第９９８堀：女王と皇帝 (Part1)
### Chapter 998: The Queen and the Emperor
**Side: Seraria**
"...And so, it seems the people of the Zurable Empire are showing a great deal of interest in Weed."
"It would appear so."
I look over the report delivered by my husband and Kirika, nodding in agreement with Quar’s assessment. It’s obvious just by looking at the attached photographs. The way they are touring Weed with Aslin and the others—they look like they’re having the time of their lives.
"However, it is unexpected. When I met Emperor Eupia, I was left with the impression of a dignified and imposing ruler. I never imagined he would be the type to show such a genuine smile."
"I agree. I assumed someone of his stature would be the type to maintain the 'Emperor' persona even in his private life, always acting as the leader. But it seems I was wrong. Or perhaps... is it just because he’s with Aslin and the others? No, that’s not it. Even while he seems to be playing around, his instructions are precise. I suppose that’s just his natural personality."
"Likely so. Regardless, there is no doubt he has taken a great liking to Aslin and the others. I cannot imagine he would ask them to be his guides every waking moment otherwise. Though, perhaps he also believes it is easier to extract information from them than from us."
"True. Aslin and the others are certainly more approachable than we are. That is something we will need to consider for the future."
"Indeed. While there is the aspect that this is specific to the Zurable Emperor, we should deliberate on whether we ought to have Aslin and the others accompany such dignitaries from the very beginning."
She’s right. It is likely due to the Zurable Emperor’s unique circumstances, but I never expected another nation to think of using Aslin and her group to fish for information.
"Now, regarding the items the Zurable Empire plans to request during today’s meeting: they are the wireless radios, knowledge of recovery magic, and a supply of curry ingredients."
"...Are you sure the last one isn't a mistake?"
Why is it that everyone who comes to Weed ends up obsessed with our food? There are so many other things a nation should be prioritizing. As I voiced my doubt, Quar gave me an unexpected answer.
"No, that may not be the case at all."
"What do you mean? Are you saying it’s not a mistake to bring up food at a negotiation table?"
"Yes. I have thought about this quite a bit, and I have reached the conclusion that it is a request made with the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance in mind."
"Explain."
"Yes. First, for the Zurable Empire, the primary objectives are undoubtedly the wireless radios and the knowledge of recovery magic. Given the current state of their country, that is only natural."
"That’s true. Especially for a nation at war; it would be strange if they didn't ask for those."
Exactly. If they hadn't asked, I would have questioned their sanity.
"However, those are matters of convenience solely for the Zurable Empire. Our interests are not involved in those requests at all."
"I see... so that’s why they asked for food?"
"Precisely. While they will undoubtedly cooperate with our investigation into the magical depletion phenomenon, given the circumstances, it is unclear how much help they can truly provide. Perhaps they offered food as a form of guarantee?"
"I see. So, as a gesture of good faith?"
"Yes. We will draft the contract during today’s meeting, but if we only dealt with the first two items, the transaction could potentially end as a one-time or short-term affair, leaving us with nothing of substance. By including a promise that provides immediate and continuous benefits, they are showing their intent to keep their word and participate in our Intercontinental Exchange Alliance."
"...I understand now. It’s not unconditional, but relying on their word alone is a bit worrying."
"Exactly. That is why they want to demonstrate that they are paying a continuous price."
That makes sense. It’s a physical manifestation of their intent to engage in diplomacy and trade.
"In that case, let’s send them all the curry ingredients they desire without hesitation."
"That would be for the best. The issue is the wireless radios—has that been settled?"
"Yes. We will essentially be leasing them. We won't be selling them. I don't think they’d try to dismantle and analyze them, and I certainly don't believe they would ever turn their fangs toward us. That said, the Zurable Empire is at war, so there is a risk of the technology falling into enemy hands. We must prevent that."
"Which is why we are managing them ourselves rather than handing them over completely."
"Exactly. We still don't know the full situation regarding the Haine Empire. Besides, we have to provide support for their maintenance and operation anyway."
"Indeed. They likely lack an information analysis department, so that support will be necessary."
"Precisely. If we lease them the radios and the Zurable Empire loses even a single battle, our credibility could crumble. Even if Zurable is an amateur at this."
That’s the risk of leasing radios to a nation at war. If they suffer a defeat despite all our support, it reflects poorly on us. That is why our support must be thorough.
"Well, we need to investigate the magical depletion phenomenon anyway, and since they are at war, we will gather a lot of information. It’s not a loss for us."
"That is a plus. We also need information on the Haine Empire, so I am in favor of leasing the radios."
"Good. If you’re in favor, Quar, then there’s no issue. The rest depends on the discussion. I wonder how the Zurable Emperor will react when he sees me?"
"Your Majesty, you cannot say much about the Zurable Emperor. Aren't you quite playful yourself?"
"Yes, I suppose you’re right. That’s exactly why I’m looking forward to meeting him in person."
I really am looking forward to it. I wonder what that Emperor will want to talk about when he meets me. As I was thinking this, a *call* came in, signaling that the time was drawing near.
"What is it, dear?"
*『We’re heading over now. Can you handle the guests?』*
"Yes. No problem. I’m looking forward to it."
*『Don’t intimidate them too much. Quar, I leave the preparations to you.』*
"Yes, sir. Leave it to me."
The *call* ended as Quar replied.
"Your Majesty, I shall go and make the final preparations. Please finish organizing those documents before I return to escort you."
"I know, I know. Honestly, this mountain of paperwork never seems to shrink."
"That is what protects the lives of your citizens, so please, do your best."
*Sigh.* This is why I haven't been able to leave my office for the past few days. Being a queen is truly a demanding job. I grumble to myself, reaching out to the pile of documents to resume my work.
"...Your Majesty?"
"Hm? Oh, Quar? What’s wrong?"
Before I knew it, Quar, who should have left, had returned.
"I apologize for interrupting your concentration, but the Zurable Emperor and his party have arrived. Please make your way to the throne room."
"Understood. Shall we go, then?"