Reincarnated Princess Wishes To Avoid Death
chapter-569

Princess Mia: Clearing the Misunderstanding

“Perhaps it would be a good idea to ride a horse…”

Malong was shocked by Mia’s words almost as if he had been struck on the head. And it was not just him—even the other Chiefs, leaders of their respective Clans, known for their calmness, courage, and wisdom, were all rendered speechless.

The first to recover among them was Kouma, who said, “Is it possible that… No…”

He shook his head as if was denying something. However,

“At this juncture, if you are talking about riding a horse, it can mean only one thing— ‘Uma-awase’ or ‘Horse Match-up’.” Malong declared.

The ‘Horse Match-up’ was an ancient judgement method of the Equestrian Kingdom. Simply put, both parties would ride their respective horses and the one who reached the destination first would be judged to be correct. It was an extremely simple way of determining who was right. ‘May God show His will through the speed of the horse,’ is how they posed their inquiry to God.

When considered calmly, it was obvious that the party with a skilled horse rider or a particularly fast horse was at a huge advantage. However, compared to enforcing one’s argument with a sword or brute strength, it was a relatively peaceful way of resolving things, typical of what one would expect from the Equestrian Kingdom.

However, such Horse Match-ups had become noticeably less common in recent years.

For that reason, normally, it would be unthinkable for the Princess of a foreign country to make such a proposal. But Malong had been listening carefully.

“Now that I think about it, Miss Mia mentioned that she had done some research on the Equestrian Kingdom before coming.”

That’s right. Mia had indeed said that she had carefully researched various things about the Equestrian Kingdom beforehand.

‘Actually, I didn’t exactly mean it like that. But Malong-senpai perceived the information that way, so it can’t be helped. ’

In his mind, Malong had concluded that Mia had thoroughly researched the history of the Equestrian Kingdom and had diligently considered a way to resolve the current dispute.

“I see. The Horse Match-up is the traditional way of doing things. If it leads to the conclusion that the Fire Clan should be welcomed, then naturally everyone would have no choice but to accept the decision. This traditional method of judgement might be necessary in order to convince everyone to accept the Fire Clan along with their custom of using wolves.”

Said Kouma as he slowly rubbed his chin.

“Essentially, Princess Mia intends for Fuuma, the Mountain Clan Chief, and Aima, the Sister of the Fire Clan Chief, to participate in the Match-up, right?”

“Huh? No, no, why would we do something like that…?”

Fuuma asked abruptly, in panic.

Kouma directed a cold stare at him and said, “Since the Fire Clan use wolves, they are not part of the Equestrian Kingdom. Hence, I bought their sheep. Was it not you who said that? In that case, should you not be the first to oppose their return?”

“No… that’s um…”

‘At the moment, my actions are still in a grey area. However, if there is a reconciliation and the Fire Clan officially returns to the Equestrian Kingdom, my injustice towards the Fire Clan will become even more conspicuous. Although, in principle, the laws and regulations cannot be retroactively applied, there is no doubt that my image will be ruined.’

Kouma cut off his objection and stared silently at Mia.

“Well, Your Highness Princess Mia, it seems that you have thoroughly researched the Equestrian Kingdom. So, surely, you must be aware of what fate awaits the loser of the Match-up, right?”

‘What?’

Mia was about to tilt her head in confusion, but then decided to endure it and instead stared intently at Kouma. Without waiting for Mia to reply, Kouma continued as if to confirm, “The loser, if asked, must give up their horse to the winner. So your proposal includes this rule as well, correct?”

‘Huh?’

For a moment, Mia did not understand what was being said and tilted her head slightly. Without mercy or room for misunderstanding, Kouma said to Mia, “That means, if the daughter of the Fire Clan were to lose, that horse might end up becoming the property of Lord Fuuma. No, actually, considering what a magnificent horse it is, it will definitely end up in his hands. While being aware of this risk, Lord Fuuma will also put forth his horse. If both parties can receive a matching reward, only then they can consent. While being aware of that, you made this proposal, correct?”

‘Ah, it would be really bad if I arbitrarily agreed to this!’

Mia immediately comprehended what was at stake and decided to retreat. At this stage, there was still time, and so Mia was about to speak…

“Of course. It is inevitable if the matter is going to be decided through a Match-up. I will gladly accept.”

Before Mia could speak, Aima ended up answering with tremendous pride and dignity.

‘Damn, I took too long! Aima-san, why did you do something unnecessary?’

Mia wanted to bury her head in her hands.

‘At first glance, the situation seems as though I have been given an escape route. No, but…’

‘Even if she were to lose, the Fire Clan would still receive food aid. However, Aima-san would lose her beloved horse. Additionally, the Fire Clan would not be recognised as a part of the Equestrian Kingdom. It was also quite possible that they would have to abandon their wolves and integrate into one of the Clans. In any case, the risk was too high!’

Moreover, the memory of Aima catching up to Mia on her horse the other day remained in her head.

‘At that time, it was true that Aima-san easily caught up to me. But, what would have happened if I had been riding Kuolan? Maybe she couldn’t have caught up? If the conditions were right, perhaps even I could outpace her. At the very least, I feel that Aima-san would lose to both the Wolf Master and Malong-senpai.’

If it was certain that Aima would win, it would be a different matter. However, to wage an all-or-nothing gamble was not a suitable option for a chicken-hearted strategist. But rather than that…

At that moment, Mia had a sudden flash of inspiration!

Mia spoke following her intuition.

“No, Elder Kouma. It seems like you misunderstood something.”

“Oh, a misunderstanding? What do you mean by that?”

“It’s quite clear. Aima-san will not be taking part in the Horse Match-up.”

“What do you mean, Princess Mia?”

It was not Kouma, but Aima, who made a dubious expression on hearing that. Mia smiled calmly in response, placed a hand on her chest and said,

“The one who will be taking part is not Aima-san. It will be me!”

At those words, the place broke out in uproar once more.