Episode 11

**It's a Fraud But Let's Pretend** (そうだ、バブルに乗ろう, *Sō da, Baburu ni Norō*?) is the eleventh episode of the Anime. It was aired in Japan on March 22nd, 2022.

## Synopsis

Finally reaching Soljest, Wein tries to propose an alliance with Gruyere who at first avoids talking over the subject, but ultimately accepts the offer. However, there is more to Gruyere's acceptance to Wein's proposal then meets the eye.

## Summary

Prime Minister Sirgis of the kingdom of Soljest visits Marchioness Zenovia concerning the letter sent to her the previous day about fraudulent goods being sent to the country he represents. Although Zenovia feigns ignorance of the subject of the letter, Sirgis demands to talk with Wein about the subject then. As Zenovia realizes Sirgis has no respect for her, Wein makes his appearance and happily agrees to discuss the matters with Sirgis. Sirgis accuses that the products from the Natra Kingdom are really from the Empire and are being sold to Delunio. Denying the accusation, Wein claims that all of the products sent to Soljest are made in Natra, but Sirgis refutes it. On the other hand, Wein continues to confidently argue his case, which prompts Sirgis to shift gears and broaden his argument. Again, Wein manages to outwit Sirgis' argument causing him to recuse himself and discuss the matters within his home country. Before he leaves, Sirgis claims that they'll rue that day, but Wein brushes the warning off.

The following day, Wein accompanied by Ninym continues his journey to the capital of Soljest Phithcha. Upon arriving there, both Wein and Ninym discuss the booming marketplace due to its open trade port and how Marden would flourish if they piggyback on its marine trade. Soon, they meet with Gruyere who warmly greets his guests and guides them to the main hall for dinner as he's carried by his subjects to their destination. As they head there, Gruyere talks about desires and how within youth they manifest and influence them. Wein interprets he's trying to promote a loose yet friendly tie with Natra as a way to prevent Natra's influence from expanding further west. As a strong possibility, in this relationship, both Soljest and Natra would team up and defeat Delunio.

Within the main hall, Gruyere's daughter Tolcheila was told to stay secluded by her father while he talks with Wein. On the other hand, Tolcheila couldn't resist seeing Wein in person. Figuring that the father and daughter's personal relationship between them is good, Wein allows her to stay. As they're served their food, Tolcheila gives an explanation about each dish and the ingredients. Although Wein loves the dishes being served to him, his true intentions lie in forming an alliance with her father. In the end, he fails to do this, and Ninym consoles him. Wein figures he'll make another attempt the following day hopefully before the end of the ceremony.

Meanwhile, Zenovia learns from Jiva about another letter from the Prime Minister of Delunio which could prompt another war with the country. Back to Wein, he tries to get Gruyere's attention to discuss matters on an alliance with him, but fails each and every time. Both Wein and Ninym talk about this and conclude that Gruyere's motive is assassinating him as his kingdom is a growing power. Right as Wein plans to flee, a messenger informs them that the King wishes to speak with him.

Meeting with the king, Gruyere invites Wein to have a seat as well as Ninym, whom despite being a Flahm and he devout Levetian. Gruyere holds no prejudice against Flahms and believes such teachings are simply guidelines on paper. In his opinion, one must follow their own creed of their religious beliefs and face the consequences when the time comes. Complimenting the wise words of wisdom spoken by Gruyere, Wein finally asks for an alliance between Natra and Soljest. Contemplating the offer, Gruyere accepts the offer and allows Wein to leave early as he mentioned at the start of their talk. Once Wein and Ninym are out of the picture, Gruyere comments how long his charade will play out and calls out Sirgis who stood behind a curtain veil and smiles.

Back at Natra, Ninym and Wein are perplexed by the outcome of their meeting with Gruyere. They then receive urgent news that Delunio has invaded Marden and Soljest has commenced a military campaign against Natra. Panic-stricken, Wein summons Zenovia who beseeches Wein's forgiveness and hopes to reconcile her relationship with Delunio. To that suggestion, Wein agrees with it and plans on turning the outcome of all of this upside down.

## Character

Characters in order of appearance.

* Sirgis
* Zeno
* Jiva
* Wein Salema Arbalest
* Ninym Ralei
* Gruyere Soljest
* Tolcheila Soljest