Chapter 164: Snow Waiting For Spring

***Arc 7 One Who Bare Their Fang on Reason, Chapter 164 Snow Waiting For Spring***

From triumphant celebration to conference.

An assassination attempt on the queen and assassination incidents on a nobles.

Furthermore, there was no shortage of various topics being talked about in the royal capital, such as the dragon's visit, and this one also probably wouldn't lose to any other incident.

The 5 shaku tall body of the majestic lion. Its long tail wagged in the air.

Its body hair similar to that of a lion, its color yellowish brown, however the head resembles that of a bird of prey or an eagle.

The huge wings that sprouted from its shoulders were almost indigo, giving off an indescribable luster.

It was a Lion Eagle――a beast called Griffin.

And astride them were men of valor, covering themselves with thick furs.

They carried 8 shaku spears on their shoulders, and countless spears were bundled around their waists.

The line of 30 riders, in an imposing, not elegant, but rugged and dignified appearance that could be called a warrior, advanced toward the royal castle.

One person is one Griffin.

However, there were two people straddling the first griffin.

A young man with good features and a good physique, and sitting in front of him as if being embraced by him was a somewhat adorable girl with short black hair tied in a braid behind her ears.

The girl's was were holding not the Griffin's――but a quite large horse's as she looked from side to side.

"Amazing...Nii-san. All the houses here are made of rocks."

"Don't act like a child, you idiot, you're Kreisharana's Miko."

Despite this, the young man――Kreisharana's Chief Warrior Vinthril's face was kind, and his sister Lira smiled and replied to her brother, "I'm sorry."

Compared to Kreisharana, which had only wooden houses, this scenery was truly magnificent.

Lira looked around with her large eyes shining.

It was around that time, a little after entering the royal capital, that the cavalry leading them stopped.

When Vinthril recognized the girl running from the front, he raised his left hand to signal to stop the march, then got down on the spot and knelt down on one knee on the cold stone pavement.

Lira followed suit, and so did the warriors behind her.

There was a murmur from the crowd around them.

The fluffy girl wearing a hat up to her ears and a scarf wrapped around her stopped when she reached them, shook her silver hair, and tilted her head.

Vinthril opened his mouth to her.

"It's been almost two months since then... It's been a long time, Krische-sama."

"Um, yes, it's been a while... but, uh, aren't you cold?"

"If I'm to answer without shame, a little bit. It seems like the plains are pretty cold."

"You don't have to worry about formality too much, okay? Krsche, just came to greet you."

"Ha. Thank you."

With a wry smile, Vinthril stood upsentsends a signal behind him.

They stood up all at once, and Krische, looking troubled, patted the large horse on the neck.

"Hehehe, it's been a while, Bururun. Lira too."

"Yes, it's been a while, Krische-sama."

'Bururu', Bururun rub the tip of its nose to Krische's cheek.

Krische smiled, and climbed on its back.

Then she saw the warriors following behind the two.

"Even so, you brought a lot of people with you."

"Well, we're also going to have a look at the plains, but...we'll see how it goes after thr audience with Her Majesty the Queen."

"...? Well, it's okay, it's cold, so let's go."

"Ha"

Vinthril and the others again straddled the griffin, and Krische called out to the noble who had been leading them.

"It's been a while, Marquis Giterns. Did you come to see Anne?"

"Oh... it's been a while, Alberinea. As they're going to have an audience with Her Majesty the Queen, and I'm to be their guide...of course, I'm also going to see my daughter."

Argosh Giterns replied, his face stiffening.

The people of Kreisharana will bring Krische's horses, so Krische want someone to guide them to the royal capital――that was all she said to him, but when the Kreisharana's people come, it shocked him.

They told Argoshe that this was a request for an audience with Her Majesty the Queen from Kreisharana.

A sudden situation without any preparation.

However, the fact that the pass had Krische's name on it made it clear that they were telling the truth.

In that case, there's no way he can assign guides without a certain level of status to guests from other countries.

However, that area was in the remote northwestern part of the kingdom.

The only people there were low-ranking aristocrats at the level of small officials, and there were no nobles of the rank who could guide guests from other countries.

Normally, someone would have been dispatched directly from the royal capital to act as a guide, but it was too sudden.

When 30 lion eagle cavalrymen suddenly arrived at Fort Pirquet without prior notice, there was no way he could sent them back just because there was no preparation.

It would be a major crime to be disrespectful to a guest from another country, and in some cases, it could even result in the head of the person being beheaded.

