#40: The Princess And The Diluted Drink - Part Two — Cook of the Mercenary Group (WN)

I should have known this long before.

That Shuri’s knowledge and skill when it came to cooking were exceptionally extraordinary.

That was why I wanted Shuri. Because I wanted to make that skill for creating delicacies my very own.

However, I realized that my recognition of it had been naive.

That Shuri’s power of imagination went far beyond my expectations.

“Utin. Are the preparations complete?”

I confirm with Utin before entering the meeting room.

Carrying Nornels, the finest fruit juice, I now challenge the conference with Sunity.

Originally, the reason I came here was to confirm Shuri’s safety and pursue the reason for capturing a chef upon whom a kitchen knife engraved with the crest had been bestowed, demanding an explanation for it.

Of course, I had no intention of forgiving the crime of unjustly capturing a chef with whom I was on intimate terms, but still.

“Yes, Your Highness. This, as well.”

Utin answered with a nod.

Utin is one of the members of the covert unit I trust, serving as a liaison. And she is a maid attached to me who takes on the role of bodyguard.

Utin’s combat capability is the highest in the unit. The reason she is not the captain is simply because Utin cannot speak words well.

The members of the covert unit generally consist of people with complicated circumstances. As for Utin, it was caused by her parents being kidnapped by soldiers right in front of her eyes and disappearing, leaving her with no one to teach her characters, let alone words.

When I picked her up, she was no different from a beast anymore. Although her physical capabilities were high, words did not reach her, and she did whatever it took to live. Fishing, hunting, and attacking people alike.

At that time, she was captured by the captain of the covert unit and met me. That was back when I was barely five years old, if even that. At that time, I reportedly said this:

『Like a puppy.』

No, it wasn’t particularly because of such an era or anything, but in any case, to my eyes, Utin looked like a stray dog.

From then on, I watched Utin’s training, and sometimes studied together with her. For some reason, I just couldn’t leave Utin alone.

Be that as it may, by the time Utin gained human words and reason, she became a maid attached to my side. Sometimes she is away to receive reports, but because she is often back before I notice, I don’t mind it. Even if she is away, her intuition as a bodyguard is sharp, so she returns immediately.

Such a Utin, worthy of trust for me.

This time, I had her search for a certain item.

“Hmm, as I thought.”

When I saw it, my cheeks almost twitched.

That was the kitchen knife I bestowed upon Shuri. A fine weapon engraved with the royal crest.

When I heard he was captured, I was concerned about its existence. Whether they hadn’t noticed its existence, or if they had disposed of it immediately upon noticing—I thought it would be one of the two.

“Where did you find it, Utin?”

“The storeroom, it is.”

The storeroom, is it? As expected, it had been thrown away.

If this kitchen knife were to become known later, it would become a problem unless disposed of.

However, if sold carelessly, it might flow into our country through distribution and be noticed, whereas if thrown away somewhere, there was also the danger that orphans or vagrants might pick it up.

If so, there was no choice but to seal it away somewhere in the castle.

However, this too was a bad move.

Now that the problem had been settled, it would have been fine if they had returned it to Shuri. It wouldn’t have needed to gather dust like this.

However, in truth, this too was something that could be anticipated.

If returned to Shuri, saying that everything would end was not the case.

Conversely, if Shuri held onto this kitchen knife with care, I likely would have said, 『The fact that you protected the kitchen knife without forgetting consideration for our royal family even amidst that uproar is worthy of praise.』

And then, I would have widely advertised that Shuri’s heart belonged to the Niewbist side rather than the Sunity side.

Of course, just saying it didn’t mean aiming for any specific effect, though.

If luck were on my side, I merely thought it would be nice to create ripples between Shuri and the Sunity side, and have some action take place.

“Your Highness. I am holding, this.”

“Mm, Utin. Nornels and the kitchen knife—if we have these two, we can corner the opponent.”

My scheme and Lord Gungrave’s scheme.

Shall we test which one is superior, I wonder?

“Oh! Long time no see, Shuri!”

“Ah, yes. Long time no see, Princess Tebis.”

And so the conference began.

My side was accompanied by Utin and a few bodyguards, while Lord Gungrave’s side consisted of all the unit captains, Shuri, Sunity’s heir Gings, and… a person in strange attire.

What might that be? Man-like, woman-like… Was there such a person present?

Well, fine. It was a reunion with Shuri after a long time. It should be fine to engage in a little pleasant chat.

“Speaking of which, that recipe for what you called curry that you gave me before… It’s still far from complete, but we’ve gotten to the point where we can make it passably well. That too is delicious. Splendid indeed.”

“Ah, yes. Well, I thought adjusting the spice blend might be a bit tricky.”

For Shuri, it’s “a bit,” is it?

“Calling it a bit is an understatement. The castle’s royal chefs have been wringing their hands, striving night and day to recreate the recipe.”

Yes, the recipe for what was called curry. The recipe itself was extremely simple. The royal chefs also thought it was easy at first.

However, when actually setting to work, they hit a difficult problem. That was the blending ratio of the spices, indeed.

The chefs ended up wringing their hands in distress. If they made a mistake, it would merely smell too strong or taste too spicy…

A golden ratio possessing taste, aroma, and flavor altogether. Searching for that was a difficulty like finding a single needle within a vast continent. Right about now, the chefs surely thought I would ask Shuri for that answer, no doubt.

I have no intention of asking. If they do not find it themselves, there would be no meaning to it, after all.

“Is that so? Should I give you pre-blended curry powder next time? If we solidify it, we can make it into what’s called a curry roux.”

“No, no, we must eventually become able to make it ourselves. The pride of Niewbist, the great realm of gastronomy, is at stake.”

“Is that so…?”

Shuri replied as if troubled, but there was no need to rely on his care to that extent.

Eventually, I believe our nation’s chefs will also catch up to Shuri.

“Indeed! We are currently developing a dish that combines curry and Mapo Tofu, as well!”

“Eh?”

Oh, even Shuri is surprised by this. Because I completely thought Shuri had this recipe in stock as well, it was unexpected.

