第９９８堀：女王と皇帝 (Part2)
Even if only temporarily, being able to take a break from this mountain of paperwork makes Emperor Zurable’s visit a welcome relief. Well, if Quar ever heard me say that, I’d get a stern lecture, so I’ll keep that thought to myself.
"Your Majesty, I shall give the signal as usual. Please, take your seat."
"Yes, I understand."
I waited in the room adjacent to the throne, as I always do. I only emerge once the signal is given. It’s all for the sake of maintaining dignity, but it’s such a hassle.
"Her Majesty, Seraria, First Queen of Weed, approaches."
The signal. I stepped through the door held open by a maid and began my walk toward the throne. As I did, I scanned the members of the Zurable Great Empire standing in the audience chamber. Since we were on equal footing, they did not kneel.
"..."
There were four in total: Emperor Eupia, the Grand Strategist Show, and two royal guards. The guards, perhaps because they were well-trained or simply because they had never seen me before, showed no change in expression. However, Emperor Eupia and Grand Strategist Show both wore looks of sheer astonishment for a fleeting moment. To their credit, as the master of a great nation and his aide, they immediately smoothed their expressions back to neutral. It seems they remembered me from when I was by Yuki’s side.
While I was thinking this, I took my seat on the throne.
"Welcome to Weed, Emperor Eupia of the Zurable Great Empire, and Grand Strategist Show. I believe the last time we crossed paths was in the Zurable Imperial Capital, was it not?"
As I spoke, Emperor Eupia grinned.
"Indeed. I haven't seen Queen Seraria since the capital."
Naturally, Show wouldn't dare reply directly to me, a Queen. It wouldn't be appropriate for his position.
"Oh, you remembered me? Even though I only introduced myself as a mere bodyguard back then."
"Of course I remember. Even for a mere bodyguard, the company Yuki-dono kept was far too extraordinary. You were all such beauties. Ah, Aslin and the others were there too, weren't they?"
"That’s true. My husband is always surrounded by beautiful women and girls. But, let’s save the small talk for later. How are you finding Weed?"
"Indeed. I am being quite entertained."
"I see. That is good to hear. Now, I imagine you have a request for me?"
"You know full well. Well, it’s faster to get straight to the point. Show."
"Yes! Allow me to introduce myself properly once more. I serve as the strategist for His Majesty, Emperor Eupia of the Zurable Great Empire..."
"Grand Strategist Show. A strategist and politician of rare talent—though I must admit, I haven't seen the results of your work myself."
"I am truly honored that you remember me. Now, may I present the request from His Majesty and the Zurable Empire?"
"Yes, go ahead."
As I expected, they brought up the trade of "radio equipment," "knowledge of healing magic," and "curry."
"Yuki-dono told me that nothing could be done without consulting the Queen. That is why we came directly. So, what is your answer?"
"My, you’re in quite a hurry for an answer, Emperor Eupia."
"Ha! This isn't the first time you've heard these requests. We’ve discussed this since our time in the capital and held sufficient consultations with Yuki-dono. If you cannot provide an answer immediately now, I would have to question your capability as a negotiating partner."
As expected of an Emperor. He doesn't yield an inch.
"..."
We stared at each other in silence for a moment.
"..."
Then, we both laughed at the same time.
"I simply thought it went without saying, as the answer was already decided."
"I see. Then I shall accept without reservation."
"Yes. Well, regarding the radio equipment, we will lend them to you and provide support. I’d be troubled if they were handled poorly and broke, and I’d be even more troubled if you lost a war because of it."
"You certainly have a way with words. Well, if you’re offering to help, I’ll accept it without hesitation."
"Indeed. The healing magic is also no problem. In fact, Show here will be supervised closely. It’s a miracle you survived such severe burns until now."
"I leave him to you. This man is always pushing himself too hard. As planned, Show will remain in Weed to learn the knowledge of healing magic. He is to return only when he is in perfect health."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"And finally, the curry. Just how much do you want?"
"Enough to last a lifetime."
We laughed again. Yes, it’s good to be...
"Emperor."
"Queen."
"Shall we drink?"
And just like that, my paperwork for the rest of the day was put on hold. Two people meet, share a drink, and just like that—they are friends!