Sovereign Monarch

"IF THE land of Oakes became an independent state, then His Majesty and the empire would no longer have any authority or control over us," Tilly said, carefully absorbing her husband's suggestion. "Oakes will become a Grand Duchy. Of course, we will be the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess."

Kiho nodded. "Yes, we will become a sovereign monarch."

"It won't be easy," she said worriedly. "His Majesty would definitely not allow our duchy to become an independent state. We will certainly have to fight for our independence. Since we've already waged a war on His Majesty, making it official wouldn't make a difference. But…"

Of course, going on a war against the empire had its pros and cons.

"What is it, honey?"