Yes, I had thought so from before: curry and Mapo Tofu. These two, while having different directions, create that subtle flavor by adding various tastes centered on spiciness.

Mapo Tofu is spiciness from combined seasonings. Curry is spiciness from combinations of spices.

Thinking that if we combined the good points of these two, a wonderful dish would surely be made, I instructed the chefs to perform recipe analysis for curry and Mapo Tofu in parallel.

“A dish of spice upon spice. At first glance, it might seem merely hot, but I wondered if we could somehow bring these supreme dishes together.”

“That’s amazing. Even I…”

“You aren’t going to say ‘can’t make it,’ are you, Shuri? You are the developer of this dish. In truth, isn’t that recipe already inside your head?”

There is no loss in probing. Because there is also the possibility that he can make it, just not making it, after all.

“I really can’t make it. Even I haven’t tried it before.”

“Hmm. But if told to make it, you would make it, wouldn’t you?”

“Well… it would take a bit of trial and error, though.”

Hmm, as expected of the recipe developer, if trial and error were done, it could be made, huh.

I heard a good thing.

“Then that is perfect. If you come with me—”

“Princess Tebis. Forgive me for interrupting your pleasant chat, but could you leave it at that?”

Ho, I tried to draw Shuri in from the flow of conversation, but.

Lord Gungrave has acquired quite the ability to grasp the flow of conversation. He cut in at an exquisite timing, didn’t he?

Well, fine. Up to here, it was merely like a game.

“Forgive my lack of courtesy, Lord Gungrave. During the recent battle, we were greatly in your debt.”

“We were simply doing our job, after all.”

“At the very least, thanks to overcoming that battle, it is a fact that we were able to weather our dire situation. I have received words of gratitude from His Majesty as well.”

“That is a great honor.”

“Had it not been for such a turn of events, I likely would have taken you all into my service.”

“That is merely a hypothetical scenario, after all.”

“Indeed, a pointless matter. Saying it changes nothing.”

Hmm, up to here, he hasn’t shown a single flaw or blunder at all. The opening thread of conversation is hard to grasp.

However, well, I certainly wanted to take the Gungrave Mercenary Band into service. If so, we likely would have gained this mighty military force. Shuri would follow as well.

If so, we might even have been able to claim supremacy on this continent.

Well, even if said, it is indeed a pointless matter.

“Setting that aside, Lord Gungrave. With what outlook do you intend to act from here on?”

“…Meaning?”

“You have earned sufficiently on the battlefield. By now, wouldn’t your financial strength and military force lose to standard nations around here?”

Considering the recent battle victories and the expansion of the band, it is not an impossible story.

And the excessive growth of a mercenary band brings nothing but bad influences to surrounding countries.

The reason being that a vast and mighty military force belonging nowhere is like holding a double-edged blade in one’s bosom, after all.

A weapon that might harm oneself if taken in. A danger of being stabbed ourselves if it falls into enemy hands, after all.

A mercenary band is a free force belonging to no nation or organization. Precisely because of that, in times of emergency, one balances military force by hiring them.

Yes, from the perspective of a nation, a mercenary band is not counted as military force, but exists merely for balancing military force.

In exchange for buying military force with money, it wouldn’t be strange for them to betray at any moment.

Amidst that, the reason Lord Gungrave’s mercenary band is trusted is based on their track record that if hired with money, they absolutely do not betray that nation or organization, and fulfill their job to the end.

Otherwise, ordinary mercenary bands wouldn’t be used in war. At most, they would be entrusted with escort requests or dirty work.

Amidst that, for Lord Gungrave’s mercenary band to have obtained a nation, even I feel wary, and anyone not wary would likely be nothing more than a fool drunk on peace.

“You overestimate me, Princess Tebis. I was simply fortunate.”

“Fortunate, is it? I believe good fortune is also a necessary talent for those who live on the battlefield, not limited to mercenary bands.”

“That is not wrong, but as for this alone, I believe nothing can be done through effort.”

“Good fortune that can be managed through effort cannot be called good fortune. That is called a scheme, Lord Gungrave. Now, let me repeat the question. Lord Gungrave. What kind of actions do you intend to take from here on? With what purpose do you intend to move?”

I spoke looking straight at Lord Gungrave.

This was something that must be heard no matter what. Having obtained financial strength, military force, and authority, what actions would Lord Gungrave take, and with what purpose would he begin to move?

However, Lord Gungrave remained silent, making no attempt to speak.

Closing his eyes, with a serious expression.

Normally, ignoring royalty could be used as sufficient verbal attack, but I had no intention of doing so.

Because I realized that Lord Gungrave was wavering.

Whether to speak of his own purpose or not. And the more noble, lofty, and wonderful that purpose was, the more he likely couldn’t speak of it.

There was likely embarrassment as well, but… that purpose might, depending on the case, involve the entire continent.

“Who knows? The path I walk is still amidst dark clouds. Although I managed to grasp a fragment of a dream, that too is still midway. It is not something so good as to speak much of.”

“I would certainly like to hear it, though.”

“One thing I can say is that this time, I decided to be officially united with my fiancée—that is all.”

What? Gungrave is getting married?

This was surprising. Where might she be from?

No, could this be…

“Could it be a subordinate or the like?”

“Yes. She is my companion from childhood, and the woman I have loved.”

Ho, to say that much.

I see, the woman behind who is blushing crimson while trying to maintain composure must be the one.

However, my word…

“Out of maternal concern, Lord Gungrave, I shall say one thing. I do not know what you intend to do in this country from here on. However, if you wish to manage this country, this territory, wouldn’t it be better to wed a princess from a neighboring country rather than a subordinate, and create a backing?”

That is how strong the bond of marriage is in this warring world.

Above all, Gungrave came this far from a state of nothingness.

From here on, properly creating a backing, maneuvering while utilizing and not being utilized, would be the shortest path to stabilizing this territory.

Gungrave does not possess ‘something’ that would serve as a backing.

