The Doll and The Prince - v3 Chapter 9 (Patreon)

Akari (1)
"Use me as you wish."

Saibunmei said.
He laid in bed, unable to open his eyes. A former civil official of the Empire.
His body was average, his face composed but unremarkable, giving off a calm impression.
He furrowed his brows slightly, perhaps because even speaking was painful.

"I can't guarantee anything, but I will do my utmost to ensure your life is prolonged as much as possible."

Shinobube said, to which Sai weakly shook his head.

"Prioritize what leads to the treatment of Naruhito over my life."
"I intend to save both of you."

At Shinobube's words, Sai struggled to open his eyes slightly.
He looked at Ikumatsu, and then at Hiiro.

"Please use me, to save Naruhito."

His eyes closed immediately after. A sense of dignity similar to Akemi's resolve when he wouldn't change his mind filled the room.
He was no mere civil official.

"You need to get better. I truly rely on you."

Did Hiiro's weak words reach him? We watched in silence as the IV slowly administered anesthesia.
Shinobube, Ikumatsu, and a man who appeared to be an assistant pushed the bed into the operating room.
Hiiro and I watched them leave and sighed lightly.

"Who is he?"
"My capable subordinate."
"I see."

Akemi, your intuition is correct. A mere civil official shouldn’t be able to exert such pressure on others. The atmosphere when asserting his unwavering opinion...
I glared at Hiiro.

"Is that alright?"
"… It’s none of my brother's business, is it?"
"I will report what I see and hear as it is."

I am Prince Akemi's eyes and ears. I vowed to see and hear on his behalf, for he can not move freely.
He had entrusted his only strand of freedom with me.

"… I will tell him."
"That's wise."

After a brief silence, Hiiro spoke.

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