落とし穴１５７堀：合同の忘年会 (Part2)
The fact that Yuki and the rest of us are able to push through our budget requests is largely thanks to Eris’s influence.
"Hmm, alright. Then Eris can just stay as Vice Representative forever."
"Ah, that might actually be fine."
"It is absolutely not fine, you know."
Just as Tefa and I were reaching a peaceful understanding, Eris burst in, looking pale with indignation.
"Honestly! I was just checking the venue, and this is what I come back to? I don't want to be the only one working forever!"
"Eris, that’s the wrong way to put it. It makes it sound like we don't work. That’s a mistake. Our place of work is by Yuki’s side, but Eris is the accountant through and through."
"I absolutely refuse! Anyway, never mind that. Our room is the 4th Banquet Hall. Though, the start is still two hours away, so let’s go to the bath first."
With that, we headed straight for the baths.
"By the way, Tefa, do you like baths?" I asked while undressing in the changing room.
"I do. I visit this super sento quite often."
"This girl here is surprisingly fond of baths. She’s conquered every single bath in Weed, you know."
"Oh, that’s impressive."
That was unexpected. She might even be a match for Narjia-san.
As we chatted, we entered the bath and began washing our bodies.
"Ah, when the shower hits my skin like this, it really feels like all the grime is washing away," Tefa sighed.
"I know what you mean. Well, that is the point of a shower, after all."
"And scrubbing down with body soap is such a pleasure."
Once we were clean, we all slipped into the tub together.
"““Phew…””"
Ah, I’m melting. My whole body is just melting away.
"It’s the peak of winter, after all. The hot spring really soaks into the bones."
"It sure does. I feel like I’m going to 'forget the year' before I even start drinking."
"A lot has happened this year, hasn't it?"
We all nodded in agreement. For Weed, just as we thought the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance had finally begun after so much hardship, Sea-Saif arrived with a sea of problems. We managed to resolve that, and trade began to flourish. Then, just as we thought things were settled, the messengers from Sea-Saif went silent.
Yes. A lot really did happen.
After spending every last available minute alternating between the bath and the sauna, we returned to the banquet hall.
"How is the seating arranged?"
"Tefa, what’s the setup?"
"Well, since we are the representatives, we’re at the seats near the front stage. Everyone else is free to sit where they like, but I’ve instructed them to alternate between the Agriculture District and the General Government Building. It is a joint year-end party, after all."
I think that’s a good way to do it. I heard some people were looking for new connections, too.
"Well then, since I’m the organizer, I’ll go give the opening greeting."
Tefa stepped onto the stage, and everyone’s expectant gazes turned toward her.
"Yes. Everyone from the General Government Building and the Agriculture District. Thank you for gathering here for the year-end party. We were able to hold this joint party today because we all worked hard and met our quotas! Thank you!"
*Cheers!*
Everyone erupted in joyful voices. The atmosphere was electric.
"Now, if I talk too long, the food in front of you will get cold, so I’ll leave it at that. Everyone, raise your glasses. Thank you for all your hard work this year. Today, drink, eat, and have a great time! Alright, cheers!!"
"““Cheers!!””"
And so, our joint year-end party began. In time with the toast, we downed the beer that had been poured for us in one go.
"Phew. That’s delicious."
"…Yeah. A drink after work hits the spot."
Eris and I don't usually drink much, but it’s not that we dislike it. We usually don't bother because Milly and Deryu go so overboard... we know the cleanup is a nightmare.
"Just for today, it’s fine for us to drink and get rowdy, right?"
"…Of course it is."
We looked at each other, smiled, and clinked our glasses together again.
*Clink.*
"“Cheers.”"
A year-end party. Today is the day to wash away the exhaustion of the year. And it’s a wonderful day where Yuki comes to pick us up, and we can be spoiled by him.
"Ah, you’ve had quite a bit to drink. I’ll be carrying one of you on my back, then."
It’s a wonderful day where Yuki doesn't just whisk us home instantly, but takes a leisurely walk through the park, talking about the memories of the year as we head back.
So, have you all had your year-end parties?
Don't get too carried away and miss your last train home!
It’s tough for the people who have to come pick you up, you know!
Now, you might be wondering, but Chapters 154–156 have not been posted yet.
I have already written them, but the timing is so different that their release has been delayed.
You don't need to worry about it, but if you want to see them, just let me know.
I don't mind putting them out as a year-end special.