Whether it be royal bloodline, a family that performed brilliant exploits, or military feats echoing in neighboring countries.

So to speak, ‘persuasiveness’.

No matter how many military feats are achieved or glory grasped as a mercenary band.

If standing at the forefront as a nation, one must possess such ‘persuasiveness’.

Gungrave should understand that as well, but…

“I want to build the nation I dreamed of.”

Seriousness emerged on Gungrave’s face.

“I don’t need troublesome fetters that hinder that dream. I don’t want to be bound by common sense as a nation. And if I myself cannot protect the one I love, my dream will not come true from the start. I want to be together with the person I like. That is all.”

Clenching his fists, at the sight of him arguing forcefully, I was slightly overwhelmed.

I had misunderstood. This fellow is different. Different from other ordinary men.

He can speak of ideals.

He cannot turn his back on ideals.

A man who strives to fulfill ideals.

I see, Gungrave seems to have grown as well.

On the back of Gungrave, who had overcome numerous battlefields and tight spots, lay a firm intimidation.

The quality of a king, possessed by only a handful even among the royalty of surrounding countries.

He is clad in royal dignity, is he not?

This is interesting. For this man to have grown so immensely in such a short period.

At the same time, it is terrifying. For such a man to have been released into the wild.

What comes next is both something to look forward to and terrifying.

“It suits you very well.”

“You make me blush.”

And yet, Shuri behind Lord Gungrave is happily conversing with the person of unknown gender next to him.

“Over there, what are you two discussing?”

“S-Sorry.”

As expected, even I cannot overlook this. When I gave him a bit of a lecture, Shuri spoke awkwardly.

“Well, fine. Shuri is as carefree as ever. You haven’t changed since the first time we met.”

“Is that so?”

Ah, you haven’t changed at all.

Even when placed before anyone of any stature in any place, your true self remains completely unswayed.

Just like a quietly flowing river. Receiving any adversity or hardship, continuing to murmur along in an unchanged flow.

Precisely because of that, you have likely survived even until now.

“However, Shuri. You suffered quite the misfortune this time. Remaining unchanged even amidst misfortune could be called strong in a sense.”

It feels a little bad to set up such a Shuri, but it cannot be helped.

“I-Is that so? Being in jail was a bit tough, though.”

“Oh, indeed, indeed! That is what we came to talk about—that time in jail!”

Good, it seems we can enter the main topic through a natural flow. Furthermore, in a flow where the inquiry comes from this side.

I wanted to bring the conversation to this topic from the start, but Lord Gungrave is clever. Had I cut in carelessly, I likely would have suffered a painful counterattack.

My apologies Shuri, I shall take the liberty of cutting in using your blunder.

Seeing Lord Gungrave also wearing a face like he swallowed a bitter bug, he seems to have noticed it is bad.

“So? What is the meaning of this? Lord Gungrave, Lord Gings. That a chef who is on intimate terms with our nation was treated unjustly and thrown into jail, and up until this very moment, there was not a single contact made to me?”

“That was due to the timing. Considering the time it would take to contact Niewbist from here and for Princess Tebis to actually visit, whether it was the Gungrave Mercenary Band or the Sunity side, it is only natural that whoever sent the message would be delayed. However, considering the time it takes for Princess Tebis to come here, it is rather mysterious that the princess was able to arrive so quickly.”

“Are you implying that I had something to do with this matter?”

“No, I have no intention of saying such a thing in particular. However, would it be fine for you to explain the circumstances surrounding that?”

“I was the one who asked the question first. Returning a question with a question is an ill-advised move, not just against royalty, but in diplomacy as well, is it not?”

Countering his question-in-return, I ponder.

“So? Is there any explanation?”

“…That is a misunderstanding, Princess Tebis. We too were prisoners in the midst of this uproar. Far from contacting the outside, we had our hands full just laying down a communication network among ourselves.”

“Then it means the responsibility lies with Sunity. That makes sense, since the origin of the matter was an internal dispute on Sunity’s side, after all. So? Lord Gings. How do you intend to explain?”

“Th-That is…”

Lord Gings stammered, but this too could not be helped. From an outsider’s perspective, Lord Gings’s self-destruction was the cause, after all.

In the first place, the origin of the matter was that Shuri saw through and prevented the setup Lord Gings made to force the feudal lord to retire.

If Lord Gings explained that, it would end with “It’s your fault. Take responsibility.”

And if the information is correct, while Lord Gings possesses extraordinary talent regarding military affairs, he is entirely useless regarding domestic affairs, I hear.

He is weak at diplomatic exchanges and negotiations like this. It could be called a weakness.

“I, I…”

“Forgive me, Princess Tebis. Gings seems unable to explain well due to guilt over being utilized, so I will explain in his stead.”

Lord Gungrave cut in to cover for the flustered Lord Gings.

Hmm, good timing. Lord Gings indeed wears an expression mixed with panic and guilt. He cannot make a proper explanation like this.

While brushing it off with “I am asking Lord Gings” was also an option here, it would be troublesome if Lord Gings performed a problematic self-destruction.

“First of all…”

From here, Lord Gungrave’s detailed explanation entered.

Well, it was like adding supplements to the range I already knew.

However, the identity of the person who was unknown whether as a man or woman being actually Lord Ecres, whom I knew by name as the heir… was beyond unexpected.

“I see. That was quite the disaster.”

“…”

“…So? Lord Gungrave. How do you intend to settle this matter?”

“A fundamental overhaul of the management system within the territory. And a reorganization of the army, I suppose.”

“Is that all? Utin, that item.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

When I instructed Utin, she produced the kitchen knife from her bosom.

The fine kitchen knife with the engraved crest that I bestowed upon Shuri.

In truth, looking closely at this, there were signs it had been used considerably, and on top of that it had been properly maintained, which I found pleasing.

It was covered in dust because it had been thrown into the storeroom, though.

“Ah! My kitchen knife!”

Shuri pointed in surprise.

Lord Gungrave also wore a bitter face at this.

