第９０９堀：かつての敵との雑談 (Part2)
"……It is true that it was due to the incompetence of my subordinate, Binzo, and not something done for selfish gain. However……"
"Rather than trying to regain my trust now, Noble is more stable as a nation, so that is fine. Besides, even if I tried to return now, I have been branded with unfavorable names. 'The Ungrateful,' wasn't it?"
If I were to try and reclaim my position now, it would only lead to chaos.
Unless it were truly for the better of the people, I no longer desire that status.
"……Why are you so generous? Princess Dressa, your heart seems far more divine than mine."
She started saying something strange.
As I was thinking that, Lari arrived.
"Yes. Thank you for waiting. One hot black coffee."
"Ah, thank you. And, could I have the same scone as Lady Dressa?"
"Yes, certainly."
That was an unexpected order.
"You want a scone?"
"Ah, it has a surprisingly pleasant aroma. But, I have digressed."
That’s right, what were we talking about?
"Ah, the talk about me being a god. You’re a bit confused, aren't you? The ones I must protect are the people living in that country. I don't want my position back. If my return causes chaos for the people, then I won't return. That is all. Well, as I mentioned earlier, a lot has happened. It’s also that that country is no longer the only place I belong. So, it’s not that I’m a god, but rather just personal selfishness."
"……Is that Weed?"
"Yes. And Yuki. That man gave me a new place to belong, and he gave me a reason to live. Well, if I had to put it simply, I suppose I just 'ran off with a man.' It might be the lowest thing to do."
When I said that jokingly, Noble gave a bitter smile.
"I have also been greatly helped by him. There is no longer a need to stain the continent with blood, which I once believed was the only path."
"He is my proud husband. Ah, I must thank you for that point. Thanks to that, I was able to meet Yuki."
It is certainly sad that my country and family are gone.
But, I had a life-changing encounter that was enough to wipe away that sadness.
Hearing that answer, Noble smiled gently this time.
"……I see. Princess Dressa, are you happy now?"
"Yes. I am incredibly happy. So, it might be arrogant of me to say this in my stead, but please take care of the country. I will help in any way I can if anything happens."
"Yes. I understand. Now, the coffee is getting cold. Excuse me."
"Yes, please."
As I said that, Noble took a sip of the coffee with relish and let out a sigh of relief.
"Hmm. Delicious. It is to my liking."
"I am glad it suited your palate. Yes, here is your ordered scone."
"Oh, thank you. Then, I shall begin."
With timing that seemed almost calculated, Lari brought the scone, and Noble proceeded to eat it.
"Indeed. Delicious."
"Right? Lari, this is going to be popular."
"You think so? I’m selling these at the food stalls as well."
"Ho. In that case, I shall buy some as souvenirs later."
"……Noble. Come to think of it, hasn't the bad habit of the King of Roday infected you too? I don't intend to nag you now, but if you are a king, you should bring one or two guards with you."
He spoke as if he were just going for a stroll nearby, but many people from other countries are visiting the food stalls. It is far too reckless for a king to go there alone.
"Ah, you don't need to worry about that. My guards are outside. Come in, Arne."
"Yes, excuse me."
Just as Noble spoke that nostalgic name, a girl in armor entered the shop.
"……Arne?"
"……Um, Your Majesty."
"It is fine. I brought you along for this very reason today."
Saying that, Noble stood up smoothly and paid Lari.
"Then, I shall take my leave. Princess Dressa, until next time."
He walked out of the shop and disappeared into the crowd, accompanied by his guards.
"……"
Left behind so suddenly, Arne and I both fell silent.
Don't just create a situation like this and leave!
An indescribable awkwardness hung in the air, but……
"……Honestly, His Majesty is so mischievous. But, Dressa, I’m happy to see you again."
Arne was the one to break the silence.
"Ah, yes. I’m happy too. I’m glad to see you’re doing well. But, you quit being a tool shopkeeper, didn't you?"
"Ahaha, I became a knight, you know. I wanted to make sure that something like that never happens again."
"I see. Well, standing around isn't great either, let's talk properly."
"That’s true. Um, Lari-san. A café au lait and a cake set, please."
"Coming right up."
"……You seem quite used to this place?"
"Well, I’ve been coming here quite often. I’m so jealous, Dressa. You’re going to marry Yuki-san, right?"
"Arne, you know about that too?"
"Of course, we meet face-to-face many times during meetings, and he talks to me normally. He even gives me sweets. He told me, 'I’m sorry that Dressa doesn't notice at all.'"
"Eh, he was there!?"
"See, you didn't notice. You should be grateful to Yuki-san. He’s been looking out for you the whole time, even when you didn't know it."
And just like that, I enjoyed my day off, chatting with a nostalgic friend.
Dressa and Noble’s trivial stories of the past.
Perhaps being able to talk like this is a good thing.
And so, having tied up various loose ends, Dressa approaches her wedding day.