第１２１０堀：挨拶周り イフ大陸 (Part2)
The conversation was flowing with a lively, harmonious air. But what kind of attendants would we be if we didn’t step up to represent Yuki-sama?
"P-please excuse us. My name is Orelia, and I have been appointed as one of Yuki-sama’s personal attendants."
"I am Yayui."
"And I’m Hovis—"
As we hurriedly introduced ourselves, the royal guards turned their gazes toward us.
"Ah, so these are the ones everyone’s been talking about."
"Indeed. I appreciate you handling the requests directly, but I can’t possibly manage them all at once. From here on out, please rely on these three."
"Understood. We shall defer to them in the future."
"Yes, we look forward to working with you. However, let us save the formal introductions for another day. It wouldn't do to keep the Kings waiting, after all."
The guards offered us a polite nod, and they were right—keeping the monarchs of great nations waiting was out of the question. We would have to make a proper impression later.
As expected of the elite guards of great powers, while we were speaking with Yuki-sama, another soldier had already relayed the message, and the doors were already standing open, waiting for us.
"Alright, let’s go."
Yuki-sama stepped through the doorway with the same casual air one might use to go for a stroll. I had heard that he held a position that allowed him to negotiate on equal footing with the kings of great nations, but I couldn't help but break into a cold sweat, wondering if it was truly alright to disregard all protocol so thoroughly. Still, I followed him into the room, and—
"Oh, you’ve arrived."
"My apologies, Yuki-dono. Blade simply refuses to listen to reason."
"Indeed. Besides, even if she gave birth just yesterday, it is hardly the time for the mother or child to be receiving visitors."
These words were spoken by three figures seated at the table, each radiating the undeniable aura of a monarch.
"I suppose that’s just a sign of how happy he is. Regardless, as the King of Zilba said, visits are prohibited for the mother and child for now. Consider it a one-month wait."
"That is fine. For now, I just want to confirm that Samantha and the other wives and children are safe, correct? Huge and his sister Runo have been quite concerned."
"Yes, I wish to confirm that as well. How is Cleena? It is not just Feigel—Inis is worried as well."
"At my end, Marly and Hivia are pacing about, waiting for good news."
So, these three were indeed the Kings of Roday, August, and Zilba. But why had they gone to such lengths to secure an audience with Yuki-sama?
"I believe I’ve already sent word about that, but for the latest update: everyone is in perfect health. Also, please take these letters and videos back to their families. Orelia."
"Y-yes!"
At his call, I stepped forward toward the King of Zilba, carrying the letters and videos I had prepared on a tray. *Stay calm, Orelia. Just bow and hand them over. That’s all.* It was strange that he hadn't asked us to hand them to the royal guards as protocol dictated, but since he had ordered it, I had no choice.
My tension was at its peak, but I managed to place the tray on the table without incident. *Good, now just step back...*
"Hmm. You are the slave Yuki chose, are you not?"
*Eh? Was I just addressed?* I couldn't just answer on my own, could I? No, if I was spoken to directly, I had to respond, didn't I? I began to panic, unsure of the correct etiquette, but when I glanced at Yuki-sama, he gave me a slight nod of encouragement. Permission granted.
*I can do this. My voice will come out. Here goes.*
"Yes. I serve as an attendant to Yuki-sama. My name is Orelia."
I performed the bow exactly as Kirue-sama had taught me.
"I see. Trained by Kirue-dono, then. Very well. Continue to apply yourself."
"Th-thank you very much."
"With your efforts, communication with Yuki will be much smoother. If anything happens in Zilba, I will ensure my subordinates are briefed, so feel free to contact them."
"Yes."
"You may withdraw."
I retreated from the room under the King of Zilba’s dismissal. *Phew. I survived.* That meant Zilba was now officially under my purview, but what about the other two...?
I glanced over at Yayui and Hovis, who were attending to the Kings of August and Roday.
"Well then, Yayui. I’ll be counting on you."
"H-h-hai!"
"Oh, and since we’re both ramen lovers, don't hesitate to ask me anything."
"Yes! Understood!"
...Should I be happy about this situation? Or should I be rolling my eyes at their responses?
Thus, the members arrived to offer their greetings, and Orelia and the others were entrusted with the duties. I am certain the three of us will grow stronger. And our stomachs will surely grow stronger, too!