That would be so, no doubt. Neglecting a kitchen knife engraved with the crest, and moreover the person himself recognized it.

As a superior, there could likely be no misstep worse than this.

“I see, so this was indeed the kitchen knife I bestowed upon Shuri, after all. Well now, that is a curious matter.”

Now then, from here is the point of attack.

The treatment toward a chef on intimate terms, the communication error regarding it, no post-report either, and treating a kitchen knife engraved with the royal crest carelessly.

Whether to negotiate taking these as acts of insult toward Niewbist.

Or whether to pursue taking it as betraying my trust in Shuri.

Now then, naturally my gaze also turned sharp.

Shuri is cowering a little, but for now I shall ignore him.

“Tell me, Gungrave? I bestowed this with the royal crest engraved upon it. Why did it come out from the deep recesses of a storeroom?”

“That is—”

“Ah, I understand. While he was imprisoned, it was confiscated, was it not? However, now that time has passed since the uproar, leaving this in a storeroom is somewhat unacceptable. Do you not think so?”

Gnk, Lord Gungrave stammered.

As expected, regarding this problem, Lord Gungrave also seemed unable to propose a good solution.

Now then, how shall I press forward?

However, an unexpected thing occurred right here.

“May I have a moment!”

Abruptly, Shuri raised his voice and broke the thread of debate.

As for timing, it was exquisite, and as words, there was no fault.

Even I ended up stopping in my tracks.

“Forgive me, Princess Tebis. Forgive me for interrupting your conversation. However, please just hear me out.”

What could Shuri’s talk be? Rare for this person who is utterly plain outside of cooking, to say something even to the point of interrupting this conference?

“…Very well, speak.”

A bit of curiosity welled up. It should be fine to entertain him a little.

“The drinks on the table seem to have turned completely lukewarm. I will bring fresh drinks, so why don’t we take a break?”

“Hmm, drinks, is it? Indeed, they have turned lukewarm due to continuing the debate. However, a break is unnecessary.”

I see, he came with an opening characteristic of Shuri. Is this also Lord Gungrave’s setup?

Indeed, if taking a break here, Lord Gungrave’s head would cool properly, and counter-measures could likely be taken as well.

However, I am not so kind as to permit that pleasantly.

When I gave a glance to Utin behind, I produced the Nornels I had prepared.

Originally, I thought about serving it when the conference ended as a victory declaration, or producing it showing composure within my flow, but to think it would become just the right shield to avoid Shuri’s attack.

One never knows what will happen, the world is. Though these aren’t words to be said by a little girl who has barely passed ten years of age.

“Anticipating such a thing, we have already prepared drinks on our end as well. Furthermore, it is the highest-grade fruit juice harvested in our country. Its name is Nornels. Since we have the opportunity, let us share it with everyone.”

Nornels. Hearing this word, the opposing camp seemed unable to hide their surprise.

That would be so, no doubt. Nornels is a sacred tree existing only in our nation’s sacred forest. It is said that in the past, when a god took shelter from rain under the tree, it absorbed noble drops dripping from the body, thereby raising its rank of existence.

Fruit juice that grinds fruit growing on that sacred tree whole with peel and seeds to squeeze juice, sealing the fruit’s taste as it is without adding anything.

The taste is impeccable, the aroma is wonderful, and color is beautiful, yet because distribution volume is small, it is a beverage considered legendary.

That is our nation’s specialty, Nornels.

“Now, try drinking it. It is the finest thing even in our nation.”

Distributing glasses, Nornels is poured so that it reaches everyone.

I too contained a sip in my mouth.

As ever, a splendid taste.

The fruit’s wildness, sweetness, aroma… whichever is taken, it would be first-rate.

The grade of Nornels is decided by overall taste excellence. Wildness, sweetness, aroma. After being ranked by those, furthermore, what is served to royalty is limited to items with wonderful color and scent.

What I brought was of a caliber not to be shamed even if served to royalty.

Everyone present in this place was captivated by that taste.

“This is amazing…!”

“It’s my first time, but… this is incredible.”

“It’s my first time too. So this is Nornels…”

Lord Gungrave’s subordinates also cannot hide its excellence.

One after another, they are saying how delicious it is.

“How is it, delicious, isn’t it? Come, a break is unnecessary.”

If having tasted a delicacy of this degree, a break would be unnecessary.

Above all, I was able to show national power—that such a thing could be prepared effortlessly. Through this, negotiations will also continue smoothly.

Thinking back, the carelessness of this day, this moment, was likely the greatest blunder of all.

“Ah, please wait a moment.”

Just as I was about to resume the conference, Shuri put a stop to it.

“What is it, Shuri?”

“No, could you lend me that bottle for a moment?”

Nornels?

What could it be? Was there a problem with the taste?

No, that couldn’t be. There should be no problem whatsoever with the Nornels tasted just now. It was a delicacy recognized even by me.

Come to think of it, Shuri wore a face like he noticed something just by looking at the glass.

What that might be is unknown to me. However, was there something visible only to Shuri?

Curiosity begins to well up.

“Very well. Lend it to him.”

To the wary Utin, I give permission. What did Shuri notice, and what did he intend to do? Upon this perfect drink, what manner of impression would he produce?

Utin approached Shuri and handed over the bottle of Nornels.

“One thing. That, precious item. Breaking it, bad.”

Naturally, she didn’t forget to drive home the point either.

That Nornels is a top-tier item. It is not something obtained so rarely.

“No, I won’t break it.”

With a word of refusal, Shuri takes a sniff of the scent.

Quietly, checking the scent as if savoring it, he nods as if convinced of something.

“I understand.”

“Is that so, is that so! You realized it is the finest item not just with your tongue, Shuri, but with your nose as well?”

Did Shuri possess an excellent sense of smell as well, not just tongue or cooking skill?

Fufu, if so, he should have understood all the more. That Nornels is an unblemished, first-rate item recognized even by me.

“Yes, I understand it’s the finest. Ah, please give me fresh glasses for everyone in the neighboring room. And Arius-san, please lend me your cooperation.”

