第９３６堀：二人の皇帝の意味 (Part2)
It seems everyone has finally caught up to the situation.
Seraria summarizes what we’ve discussed so far.
"But, if they were to admit that, it would be the same as declaring themselves inferior to the Zurable Great Empire. That is why the former Emperor and those who rule by his authority want to eliminate them at all costs. Well, as my husband says, we haven't heard this directly from the parties involved, so it remains a conjecture. However, looking at the information from the towns and villages we've visited, I’m certain of it. That is why their reputation inside and outside the Zurable Great Empire is polar opposite."
"That’s how it is. The pro-Emperor faction doesn't want the Zurable Great Empire to gain any more power. That’s why they spread rumors to tarnish the Empire's reputation. Well, the incident at Aurelia Port was certainly consistent with those rumors, though."
Once we finish summarizing, we take a breather and sip our tea.
"Phew. I understand the situation, but even so, considering Princess Parfil, we can't just let it go, can we? An entire country has been wiped out."
"Well, Kagura is right about that, but that depends on Princess Parfil herself. For now, we have to negotiate with Zurable."
It’s a matter of keeping things separate.
"Well, I suppose so. But what if the Zurable Great Empire demands the Princess be handed over? By the way, what does Seasifo intend to do?"
"As for Seasifo, Queen Emerald has instructed us to handle this as peacefully as possible, provided no harm comes to our nation. Regarding the Gusdo Kingdom and Princess Parfil, we will request mercy for them since we have had dealings with them, but that is as far as it goes. It could be said that the Gusdo Kingdom is responsible for us being dragged into this conflict and suffering the consequences, so we cannot provide excessive support. Besides, Weed is the one holding the Gusdo Kingdom's key figures. There is nothing we can do from our end."
Menou states this clearly.
Well, that is the limit for Seasifo. It’s true that they’ve been inconvenienced by this affair, and they wouldn't take the initiative to pick a fight with the greatest power in the New Continent.
And as Menou said, since Weed is the one holding the Gusdo Kingdom's people, there’s nothing they can do anyway.
"So, Yuki. What will you do if they demand her custody?"
"Eh? There’s no need to give an answer right away. We could just say she escaped or something similar. Besides, we could even claim the Gusdo people aren't here at all. There’s no proof that we’re harboring them. So, it all depends on the Princess. Simple, right?"
"That’s true. For us, the existence of Princess Parfil holds no meaning in these negotiations. And whether the Princess can endure hearing that... that will be the test of her character."
"Yeah, depending on that, the idea of having the Gusdo Kingdom restored might come up. Conversely, if she’s just an idiot who only cares about her own claims, we’ll just handle her accordingly."
I don't need dead weight, so I’ll just toss it aside.
Well, I also have to consider disposing of them before they drag us down.
"Personally, since we went through the trouble of saving her, I don't want her to throw her life away. That said, she’s been quiet so far, so I think the possibility of that is low. If anything, she seemed bewildered by the towns of the Zurable Great Empire and this capital."
"So you’ve been talking to her, Seraria?"
"I kept it a secret that I’m the Queen of Weed. Otherwise, she wouldn't have spoken her true feelings, right? From what I’ve gathered, she’s like an 'Elju who knows nothing.' She feels like a girl who grew up purely as a normal princess, without ever awakening as a Saintess."
I see. She saw her sister Elju in her. That’s why she reached out.
...Well, from here on out, Princess Parfil will be forced to face reality whether she likes it or not.
"Anyway, instead of worrying about the Princess, let’s worry about tomorrow’s audience. If we mess up, it will only lead to more trouble."
"Even so, you’re the one doing the main negotiating, right? I’ll be watching the Zurable folks' handiwork closely."
"I’ll be careful to avoid trouble, but you never know what might happen in this world. If the worst comes to pass, I’m counting on you all."
When I say that, everyone nods in unison.
We’ve done what we could.
Now, all that’s left is to wait for tomorrow’s audience.
The new world and the old world.
Which one will remain?
Which one is right?
And the chaotic world that has been thrust into the middle of it all.
What will become of it when it all mixes together?