237: The Emperor's Policy

"Indeed. I'd heard reports from my subordinates beforehand, but firsthand accounts from those who've actually faced the situation are quite different."

The Emperor, having heard Vilijanira's report, wore a deeply serious expression, as if pondering something intently.

"Your Majesty, what shall we do?"

"There's no doubt that the Siltrilich System is suspicious. Therefore, it's certain that an investigation is necessary. However, at this stage, we can't make a final judgment. The Vanilla Universe Empire is a nation governed by law. Punishing without clear evidence would be what truly shakes the nation's foundation."

That was, of course, obvious.

But precisely because it was obvious, it needed to be clearly stated—this was probably the point.

"The trouble is, right now the navigation beacon of the Siltrilichi system has been destroyed by a space monster, making it impossible to travel back and forth freely. Because of this, we can no longer summon Duke Nemophila, who rules over the Siltrilichi system, here."

I think this is the first time I've heard that the space monster destroyed the Siltrilichi system's navigation beacon.

But a space monster... If there really was a space monster rampaging within the Siltrilichi system, the top official would surely be unable to leave the scene, and that would make for a solid excuse.

Then again, considering the mastermind could create the space monster themselves, it definitely reeks of a self-inflicted situation.

Hmm, destroying the guide beacon to refuse the emperor's summons?

That actually sounds plausible enough.

"If that's the case, we'll have no choice but to secretly dispatch investigators to look into it ourselves. If the investigators vanish, the cosmic monster remains unvanquished, and the guide beacon can't be restored, then sending troops openly would be the most appropriate course of action."

While I was pondering such thoughts, the Emperor calmly considered what comes next, clapped his hands, and already prepared a backup plan in case things didn't go as intended. A few of those present began to move.

Still, this course of action was probably decided long before we even heard Vilegianira's story.

"Your Majesty, what should we do?"

"...In the absence of special circumstances, matters beyond this point are our upper echelon's responsibility. If there's anything for Vilegianira and the others to do, we'll issue separate orders. Above all, don't go acting on your own initiative."

"Understood."

And so, regarding the Siltrilich system, we wouldn't be involved from here on out.

Well, our main roles were playing decoy and engaging in combat—neither of which would be needed for the upcoming investigation, and if the imperial forces show up, the combat part would be unnecessary too.

Even as Emperor, wouldn't it be better to keep Viridianiya safe and wish her all the best?

From Viridianiya's perspective, she might be concerned, but this isn't a matter worth risking her life over—so she'd probably consider it a reasonable decision.

"Then, that concludes my report."

"Is that so? In that case, let's simply enjoy our tea from here on out."

And so, the report was complete.

Our purpose in arriving at the Vanilla Sid system had been successfully fulfilled.

And so, in accordance with the Emperor’s words, I savor my tea…

Ah, indeed, the Imperial City, truly worthy of the Emperor himself.

The aroma of the tea is exceptional, and so is the quality of the water.

Rich, yet not overwhelming—its dense fragrance flows from mouth to nose, lifting my spirits with ease.

The sugar, lightly stirred in, was naturally of the finest quality—neither interfering with the tea's aroma nor failing to provide the necessary sweetness to both tongue and mind, as if perfectly calibrated for conversation.

"Vee."

"I would address no one but His Imperial Majesty."

"……"

Miss Vilijanira, your treatment of His Imperial Majesty is truly salted.

"Father, excessive interference and coercion are precisely what people dislike, so please at least give up on this matter here."

"That is true. One should let go, especially when caring deeply for the other."

"Sire, I apologize, but on this matter, I cannot be your ally."

"I see..."

And so, on this matter, there is no one standing by the Emperor's side.

Even the imperial officials and guards accompanying him seem to be sending me looks saying, 'Just give up...' Ah yes, in this matter, I'll be sure not to lend my support to His Majesty the Emperor.

Better to leave well enough alone.

"Now, changing the subject, this tea gathering isn't solely for hearing Vee's report. In fact, I might even say this is the real purpose of the meeting."

"What could it possibly be, Heivvy-sama?"

"The matter concerning the two individuals you've recently hired—Sata and Joharis. I've already received a detailed report on their backgrounds, but I'm genuinely curious about the kind of people they are. After all, Vee, who never wanted subordinates other than Memokshi, accepted these two. I must know what kind of people they truly are."

"Is that so."

The conversation shifts, turning to me and Joharis.

In other words, the focus of discussion now turns toward me...

What on earth should I say in response?

To be honest, I feel like my tongue is about to freeze up from nervousness.

"What exactly would you like to know, Elder Heivvy? Satā and the others do have privacy and confidentiality, so we can't answer everything... "

"No need to worry—I'm not interested in digging too deep. Just something simple, like what kind of life you led before being hired by Vee."

Well, as long as I stick to things that don't violate Seiryō Corporation's rules, I should be fine.

Joharis looks like he can manage something like that.

"Is that so? Then I'll start with you, Joharis. You don't have to talk about anything you're not comfortable with."

"Y-Yes, I understand."

He says "I can manage" but is still clearly stiff with tension.