Cutting off his words, Shuri dashed like a fleeing rabbit and left the room.

Arius hurriedly followed after him and left.

What is it? What does he intend to do?

“Your Highness.”

Utin was also about to dash out. I see, if handled poorly, it looked like nothing other than snatching the Nornels and fleeing, after all.

However, I restrained her with a hand.

“You must not. Utin, remain here.”

“But…”

“If you leave this place, who will serve as my bodyguard? Besides, Shuri is not a fool who would steal food and flee. Likely, he intends to do something to the Nornels.”

However, even I do not know. What does he intend to do using that Nornels?

Use it in cooking? No, impossible to imagine. How to use that level of concentration, distinctive flavor, and wildness in cooking?

Serve it paired with a new dish? No, doing that in this place makes no sense. Now is not a venue for a banquet. Would Shuri commit such an out-of-place act?

Had he made sweets or something? Indeed, I heard Shuri previously made sweets in some country, but making sweets starting now is entirely unrealistic. Keeping me, a royal, waiting to perform long hours of cooking work is something he shouldn’t do.

Then, why?

“Princess Tebis. It seems our chef is trying to do something. How about it? Why don’t we take a little look at what he does with the country’s finest beverage?”

Before I noticed, Lord Gungrave had made such a proposal.

And with a smile as if he had escaped death by a hair’s breadth.

Darn it…! Did I grant the opponent time?!

“There should be no need for that. Even while the chef is cooking, the conference can proceed.”

“However, you see. We are borrowing a gift from your side. Keeping you waiting on the side during a conference would be rude, wouldn’t it?”

“I do not mind.”

“No, no, it is a matter of courtesy and sincerity from our side to yours, after all.”

Gnk, sound argument. Has the usual confidence returned to Lord Gungrave’s face, I wonder?

Indeed, if treated as side work while preparing a gift, normally one’s mood would be ruined, no doubt.

Moreover, the one who brought that gift was none other than me. In short, royalty.

Splendid, Shuri.

Your actions helped restore Lord Gungrave’s flow.

It cannot be helped. For now, suspending the conference and re-grasping an opening from the flow of small talk must be done.

“Indeed. Truly, if we neglect courtesy and sincerity from your side, it might conversely become rude, would it not?”

“Princess Tebis is sensitive to such matters, aren’t you?”

“Naturally. Royalty’s job is not merely steering the nation. It is controlling the flow of each moment, developing the nation in a better direction. Sharing prosperity with the people and protecting them. Because a nation exists only when there are people, after all.

A nation that neglects its people cannot maintain glory, to say nothing of survival. Our job is protecting the people and enriching the nation. Is that not so?”

“…It overlaps with words Shuri said long ago.”

“What?”

“It was, 『People are the castle, people are the stone walls, people are the moats; compassion is an ally, resentment an enemy.』”

…

“Are you trying to say people are the foundation?”

“No, 『No matter how strong you make a castle, if people’s hearts drift away, you cannot govern the world. If you treat them with warm compassion, people will protect the nation more than a strong castle, and if you behave in a way that causes resentment, when the time comes, far from protecting you, you will be betrayed and placed in a dire situation.』 so it goes.

Deep, very deep words.”

What did you say… Shuri spoke such words?

“Absurd. Shuri is an ordinary person who has never moved a nation. Are you saying he attained enlightenment to such words rich in implication?”

“Also, 『Do not look upward, know your place.』 so it goes.

Ah, this is not an insult. Apparently, grasping the current situation and advancing step by step with certainty is the shortest path to success.

It overlaps with Princess Tebis’s present self. Calmly discerning what you can do now, moving for the sake of the common people. It is a wonderful thing.”

Is that so?

Am I living in such a manner, I wonder?

Why? Why does Shuri know such words of enlightenment?

Why is my heart disturbed to this extent?

“My apologies. A person such as myself stepped in too far.”

“No, I shall forgive it. I heard good words.”

This is bad, my heart is terribly disturbed. Once more, I must calm my heart.

Agitation dulls thought, and confusion restricts action while causing it to run wild.

Disturbance of the heart is, in other words, like exposing a weakness to the opponent.

Once more, I must discipline my heart.

“However, Shuri is a mysterious person. Lord Gungrave, how did you bring that man into your fold?”

I continue the conversation to hide my agitation and settle my heart.

Always in this way, I have quieted my spirit. This time too, I intend to do so.

“As for bringing him in, he simply wandered into my camp. That was quite some time ago. In the very middle of the camp, without a single piece of property, he had collapsed, you see. Even remembering it now, that brings a great laugh.”

Hahaha, in the face of Lord Gungrave laughing, the fragility from earlier is no longer present.

It seems he has completely recovered.

This means starting over from scratch once more.

“In the very middle of the camp, is it?”

“Yes. Before we noticed he was in the camp, so we doubted whether he was a spy. We nearly killed him, but because he showed us his cooking skill, we decided to let him live. Since then, he worked earnestly, and now he has become indispensable talent for the mercenary band. As the chef I trust the most.”

Lord Gungrave smiling faintly.

The unit captains behind also nod as if agreeing with that, and some face downward while laughing.

…It seems I made a major misunderstanding.

It is not that Lord Gungrave will not let go of Shuri.

He has become an indispensable presence as a great wedge binding them together.

He has become a presence naturally taken for granted.

He will likely no longer separate.

Pulling such a person away can likely no longer be done.

If it comes to this, I too may have to change my policy.

Because there is no telling what kind of great disaster would occur after a forcibly pulled wedge, after all.

However, even if pulling him away is impossible, I want to draw him to our side somehow…

After all, cooking skill and quick wit—these are things hard to let go of for me.

Should I rather absorb all of Sunity as a vassal state or something and have Shuri permanently stationed as a royal chef in my castle?

No, doing that would make things unnecessarily complicated.

Feeling that I had hit the most difficult problem in my life, I decided to continue small talk.

Although continuing harmless conversation, no good ideas come to mind at all.

