The Party Meal

Even though it was a merchants’ party, they also had dealings with nobles. Unlike the gatherings held at orphanages, everyone here was dressed in formal attire of their own style. The decorations were ornate but not vulgar, and lively music filled the venue, making it no less splendid than a noble gathering.

In fact, because Arthur was attending, the preparations were even more lavish than usual. Ordinary nobles would have sighed in admiration, while nobles who looked down on commoners would have twisted their faces in frustration…

“Hey, Kei… Looks like the food isn’t out yet…”

“That’s right… a little disappointing, but at least I’ll go get us something to drink for now.”

Arthur and Kei were disappointed that the food hadn’t yet been served—both of them valuing dumplings over flowers. Watching Kei’s back as she left his side, Arthur looked around the room. With no acquaintances nearby, he wondered what to do. Some merchants cast him curious glances, while others continued chatting without paying him any mind.

‘Ahh, being left alone like this isn’t so bad… I’ve always had someone nearby… Maybe when Kei comes back, I should try talking to someone…’

As he thought this and observed his surroundings, several merchants stared at him, and when their eyes met, they bowed their heads. These merchants were clearly wealthy, judging from the many ornaments they wore.

Wondering what this meant, Arthur was addressed.

“Lord Arthur, thank you for gracing today’s party with your presence.”

“Hmm…? Erin, is that you? You’re wearing a dress today instead of your maid uniform. It suits you well.”

Naturally, Erin was not in her maid uniform but a dress. Unlike the noble style, it was a beautiful one made from bright green fabric.

“As expected, Lord Arthur. This dress is the latest fashion that is trending overseas. If it pleases you, I could send one to Lady Morgan.”

Perhaps surprised by Arthur’s praise, Erin widened her eyes, but then immediately began promoting the dress—typical of a merchant’s daughter.

Of course, ignorant of fashion trends, Arthur had simply followed Tristan’s advice: when in doubt, compliment a girl’s clothes.

The Tristan-style flirting technique: Compliment her dress or accessories!

“Still, Lord Arthur, why did you come dressed like that today?”

“Hmm? Ah, well, that’s…”

He was about to explain that he had dressed to match the occasion, when Erin glanced around and spoke first.

“Ah, I see… As expected of Lord Arthur. So the test has already begun, hasn’t it?”

“Hah…?”

“You don’t need to hide it. I know how busy you are. If someone cannot even recognize you as royalty, then they lack the discernment or network to follow you. That’s why you dressed like this—to identify the most capable merchants. Isn’t that right?”

“Uh… ahh… something like that.”

Though Arthur didn’t understand her strange reasoning, he kindly nodded so as not to embarrass her. He was a considerate prince, letting Erin keep her proud smile.

While he pondered what to say next, Kei returned with drinks. As expected of his personal maid—Arthur’s savior.

“Ms. Erin, thank you for inviting me as well today. I heard there will be a feast, so Lord Arthur and I were looking forward to it.”

“Ah, yes, I was expecting some unusual dishes, but not to the point of skipping lunch like Kei did.”

“Oh, come on, you promised to keep that secret! You didn’t have any snacks either, Lord Arthur. And the reason I eat a lot is so I can tell you about the tasty dishes. That’s part of my important job too!!”

Arthur’s words made Kei blush red. Indeed, she had been quite—no, very—excited about tasting the exotic dishes merchants brought from overseas.

But she also had a sisterly desire to let Arthur experience many different delicious foods. Being seen as nothing more than a glutton made her puff out her cheeks in protest.

It was a truly heartwarming sight.

“I see… So Lord Arthur really has already seen through our intentions. The crisis threatening Britannia that we are wary of…”

“Huh?”

He had indeed thought about discussing the food problem, but…

Just as Arthur was about to ask what Erin meant, the back doors opened and carts filled with dishes were brought out.

There were luxurious, familiar dishes that rivaled those of the royal court, followed by strange ones. Large amounts of white grains had been cooked and piled up, surrounded by prepared meats and fish.

A dark-skinned man in a chef’s uniform noticed Arthur, then walked toward him carrying a plate filled with the white grains and side dishes.

“Wh… what is this, this wasn’t what I was told…”

“Ah, you must be Prince Arthur. I’ve heard many rumors of you. Without delay, would you please try the cuisine of my region?”

Before Erin could say anything, the dark-skinned man offered the food to Arthur and the others. With the savory aroma wafting around them, a cute little “kuu~~” sound escaped—but whether from Arthur or Kei, no one could tell.

It was strange and unfamiliar cuisine, but to Arthur, who had already experienced exotic foods and drinks in Jerusalem and Dorf, it looked immensely appealing.