The Third Royal Exchange Gathering
Lux’s Side
…The day of the Third Royal Exchange Gathering.
Just like in the first and second gatherings, we students moved to the ballroom where it was being held.
There, as always, were tables lined with many dishes, people holding instruments, and dancers adding color to the event. As I once again thought how amazing the sight was, the director of the noble academy began hosting the event as before.
“By the third time, I believe you are all well aware, but this Royal Exchange Gathering is a precious opportunity for you nobles, who will one day bear responsibility for this country, to directly interact with members of the royal family and their associates. It is an event that only you, as students of the noble academy, can experience… Therefore, at this Third Royal Exchange Gathering as well, I hope that you will learn much.”
After hearing the words directed at us by the director, we students, myself included, offered a grand round of applause.
Then, when the applause eventually died down, the director spoke.
“…Now then, First Princess Rezamiliana-sama and esteemed members of the royal family, we entrust this to you.”
…Eh!? F-First Princess Rezamiliana-sama!?
The first time it had been Felisiana-sama, and the second time it was Elizalina-sama, so logically one might think it should not be so surprising, but even so, I was shocked.
The other day, being able to catch even a glimpse of Rezamiliana-sama from afar at the sword tournament had been nothing short of a miracle. Normally, the very busy Rezamiliana-sama is famous for not participating in events like this.
“…”
Florence-san, who was beside me… wore her usual expression as always, but the other students, while keeping silent out of courtesy, were clearly showing signs of bewilderment on their faces.
Even so, of course the director’s words were not a lie… and from the second floor of the ballroom, many people who seemed to be members of the royal family appeared.
And… at their center stood a woman with glossy, long wine-red hair, sharp red eyes, a very beautiful face, and dressed in royal attire.
That beautiful and dignified presence… Even without the royal attire, I think I would have recognized her overwhelming aura, but since she was wearing it, there was no mistake… that person was Rezamiliana-sama.
With Rezamiliana-sama’s appearance, the hall was once again filled with resounding applause.
And when Rezamiliana-sama gave a signal for the applause to stop, the clapping ceased, and she began to speak.
“It has been about three months since the entrance ceremony… In this splendid place of learning, you must have gained much. Not only in academics and swordsmanship, but also in how to continuously engage in communication with fellow nobles throughout each day, in discovering your strengths and weaknesses… And not only in learning, perhaps you also found trustworthy friends or hobbies that will enrich your lives. However, the world is far vaster than you imagine… That is why I ask you not to think that the view you see now is the entirety of the world, but to broaden your horizons as nobles. From the perspectives you gain, I want you to find places where your beloved people can live happily, and to strive daily so that you can guide them there. I pray that this Third Royal Exchange Gathering will become one such opportunity. That is all from me, now begin your interactions.”
When Rezamiliana-sama finished speaking in a strong and dignified voice… the hall was filled with thunderous applause.
…This person is First Princess Rezamiliana-sama…!
Felisiana-sama and Elizalina-sama were both incredible, but Rezamiliana-sama, being their eldest sister, radiated an overwhelming presence and majesty that truly embodied royalty.
As I found myself unable to take my eyes off Rezamiliana-sama… she met my gaze and slightly lifted the corner of her lips.
And when the applause in the hall subsided, Rezamiliana-sama and the members of the royal family descended from the second floor, marking the opening of the Third Royal Exchange Gathering.