Snowdrop6

No one could have ever imagined this encounter between two generations so far apart.
On a clear day, Ariha Minori—a modern young woman—goes out shopping and meets an overly enthusiastic fan of the royal family, dressed in an eerily realistic cosplay. Strangely enough, she soon discovers that this "fan" is nothing of the sort—in fact, the young man is none other than Prince Senko von Minaguchi Hyōnko, a genuine lost prince from three centuries ago.

And so, after this fateful meeting, his unexpected stay in the modern era begins.

Will the prince ever find his way back?
How will Senko spend his time in the future?

Enemy? We'll kill them on the spot!

When they woke up, Uncle Hiroto advised them to visit his sister sooner rather than later. After a quick breakfast and some final discussions, Ariha and Senko set out on their journey.

As they stepped outside, Ariha popped in her earbuds and began chatting with someone through them.

Senko: "So, who is this aunt we're visiting?"

Ariha considered how best to explain.

Ariha: "She and I are a lot alike—we see each other often. She teaches elementary school, so she might have some insights about our... situation."

Senko (frowning): "A teacher? But you're of royal blood. Why lower your status like that?"

Ariha winced—another thing she'd forgotten to clarify.

Ariha: "Ah, sorry. About a century ago, the whole system of government changed. Royalty doesn't hold the same power anymore."

Senko (stunned): "A coup?"

Ariha (shaking her head): "No, it was a planned shift—to modernize. Aristocrats, bourgeoisie, commoners… everyone's roles evolved."

Senko: "If the monarchy is gone… how does leadership work now?"

Ariha: "The country elects one person to represent it—a president—for a set term. When their time's up, they step down unless reelected. No inherited power."

Senko: "So it's… merit-based?"

Ariha: "In theory. Though money still divides people—just into 'rich' and 'poor' now, not 'noble' and 'common.' But honestly? Life's better. People live longer, hygiene improved… you've seen the difference these past few days."

Senko exhaled deeply, some invisible weight lifting from his shoulders.

Senko: "I see…" He coughed suddenly. "Khe-khe… Though the air here is filthy."

Ariha (grinning): "Wait till you experience real fresh air. I'll take you someday."

Something in Senko's chest clicked at her smile, but he brushed the feeling aside.

Senko: "I'll hold you to that!"

Chapter 1.19 - Day 2. A Talk About Changing the Power System