Long fingers covered in soft, white skin, though she wore none of the usual rings. Slender wrists slightly exposed beneath her sleeves. A long, delicate neck like a deer. Red lips that drew smooth arcs.
And the black eyes stared straight at Ivan, shining like jewels in the light of the chandelier. The short black hair that dangled slightly below the ears was smooth and silky.
It was Amelia.
“...”
He knew it instinctively. Her clothes and appearance might have changed slightly, but it was the woman he'd thought he'd lost forever. The moment he realized this, the man's face, once graceful and lordly, crumbled.
"This is Yui, accompanying them as their interpreter. I heard there was a lot of confusion in communication while I was recovering from severe seasickness. Please tell me now, and I will relay the information to His Highness."
But the woman Yui, who confronted Ivan, showed no sign of agitation. Even though everyone in the room was staring at her with astonishment at her fluent Escliffe, she didn't seem particularly surprised. Her attitude was one of ignorance, as she pretended not to notice the ruler's fragile, crumbling face.
[“I wish I could tell these people where we came from and who I am.”]
Thanks to that, Ivan was barely able to control his expression. He squeezed his eyes shut, and the moment he opened them, the man standing next to Yui spoke softly. Their appearance, clothing, and culture might have been different, but his demeanor toward Yui was remarkably polite. At least, it seemed like he wasn't treating her rudely just because she was his servant.
“We come from a country called Mujo. This is His Highness the Prince, known as Grand Prince Musan.”
Yui naturally explained their country and her master. She also said that Ivan's ship, launched to explore another world, had accidentally landed on their land, but was damaged and unable to return. However, since she had the voyage records, she believed they could help.
“Escliff’s crew was always polite and entertained everyone with their interesting and entertaining stories.”
“...”
"Therefore, the King sent his troops back, hoping to maintain a peaceful relationship with Escliff, even in a distant land. That is why the Second Prince, Grand Prince Musan, has personally visited this land as the King's representative."
As proof of their willingness to establish peace, the ship was loaded with Escliff's navy and various gifts, including gold ornaments, inlaid gems, and wild beast skins.
“That’s what I was hoping for too.”
Ivan barely opened his mouth to answer. Yui smiled, turned to her master, and whispered. Then, the man known as Prince Musan smiled brightly and extended his hand to Ivan. He then said something.
“It was a longer voyage than expected, but I am glad to meet you here.”
Yui immediately translated the contents and explained them to him. Ivan forced a smile and shook hands with Prince Musan.
“On the way here, he said that the streets were peaceful and safe, and that it seemed that he could tell how much the Emperor of Escliff cared for and worked hard for the people.”
Prince Musan was amazed, describing in detail the architectural style of Escliff, its clothing, and the peaceful appearance of the city, which were all marvelous to his eyes.
Yui explained everything smoothly, without a single hesitation. She often answered Prince Musan's questions without Ivan even asking. She acted as if she knew the life and culture of Escliff intimately.
“...”
Meanwhile, Ivan couldn't take his eyes off that face. A face that glowed smoothly and brimmed with confidence, despite suffering from seasickness on the way. No matter how similar or similar others might appear, it was the face of a woman he could not help but recognize.
"You speak Escliff fluently. You seem to know a lot about this country, as if you've lived here before."
Yui smiled calmly at Ivan's words. Even though she knew Ivan was openly watching her, she didn't show any sign of discomfort.
"I guess it's because I've had so many conversations with the Escliffe Navy. I'm almost friends with them now."
Yui claimed that her fluent language skills and interest in Escliff culture were acquired solely from the Escliff navy. It was as if she wanted to somehow disprove Amelia Escliff.
“You have a very capable person by your side.”
Ivan praised Prince Musan's discerning eye for people. Prince Musan laughed heartily and nodded.
["Yui appeared as if it was fate that Escliff and Mujo would form a relationship. I believe it was fate that led us all to this day."]
It was all thanks to Yui that they were able to maintain friendly relations with the navy that suddenly appeared on their land, and that they were able to make the King show interest in Escliff as well.
“Then this woman is a blessing to your country and to us.”
Prince Musan answered Ivan's assessment in the affirmative.
“But if this is really fate.”
“...”
“Wouldn’t it be nice if we had countries that were not simply friendly but close like brothers?”
Ivan asked. Yui stared at him with wide eyes. A simple gesture of reconciliation might have been acceptable, but this level of hospitality seemed unexpected.
“Interpretation.”
Ivan asked. Yui, who had finally come to her senses, relayed Ivan's words to Prince Musan, who readily replied that his father would be pleased as well.
“Then I hope that someday my son will be able to visit that land.”
Prince Musan showed a pleased expression at Ivan's words.
[“If I get the chance, of course. But do you have a son?”]
Like the ancient books of the Durum Kingdom mentioned by Lure Chandler, he seemed to have a generous and friendly personality. However, he was also quick-witted. Ivan mentioned his son but not his wife, so he sensed that there was no Empress, and so he didn't mention her at all.
