Chapter 80: The Summer Solstice Festival of the Three

The day of the Summer Solstice Festival arrived. The Great Square of Northernford, which was full of people last year, is even more overflowing with people today. “Everyone, thank you for gathering. This year, Her Highness Princess Flora has come to join us.” At Father‘s words, a great cheer rose from the crowd gathered in the Great Square. It seems many people gathered hoping to catch a glimpse of the Princess after all.

Then, Her Highness Flora ascended the podium in the square. “As expected of the beautiful girl renowned as the number one in the Kingdom.” “How beautiful she is.” “We are grateful.” “The rumor was that she was called the Doll Princess, but her expression is so lively.” I can hear various voices from around me. Come to think of it, I heard she used to be called doll-like, but the current Her Highness is cheerful and expressive.

The Princess’s speech began. “I am happy to be able to celebrate the wheat harvest with everyone here today. Wheat is the staple food that sustains our lives, but we suffered poor harvests due to drought. The one who was able to stop the poor harvest that struck this Albion Kingdom is William-san, the second son of Margrave Fairchild, thanks to the drought-resistant wheat he created. My father, King Edgar II, highly values his achievement.” No, being praised in front of everyone is embarrassing.

“Also, thanks to His Excellency Margrave Fairchild providing a large amount of the new drought-resistant wheat in response to the Royal Family’s request, many lands were able to obtain a rich harvest even amidst the drought. The Royal Family expresses its gratitude for this.” The crowd grew excited as Father was praised by the Royal Family. Father is popular because he governs well.

“And upon visiting this land, I learned that the roads are paved with cobblestones, the markets are overflowing with many goods, and advanced things are being created in the workshop. I believe the windmills built yesterday are worth a look. Everyone, please go see them by all means. The Fairchild Margravate is a wonderful land. I pray for its further development in the future.” The Great Square was enveloped in tremendous cheers. Everyone was focused on Her Highness Flora. It’s probably an out-of-place impression, but she looks like an idol from my original world.

Incidentally, the Princess gave her speech while holding the Will & Fellows clothes and bag Oliver gave her. I feel somewhat apologetic, but Oliver is excited, saying, “With this, sales will double! The hill with the windmills will become a tourist spot!” I see, the windmill hill might become a tourist spot. I wonder if Father, who said he wanted a tourist spot, will be happy.

After that, the usual event began. Dressed in white vestments, Mother offers the first ears of this year’s harvest to the Goddess. What is different from usual is that Her Highness Flora and Letty are beside her. Apparently, Mother invited the two of them. When the three of them appeared side-by-side, the crowd gathered in the Great Square raised cheers that seemed like they would split the heavens.

(From Her Highness Flora’s Perspective)

The Summer Solstice Festival has ended, and the day has come to leave Northernford. It was a short time, but many things happened, and I feel deeply moved. “We are grateful to have been able to welcome Her Highness Princess Flora, and for the undeserved words received at the Summer Solstice Festival.” “I thank you for warmly welcoming my visit. I consider it natural for the Royal Family to express words of gratitude to the Margrave family.” Now, the formal exchange ends here.

I speak with each person who has come to see me off. “Mary-san, thank you for taking care of me.” “Your Highness, please come again by all means.” “Sophia-san, take care as well.” “I was happy to be able to talk about various things with Your Highness.”

“Scarlett-san, thank you for everything.” “Your Highness, I will miss you.” “I am sure we will meet again.” We hugged. For me, who had no one I could call a friend in the Royal Capital, becoming close with Scarlett-san was a happy event.

And then I face William-san. Various emotions well up. “William-san, thank you for showing me around the town and workshop. It was a very fun time.” “I am grateful that Her Highness the Princess visited us.” Muu, those kinds of formal words do not make me happy. “Next time, please visit the Royal Capital.” I accidentally blurted out words not in the plan. William-san got flustered, and those around us smiled wryly.

“Everyone, thank you.” When I waved from the carriage, everyone waved back. They were truly people with a close and warm atmosphere.