第５４８堀：次なる一手と野暮な話 (Part3)
"I was aware of the possibility, but there was always a chance it could leak out. I couldn't just say something that would cause unnecessary confusion. The situation is delicate, after all. If word got out that remnants of the Lira Kingdom were operating in the shadows, it would reflect poorly on our nation's reputation, and it could put us at a disadvantage in negotiations with the Hayden side. The fact that you, Yuki-sama, have told us this now suggests you believe it would be better to speak with Hayden first before we have an audience with Her Majesty the Queen. Am I correct, Yuki-sama?"
"Yes. An audience could end up being a redundant effort, and Her Majesty's time is limited."
"Indeed. Our initial request for an audience with Her Majesty was merely for a formal introduction. It is likely that after speaking with Hayden, we would have needed a second audience to discuss cooperation with Weed anyway. Considering the effort involved, I believe your reasoning is sound. What do you think, Sister?"
"I agree that it is only logical. A monarch is a busy person. However, a meeting with Hayden... You mentioned that the people of Weed, led by you, Yuki-sama, intend to cooperate with Hayden to eliminate the Lira Kingdom remnants within their borders, did you not?"
"Yes. However, after hearing from Georgin, I thought it might be better if there were some form of involvement rather than handling it unilaterally, which is why I proposed a meeting with the Hayden representatives."
"So, Findall can also cooperate in the elimination of the Lira Kingdom remnants within Hayden. If we were to resolve it independently, at worst, Findall’s involvement could be viewed as a conspiracy or collusion. In that case, the relationship between Findall and Hayden would remain strained—or worse, if other nations grow fearful due to the incident in Hayden, Findall itself could end up being attacked."
Princess Stasia seems quite sharp.
If it’s just me worrying over nothing, then so be it, but as the Princess said, if rumors spread that the Lira Kingdom remnants have ties to Findall, it could easily spiral into a massive war. It wouldn't be strange at all, given that Hayden is already on the brink of collapse. In this era, the idea of "let's just talk it out" is difficult when the circumstantial evidence is this overwhelming.
It’s like being accused of harassment in front of a crowd; even if you didn't do it, it’s nearly impossible to talk your way out of it. Whether you actually did it or not doesn't matter. Once the impression is set, it’s over. Even without legal punishment, once society labels you, you lose your job and the trust of your neighbors. On a national scale, that is war.
That is why, before eliminating the remnants in Hayden, it is necessary to establish the fact that Findall and Hayden are working together.
"I cannot say we are entirely uninvolved, but this meeting will be held here in Weed. I guarantee your safety."
"That is certainly better than holding it in either of our countries. Sister, I believe we should accept the meeting with Hayden."
"I agree. Yuki-sama, when is the meeting with the Hayden representatives scheduled?"
It seems they have given their consent. It doesn't look like they’ll draw blades the moment they see their former enemies. Then again, Princess Carly was a sly one, and Prince George and Princess Stasia are rational; I didn't think there would be any major issues. However...
"I would like to say immediately, but unfortunately, the other envoys are already resting, so perhaps around noon tomorrow."
"...We appreciate your consideration."
"...Georgin. Gather those idiots rolling around over there later."
"Now, now, Princess Stasia. It’s a bit harsh to say that in front of such delicious food. Nothing good comes from rushing. Let’s enjoy the meal for now. Right, Hiiro-dono?"
"Yeah. Stasia-sama, let’s eat and recharge our energy. Here, the karaage is delicious."
Princess Stasia didn't seem able to refuse the karaage offered by Hiiro, and she accepted it honestly.
"Ah, yes. Thank you, Hiiro-dono... It pains me to follow Georgin’s lead, but as Hiiro-dono says, a delicious meal is necessary to recharge. George, let’s eat."
"Please have some too, George-sama."
"Thank you, Hiiro-dono. Mmm. Delicious. Georgin, this makes the liquor go down smooth."
"Indeed, indeed. Would you like a drink as well, Hiiro-dono?"
"Beer is bitter, so I don't like it."
"Georgin!! What are you planning to give Hiiro-dono to drink!!"
Before I knew it, Princess Stasia had become Hiiro’s overprotective caretaker.
"They get along well. Ratz, what happened?"
"Oh, nothing. They were just holding hands and smiling like sisters. I suppose they’re a good match."
"In that case, would it be best for Hiiro to be Princess Stasia’s attendant?"
"I think so. As long as there are no problems, that should be fine."
As we were talking, I noticed Dressa and Vilia chatting happily with Ryun, who had brought their orders.
"Hey, how are things with Cloche? Any progress?"
"Um, well, nothing has changed since then..."
"Muu. You should be a bit more forceful. He must be quite dense."
"You're right. He really is a bit too oblivious."
"You think so? Anyway, never mind me—how about you two?"
"Eh? Well, I’ll consider it if he bows his head and begs me enough."
"Sigh, why is Dressa always like that? You should just say it clearly like I do."
"Ahaha, I don't think anyone can imitate Vilia’s straightforwardness, but Dressa, you’re such a coward when it comes to your own love life."
It seems to be a love talk. Ryun and Cloche are as heartwarming as ever. Dressa seems to have someone in mind, but at this rate, she’s a long way off. Her partner is going to have a hard time.
"Dressa’s partner is going to have a rough time. Right, Ratz?"
"Indeed. With someone like Dressa, I’d say the difficulty level is at its maximum. You’d need the guts to just pin her down."
Ratz’s gaze toward Dressa is filled with pity. Is the guy she likes really that dense?
"Hey, Samantha. Should I say something?"
"It’s meddlesome to interfere, Ryun-san. I’ll have an orange sour, please."
"Ah, okay!"
Ria and Samantha are just watching from the sidelines. Well, that’s for the best. If you meddle clumsily, you’ll only get burned.
I suppose I should head back and prepare for tomorrow.
In the previous section, I added details about the geographical relationship between the Rogali Continent and the If Continent to make things clearer for those who might have forgotten the old lore. As I mentioned before, it’s all rather arbitrary, so there’s not much I can do if you dig too deep. I’ll just pull out my trump card—"it’s because of magic"—so please, just accept it.
Now, the various adjustments are heading toward the final phase. The meeting between Hayden and Findall is imminent. Once that’s over, we’re storming the Hayden capital. Is everyone looking forward to it?
Also, do you remember Ryun and Cloche? Are you going to ask me to write more about them?