CH 9

Breakfast is laid out on the table.

There is only Yuren-kun and I at the table, despite it being big enough to accommodate more than ten people.

It’s not just about being fresh; there’s something unsettling about it.

“Sorry. It was sudden, so I was only able to prepare something simple.”

“N-No, it’s fine! I’ve never had so much breakfast before.”

“Is that so? Then please eat a lot.”

“Okay. Thank you for the meal.”

Even when I worked at the royal palace, breakfast was provided.

Of course, since it was a meal at the palace, it was not bad in terms of the quality or quantity of food.

However, in my case, I was often so busy researching Transmutation Art that I skipped breakfast.

Perhaps because of that, I have been eating less and less breakfast.

I knew it was my fault for not eating properly, so I just kept quiet and dealt with it.

In that sense, being able to have a calm breakfast like this is rare and more valuable than luxury.

“Did you already take a bath? Did you have trouble finding your way around?”

“No, I’m okay.”

I had already taken a bath.

I’m very satisfied with being able to use a huge bath all by myself.

I feel relief from the tiredness I’ve been feeling since yesterday.

“Thank you for the clothes. You specially prepared them for me.”

“It’s okay. They’re meant for people who work in our court, and it also means that we expect you to work properly from now on.”

“Is that so?”

Certainly, there is the Salem Kingdom’s crest embroidered on the chest of the clothes.

The clothes from my previous country that I was wearing are in the process of being washed, but it seems unlikely that I will wear them again.

Design-wise, this one is better.

It’s not too flashy, and there’s more gray than white, so even if chemicals splash on it and it gets dirty, it won’t stand out.

As a Transmutation Master, I handle many different materials, and sometimes I fail, so my clothes tend to get dirty.

“If you wear these clothes, you won’t arouse suspicion in the royal castle. Hisui is talking to the king on your behalf, so once the conversation is over, you can walk boldly.”

“Umm, Yuren-kun, what should I do when I meet the king?”

“Oh, yeah. Well, I’ll have you give a brief introduction, but the basic information has already been conveyed by Hisui. I’ll explain and persuade him later.”

“Is that okay? It’s about me after all.”

Can I just leave it up to them to request that I work here?

I feel like I should be the one to clearly express my requests.

But…this is the first time I’ve met him, and he’s the king of this country.

If I make a wrong move, it could be the end of the conversation…to be honest, I didn’t have much confidence in speaking to him.

“It’s okay. Half of the reason Aria came here is because of my selfishness. It will be easier for Father to hear it from me.”

So when Yuren-kun said that, I secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

I feel pathetic.

❂❂❂❂❂❂

Throne Room.

Located on the top floor of the castle, it is the largest and most luxurious room, and as the name suggests, it has a throne at the back of the room.

It is a prestigious room used when His Majesty the King receives guests or holds events.

The interior and atmosphere of the room are said to be similar across all countries.

The red carpet leading to the throne, flanked by sturdy knights on either side.

Hisui-san is among them.

In contrast to the atmosphere in the room, he stood straight with a stern expression.

I walked on the red carpet between their gazes.

Together with Yuren-kun.

I could see the face of His Majesty.

He was around forty years old, I think?

He was completely different from Yuren-kun in terms of age, and he had a splendid beard that gave him a powerful impression.

However, I felt a sense of closeness in the atmosphere that made it clear they were father and son, and surprisingly, I wasn’t nervous.

Approaching the foot of the throne, Yuren-kun and I knelt down on one knee.

“Your Majesty, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule.”

“Good. I have heard from Hisui about your circumstances. Both of you may rise.”

“Yes.”

“Y-Yes!”

I lifted my face a little later than Yuren-kun.

His Majesty, who I looked up to, was neither angry nor laughing.

“So you are the Transmutation Master of the neighboring country?”

“Yes! My name is Aria Lawrence! I’ve been working as a court Transmutation Master for about a year now. But…”

“Very well. I understand that it was not your fault after hearing the circumstances. But now you want to work here in the palace…”

His Majesty had a complicated expression.

It may still be difficult to suddenly employ an outsider.

Yuren-kun tries to persuade him.

“I have created many medicines and items so far! I am self-taught in Transmutation Art, but I have the confidence that my knowledge and skills are second to none! If I can work here, I will devote myself entirely to helping everyone! So please, let me work here!”

“Aria…”

“Oh?”

But I spoke first.

I immediately lowered my head energetically.

Yuren-kun said he would persuade him, but when it comes to my future, I should be the one to speak for myself.

From now on, I don’t want to just rely on his power to live, I want to be his power.

“Look up. I understand your feelings well. They are very strong and straightforward.”

When I looked up, His Majesty was smiling kindly.

The atmosphere was just like Yuren-kun’s, and his smile made me feel relieved just by looking at it.

“I will recognize you as the Transmutation Master of my palace! Welcome to our country! Show that your words and thoughts are sincere.”

“Father!”

“Thank you very much.”

My eyes became teary with happiness.

Somehow, I’ve been crying all day today.