the education of his children.”
At her words, the tutors exchanged uneasy glances.
Turning the pages of a book slowly, Argana continued.
“I already knew my brother Yoschmut wasn’t particularly ambitious in his studies. But to be behind even the youngest, Tirzalan—that is a grave problem.”
“We are ashamed, Your Highness. We have urged Prince Yoschmut many times to apply himself more diligently, but he…”
When Argana snapped the book shut, the tutors fell silent at once. Instead of reproaching them, however, she smiled faintly, her expression unreadable.
“I know you’ve done all you can for my brother. I, too, have been taught by many of you.”
But the quality of those who had instructed Argana and the ones who now struggled with Yoschmut were worlds apart—and everyone knew it. The tutors grew even more bitter-faced.
She skimmed a few more pages, then closed the book as if resigned and rose to leave. The tutors scrambled to stand and see her off.
“Your Highness, if His Majesty should inquire about Prince Yoschmut’s progress…”
“Do not worry. I hear that my brother has been spending much time outside the palace lately. Even if Father asks about his progress, no blame will fall upon you.”
“You… you truly think so?”
“Of course. Now then, I’ll take my leave.”
With the anxious tutors behind her, Argana left the academy with a light step.
Now that she had confirmed just how hopeless Yoschmut truly was, everything would proceed smoothly.
“Across the river, on the bridge, a fair young maiden smiles with joy. The ankle peeking beneath her hem is like a willow branch greeting the spring breeze…”
At the fluent recitation of a verse, Argana whipped her head around and shot a mischievous glare.
“How dare you sing such a vulgar folk song in front of the Princess of Dar?”
“As I recall, Your Highness, you yourself had quite the fondness for folk songs as a child. Don’t you remember? When you were only nine, you teased me with a song comparing me to clouds and rain…”
“Enough, Kartak! Enough!”
Argana lunged forward, covering Kartak’s mouth with both hands as she burst into laughter.
Looking down at her, rare amusement flickering in his eyes, Kartak noticed her ears glowing red.
“We agreed never to speak of that again! Oh, heavens, my face is burning.”
