We finally arrived in the capital of the Xenodia Kingdom.
My first impression? Ordinary.
A capital like any other—though I didn’t mean that in a bad way. It just felt underwhelming compared to the striking impact of Rodan Kingdom, with its perpetual snow and ice. That was a sight you wouldn’t see in this region.
Still, the milder climate here was far more pleasant. The city radiated a comforting sense of calm.
We headed straight for the castle to formally declare our intent to participate in the exhibition.
With Luke-san guiding us, we entered the royal chamber, where the King of Xenodia awaited.
…Something felt off. Was it just me, or was His Majesty grinning a little too eagerly?
「We’ve been expecting you!」
We knelt and greeted him.
The excitement in his voice made it clear how high his expectations were.
「Many participants have already gathered in the capital, but based on accomplishments, you are among the top contenders. We are counting on you.」
「Th-Thank you. I’ll do my best to meet your expectations.」
「Excellent!」
With a satisfied nod from the King, the audience was over.
The whole exchange felt surprisingly brief. But according to Luke-san, this was the most promising reception they’d had so far.
Afterward, we were led to a room in the castle to discuss the situation further. There, Luke-san explained the King’s concern for the princess’s health.
「His Majesty is deeply worried about the princess’s diet.」
「A life without vegetables… unthinkable!」
「Indeed! Balanced nutrition is crucial—any child learns this from their parents!」
「…………」
Martina and Charlotte spoke passionately, while Kiara, a known vegetable-hater, looked uncomfortable. I remembered how we clashed over her refusal to eat veggies when we first met. That was a good memory now.
「Still, His Majesty’s excitement is a little concerning.」
「Really? Why’s that?」
Hanon voiced her worries, while Ailia tilted her head, puzzled. I understood the feeling.
「If… my vegetables don’t impress them—」
「That’s impossible.」
Kiara cut me off firmly.
「No one could dislike your vegetables. Even I, who hated them with all my heart, can now eat them naturally—that’s proof enough.」
「Hearing that from Kiara-san makes it especially convincing.」
Charlotte’s words carried weight. She’d seen Kiara’s journey firsthand. Kiara didn’t seem thrilled by the reminder, though.
We decided to explore the capital to get familiar with the area. Martina, in particular, needed to see the kitchen setup for the event.
I was curious to see what awaited us.
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