After parting ways with Helen, Krull's chariot heads for the city.
　The streets are peaceful today. I've heard that there's a certain amount of burglars, but fortunately I haven't come across any.

"Speaking of which, how's the security in the Empire?

　I was suddenly curious, so I turned to Anne. It didn't seem to be particularly bad when I infiltrated.

But now...

　For a moment, Anne looked puzzled, but then she quickly prefaced her statement. It's only been a short time since the commotion, so it's natural that there's some disruption.

As far as I can tell, it's no different from the kingdom. I don't know if the captains of the guards are lying, but they wouldn't tell such a trivial lie in front of your father. I've seen the city before, and it looks pretty much the same.
I didn't get attacked on the streets when I was there either.
"Right?

　Anne was a little proud of herself. It's natural that you don't feel bad when people say nice things about you.

But why?
Depending on how Helen and Krull are doing, it would be nice to take a short tour of the Empire or Republic.

　That was my answer to Anne's question. Most of our time is spent traveling back and forth between the city and the forest, with the occasional trip to the capital being our main area of activity.
　We can't travel too far due to work and Krull's food problems, and we haven't fully explored the forest yet, so I'm thinking of doing that first, but I also want to get to know the culture of other countries a little better.

The Republic: ......

　Anne's face became a little thoughtful. It's a good idea to have a good idea of what you're looking for. I'm sure you've had the opportunity to meet them, Deanna as a countess and Anne as an imperial princess.

Is there something wrong with the Republic?
No, it's just that I don't like the nobility there.
Is that so?
Their attitude is kind of annoying. ......

　The Republic's aristocracy must have a lot of gall to take such an attitude towards an imperial princess.

I'm not sure what to make of that.

　I'm sure you'll be happy to know that I'm not the only one who's a bit of a jerk.

"Right.

　When we arrived in the city, we found a familiar face.

　When we arrived at the city, the guards we knew were standing in the usual way, and we all greeted them.
　We walked through the crowded streets. On the outside, it looks perfectly peaceful. There's probably some crime going on behind the scenes, but at least it's not so bad that it's affecting the public.
　In my heart, I respected the work of the guards.

　I walked through the peaceful streets and arrived at Camilo's store. As usual, I put the car in storage and took Krull and Lucy to the back.
　After asking the young man to take care of them, I headed for the business meeting room.

　The interior of the store was familiar to me, but it seemed a little hectic. I wondered if a large order had come in. Maybe I came at the wrong time.
　Still, Camilo and the bannerman, who seemed to be paying attention to us, soon arrived.

Sorry for coming at such a busy time.
"Hmm?　Hmm? It's okay, don't worry about it.

　Camilo grinned and rubbed his beard. He's hiding something.

Is it the usual?
Yeah. I need confirmation. All you're missing is .......

　I told him what I wanted, and he nodded and left. With this, 80% of today's business is done.
　From here on, it's the usual small talk.

"I've been wondering, how's Helen?

　Camilo asked first. I've been wondering about Helen.

She went to the capital to let her friends know she was okay.
"I see. I didn't feel safe after I came back until that day.

　That day was the day when the emperor secretly announced that he would not pursue Helen.
　Then, noticing Anne's presence, Camilo hurriedly added.

No, I don't have any feelings for you, Your Highness.
It's all right. Don't worry about it.

　Anne smiles. I have no way of knowing what's in her heart, but am I the only one who feels a little scared?

Well, that's all well and good, but I'd like to ask you something.

　Camilo, in a cold sweat, tried to change the subject. I'll take you up on it this time.

What is it?　Are you mass producing again?
No, I don't have any orders for that at the moment.
You've been so busy, I thought you'd be doing that again. I've heard most of it.
Well, it's related to that, but I'll see you in a minute.



　With that, Camilo left the room too. The rest of us wondered what was going on, and talked about it with the family.

　Camilo came back not long after.

"Well, this time, the client would really like you to do it," he said.
In that case, I'll accept on the usual conditions.
Well, just listen to him for now. Then you can decide.

　I guess it's no use being selfish here. I nodded silently.

Okay, let's get the client in. All right!

　Kamilo said, and a golden-haired, blue-eyed gentleman walked into the room.
　I opened my eyes. So did Deanna.

　Yes, someone Deanna and I know well. Marius Amur had just walked in.