第２８８堀：注意すべきこと (Part2)
If the princess weren't in the picture, the prince would likely be the one to appear, but this princess sounds like a real headache.
"Wait, the princess is a graduate of the Academy?"
Exactly. The part Eoid just repeated is the real problem. It’s likely that by being an alumna, she’s playing a trump card against us in a certain sense. The concept of seniority exists here, and if I’m not careful, we might end up bound by some bizarre treaty. The fact that Cleena’s mentor was a court magic advisor is coming back to bite us in the most unexpected way. While having a direct line to the royal capital is convenient, I should assume a troublesome opponent has emerged.
Still, I’m bothered by why this information didn't reach me sooner. I should try contacting Popuri.
"Yes, that’s right. If I recall, she climbed all the way to the Single Numbers... Oh? Is something the matter, Yuki-dono?"
"I’m just going to step out for some air."
"I see. Do be careful not to catch a cold."
"Ah, yes. I’ll be sure to listen to the rest of the conversation, so please, take your time."
Following that exchange, I quickened my pace, slipping past Eris, who was currently in the middle of a lecture, and moved to a spot where the wind was quieter.
*What do you mean, a former Single Number!?*
No, she’s not an enemy, but I have a sinking feeling that this is going to turn into a massive headache!
"Hello? Popuri, can you hear me?"
I pretended to be admiring the scenery, turning my back to the others while speaking into my communication device.
"Mm, what is it? I’m busy eating cake right now."
"Ah, Yuki-san. This cheesecake is delicious, too."
I could hear her carefree voice. ...She’s been completely bought off with snacks. Should I view that as cheap loyalty, or praise Eris for her skill? Regardless, I have more important things to worry about—I need to ask about the princess.
"Is it safe to talk right now?"
"Yeah, it’s fine. I locked the door properly."
"Good. I have a question. I told you yesterday that Vixen came along as our guide for the journey, right?"
"Yeah, I heard. A man said to be the right-hand man of the August Kingdom’s magic sword users, serving in the Royal Guard. Well, given his age, they probably moved him to the rear instead of the front lines. So, are you asking for information on the magic sword user he served? But she’s younger than Vixen and should still be stationed at the border..."
"Ah, no. I don’t really need info on the magic sword user. I can handle them however I need to—besides, we aren't going to war with August, so digging too deep would just invite unnecessary suspicion."
"That’s true. If you know too much, you’ll be pegged as a spy, and it’s better not to have useless knowledge. Besides, you could probably hear all about the magic sword user just by asking around in their country; they’d brag about it easily enough. So, if it’s not about the magic sword user, what is it?"
"Vixen says the King is out on a regional inspection, and the princess is going to have an audience with us in his stead."
"Eh? You mean Inis?"
"So her name is Inis. I heard she was a former Single Number, and I want to know why I didn't get any information about that."
"Hmm. We just didn't think it was necessary. Even if she was a Single Number, she was only ranked 5th during her time at school—lower than Cleena. Well, she’s capable with magic, but she doesn't hold a candle to you or your group, Yuki-dono. And it’s just an audience; I didn't think she’d suddenly try to make a move against Amanda or you, the representative of a mercenary group representing various nations. Besides, if we reported every single graduate, we’d be dealing with at least a hundred people in every country. We’d die of exhaustion! We’re basically hands-off when it comes to graduates; all we do is hand over the registry."
"Ah, I suppose that makes sense..."
The Academy raises and produces those with magical talent from every nation.