“Yes. He is a five-year-old child. Let me introduce him to you.”
His eyes landed on Ian's servant, who was sitting on a chair, stamping his feet. The servant quickly whispered something to Ian, then led Ian to Ivan's side.
“This is my son, Ian Wade Escliff.”
Ivan, as was his custom, lifted his son into his arms. Ian, who had been hugging Ivan's neck, met Musan's eyes and smiled bashfully.
"Hello!"
Prince Musan smiled happily at the lovely and harmless smile of the child.
“You look just like your father.”
Yui calmly interpreted Prince Musan's words. While Prince Musan and Ian engaged in a disjointed conversation, Ivan focused his gaze on Yui, who stood there as if she were air.
“My second son is now six years old, and if he visits Mujo, he will be a good friend.”
The purpose was to watch to see if those eyes were steady, if there was any sign of any agitation.
Amelia resented Ivan until the very end. However, she loved her own child unconditionally. So, while she could at all costs pretend not to know, she was certain that Ian would not be able to.
But there was no wavering in Yui's eyes. Just the instinctive warmth she exuded when she saw a cute child.
“...”
Ivan quickly lost confidence. He felt Amelia was clearly different from everyone else. So, even if she were buried in a crowd of similar-looking people, he was confident he could find her.
But maybe that wasn't the case. As time passed, did he eventually forget the face of the woman he loved? Did he simply end up gazing longingly at a woman with black hair and dark eyes?
"Ian. Say hello to the guests and go to Rodan."
He felt miserable. It was ridiculous to even call that little affection love. Ivan placed Ian on the floor, pointed to Rodan, and whispered.
“Yes, please get some rest.”
Ian politely placed his hand on his chest, greeted Prince Musan, and ran in the direction of Rodan.
"What a cute child. At that age, it seems like being energetic and full of energy is the most rewarding part of being a parent. Isn't that right?"
Perhaps because he himself was a father, Grand Prince Musan gazed at the back of Ian's shiny head with a pleased expression as he spoke. The interpretation continued without pause. Ivan watched Ian until he reached Rodan, then turned his head to answer Grand Prince Musan.
“...”
Then, a woman's longing gaze appeared, groping for the spot where the child had left. It happened at the very moment Ivan had taken his gaze away from Yui to watch Ian.
It's you.
Now Ivan could be certain. This woman was undoubtedly Amelia Escliffe. She had been reborn as Yui, but the fact that she was someone he held in special regard remained the same.
And the black eyes stared straight at Ivan, shining like jewels in the light of the chandelier. The short black hair that dangled slightly below the ears was smooth and silky.
It was Amelia.
“...”
He knew it instinctively. Her clothes and appearance might have changed slightly, but it was the woman he'd thought he'd lost forever. The moment he realized this, the man's face, once graceful and lordly, crumbled.
"This is Yui, accompanying them as their interpreter. I heard there was a lot of confusion in communication while I was recovering from severe seasickness. Please tell me now, and I will relay the information to His Highness."
But the woman Yui, who confronted Ivan, showed no sign of agitation. Even though everyone in the room was staring at her with astonishment at her fluent Escliffe, she didn't seem particularly surprised. Her attitude was one of ignorance, as she pretended not to notice the ruler's fragile, crumbling face.
[“I wish I could tell these people where we came from and who I am.”]
Thanks to that, Ivan was barely able to control his expression. He squeezed his eyes shut, and the moment he opened them, the man standing next to Yui spoke softly. Their appearance, clothing, and culture might have been different, but his demeanor toward Yui was remarkably polite. At least, it seemed like he wasn't treating her rudely just because she was his servant.
“We come from a country called Mujo. This is His Highness the Prince, known as Grand Prince Musan.”
Yui naturally explained their country and her master. She also said that Ivan's ship, launched to explore another world, had accidentally landed on their land, but was damaged and unable to return. However, since she had the voyage records, she believed they could help.
“Escliff’s crew was always polite and entertained everyone with their interesting and entertaining stories.”
“...”
"Therefore, the King sent his troops back, hoping to maintain a peaceful relationship with Escliff, even in a distant land. That is why the Second Prince, Grand Prince Musan, has personally visited this land as the King's representative."
As proof of their willingness to establish peace, the ship was loaded with Escliff's navy and various gifts, including gold ornaments, inlaid gems, and wild beast skins.
“That’s what I was hoping for too.”
Ivan barely opened his mouth to answer. Yui smiled, turned to her master, and whispered. Then, the man known as Prince Musan smiled brightly and extended his hand to Ivan. He then said something.
“It was a longer voyage than expected, but I am glad to meet you here.”
Yui immediately translated the contents and explained them to him. Ivan forced a smile and shook hands with Prince Musan.
