It was a somewhat prickly remark.
The noble young men and women gathered around Alice also squinted their eyes in an odd way.
Hmm, I think I can roughly understand the situation now.
Alice has no reason to treat us well, especially since we’re guests invited by Allan. If she acknowledges us as esteemed guests, it only serves to boost her brother’s standing.
Thus, it’s more advantageous for her to belittle us instead.
“I believe that today’s stability and prosperity of the empire stem from societal stability rooted in the development of philosophy. Hence, I find it fascinating that the Kingdom of Boleno…”
Her words stirred a slight feeling of rivalry within me.
It’s true that humanities aren’t particularly valued in the Kingdom of Boleno…
‘But that doesn’t apply to me!’
The memories of Seraphina inside me were practically screaming to put her in her place.
“Oh, Princess Alice, it seems you’re interested in the humanities. I also enjoy studying humanities.”
“Is that so?”
It was as if sparks were flying between us.
“Yes, I especially enjoy reading literary works. How about you, Princess Alice?”
“Oh, I see. I also enjoy reading literature. Are you perhaps a fan of books like ‘It’s Okay Not to Be a Princess’?”
It’s Okay Not to Be a Princess is practically an insult to anyone who loves literature. It’s the kind of book that’s all about a pretty cover but lacks any substance inside.
Provoked, I replied with eyes practically blazing.
“Hmm, and do you enjoy ‘It’s All Good as Long as There’s Spaghetti’?”
It was equally insulting, and by this point, everyone around us had started paying attention. Wow, this was beginning to feel like a rap battle.
“I actually enjoy poetry. Recently, I read ‘The Flowers of Evil.’”
Princess Alice was the first to speak again.
“Oh, I’ve read that too.”
“There’s always a devil lurking beside me.”
“Like air, it surrounds me.”
“When I breathe it in, my lungs feel like they’re on fire.”
“Filled with an eternal desire for sin.”*
*Charles Baudelaire, The Flowers of Evil
As I recited the verse naturally, Princess Alice looked at me with a somewhat impressed expression.
Alright, now it’s my turn.
“Princess Alice, have you read books by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Franz Kafka, or Rose Marien?”
“Oh, I’ve read them all.”
“Rose Marien’s most famous work is ‘It’s All Good as Long as There’s Spaghetti,’ right? So, you do like that book.”
“……….”
It seemed she didn’t expect me to set a trap like that, leaving her momentarily stunned.
I guess that counts as my win.
“Besides literature, I’m also quite interested in magical engineering. Would you like to come to the upcoming magic presentation event?”
“What did you say?”
“I’m also planning to participate.”
If I can showcase my expertise in both humanities and magical engineering, Princess Alice won’t be able to act so arrogantly!
In other words, I intended to show my magic there and put her in her place.
Even though searching for Aurora was my priority, it wouldn’t hurt to assert myself here. Who knows? I might gain some allies.
“…Fine. I’ll look forward to seeing Miss Viviana’s skills there.”
Princess Alice gritted her teeth as she replied.
Just then, Allan noticed the situation and approached, casually placing his arm on Raffaelo’s shoulder. He gave Alice a wide smile.
“Alice, were you looking after my guests?”
“…Yes, that’s correct.”
“I’m glad you’re helping take care of my guests. Please continue to assist me in the future.”
It was a thoroughly biting comment. Alice’s expression turned cold, and she silently left.
As she departed, Allan sighed and looked back at us.
“I apologies. It seems she tried to pull a stunt while I wasn’t paying attention.”
“It’s alright, but…”
I blinked and explained the situation to Allan.
“I’ve decided to participate in the magic presentation event. If you intend to treat us as esteemed guests, you’ll need to show that we truly deserve the title.”
“Oh, in that case, I’m more than grateful.”
“I’ll join as well,”
Ghieuspe interjected in a blunt tone.
“I’m strong.”
Although brief, Allan seemed pleased with Ghieuspe’s words, smiling broadly.
“Don’t worry. I’ll make sure they’re informed in advance of your participation.”
Alright, so that’s how I ended up joining the magic presentation event….
…but what kind of magic should I present?
***
“Hmm.”
A man with a beret was fiddling with his thick mustache as he gazed at Seraphina.
When his mustache nearly fell off, he quickly pressed it back into place.
That man, who was moving about freely at the imperial banquet, blending in effortlessly, was none other than Aurora Shae. She was disguised as a nobleman and mingling among the guests.
Moments earlier, she had even confidently asked Seraphina for a dance. Although Seraphina, failing to recognize her, had declined.
Thanks to a translation artifact she had managed to acquire, Aurora could also understand the conversation of those around her.
“How could they disregard Seraphina like that?”
Aurora’s voice carried a hint of interest. She knew Seraphina better than anyone.
Since her debut in high society, she had been entangled with Seraphina. They were closer than anyone else, yet also had the fiercest arguments.
And Aurora was well aware that Seraphina would never remain silent in a situation where she was being belittled.
Aurora wanted Seraphina to gain recognition from the people of Cassan. After all, Aurora was Seraphina’s friend.
“Alright, Seraphina. Do your best.”
Murmuring to herself, Aurora took a delighted sip of her wine.
Ah, the wine of the Cassan Empire was truly exceptional. It seemed wise to remain here a bit longer, to keep observing Seraphina.
Pondering when to finally reveal herself to Seraphina, she decided to keep her identity hidden for now and continue to wander about.
She looked forward to Seraphina’s magic presentation, wanted to enjoy life in Crman a bit more, and above all else…
Crman still appeared to be safe.
