Chris, fresh from the festivities, entered the guest suite at the Arclesia Imperial Castle to find Kaori and Akane waiting for her.
"My apologies to you both for keeping you waiting so long."
"Oh, no, please don't apologize. You're the one who must be exhausted, Chris-san," Kaori replied quickly.
"We've been quite comfortable, actually. We were treated to some wonderful meals, and we'd already seen everything we wanted at the festival anyway, so there's no harm done," Akane added, keeping her tone respectful toward the Empress.
The original plan had been to let the two women leave much sooner, but the overwhelming demands on Chris's time had left her no opportunity to visit them before the party's conclusion. However, since the Empress had instructed her staff to spare no expense in their hospitality, they had spent a leisurely afternoon indulging in court cuisine and exquisite confections. If anything, the wait had been quite pleasant.
"Still, it’s been a while since we’ve had a chance to talk like this, Kaori-san," Chris said. "Given my position, I rarely have the opportunity to visit the Friendly City. Is your restaurant doing well?"
"Ah, yes. Thanks to all your support, Chris-san, things are... well, they’re going very well. In fact, they’re set to go so well that my stomach has started to ache."
If asked whether her business was prospering, the answer was an undeniable yes. Pope Olivia had become a regular customer, and the War King Megiddo had just declared his intention to visit soon; the restaurant's fame was destined to skyrocket. For Kaori, however, such prestige was a source of agonizing stress.
Chris, who was familiar with the situation through their correspondence, offered a wry smile that was equal parts sympathy and shared burden.
"I understand how you feel, Kaori-san. I truly do."
"You had a difficult time today as well, didn't you, Chris-san?"
"I did. However, the rewards are immense. This event has left the world with the impression that the Arclesia Empire shares deep ties with the God Realm. From an economic perspective, this is a situation better than I could have ever hoped for. Though, much like you, my stomach is paying the price..."
In truth, looking strictly at the results, the Founding Anniversary Festival had been a resounding success for Chris. Every Supreme God had attended the ceremony, and in the end, even Shallow Vernal herself had graced the capital with her presence. Though her reasons remained a mystery, she had departed after launching fireworks that served as a grand, celebratory salute.
Being recognized as an ally of the God Realm was invaluable, as it helped distinguish Arclesia from the Kingdom of Sinfonia, which was more closely associated with the Six Kings.
With certain lands now under the divine protection of Fate, the economic impact would be staggering. Just as Chris had envisioned, she was certain that the Arclesia Empire was on the cusp of an unprecedented period of prosperity.
Of course, given the relentless string of incidents that culminated in the appearance of the Creator Goddess, Chris's stomach was practically tied in knots. But even considering the stress as a necessary cost, the profit for the nation was far too great to ignore.
Furthermore, a trend was already emerging among the nobility. Pottery bearing Kaito's brand mark had sparked a sudden interest in ceramics. Since Arclesia boasted a large population of Dwarves, the empire was particularly skilled in such crafts, making this an ideal economic tailwind.
"Well, the sun is beginning to set. If you two don't mind, I would be honored if you stayed the night. I'll have rooms prepared for you."
"Oh, thank you. I'm fine with that, but what about you, Akane-san?"
"I'm more than happy to stay. No problems here."
Chris smiled and nodded at their answers, then turned back to Akane as if a thought had just struck her.
"Come to think of it, you're Akane-san, aren't you? From the Mikumo Trading Company?"
"Oh? You’ve heard of me?"
"I have. Your company is one I’ve been keeping an eye on personally. I heard you've recently begun handling some rather interesting accessories. If you're willing, I'd very much like to discuss a potential business arrangement."
"My, you certainly are well-informed. Yes, those products are aimed at a fairly wealthy demographic, so I'd love to hear what you have in mind."
Akane looked impressed by the Empress's knowledge, but her mind was already at work. As expected of a merchant, she was already calculating the possibilities.
Considering the target audience for the Dragon King's scale accessories Kaito had entrusted to her, the Arclesia Empire—with its deeply rooted noble culture—was a perfect market. She smiled, welcoming the negotiation. At the same time, she watched with admiration as Chris's expression shifted instantly from that of a stressed companion to the focused, sharp gaze of the Wise Emperor.
Serious-senpai: "The damage to the stomach is severe, but the way he generates profits that leave you with more than enough to cover the bill proves he is truly the World's Singularity."