It was also a messenger from Kreisharana, with whom the Kingdom had broken off relations a long time ago.

Inevitably, he decided that there was no one else who should act as their guide but himself.

If the pinnacle of peerage for military officers is margrave, then marquis is the pinnacle of peerage for civil servants.

If the guide was the head of the famous Gittens family, it would at least not be a disrespect to them.

However, it was essentially an act that went against etiquette.

Sending messengers back and forth, deciding on a date——normally, an audience would be a tedious process.

The permit they have may seem legitimate, but it was Krische who wrote it.

Thinking of the girl who seemed to be so ignorant of politics, society, and diplomacy, she wondered if it was really okay to guide them to the royal capital, and with a sick feeling in his stomachs, he sent one letter of confirmation to the capital and five other letters to his acquaintances there.

This was to ask their cooperation in case something happens.

While welcoming them, he deliberately delayed his trip due to the bad weather and poor road conditions, but it was only when he arrived at Gargain that he finally felt relieved.

It was only after he received a reply to his letter from the capital.

"Ehehe, I see. Anne must be happy too."

However, what comes to Krische that plunged Argosh into the depths of fear was truly a smile of a little girl.

"T-true..."

Argosh was unable to even make a single sarcastic comment to her, as she seemed to be quite please.

Practically speaking, she was a member of the royal family, an existence above the clouds that was crowned Alberinea, and on top of that, his daughter's employer... Now that she has formed a friendship with the Dragon, and that the men behind him, the Kreisharana have personally sworn their allegiance to her, Argosh had no choice but to smile.

"Thank you again for guiding us so far, Giterns-dono. It was a much more peaceful journey than I expected."

"N-no, Vinthril-dono. I'm not used to things like this, I'm sorry to have caused you trouble."

"Haha, please don't be humble. We are ignorant of diplomatic protocol and etiquette and cause you trouble. Even then you chase away any danger and entertain us as much as possible. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated."

Fortunately, perhaps because his their efforts, they seemed to have made a good impression of him, which was a relief.

He sighed quietly, trying to accept that for now.

Argoshe Wikel Giterns.

He was a man born under the star of hardship.

Red was the most noble color in the kingdom.

The audience hall--Basically, only members of the royal family were allowed to step on the red-colored carpet, and it is usually replaced with a different color when welcoming guests from other countries.

Especially in the audience chamber, the red carpet represents the blood shed for the kingdom.

Only the royal family is allowed to stand on it, and only the nobles of the kingdom with whom they have allowed blood to intersect.

It is not often that people from other countries were allowed to enter there, and currently the only exceptions are the emissaries of the Arna Imperial State, which has been an ally for several hundred years.

'...... They want walk on the same road as us from here on out. They came to the Kingdom with that intention, and so do I. I have no intention of perpetuating a centuries-old grudge. From now on, I think we should forget the past, join hands with each other, and hope for a bright future.

Naturally, it was assumed that they would follow the same old custom this time, but Queen Kreschenta had decided to welcome them with the red carpet.

She would make Kreisharana, with whom the Kingdom had dispute with for many years, a friend of the kingdom from now on, just as Arna was.

It was a declaration of intent, and there was no one who could refute it.

The trumpet sounded, and the first to enter was Krische.

Behind her was two men and women――Vinthril and Lira, followed by several men.

The situation in the country and the incident the other day.

The nobles obediently accepted Kreschenta's decision, but when they saw these rustic-like figures dressed in fur and the bare minimum of cloth, some of them frowned blatantly.

To think that such a barbarian would pollute the historic path of the Kingdom.

Some of them lamented that the authority of the kingdom was being undermined.

Krische, however, paid no heed to this atmosphere and went to the front to stand next to Kreschenta.

The nervous-looking girl――Lira stepped forward and got down on both knees on the red carpet.

"Thank you for granting us this audience, Your Majesty Queen Alberan."

She then lowered her head and placed her forehead on the floor.

The nobles were stunned and looked at each other.

Kneeling down and pressing one foreheads to the floor.

In their eyes, even for Kreisharana's manners it was much too subservient.

They knew the culture of Arna, who sit directly on the floor instead of on a chair, but they would never sit outside.

The men behind her were also sitting on the carpet with both knees on the carpet, and the sight seemed strange, comical even.

Some looked at them condescendingly.

There was a clear difference between kneeling on one knee and kneeling on both knees, at least in the Kingdom.

