Makoto fell silent for a moment, deep in thought. Then, her voice turned solemn:
"Those guilty of grave crimes , those whose actions cost the lives of our people , shall face execution.
"The rest shall be punished in accordance with Inazuma's laws."
"Strict justice , announce all judgments publicly. The people of Inazuma deserve a clear answer."
Kokomi nodded seriously and took careful notes.
After a brief silence, Kamisato Ayato spoke softly:
"My Lady, during the trials of the Kujou and Hiiragi Clans, we found that there are still a few within their families who are honest and capable."
"Their skills and judgment aren't bad. I was thinking… perhaps we could allow them to return to service under the Kanjou Commission and Tenryou Commission?"
"At present, the Kanjou Commission is nothing more than an empty shell. Lady Kokomi and I are temporarily maintaining it, but that isn't sustainable in the long term."
"As for the Tenryou Commission , while General Kujou Sara can manage it, she's already burdened with much, and soon she'll lead her troops to Liyue. The commission can't rely on her indefinitely."
Makoto nodded thoughtfully.
"I understand what you mean. This matter can be given some leniency… but you must ensure those you recommend will dedicate themselves fully to the people of Inazuma."
"Ayato, since you are the one recommending them, if any of these people cause trouble again , if they harm our citizens in any way , you will bear joint responsibility."
Ayato finally exhaled in relief and bowed.
"Understood, my Lady. I am willing to vouch for them."
Makoto smiled faintly.
"Then do as you've said. Once you've chosen suitable candidates, bring them to meet me."
To be honest, Ayato had no desire to guarantee these people.
For someone as shrewd as him, taking on such liability was something he would normally avoid entirely.
But there was no other choice.
Although Sangonomiya Kokomi was now helping Makoto reorganize Inazuma, she was still a priestess of Watatsumi Island, not a follower of Narukami.
Strictly speaking, she wasn't supposed to directly intervene in Inazuma's civil administration.
Her current involvement was out of necessity , and goodwill.
As for Kujou Sara…
Ayato had never doubted her loyalty.
But objectivity , and wisdom , demanded that he maintain a degree of suspicion toward everyone.
This is governance, he reminded himself, not child's play.
Sara now commanded the entire new Inazuman army.
If she were also to hold control over the Tenryou Commission, the institution overseeing the nation's internal security…
Combined with the fact that she was deeply trusted by the Raiden Shogun herself ,
In the political systems of the other world (the "Ryen's world" Lumine had told them of), such a person would be akin to a Grand Marshal, or even a Lord Regent.
Someone whose power could shake the entire court.
Ayato understood well that balance was essential.
The Tenryou Commission, Kanjou Commission, and Yashiro Commission formed a strict triangle ,
Three great forces, opposite yet interdependent, ensuring Inazuma's stability and continued prosperity.
That was why Ayato had no intention of overstepping into the affairs of the other two commissions.
Once their new leaders were chosen, he planned to immediately withdraw from their internal matters.
In Inazuma, there could only be one person permitted to unify military and government authority ,
Makoto, the true Raiden Shogun.
Anyone else attempting the same would not merely be overstepping authority , it would border on usurping power.
A man as clever as Ayato would never let himself walk into that kind of danger.
Sara and Makoto both understood this unspoken rule perfectly.
There was no need to say it aloud , they simply maintained a silent mutual understanding.
Makoto sighed lightly, her voice soft but resolute,
"These are extraordinary times , and in such times, extraordinary measures must be taken."
"Once Inazuma has fully stabilized, everything will return to its proper order."
Makoto's tone was calm yet resolute as she continued:
"Kamisato Ayato will continue overseeing the Yashiro Commission."
"Kujou Sara and Gorou will command Inazuma's newly reformed army."
"The Kanjou Commission and Tenryou Commission must remain separate and independent."
She paused briefly, her gaze turning toward Kokomi.
"I also plan to establish a new department , one that will answer directly to me."
"Its purpose will be to monitor the activities of the three Commissions and to report on the state of the people's livelihood."
"And the one to lead this department… will be Sangonomiya Kokomi."
Her smile softened.
"You're the most suitable person for this, wouldn't you agree, Kokomi?"
Kokomi didn't hesitate. As the Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island, she was indeed the most fitting choice , a figure who stood both within and apart from Inazuma's political machinery.
She bowed deeply.
"I will fulfill my duties faithfully. Please rest assured, Your Excellency."
Makoto nodded with satisfaction. With that, the arrangements concerning Ayato and the others were settled.
As for Ei…
She would continue to act as Makoto's shadow, a role she had chosen willingly , and the only one she wished to keep.
Then, Makoto smiled gently and spoke again, her eyes gleaming with quiet determination.
"Now, let's discuss the most important matter."
"Inazuma's situation has finally begun to stabilize."
"It's time to begin fulfilling our alliance pact , both with the other three nations and with Mister Ryen."
Her voice softened into something almost warm.
"I intend for Ei and General Kujou Sara to lead a delegation, accompanying Lumine and Kamisato Ayaka, and head for Liyue."