No, right now, rather than that, should I think about the intent of this conference—handing over Lenha Sunity’s custody at a high price?

Just when I was thinking so.

“I have returned!”

The one who suddenly opened the door was Shuri.

Wearing a face of having accomplished his task, he returns behind Lord Gungrave.

“What were you doing?”

“I was doing a little trick. Now, please distribute them.”

Receiving Shuri’s signal, those who appeared to be kitchen staff carry glasses over.

Looking at the glasses distributed to everyone, I asked with a dubious face.

“What is… this? Shuri.”

“I name it, Diluted Drink.”

Diluted Drink?

Inside the glass is a beverage that appears to be Nornels, but…

It has far more transparency than Nornels, and even ice was floating in it.

“Diluted… what did you say?”

“Well, please try drinking it.”

Shuri takes the lead and begins drinking.

Hmm, it doesn’t seem to be poison. Well, Shuri wouldn’t do something like poisoning, though.

Utin next to me reached out a hand to taste-test, but I quietly restrained her.

Shuri’s hard-won consideration. Performing an unrefined act should be avoided.

“I guarantee it as well. This is even more delicious than the Nornels from earlier.”

However, Arius’s next words grated on my nerves.

What did you say? Tastier than the Nornels from earlier?

Is this what could be called Shuri’s secret drink?

I cannot simply ignore this.

That Nornels was the finest item recognized by me.

“Ho, you say so. Our nation’s Nornels. Among them, the one considered the highest grade, which even I was satisfied with. If you say it is tastier than that, shall we not try it?”

I put my mouth to the glass and swallowed the liquid inside.

In an instant, it was as if an electric shock ran through my body.

What is… this?

Certainly this is Nornels. Because it firmly retains the characteristics of the Nornels I have drunk until now, there is no mistake.

However, this is!

It was an extremely refreshing drinking experience. A smooth throat feel that was absent in conventional Nornels.

It possesses such ease of drinking that it seems to rush down the throat and settle in the stomach immediately upon entering the mouth.

And the taste is wonderful as well.

Flavor as Nornels. It possesses fruit sweetness and refreshingness. Those smoothly fill the mouth.

However, the bitterness and wildness of Nornels that existed inside it are absent.

Originally, those too were accepted as part of the savory flavor, but with them gone to this extent, having them would rather create an incongruity.

In short, while fruit savory flavor exists, miscellaneous tastes have vanished, to put it simply.

And as could be imagined from floating ice, it is tremendously chilled.

Originally, chilled beverages are luxury items that royal nobles can partake of. Those hiring mages could partake, but hiring a mage for that purpose is foolish.

In short, top-grade Nornels that is served in the best condition.

It is indeed tasty. Tasty, but…!

“Absurd…! This is indeed Nornels. Furthermore, it should be the highest grade. But this is something else that goes above and beyond that! The sweetness and sourness are just right, and there is no bitterness…! The scent of herbs passes through the nose and mouth, and the aftertaste is crisp! Why! Shuri, why do you possess such Nornels!”

Yes, certainly this is Nornels. However, it goes far above what I brought.

However, I do not understand why Shuri possesses Nornels of this caliber.

“This is the Nornels I borrowed earlier.”

Saying so, what Shuri produced was unmistakably the bottle of Nornels Utin produced earlier.

The contents are reduced, but the way they are reduced was strange.

Compared to earlier, the reduction is less.

In short, it was made by taking Nornels as a base and mixing another beverage.

However, I do not understand.

Even with my tongue, the taste of mixed ingredients is entirely unknown.

“Absurd! Just what did you add to be able to bring out a Nornels of this caliber!? Did you add some secret seasoning?!”

“No, Shuri didn’t add anything like that.”

The one who refuted was Arius.

Come to think of it, Arius left the room together with Shuri.

I see. At that time, she also saw Shuri do something, did she?

However, not such a thing?

If not a secret seasoning, just what on earth was added?

“When I first saw it, I couldn’t believe it either. I never dreamed that such a thing could be used to make a drink of this caliber.”

“Such a thing? Do you mean the ice! There is a secret to this ice, then!”

Thinking that way, it makes sense. Mixing seasoning into this ice, changing flavor as it gradually melts.

However, if so, when the ice finishes melting, the flavor should change again.

Is this for enjoying that change in flavor? No, it isn’t such a cheap trick.

This taste is becoming even better by the melting of ice. Naturally, if completely melted, there is a fear that the taste will collapse, but at present there is no such thing.

I do not understand. Just what on earth was done?!

“No, this ice merely seems to maintain the freshness of the drink. What was added to this…”

Arius coughed once and spoke.

“…is just plain water.”

…Huh? Water?

I doubted my ears. No, far from doubting. I doubted my own sanity—whether my mind correctly recognized the words just heard.

Mere water? Is all that is contained in this only water?

Hurriedly taking another drink, upon being told, I finally understood.

Indeed, it is diluted.

Precisely because it is diluted, extra things are not felt, and precisely because extra things are not felt, savory flavor is felt.

“I will explain regarding that.”

Leaving my astonishment aside, Shuri began to speak.

“First, regarding Nornels itself, I think it is very delicious. On the premise that it is an unwavering fact, just as everyone felt upon drinking, I say this.”

Shuri clears his throat once.

“To me, it was too concentrated. Nornels is very concentrated. If that concentration itself is deliciousness, that is not wrong. Because this thought is merely my preference. Therefore, I diluted it by adding water. Diluting with water may carry bad impressions like padding or watering down, but in cooking, that is not limited. Rather than making a dish with soup to add savory flavor, there are cases where extracting fish savory flavor or broth with plain water is tastier. Of course, this method of adding water carries the danger of becoming too thin to eat or drink itself if mistaken. However, that is a story of if mistaken. As long as the amount and usage are not mistaken, it becomes a primitive method that can produce something this easy to drink and eat.”

When Shuri’s explanation ended, I was almost ready to lose all strength.

That is right, that is right indeed.

If it is difficult to eat, if it is difficult to drink, there is a method of remaking or diluting.