Kneeling down on one knee is considered the top of a standing ceremony, but kneeling on both knees is considered seated ceremony.

At least in the kingdom of culture where people sit on chairs, this is something that is only done under extreme circumstances, equivalent to touching your butt directly on the ground――If they were to press their foreheads on the floor on top of that, it would seem that they had no semblance of nobility or pride.

It might be fine if they were a commoner, but they were a messenger who is the face of the country.

It is no wonder that they think it is so unbecoming of them to get down on both knees in a place where one would walk with their shoes, even if they were trying to be courteous in their own way.

The people of Kreisharana had never visited other countries――naturally they were unfamiliar with diplomatic etiquette and manners.

Normally, it would have been normal for the guide to mention some of the etiquette and manners so as not to embarrass the guests, but Argosh, who served as the guide this time, was neither a diplomat nor a civil servant in the royal court.

They had only interacted with people form Arna Imperial State and were ignorant of the diplomatic protocols.

This could be said to be the result of some kind of bad luck.

As for who was the worst offender, it was not Argosh, but rather 80% of it was because of Krische.

But it was Kreschenta who moved more quickly than anyone else.

She stood up from her throne, lightly descended the small staircase, and dropped to her knees in her dress and bowed her head.

A stir spread through the room, but she didn't seem bothered by it.

"Hehe, I wonder if it's Kreisharana's etiquette to kneel down on both knees. Please raise your head, Kreisharana's Miko-sama."

"Y-yes..."

Lira looked up in surprise and looked into the violet eyes of Kreschenta, who was sitting on her knees.

Elegant gold that sparkles in red.

She looked like she had reached the peak of beauty, but a smile appeared on her young face.

The white dress and ornaments she wore give the illusion of revealing her features.

"I'm happy for your feeling, but even though it's carpeted, it's a hard transmuted rock floor. Don't worry about it and stand up. Even if Miko-sama would be fine with continuing the talk like, I who is not used to it, would end up be the first to stand up.''

The young queen said jokingly as she stood up gracefully and holds out her hand towards Lira.

Lila was surprised and a happy smile appeared on her face, and she took her hand and stood up.

The men behind her, who were aware of their blunder and were uncomfortable with the gazes of those around them, also stared at the queen in amazement――and before they knew it, their anger had dissipated.

"Please make yourself comfortable, your companions too. Welcome to Alberan. As its Queen, I welcome you all."

They looked at each other for a moment, then followed Vinthril's lead as he shifted to a kneeling position.

The tension in the group eased slightly, and Kreschenta nodded in satisfaction.

"I am truly happy that the relationship between our two countries, which has long been severed due to a sad past, has been approached in this way for the sake of a new future. I sincerely hope that we can move forward hand in hand...I believe that this time will surely make up for the long years that separated us."

She look at Lira, looked at the men.

Kreschenta spoke in a sweet voice.

"Today is the first step towards that milestone. Let's take a few days to talk to our heart's content. I'm sure there are a lot of things we need to talk about."

"...Thank you, Your Majesty the Queen."

Kreschenta smiled back at Lira and returned to the throne.

It was a completely a breach of etiquette, however etiquette is nothing more than a tool.

By being coercive, or like this, ingratiating herself, she put herself in an advantageous position, and all subsequent negotiations would be more favorable.

No good will or pity existed in her heart for those who had exposed their stupidity, but at least it was not meaningless if she could seize the air by doing so.

She preferred nothing more than to appear like a good person if it meant result will follow.

She glanced proudly at her older sister, and Krische smiled at her and reached out to pat her on the head――looked at the surrounding and stopped her hand.

Kreschenta was satisfied with that.

She whispered, 'Please give me lots of compliments later', and sat down on the throne.

"I had heard about the circumstance from my older sister (Aneue). Although I am glad that we were able to get off to such a wonderful start, the fact remains that, although it was as an individual, a member of the kingdom's noble had set foot in your country. First of all, as the Kingdom's Queen, I would like to apologize for any disrespect towards your country.''

"Don't worry, those words are completely meaningless at this point. Although human, she surpasses humans, and even the Holy Spirit recognizes her bravery and will. For those of us who adore the Holy Spirit and respect warrior, Krische-sama is a respected warrior on par with the Holy Spirit Yagernaus."

Lira smiled, sensing the closeness between the Queen and Krische from the momentary exchange.

The Kingdom places a lot of importance on family origins――there was some concern about that, but at least the two of them seem to be on good terms in public and private life.

Feeling a small sense of relief, she continues her words.

