Ch. 112 - The Invitation to the Cultural Festival

[The Verted Kingdom] "At long last, it's here. The invitation from Fiddiq Academy regarding their Cultural Festival." Middleton announced, holding a letter open as he surveyed the spacious hall. At the sound of his voice, Rhea looked up from her place next to the window, dressed in a simple but elegant dress. Four other ladies, each adorned in a dress, were enjoying their tea. "The notice about the Cultural Festival?" "Oh, how lovely!" "I look forward to it every year." The women, who appeared to be in their late twenties or early thirties, responded to Middleton's announcement before Rhea could. "Oh, my apologies! I had no idea such beautiful blossoms were enjoying a graceful afternoon... I was in a hurry to deliver the news as quickly as possible to the queen, who was looking forward to the Festival." "Oh, Your Majesty, how kind you are!" "Rhea-sama is so loved... Truly blessed." The ladies buzzed with excitement upon hearing Middleton's humble apology, their attention turning to Rhea. She chuckled softly and accepted the letter from him. "Indeed, I’m quite fortunate. So, the Cultural Festival is... a month from now? Oh, but it usually takes place a fortnight before now, doesn't it?" Rhea murmured, and the other ladies immediately echoed her sentiment. "It's true." One of them said. "Why is the date so late?" Another asked. One of the women, with a knowing smile, addressed the group. "My dears, are you all aware of the extraordinary professor at Fiddiq Academy now?" The other ladies narrowed their eyes, intrigued by her air of authority. "Of course! It's Aoi Konominato-sensei, isn't it?" "The one who can use magic of all elements at the High-Rank level or above, right?" "I heard she's called the rebirth of Glenn-sensei." The first woman, seemingly annoyed by their quick grasp of the information, pursed her lips. "You all are so well-informed... Rumors have it that this Aoi-sensei can perform magic deemed impossible by many. It's possible that this year's Cultural Festival will be even grander than usual, all thanks to her!" "Oh, my!" "That's incredible!" The ladies, abuzz with such speculation, turned their attention to Middleton and Rhea. The two exchanged wry smiles and nodded in agreement. "We have met Aoi-dono as well, and she truly is a formidable magician." "Yes. She's likely on par with Glenn-sensei in terms of magical prowess. We all are greatly looking forward to see what kind of magic Aoi-sensei will showcase." With Middleton and Rhea's affirmations, the four ladies erupted into excited cheers. Since each of them were either the first or the second wife of Dukes or Marquises, this news would quickly spread to all the ears of the aristocracy throughout the kingdom. [Court Highland Federation] News of the Cultural Festival invitation had arrived, and all members were present at the weekly regular meeting. Ten men and women sat around a circular table, facing each other. The man with the red, bushy beard, sitting at the far end, looked around the table and spoke. "Alright, next item on the agenda. Although it's a bit later than usual, we received notice from Fiddiq Academy about the Cultural Festival. The date is about a month from now. As per tradition, the Federation will send five representatives and their families. Are there any volunteers?" The man finished speaking, and everyone raised their hands. They exchanged confused glances. "......Didn't you usually avoid these events?" "I should be saying the same to you." "Considering Butler-dono has a son attending the academy, it's understandable. But why are there so many volunteers this time?" They began to bicker with each other, cautiously probing for information. Sighing deeply, the man with red hair spoke up. ".....Since we're not getting anywhere, let's all be honest, shall we? You've all heard rumors of the genius magician who appeared at the academy, haven't you?" Without a word, everyone turned to look at the man with red hair. He shook his head, sighing again. "Those rumors have reached my ears as well. But let me be clear, it's pointless to think of making that teacher your subordinate. You see, her goal is to forcibly raise the standard of magic in all the countries. She intends to visit every country in order, so she will eventually come here as well. If you want to attend the Cultural Festival, that's fine. But don't try any foolish attempts at recruitment." Upon hearing those words, several people responded. "Butler-dono, you're good, right? I heard your son is attending her lectures." "Are you saying we have to wait until our children can attend her lectures?" "Isn't it possible to bring this teacher to the Federation?" As they each voiced their opinions, Butler, the man with red hair, sighed deeply. "......If everyone wants to go so badly, I'll try to arrange it so more people can attend this time. Go see for yourselves. But we need at least two people staying behind." With those words, the men and women surrounding the table instantly erupted into a heated argument. Looking at the scene, completely devoid of any order or harmony, Butler let out another deep sigh.

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