第７０４堀：歓迎 (Part2)
"My apologies for the late greeting, Yuki-sama. And to everyone else, just as I did with my sister, I, George, would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your visit to the Imperial Capital."
"Salute!"
"Welcome! Welcome to the Findar Imperial Capital!"
As the two princes offered their greetings, George-jin barked a command, and the surrounding soldiers snapped into a formal salute to welcome us.
"This way, please."
Guided by George, we stepped into the royal palace. There wasn't anything particularly eye-catching, but I didn't feel the lingering shadow of the recent incident or the war here. In fact, the soldiers' level of discipline was higher than that of Heiden. My only memory of that place was them launching an assault on us—I still have a strong image of that captain who was Kagura’s fiancé...
While I was lost in thought, we were led into a spacious room resembling a conference hall. Standing there was a dignified, middle-aged man wearing a crown.
"Welcome, guests from Weed. I am Findar XIII, Emperor of the Findar Empire. My given name is Boltor Findar."
He introduced himself right off the bat.
"I am humbled by your gracious welcome. I am Yuki, the consort to the Queen of Weed. Thank you sincerely for accepting our sudden visit."
"Indeed. I was surprised by the suddenness, but I received word from your advance party and understand the situation. I am grateful for your consideration, and I have no complaints."
"I am glad to hear you say that."
"Now, I would like to get straight to business, but it would be best to take our seats first. You have just finished a long journey, so you must restore your energy. I shall have a meal prepared immediately. You should rest well today; we shall hold our meeting tomorrow."
"Thank you very much."
In truth, it was only a two-day trip by car, and I wasn't particularly hungry, but I couldn't very well refuse such an offer. And so, the meal began—or rather, it turned into a casual chat. We spent the time getting to know one another. It wasn't about politics; it was a genuine, friendly conversation meant to gauge each other's character. Naturally, we had already handed over our gifts before sitting down.
As for the meal itself, it was quite decent.
"Still, I am surprised. To see Stasia smiling with her helmet removed..."
"Yes, I was surprised as well. She always had such a sullen look on her face, so it feels quite strange..."
"...You don't have to go that far, Father, Mother."
"It just goes to show how much you had everyone worried, Sister."
"Guh..."
The conversation soon centered on teasing Stasia, who had begun to show a variety of expressions. Given the reactions of those around her until now, it was only natural—especially coming from her own family.
"Still, even if it is just a photograph, it is good to see that Age is doing well. Or rather, since she has passed on, perhaps 'doing well' isn't the right term?"
"No, my dear. Since Age is smiling here with Stasia, she must be doing well."
We had taken a photo to show them the current situation and convey news of Age. Contrary to our worries, the Emperor and Empress weren't shaken; they looked at the picture with joy.
"Father, Mother. I apologize for not being able to bring Age back with me."
"Nonsense, do not concern yourself with that. It is only natural given your duty to the country."
"Indeed. Besides, we only need to meet her when we attend the Intercontinental Exchange Conference in two months."
"That’s right, Sister. Let’s all go see her as a family."
"No, it would not be wise for the entire royal family to leave the Imperial Capital empty. This is a good opportunity for George to build his track record, so I shall leave the defense of the capital to him."
"F-Father!?"
"Hahaha..."
What a warm, homey royal family. Their strong bond was something I found quite likable.
"However, according to Age’s letter, there is a delicious treat called a 'parfait'? Yuki-sama, I ask this with all due respect..."
Ah, women really do love their sweets, don't they? However, I couldn't just hand over food to the Empress without caution. One has to consider the basics, like the possibility of poisoning. Still, refusing would be rude. I looked toward the Emperor, hoping for a lead...
"Do not worry, Yuki-dono. Could you not provide it? You also gave us rings that neutralize poison, after all. There should be no issue."
Ah, right. I had given them rings to protect George and George-jin. Naturally, I had provided some for the Emperor and his family as well. With that, I had no reason to refuse. It wasn't as if I intended to poison them.
"In that case, here you go."
I took some spare parfaits out of my Item Box. It sounds strange to have "spare parfaits," but in this world, having sweets on hand is always convenient.
"My, is this a parfait? It is wonderful."
"Ho. This is magnificent. Might I have one as well?"
And just like that, once the main course was finished, it turned into a dessert festival. All in all, it was a successful first day of our visit. Tomorrow would be the real test.
The welcome here was far warmer than in some beastman country I could mention. Stasia took off her mask, everyone was surprised, and sweets proved to be the ultimate justice.
Now, how will Findar choose to face Weed!? Stay tuned for the next chapter.