However, I could not notice that.

Why? Simple.

Because it was so simple, I could not notice.

A gourmet like me believes that tasty cooking carries corresponding reasons and techniques.

That is something born from accumulating chefs’ unflagging efforts, research, calculations, and refinement.

However, this Nornels is different.

Simply because it was concentrated, it was diluted. That was all.

“To think… just plain water could bring out a flavor to this extent…”

“It wasn’t brought out, it was drawn back. Diluting things that are difficult to drink or eat before consuming them—that is a fundamental in cooking. Delicious and easy to consume. That right there is the very foundation of cooking, after all.”

At Shuri’s words, I could only wear a bitter face.

Without making extra expressions, simply delicious and easy to eat. Seeking that.

Precisely because of that, Shuri’s cooking is constantly novel, somewhat nostalgic, delicious, and leads to eating continuously.

Shuri’s conviction is constantly keeping that in mind, so to speak.

I see, this is the foundation of Shuri’s cooking.

In other words, the heart, is it…?

“Ahahahahaha!”

And right here, Lord Gungrave abruptly burst out laughing.

What is it? What happened all of a sudden?

“Thank you, Shuri. That’s a good hint.”

Hint? Did Shuri give some hint during this time?

Is there a meaning that Shuri embedded in this Nornels?

“Princess Tebis, let us return to the main topic. As for me, I desire the custody of the former Empress Lenha in the management of the territory going forward.”

What!? Bringing that up right here?

Neither conversational flow nor anything.

On top of that, presenting what he wants himself!

“Ho, is that so. So? What will Lord Gungrave offer as compensation?”

“Naturally, Princess Tebis captured the mastermind Lenha. I shall present items of an amount with no problem for that gratitude and custody transfer.”

Ho, with items, is it?

Considering the amount for handing over custody of Lenha, former Empress of the feudal lord and mastermind of the incident, and courtesy toward royalty, a considerable amount of items must be received.

Naturally, this is a matter of my dignity as well. And it would also serve to demonstrate the size of Lord Gungrave’s own generosity.

Now then, what will Lord Gungrave offer?

Lord Gungrave thought for a moment, then spoke.

“First, about half a cartload of vegetables such as daikon and carrots.”

…Huh?

“Next, meats. About half a cartload of this as well.”

What? What is he saying?

“Furthermore, weapons and armor, also half a cartload.”

While I was dazed, Lord Gungrave continues to present one after another.

Gems, food, weapons, armor, local specialties, cloth, building materials…

Presenting items one after another, but around the point where the types exceeded 70, I had no choice but to speak.

“Wait, Lord Gungrave! What kind of thinking is that!”

“My, as items, there should be no problem.”

“That is not what I am saying!”

“That kind of thing? Ah, meaning the items are few, perhaps?”

“That is not it! Regarding types, there should be no problem!”

However, I had no choice but to speak.

This must be said.

“Contrary to the types, what are you thinking with such small quantities of items?!”

As reward to royalty, it would be an amount with no problem. Rather, it could be said to be excessive.

However, the items lined up just now have tremendously small quantities.

What are you thinking with vegetables being about half a cartload? What about gems being one box? What about weapons being half a horse cart?

Lord Gungrave chuckled and spoke.

“No, no, in current Sunity, there is no inventory to pay a reward of one type of item, and gold coins or food alone at that. We simply increased the types so as not to be shameful.”

Gnk!

“Even if so, isn’t this terrible?! What is half a horse cart of grain?! Returning to Niewbist, such a tiny bit won’t be of much value!”

“Yes, yes. That would be so. However, we will pay, including other items. After all, if you sell all the items just listed at fair prices in appropriate places, we are handing over items of value more than sufficient, twelve-fold sufficient, to take custody of Lenha, rebel mastermind and former lord’s Empress.”

This, was this the goal?!

“In addition to that, items of gratitude to Princess Tebis, who is royalty, being two or three horse carts would make us shrink back on our end as well.”

Mmh, I had no choice but to shut my mouth.

I see, so that’s how he came at me.

Originally, paying in currency or the like would be standard here. However, the current Sunity does not possess the economic power to pay that.

Thereupon, broad and shallow, he tries to smooth it over with diverse treasures.

Of course, converted against value, it is more than twelve-fold sufficient for the amount to hand over Lenha’s custody. The value of items Lord Gungrave listed just now, as I remember, indeed corresponds to that.

In short, so that one-point concentration doesn’t become a fatal shortage of that item, broadly, shallowly, he yields each item to the extent that it doesn’t become short.

That right there is Lord Gungrave’s goal.

What is malicious about this strategy lies in two points: ‘no flaw as number of horse carts’ and ‘no problem when converted to value’.

First, as for the number of horse carts, this carries public reputation meaning.

When receiving rewards or gifts, if only one horse cart, upon returning, unsavory things might be said by citizens. 『Can only receive that much?』 so to speak.

If the number of horse carts is small, it becomes a problem of quality, but if the number of horse carts is large, it becomes a problem of quantity.

By increasing numbers, while lowering quality, securing value, attempting reinforcement of public reputation meaning.

In short, both appearance and value have no problem.

And, no problem when converted to value. This becomes the key point in this strategy.

No matter how few gifts may be, when converted to value, it is not shameful.

This is a matter where if we complain regarding it, it would be taken as 『A greedy fellow requiring gifts beyond this』.

Since there is no problem when converted to value, if pursuing beyond that, it would end with simply increasing types again, after all.

I see, truly a strategy like ‘diluting’.

Damage of one-point concentration, by diluting and spreading, results in lessening damage.

However, accepting it as it is must not be done.

Although no problem, accepting it as it is touches upon my dignity.

“Lord Gungrave, I believe your offer is a good thing for me as well.”

“Is that so?”

“However, I believe it is not something to decide right away either. Fortunately, there is time. For today, shall we leave it at this?”

In order to acquire our rights even a little, for now time must be bought and strategy re-planned, no doubt.

Even Lord Gungrave shouldn’t think it would pass as is.

