第２２１堀：意外な交渉 (Part2)
"I've been working with Big Brother for a long time now, so I don't think I'd make a mistake in judgment over something like this. But Big Brother always said that listening to the opinions of those around you is important."
"Ah, I see what you mean. In that case, I think we should just hear them out. It’s not like Mino-chan or I are the type to be taken down by a surprise attack."
"That’s true. Alright, don't make any moves. Wait for them to act. If their request is to speak with us, show them through."
"Understood."
After giving that order to his subordinate, he turned back to John.
"Anything else?"
"……There’s a possibility this could turn into a negotiation."
"True."
"So, stop eating that cucumber."
"Eh?"
"Don't look so surprised. And don't offer any to the guests, either."
"W-what are you saying? T-this cucumber is..."
"Why are you getting flustered? That’s not even a proper tea accompaniment."
"You idiot!! Tea accompaniments aren't just sweets; pickles count too!!"
"That’s a raw cucumber!! You’re talking nonsense!!"
"Oh? Oh? You wanna go, Mino-chan?"
"That’s exactly why you weren't chosen as the General, John!! Your boiling point regarding cucumbers is way too low!!"
"It’s not just cucumbers. I also possess a deep love for other vegetables!!"
"You vegetable-obsessed fool!!"
"Shut up, you country-bumpkin talker!!"
We were on the verge of a brawl.
This vegetarian is as impossible as ever...
What move will he make?
Will he lunge?
A leg sweep?
John seemed to be weighing his options, looking for the perfect timing.
"……Um, sorry to interrupt your busy schedule, but I’ve brought the guests who wished to speak with you… would it have been better to come later?"
Both of us looked toward the voice to see the subordinate who had guided them, along with the guests from Enaria, looking at us with bewildered expressions.
"My apologies. Please, take a seat."
"O-oh, thank you. You are very kind."
I guided the middle-aged man, who appeared to be the representative, to a seat. Even this man, who clearly looked like he had seen his fair share of battles, was bracing himself against me.
I suppose a Minotaur is still a frightening sight.
"You knights over there, please, take a seat as well."
"N-no, we are guards, so we are fine as we are."
Hmm, I wish my subordinates would learn from that level of professional dedication. Especially the Orcs who do nothing but eat cucumbers.
"……Hah, you only switch back to standard speech when it’s convenient."
"……I’m going to crush that cucumber field of yours."
"……Try it."
Unable to watch any longer, the Lich subordinate spoke up.
"Honestly, if you two don't stop this, I’m going to report you to the higher-ups."
" "We’re sorry." "
If Big Brother hears about this, it’ll be a major problem.
We apologized as a reflex.
"Then, get back to work. You’re keeping the guests waiting. Now, would tea be acceptable?"
"Ah, yes. Thank you."
"We have several varieties, so I’ve selected this one for you. Please forgive me if it’s not to your liking."
"N-no, thank you again for your courteous service."
Wait a minute, the reason this man and the knights are trembling is...
"Hey, they aren't scared because of the Lich, are they? I mean, he is a skeleton."
"You think so too?"
There aren't many skeletons in Weed, so maybe they aren't stiffening up because of us?
"Ho, this is delicious. Excuse me, I would like to let my subordinates have some as well, may I?"
"Yes, of course. And as for you two rude superiors, I will be reporting this incident in full detail."
" "Gah!?" "