Chapter 101 - Threat under the guise of discussion (2/2)

However, his Majesty looked at me from the stage with eyes full of suspicion.

「……King of Heavenly Country? You wouldn’t say that you seriously mean that?」

His stare even had hints of killing intent. Meeting that gaze, Sieg slightly lowered his head.

「…At least I do believe so. I pride myself to be able to see if my business partner is lying or not…」

Hearing Sieg’s reply, Inishida clicked his tongue and looked at me.

「……Indeed, forest folk like that elf is one thing, but normally one wouldn’t show such an attitude in front of royalty of a foreign state. However, I cannot believe you so easily.」

Though harboring wariness, Inishida also seemed to be troubled with how to deal with me. He’d like to denounce me but he can’t. He’d like to say that this is a sham, but he has no proof.

That’s probably what’s going through his head. But, at this rate, the conversation won’t progress.

Instead of continuing with this stalemate I’d just advance the conversation by myself.

「Your Majesty Inishida. I’m the king of Heavenly Country, my name is Shiihara Taiki. And this is princess Ayla of Azur Kingdom and princess Yuri of the Imperial Country of Fleida. Magician Aifa serves as our escort.」

「Uh, A-Azur Kingdom and Imperial Country of Fleida……?」

I thought I should start with self-introductions, but seeing that Inishida was clearly shaken I tilt my head in puzzlement.

So the names of Azur Kingdom and the Imperial Country of Fleida have a greater effect than Heavenly Country about the existence of which he isn’t even sure?

「Prime minister.」

「…Indeed, there are princesses with such names, but whether they are real or not…」

Inishida exchanged a short conversation with the man he addressed as prime minister. Looking at that scene I said.

「So, would you mind if I speak?」

Asked so, Inishida looked at me with a frown. If he is hesitating, this might be the time to go on the offense.

「My request would be, simply put, amendment of the slave related laws, I guess.」

「……Amendment, of slavery laws?」

Instantly, all emotions disappeared from Inishida’s face. Surrounding guards seemed to be merely confused, but the prime minister became completely pale.

「……Ehm, first of all, slaves also should have a minimum degree of life necessities provided by their owners. Next, prohibit slavery with the exception of those that are to become slaves for their crimes or debts. Following, provide severe punishment to slave traders that obtained slaves through illegal means.」

As I used this chance and kept voicing my requests, the prime minister interjected before Inishida could reply.

「Ple-please wait! Karluk Kingdom has its own laws! This applies to the laws about slave treatment as well! And they are quite close to the content of your request!」

Being told so by the flustered minister, I tilt my head to the side.

「So you guarantee the lowest degree of livelihood…… Does that include home with a roof, bedding, three meals per day and sufficient sleeping hours?」

When I asked for confirmation, not only the prime minister and Inishida stiffened, but even Sieg and Rabia, that were kneeling in front of me also stiffened.