“That is also true. Let us leave it at this for today. For me as well, there are many things that must be finalized. If not rude, we will re-clean several rooms in this castle so you can stay, so I hope you will lodge over there.”

“Hmm, then let us do so. Utin.”

“Yes, Your Highness. To subordinates, tell, beforehand, as well.”

“Furthermore, Shuri.”

“Yes!?”

Shuri wore a surprised face.

Well, he probably didn’t think he would be spoken to in the middle of such a conversation, no doubt.

Around here, he appears no different from ordinary common people.

“Your Nornels was extremely delicious. May I expect much from tonight’s meal as well?”

“Ah, of course.”

To Shuri replying while scratching his head, I decided to wait with anticipation.

“Hmm, today I was outdone.”

Guided to the prepared room, I sat on the bed and muttered.

Although not a single high-grade item like furnishings can be seen in the room, reflecting Lord Gungrave’s personality, furniture to the extent of not troubling daily life is placed.

Probably, from poverty due to the civil war, high-grade items were sold off, perhaps.

Thoughts around here likely stem from experience leading a mercenary band severe in economic activities, no doubt.

It could be said to be too austere for lodging royalty.

“Your Highness.”

While I was pondering, Utin entered.

Naturally, guard soldiers are placed outside the room as well, but the subordinate entering and leaving this room is basically Utin alone.

“Room, inside, and outside. Wiretapping, kind of, devices, none. Traps, also, none.”

“Good work.”

“That, and, defense, kind of devices, also applied.”

“Understood.”

Utin’s work of this sort is to the extent that even I place trust in it. If Utin says so, it means there is truly no worry.

“However, today did not go well.”

“Yes. As it is, that, if accepted, problems exist, perhaps.”

“A problem that cannot be said in that place, and a problem where pain is strong on my side.”

Yes, if listed as a problem, when carrying that back, there likely was the possibility of being bad-mouthed by those around: 『Wanting money even by receiving a ragtag collection?』

That would be bad-mouthing, too unbearable to accept as royalty, no doubt.

Royalty possesses bloodlines more noble than generals or civil officials serving under them, and above all possesses financial strength. Yet being taken as money-oriented grates on pride.

“Utin. How do you think the other side will act?”

“From now, extend, conference, and, as gratitude, suitable, items procure, perhaps.”

“Would they come like that, I wonder…”

That could be considered as well, no doubt, but that is Lord Gungrave we speak of.

Using Shuri as a hint, I cannot help but feel he will attack with further unexpectedness.

Wearing a bitter face, I pondered.

“As I imagine, rather than procuring, he will likely adjust.”

“Adjust?”

“Utin. In current Sunity, there are lands that cannot be governed, you see.”

That is to say, lands like mines and agricultural zones that cannot be developed due to lack of manpower.

Certainly Niewbist, possessing the mining district obtained through the battle with the sacred forest and Yuyubi, likely has no problems regarding resources.

However, if they adjust the work like mining and producing resources, the population will inevitably increase. Naturally, if population increases, developments in military service, labor service, tax revenue, commerce, agriculture, and education can be expected.

That is, if there are jobs—meaning titles—for the increased portion, that is.

Allocation of excessive human resources inevitably rots somewhere. If there is work that becomes too easy, lazy people are born from there, carrying the possibility of rotting those together with lazy people as well.

Above all, that people without work are born is bad. If such human resources gather in stagnation and form slums, because measures that can be taken as a nation are limited, time and labor will likely be taken to resolve slums.

Before that, giving work and roles. That right there becomes mining activity in mines and agricultural work.

If mining activity becomes active, people and goods gather there as a mining village. If agriculture can be done, land is developed and food production increases. An important policy of creating an environment where one can work and eat can be carried out.

Currently, Niewbist was on the cusp of confronting this problem. My father, His Majesty, also notices this danger.

Therefore, for me, rather than mere items, even in the form of leasing territory was fine, so I wanted to receive such territories.

That is the reason items sufficient as value or gifts simply with increased types cannot be accepted.

“However, I was outdone by Shuri.”

Bitterly smiling, I remembered.

To think through such an action as mixing water alone, he would change the flow of the venue.

“That, unimpressive, man?”

“Indeed. The one I desired.”

“Certainly, quick wit, and imagination, are amazing, yes. But, to the extent of, obsessing?”

“Yes, to the extent of obsessing. Do you not know? The reason I was moved by Mapo Tofu.”

“Because it is delicious, so.”

“Yes, because it is delicious. However, it is not simply because it is delicious.”

“Then? What kind of, reason, was there?”

“That is because it uses a new seasoning.”

“New?”

Yes, the seasoning used in Mapo Tofu, Doban Djan.

That is a seasoning currently existing nowhere on this continent.

Developing a completely new seasoning.

What a great feat that would be in the culinary world.

If there is a new seasoning, new dishes can be made.

If new dishes can be made, distribution of ingredients hitherto unregarded is born.

If distribution of ingredients is born, commerce develops.

It may sound like a fantasy, but in reality, if seasoning development can be done, it should be a possibility, not impossible.

And Shuri still possesses ideas and techniques.

Simultaneously with being a superior chef, he is also a superior inventor.

Precisely because of that, I must obtain Shuri.

While Lord Gungrave had not noticed that possibility until now, there was an opening to exploit, yet what was understood today was the reality that he cannot be obtained no matter what.

What an unsalvageable story, indeed.

“Indeed. If he cannot be obtained, having him come should be fine, then.”

“Eh?”

“Shuri, from what can be seen, does not seem to have a person he harbors feelings for. If he has a companion, he would naturally come, perhaps.”

“A woman, assign?”

“What an unpleasant way of putting it… Well, if he has a wife in Niewbist, he might put down roots and live in Niewbist, perhaps.”

It might be a good idea.

The problem is the existence of a woman.

“Now then, it would be fine if I wed him, but—”

“His Majesty, would become enraged, perhaps.”

“That would be so. Then, Utin. You win him over.”

“Ueh!?”