“On the way here, he said that the streets were peaceful and safe, and that it seemed that he could tell how much the Emperor of Escliff cared for and worked hard for the people.”
Prince Musan was amazed, describing in detail the architectural style of Escliff, its clothing, and the peaceful appearance of the city, which were all marvelous to his eyes.
Yui explained everything smoothly, without a single hesitation. She often answered Prince Musan's questions without Ivan even asking. She acted as if she knew the life and culture of Escliff intimately.
“...”
Meanwhile, Ivan couldn't take his eyes off that face. A face that glowed smoothly and brimmed with confidence, despite suffering from seasickness on the way. No matter how similar or similar others might appear, it was the face of a woman he could not help but recognize.
"You speak Escliff fluently. You seem to know a lot about this country, as if you've lived here before."
Yui smiled calmly at Ivan's words. Even though she knew Ivan was openly watching her, she didn't show any sign of discomfort.
"I guess it's because I've had so many conversations with the Escliffe Navy. I'm almost friends with them now."
Yui claimed that her fluent language skills and interest in Escliff culture were acquired solely from the Escliff navy. It was as if she wanted to somehow disprove Amelia Escliff.
“You have a very capable person by your side.”
Ivan praised Prince Musan's discerning eye for people. Prince Musan laughed heartily and nodded.
["Yui appeared as if it was fate that Escliff and Mujo would form a relationship. I believe it was fate that led us all to this day."]
It was all thanks to Yui that they were able to maintain friendly relations with the navy that suddenly appeared on their land, and that they were able to make the King show interest in Escliff as well.
“Then this woman is a blessing to your country and to us.”
Prince Musan answered Ivan's assessment in the affirmative.
“But if this is really fate.”
“...”
“Wouldn’t it be nice if we had countries that were not simply friendly but close like brothers?”
Ivan asked. Yui stared at him with wide eyes. A simple gesture of reconciliation might have been acceptable, but this level of hospitality seemed unexpected.
“Interpretation.”
Ivan asked. Yui, who had finally come to her senses, relayed Ivan's words to Prince Musan, who readily replied that his father would be pleased as well.
“Then I hope that someday my son will be able to visit that land.”
Prince Musan showed a pleased expression at Ivan's words.
[“If I get the chance, of course. But do you have a son?”]
Like the ancient books of the Durum Kingdom mentioned by Lure Chandler, he seemed to have a generous and friendly personality. However, he was also quick-witted. Ivan mentioned his son but not his wife, so he sensed that there was no Empress, and so he didn't mention her at all.
“Yes. He is a five-year-old child. Let me introduce him to you.”
His eyes landed on Ian's servant, who was sitting on a chair, stamping his feet. The servant quickly whispered something to Ian, then led Ian to Ivan's side.
“This is my son, Ian Wade Escliff.”
Ivan, as was his custom, lifted his son into his arms. Ian, who had been hugging Ivan's neck, met Musan's eyes and smiled bashfully.
"Hello!"
Prince Musan smiled happily at the lovely and harmless smile of the child.
“You look just like your father.”
Yui calmly interpreted Prince Musan's words. While Prince Musan and Ian engaged in a disjointed conversation, Ivan focused his gaze on Yui, who stood there as if she were air.
“My second son is now six years old, and if he visits Mujo, he will be a good friend.”
The purpose was to watch to see if those eyes were steady, if there was any sign of any agitation.
Amelia resented Ivan until the very end. However, she loved her own child unconditionally. So, while she could at all costs pretend not to know, she was certain that Ian would not be able to.
But there was no wavering in Yui's eyes. Just the instinctive warmth she exuded when she saw a cute child.
“...”
Ivan quickly lost confidence. He felt Amelia was clearly different from everyone else. So, even if she were buried in a crowd of similar-looking people, he was confident he could find her.
But maybe that wasn't the case. As time passed, did he eventually forget the face of the woman he loved? Did he simply end up gazing longingly at a woman with black hair and dark eyes?
"Ian. Say hello to the guests and go to Rodan."
He felt miserable. It was ridiculous to even call that little affection love. Ivan placed Ian on the floor, pointed to Rodan, and whispered.
“Yes, please get some rest.”
Ian politely placed his hand on his chest, greeted Prince Musan, and ran in the direction of Rodan.
"What a cute child. At that age, it seems like being energetic and full of energy is the most rewarding part of being a parent. Isn't that right?"
Perhaps because he himself was a father, Grand Prince Musan gazed at the back of Ian's shiny head with a pleased expression as he spoke. The interpretation continued without pause. Ivan watched Ian until he reached Rodan, then turned his head to answer Grand Prince Musan.
“...”
Then, a woman's longing gaze appeared, groping for the spot where the child had left. It happened at the very moment Ivan had taken his gaze away from Yui to watch Ian.
It's you.
Now Ivan could be certain. This woman was undoubtedly Amelia Escliffe. She had been reborn as Yui, but the fact that she was someone he held in special regard remained the same.
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