第１６８６堀：仲良くなるためにはお茶をしましょう (Part2)
"Now then, I’m glad to be here, but what exactly does this 'exchange meeting' entail? You mentioned wanting to ask about me, didn't you?"
"That’s right. We were hoping to hear why you came to this university, Luhu, and what kind of research you’ve been conducting. Of course, if you have any questions for us, feel free to ask."
"...Mm. I think there’s also an interest in learning about Weed."
"Indeed. We don't know if you'll be coming to the international exchange school in Weed, but there are certainly things you’d want to know about the place."
"I must admit, while I have done some sightseeing, there are many things that pique my curiosity."
Before the conversation could deepen further, someone interjected.
"In that case, let’s prepare some refreshments—or rather, a meal—before we begin."
"Pardon?"
"...Talks take time. We need drinks and food. I’m curious about the cafeteria here, too."
"Yes, since we’re going to be chatting, we might as well call it a tea party. We’ll just need to get permission to bring in our own items."
"Um, are you suggesting we order from the cafeteria?"
"That’s right. I’m also curious about what you usually eat, Luhu."
"Ah... I suspect the flavor will be inferior to what you have in Weed, though?"
Looking a bit bewildered, we all headed toward the cafeteria counter, where a stout, kindly-looking woman stood waiting.
"Yes, what’ll it be today? Oh, you girls are new here, aren't you?"
"...Yes. We arrived yesterday. We came to eat to get closer to Luhu."
"Yes. We also brought some things from our homeland; would it be alright if we brought them in?"
"Ah, that kind of welcome party happens all the time, so I don't mind at all."
"Also, could you recommend some of your own offerings? We’d like to try what you have."
"I see, I see. What’s your budget?"
After handing over a reasonable amount of money for some light sandwiches and sweets, we offered the cafeteria lady some of the snacks we’d brought from Weed as a gift, which she accepted with delight.
It seemed she had already heard about us, and she greeted us warmly, telling us she looked forward to our brief time here—a truly pleasant woman.
"Still, I’m surprised to see Luhu-chan with such important people."
"I’m surprised myself. I just happened to run into them in the lobby and one thing led to another."
"I see, I see. And this is for you, Luhu-chan. Eat up."
With that, she handed Luhu a massive sandwich. It was easily half the size of the portions prepared for the three of us.
"Ahaha... thank you very much."
"Eat well and grow big."
It appeared that the lady and Luhu were well-acquainted, and that she looked after her. Whether Luhu could actually finish it was another matter entirely.
With that settled, we returned to our table to begin our discussion.
"...Mm. The food is quite delicious."
"Indeed. The sandwiches are wonderful—not just the quality of the ingredients, but the seasoning is spot on as well."
"I agree. These would sell quite well in Weed."
"Ahaha, that’s thanks to the seasonings we brought from Weed; it’s something that’s only happened within the last year."
"Is that so? So, goods from Weed are finally making their way to the Magic University?"
While Weed has sent a multitude of goods to the International Exchange Alliance, items unique to Weed—or rather, items of Earth origin—inevitably face delays. It’s a classic case of production failing to keep pace with demand.
Regarding seasonings, Kaya has been working tirelessly, utilizing spices, vinegar, and eggs, but even so, we cannot satisfy every demand. We are cooperating with many nations to ramp up production, yet it still hasn't reached smaller countries in any significant quantity.
So, this was the result of that effort finally bearing fruit.
And so, our tea party with Luhu began, accompanied by a variety of new discoveries.
University cafeterias often have such a stylish atmosphere, don't they? Of course, there are those that aren't, but the shops frequented by students in the surrounding area are always quite fascinating.