第９８９堀：わからないことは聞いてみよう (Part2)
"If two delicious things exist, why not combine them? It’s such a simple concept. And yet, how difficult it truly is. If you concentrate your forces inward, the exterior becomes neglected."
"Yes, yes. It’s great that you’re happy, but let’s eat while it’s still warm."
"Indeed."
"Yes!" everyone chimed in.
Prompted by Labyris and Shera, I finally returned to my seat. Before I knew it, Deryu had already prepared everything perfectly and was seated before a mountain of curry.
"Oh, so Emperor Yupia has made up his mind as well?"
"Indeed. My apologies for keeping you waiting."
"Think nothing of it. Meals are meant to be enjoyed happily."
"That is true. I had completely forgotten such a simple truth lately."
While we exchanged these pleasantries, Aslin and the others added their own toppings and took their seats. Then, together:
"Itadakimasu!"
Now, let us eat! I picked up my spoon and carefully brought both the curry and the hamburger to my mouth at the same time.
"Whoa!"
It was so delicious I nearly shouted. Is this what true cooking is? Each dish was a complete masterpiece on its own, but by combining them, they became invincible!
For a while, I was completely absorbed in the meal, but as I began to feel satisfied, I gained the composure to look around.
"Today’s batch turned out well, didn't it?"
"It was worth letting it rest."
"Things taste better when they've rested, don't they? Though some people prefer it fresh."
"That’s a matter of personal taste. The nice thing about fresh curry is that the vegetables still have a bit of a crunch."
"But that also means the flavors haven't soaked in yet, doesn't it?"
Aslin and the others were discussing the quality of today’s curry. So, the flavor of curry changes depending on when it’s made and eaten? I see. I shall make sure to ask about such things and enjoy them next time.
As I reached that thought, I remembered what Schans had said. No, I hadn't forgotten; I had simply kept it to myself because it wasn't the right topic for before a meal.
"That is an interesting story. Come to think of it, Schans mentioned that they served curry on the aircraft carrier. Does curry on a ship taste different?"
However, I am Yupia, who has climbed the ranks to become Emperor. I do not charge forward blindly with my questions. I followed the proper procedure, steering the conversation naturally. If I couldn't manage that, I would simply ask in private later.
"Well, yes. Curry on a ship often features seafood. Since you're surrounded by the ocean, materials are never in short supply."
"Ho. Seafood curry, you say? That sounds delicious. Though, it seems unlikely I would have the chance to eat that in Zrable."
It was a pity. Naturally, seafood would spoil long before it reached the Imperial Capital.
"Eh? You can, you know."
"Eh?"
Just as I was feeling disappointed, Aslin replied as if it were the simplest thing in the world.
"You could just freeze it and bring it over."
Oh, I see. That is one way to do it. However, relying on the power of mages for transport is quite expensive, so it is a bit difficult.
"Ehh, freezing doesn't taste that good. I think you should just go there directly."
"Hiiro, Emperor Yupia can't just go to the seaside whenever he wants."
Indeed, indeed. As Vilia said, I cannot simply leave the Imperial Capital just because I want to eat seafood. Even using that thing called a "car," it seems it would take several days.
"Oh, but wouldn't it be fine to use the Gate? You can get to Aurelia Port in an instant."
"Labyris. Aurelia Port is technically a foreign territory to the Great Zrable Empire. Time aside, it’s not something an Emperor can just visit so easily."
"Hmm. I tend to forget, but you are right—Aurelia Port is Weed territory."
Indeed, indeed. Is that so? What a shame. If I could use this "Gate" to reach Aurelia Port in an instant... but yes, that place is under Weed's...
"...Hm? Wait a moment. Did you just say 'Gate'?"
"Unyu? I did. Huh? You didn't know about the Gate?"
"That’s strange. I was sure Brother said he had explained it properly to Sister Schans."
"Maybe it hasn't been passed on yet?"
...I see. So, this "Gate" actually exists. Or rather, they are speaking as if I should already know about it. Well, Schans has been in contact with me, and Aslin and the others have certainly been talking with Yuki and his group.
"Wait, so it really exists!"
This is no time to be nodding along. According to what they just said, there is one right here in the Imperial Capital! First, I must confirm the existence of this "Gate"!
Yes, if you don't know something, just ask! Sometimes you might uncover some shocking facts, but that’s all part of the fun! Though, one should always consider the situation before asking about something so out of the blue.