225: Departing for Imperial Planet Vanilla City

"Then, we will now depart aboard the Carnival Viper toward Imperial Planet Vanilla City. Once we pass through the landing zone near the guide colony, we will transition to sublight travel. Please remain vigilant, crew members."

The next day.

After eating breakfast prepared by Kel and the five maids, we set off toward Imperial Planet Vanilla City.

If nothing unexpected happens, we should arrive near Imperial Planet Vanilla City by this evening.

Also, the breakfast prepared by Kel and the others was surprisingly excellent—perhaps because they're professionals, or because they've studied the craft thoroughly. It was even tastier than the meals I usually make.

Though I shouldn't compare, I can't help but feel a little envious.

"Right then, let's go over a few things while we're still en route."

"That's right. Let's go over everything we've learned from our information gathering yesterday, and confirm the details."

Sidebar.

Let's make use of the time while we're on the move and get things done.

"First, regarding Dr. Mizeon's escort—our task is to take him to the mansion of Viscount Iseimeetsu in Tei-sei Vanilla City. That's our destination."

Yeah, I'll leave it to you. If possible, I'd like to continue working together afterward, but that depends on how Viscount Iseimeetsu and those around him behave, as well as the specifics of the job I've been assigned—so I can't say for sure yet.

Task number one: escorting or transporting Dr. Mizeon.

As for this, it seems our task will be to stay together as much as possible after arriving at Teisei Vanilla Side, and escort her to the residence of Lord Isayumiitsu, who is supposed to act as Dr. Mizeon's guardian.

That means Vilijaniira and Lord Isayumiitsu will inevitably meet... but, judging from what we've heard so far, it probably won't cause any problems.

"Next up is our tea gathering with Their Majesties."

Hearing it even once feels like it would hurt.

Fortunately, it's an informal gathering. Since the other party understands our position, even if there were any issues with Sata's etiquette or manners, I don't think we'd be reprimanded for it.

The second task: a tea gathering with the imperial family.

Personally, I'm not sure how things ended up this way, but since the decision has already been made, there's no escaping it.

"Satā. Should I drill you on etiquette now, since you're feeling uneasy?"

"I think it'd be better not to try cramming it all in at the last minute—would just be a half-baked effort, so I'll pass."

"Ah, I see. That's a shame."

Still, Dr. Mizeon and the others are here, listening to our conversation... but since Vilijanira has decided it's no problem if they hear about the tea party, I shouldn't worry about it.

Regarding this tea party, according to the notes I've checked, there seems to be a division among the imperial nobles—some know about it, while others do not. Specifically, those who are trusted by Her Majesty are aware of it, while those she doesn't trust are kept in the dark.

"But the Emperor's schedule is minute-by-minute, sometimes even second-by-second. There are probably some with sharp instincts who notice things regardless of whether they're trusted by Her Majesty. It's best not to let your guard down."

"Hmm? I get that they might notice, but is there anyone who can actually do something? It's just the Emperor's tea gathering, isn't it? I don't see how anyone could interfere."

I tilted my head in response to Mebokushi's words.

What exactly could you possibly do?

If you tried something like ruining the tea gathering, I don't think you'd get off easily.

I can't imagine there's a fool among the imperial nobles so reckless, nor do I believe the security measures would allow such a fool to slip through.

You're right. They won't interfere directly. But afterward, they'll pry into every detail, asking exactly what happened after the tea gathering. Some will come beforehand, requesting an introduction to His Majesty. Others may inquire about our gifts or attire, seeking ways to influence them. With so many different motives at play, various actions will inevitably unfold. Some may even come with the sole intent of obstructing Lady Vee... That's precisely why we can't afford to be careless.

"I see... I see..."

No surprise it's the heart of the empire's politics. Those noble lords and bureaucrats working there—calling it a "Temple of Demons" from time to time makes perfect sense.

Honestly, I'd rather you just stay quiet—there's nothing more bothersome than this situation.

I see. I won't interfere with the tea gathering itself, but there are other matters to consider.

Moreover, it comes regardless of our intentions or plans.

Vilijaniira is sighing, but there's already an unmistakable air of reluctant resignation in her expression.

"By the way... is it decided what the Emperor will talk about during the tea gathering? I know what we're expected to discuss, but—"

"Yes... I've only been told they want to hear updates on recent events. But given the length of the tea gathering, I'm sure it's more than that. However..."

I don't think that information will come up even beneath the notes. It's a private tea gathering, after all—no one can truly guess the Emperor's inner thoughts.

"So, it'll just come down to whoever brings it up first."

"That's right."

The topic we'll bring up during the gathering is the Siltrilich System incident.

What the Emperor will speak about remains unknown.

Still, since I've specifically called not only Vilijanira but also Mequoxi and Joharis, there's a good chance something will be brought up regarding us as well.

I should probably prepare myself for that.

"Our next task is to conduct intelligence gathering through our reconnaissance unit, but we'll cooperate with Dr. Mizeon on any matters where collaboration is possible."

"Ah, in that case, I'll leave it to you."

Task number three: intelligence gathering.

Well, regarding this... I'll just be handling the main guard duties and miscellaneous tasks.

While I'm at it, I might as well look for a good restaurant or two within the Imperial Star Vanilla City.

After all, it's the heart of the empire, so there must be all sorts of places to eat.