"Standing before the Holy Spirit with no ornament, exposing your body and mind, without being ashamed or afraid. Just the way one is, her figure seen from my own eyes was exactly the ideal that we aspire to. ...In a place like this, it may be seen as disrespectful to Her Majesty the Queen, the leader of the great power of Alberan, but we are loyal to Krische-sama, who is an ally of the Holy Spirit. This is something that is not bound by the framework of a country, but is something for each individual."

The restoration of diplomatic relations was decided at a meeting of influential people in Kreisharana.

The words of the warriors who were present at the meeting, including Chief Alkierence, were significant, and the understanding of the elders who listened to them led to this decision, but naturally there were many who were reluctant to accept it.

Even though Kreisharana showed respect and loyalty to the individual Krische, who had made a pact with the Holy Spirit, it was not towards the kingdom――this time, she was given a strict order to never compromise on that one point.

"Naturally, we will not hold your country responsible for this. Of course, the reason why we asked for an audience this time is to Krische-sama...However, that has nothing to do with the future relationship between Kreisharana and Alberan."

The fact that they were allowed to open diplomatic relations with them, despite the deep-rooted ties that still exist today, was a remarkable thing and something to be celebrated.

However, she had been having a hard time deciding what to say, which could literally be taken as disrespectful, but the sight of the Queen eased her fears.

She surely wouldn't take such words as rude, and would understand the situation.

"I understand, Lila-sama. This is just a chance, a long-broken relationship between Alberan and Kreisharana. As a nation, we are about to move forward. ...However, I hope that this opportunity will be a sign of spring, melting the snow that has piled up between the two countries.''

'Even the season is perfect, right' Kreschenta said, pointing her fingertips to the sky.

"I've been looking forward to the spring when the snow thaw――it's right about that time of the year. I'm not good with the freezing winters. ...How about you, Lira-sama?"

"I'm ashamed to say this is the first time I've seen snow up close. At first it was a bit of a novelty, however now Your Majesty word of longing for spring to melt the snow, now I really empathize it.''

Lira smiled wryly, and Kreschenta smiled.

"The snow is still piled up so much that we need to look up at it. But as I said before, I am sure that we will be able to deepen our relationship, if not immediately, then eventually. I believe so."

"Yes. I feel the same way, Your Majesty."

"Hehe, I'm glad to hear that. I hope that more and more people will share our feelings in this way."

Kreschenta's somewhat dignified smile was different from Krische's, and was infinitely powerful.

Although she was a young girl of only 12 years of age, she already had the appearance of a king.

She knows a little about the situation in the kingdom from her interactions with Arna.

She knew that the princess faction, which had seemed to be losing ground, had defeated the royal prince faction and won the battle for the right to succeed to the throne.

After learning of Krische existence, she thought it was only natural, but should she as expected of the older sister of that kind younger sister?

Queen Kreschenta was far too accomplished considering her age.

She was strangely convinced that everything was led by necessity.

"Let's start with exchange. think it would be a good place to start by sending expatriates to each other and deepening mutual understanding...But today, it's just after a long trip. Let's continue talking about practical politics tomorrow, today as a face-to-face greeting, and we will continue our discussion at another time."

Kreschenta shook her graceful hair and asked as she broke off the conversation easily.

"I heard that the people of Kreisharana don't like to have very fancy or noisy banquets due to religious beliefs, but...what do you think? We are preparing a small meal. I would like to express my gratitude as her little sister, and if you would like, I would like to personally invite you all but''

"If that's the case, I'd be happy. Thank you for your concern. However, we came with quite a large family, so..."

"You don't have to worry about it. It's worth it for both me and my sister (Aneue) to have so many people."

Everyone present, whether Alberan or Kreisharana, looked surprised at the Queen's words.

Only Krische and Kreschenta laughed happily.

"Even though I look like this, I'm pretty confident in my skill. It would be great if it suited your taste but"

"It would be the greatest honor to be able to enjoy the home-cooked food prepared by Her Majesty the Queen and Krische-sama. Everyone will be very happy with this arrangement."

"Then it's decided."

Kreschenta clapped her hand and nodded to Lira.

"Then, I'll send someone to pick you up later. We have a lot to talk about while we eat. Until then, please take your time and heal the fatigue of your journey."

"Yes, Your Majesty. Thank you for your consideration."

Lira bows her head deeply to Kreschenta, then turned her eyes to Krische.

They exchanged a secret smile as their gazes met, and Lira bowed her head to her as well.