Chapter 69 From the Other End of the Corridor
Edited by: Kanaa-senpai
Ayumu wandered through the absurdly vast Grand Palace corridor, thinking in disbelief, “Am I supposed to let even a tank from my world pass through here…?” The space stretched endlessly, empty yet somehow imposing.
From the far end, a massive group appeared. He stepped to the side, bowing politely, his head lowered.
He didn’t duck aside simply because he was shy. No, part of it was fear—the entourage included someone important—but mostly, he remembered the etiquette from the library in the Grand Palace, a guidebook on proper behavior for visitors from other worlds.
“Raise your head…”
A solemn female voice echoed above him before he could pass unnoticed. The group had halted, and panic pricked his mind. Oh no… did I make a faux pas? But I’m an otherworlder—what could I have done wrong?! Heart racing, he dared to lift his face.
”You are the one who saved my youngest brother,” the voice said. “I recognized you immediately by your hair, so dark and lustrous, like a rare black crow. I have longed to speak with the person who rescued him—what kind of person could you be…?”
Ayumu’s eyes met hers: a young woman, likely of the same age, with elegant, almost ethereal features. Her hair was golden and tied neatly at the back. Her eyes—more aqua than blue—radiated intelligence and refinement.
Her garments were intricate, luxurious, unmistakably high-ranking. Her posture, proud and commanding, confirmed her noble status.
(But why would someone of such rank speak to me directly? At least there’s no hostility… I should be brave and respond…)
”I beg your pardon, my lady,” Ayumu said, his voice trembling despite his effort. “I am but a humble servant, yet you grant me the honor of your attention. Please allow me the privilege of learning about you, your Highness.”
His phrasing was awkward, but correct by the book he’d read.
The woman clapped her hands lightly. “Ah! That’s right. You do not yet know me,” she said, smiling as she began her introduction.
”I am Ronafermia, the Second Princess. My father is Emperor Rai, my mother Empress Sarendra.”
Ayumu’s face drained of color. (I shouldn’t have asked…) Her features carried a striking resemblance to Empress Sarendra herself. He hadn’t expected the princess to speak directly to him. The clue had been in the words “saved my youngest brother”—he had only recently rescued one person.
Trying not to betray his fear, Ayumu forced his voice through the nerves and trembling. “It is a tremendous honor, Your Highness. I am deeply grateful that someone of my humble status may speak with you. This privilege… I will recount to future generations. I will continue to dedicate myself to Sir Aare’s care and ensure that you and your family may live in peace.”
Ronafermia’s lips curved into a delicate, graceful smile. “You have done well. I look forward to your continued devotion.”
At that moment, a maid—or perhaps another attendant—intervened with perfect timing.
”Pardon, Your Highness. Time presses. May the conversation continue at another occasion?” she said sharply, casting a warning glare at Ayumu.
Undoubtedly, she meant, Don’t get the wrong idea about the princess’s intentions! But Ayumu didn’t have time for such misconceptions.
Ronafermia’s expression softened with genuine regret. “Ah, is it time already? Very well. We shall speak again.” With her entourage, she departed down the corridor.
As the crowd disappeared, Ayumu exhaled, a rush of relief washing over him. Gathering himself, he resumed his walk through the endlessly expansive corridor, the echo of his footsteps mingling with the memory of that encounter.
Notes:
• Empress Sarendra – Aare’s mother who expresses quiet resentment towards Aare’s existence.
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Edited by Kanaa-senpai.
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