Click.
“Sue-oneesama, thank you for waiting.”
“Fina-chan is beautifully dressed as well… so very cute.”
Sue greeted her with a warm smile.
Just as we are talking about Ao, Fina-san appeared, now elegantly clad in a soft pink gown that made her look every bit like a true princess. She was accompanied by Pearl and Ao, who followed close behind.
Sue couldn’t help but compliment Fina’s outfit, but honestly, it wasn’t just a compliment. She really did look like a princess straight out of a storybook.
Ao, meanwhile, made her way over to Shiro. I figured now was the perfect time to ask what they had been up to before arriving.
“Ao said she was preparing for an interception together with the Margrave.”
“Preparing for an interception?”
“I’ll tell you about that.”
Before I knew it, the Margrave also appeared at the party venue and he said that he’ll explain things in person.
We all sat down in the refreshment area to talk.
“After interrogating the captured individuals, it was clear they were planning to attack the party. Since the attack at the tournament was incomplete, they’re planning to attack the Margrave’s residence directly.”
“That is why you guys are preparing for an interception?”
“That’s right. I’ve also arranged the tables in this room to the bare minimum, creating an evacuation area.”
Since the Madam herself had interrogated them in a furious fit, there was no doubt that the information was accurate. And, considering that the magician had vanished during the martial arts tournament, another attack wouldn’t exactly be out of the question.
“Ao was more than ready for a rematch. But at the same time, she was concerned for our family—especially the baby and the mother. So she and I hurriedly improved the magical device that generates the barrier spell, turning it into a shelter for evacuation.”
“So Ao went that far as well?”
“That’s not all, she even enhanced several other magical devices. If we ever end up in actual combat, those improvements will likely have to be put to the test.”
Ao wasn’t just thinking about duels. She had been preparing, meticulously, for the worst-case scenario—and making sure everyone’s safety came first. The Margrave and Ao were both wearing those confident, self-assured expressions—but really, I hoped they wouldn’t overdo it.
“Well, even though this is a victory banquet, it’s meant to be a relaxed, homey gathering. Let’s take it easy.”
“Yes, that’s right. We’ll keep some formality, of course, but let’s enjoy ourselves.”
“““Yes!”””
I couldn’t have agreed more. Formality and stiff manners weren’t my style, and honestly, they never really suited me.
With a relatively small group of attendees, it seemed only natural that the evening would be lively, warm, and full of friendly chatter.
So, that was the plan: a cheerful celebration rather than a solemn banquet.
“My wife’s getting ready—just a little longer, so please wait. She’s really put her heart into this today.”
“Perhaps she feels relieved now that the big work is done.”
“Haha, no doubt about that.”
After all, the Madam had taken on the huge responsibility of serving as ring announcer for every match in the tournament. We couldn’t let that go without proper recognition.
And so, preparations for the party continued steadily, each small detail falling into place.
There were plenty of concerns lingering in the back of my mind, but for now, it was time to enjoy ourselves.
This is translated by Yume Neiji. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com.
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