The invitations Kaito had sent out were making their way across the world, inevitably leaving shockwaves in their wake. Ryze, the King of Sinfonia, muttered to himself as he examined his own copy.
"The Demon Realm? It seems he’s chosen a neutral site out of consideration for the three nations of the Human Realm. If it were Miyama-kun, I’m sure he could have secured the waters near the Friendly City, but..."
"I have no doubt he could have," replied Beatrice—his wife and the kingdom’s Head Maid—as she prepared his tea. "However, the Friendly City is a major tourist destination. Given the number of prominent figures expected to attend, perhaps he chose the sea in the Demon Realm to avoid a public spectacle?"
As Ryze pondered the logistics of a party held in the Demon Realm, he and Beatrice spoke with the easy familiarity of a couple. Since Beatrice was also an acquaintance of Kaito’s, she had received her own invitation, and the two were currently coordinating their schedules for the event.
"I see. That area falls within Eingana-sama’s sphere of influence, though I’m sure Miyama-kun wouldn't face any trouble getting permission. My only worry is that this is likely his first time hosting an event on this scale. I hope he isn't under too much strain. No matter how impressive his social circle is, he is still young and relatively inexperienced. I would hate for him to bottle up his stress."
"I believe your concern is misplaced, Your Majesty. Miyama Kaito-sama is surrounded by reliable allies, such as Illness-sensei and her master. There are many people who refuse to let him struggle alone; if he tries to take everything on himself, they will simply insist on helping him."
"Heh, I see... Even if he tried to bear the burden solo, his friends wouldn't allow it. It's a wonderful relationship, almost enough to make me envious. Well, if there's no need to worry about Miyama-kun, I suppose I should focus on my own anxieties."
"Indeed. You are not in a position to simply enjoy the festivities. Lately, Sinfonia has been thriving due to the unintended boons provided by Miyama Kaito-sama. You must be careful not to show any unnecessary weakness to our neighbors."
Ryze gave a wry smile at Beatrice’s blunt assessment. He tucked the invitation into a drawer of his office desk—a specific compartment protected by magic that only he could open.
"When I attend these functions, I can’t help but feel the gap between myself and monarchs like His Majesty Laguna or Her Majesty Chris. Truly, there are times I wish I possessed even a fraction of their talent. But I suppose saying that will only earn me a scolding from you?"
"I would only rebuke you if you spoke out of cowardice," Beatrice said softly. "But that isn't the case here, is it?"
"No. It is an unshakeable fact that I am inferior to them as an individual king. However, a nation's greatness is not determined by the king’s talent alone. If a monarch’s ability was the sole metric of power, the Hydra Kingdom would have reached the pinnacle of the Human Realm long ago. High ability is certainly a virtue, but for the parts I lack, I simply rely on those around me. I believe that even if I am losing as 'King Ryze,' it is enough as long as we win as 'Sinfonia.'"
"Acknowledging your own limitations while comparing yourself to others... that is undoubtedly your greatest strength."
Beatrice was known to be strict with Ryze, and to outsiders, her personality could seem harsh. However, she never grew angry without cause. As she listened to Ryze’s resolve, a gentle smile touched her lips.
"In my case, I was raised alongside the greatest genius in the history of the human race. I’ve had plenty of practice dealing with feelings of inferiority."
"Even so, you were quite the handful when you first took the throne."
"Ah, ahaha... Those were the days. I remember you scolded me almost every day, as if it were a full-time job."
"It wasn't as if I did it for my own enjoyment..."
"I know, I know. I have no excuse."
Ryze offered a sheepish grin, and Beatrice returned a soft laugh. A comfortable, warm atmosphere settled between them—the quiet peace of two people who shared a deep, mutual understanding.
"As a king, you are at least meeting expectations, but you should have more confidence. You are the man I recognized as my husband. Stand tall and act with the dignity your position demands."
"I will. I'll do my best."
Ryze chuckled at her words and nodded firmly. Seeing his resolve, Beatrice smiled, satisfied that he would be fine. With their work finished for the moment, the couple spent the rest of their quiet time together, enjoying a conversation meant for no one but themselves.