Chapter 67

Unable to understand my words, Arabata remained frozen in place. From behind, I could hear repeated coughs, but I decided to ignore them for now.

After a few seconds, Diazio blinked and opened his mouth.

"…Oh, oh. Even if Aoi-dono is a first-rate great magician, it seems you are not well-versed in the intricacies of international relations. Our country is counted among the great nations, but even so, the balance of power with other countries is delicate. The leakage of our unique magic, which could be called a secret technique, would easily disrupt that balance."

He indirectly told me that he could not fulfill my request. I disagreed and took a short breath before raising my head.

"I believe that this mindset hinders the development of magic, but I understand your concerns. Indeed, it might not be possible for our country to be at a disadvantage when other countries do not disclose their unique magic."

When I acknowledged part of his opinion, Diazio nodded deeply as if to say, "That's right." However, before I could hear his response, I continued.

"However, that will not be the case."

Upon hearing this, not only Diazio but also Arabata tilted their heads.

"Why is that?"

When asked again, I smiled to reassure them and opened my mouth.

"Because I will make all the countries disclose their magic. The only difference will be whether it happens sooner or later."

Upon hearing this, the air in the hall became as still as if it had frozen.

In the end, Diazio did not grant permission for the public disclosure of magic. However, in exchange for teaching my magic, he allowed entry to the Mapleleaf Holy Empire's magic research institute. It seemed that even ministers from other countries did not receive such approval, and I was repeatedly told that it was special.

Although I found it hard to accept, the matter was settled, and my audience with Diazio came to an end.

In a room that seemed to be another VIP lounge, I quietly opened my mouth.

"…In the end, do I have to learn and study all the magic of every country myself?"

While lamenting this, Strass and Eliza came over with exhausted faces.

"Please, don't make such reckless statements."

"Aoi-san!? You almost fainted! Really, you did!"

When both of them complained at once, I nodded in response.

"I understand. Please rest assured. I carefully chose my words to avoid angering them. However, I was too cautious and couldn't make them concede on the crucial points. Next time, I will work hard to get their approval."

Upon declaring this, both of them held their heads and looked up to the sky. Perhaps, I should try to get the magic disclosed as soon as possible. They were thoroughly disappointed.

While thinking this, Shenli, with a wry smile, raised his hand modestly.

"Um, what should we do from here?"

When Shenli asked this to no one in particular, Coat folded his arms and grumbled.

"Yes, well. Since our visit was so sudden, both the magic academy and the research institute need more time to prepare and notify everyone…"

When Coat muttered this in a troubled manner, Irl raised both hands with the force of someone jumping and shouted.

"Tourism! Let's go sightseeing!"

At these words, everyone looked at Irl.

"We also received permission to tour the castle, but I think we can do that again! However, I think we can only freely explore the city today!"

"Why is that? I thought we could visit the city anytime."

When Coat voiced his question, Irl immediately answered while looking at me.

"Because we might already be famous by tomorrow or the day after!"

At Irl's strange statement, everyone nodded deeply for some reason.

"…Indeed."

"Y-You're sharp."

"…You've always had a good intuition."

Voices of agreement could be heard, and Liz and Bell praised Irl, saying, "Impressive!"

Although I felt somewhat uneasy, if everyone wanted it, I had no objections.

"Then, let's go sightseeing in the city. Shall we ask Shenli to be our guide?"

While adopting the suggestion and looking at Shenli, he denied it in a flustered manner.

"N-No. I'm not very familiar with the Holy Capital, and something might happen, so let's ask someone from the castle to guide us."

When Shenli said this, Strass and the others immediately agreed.

"That's a good idea."

"That's a good idea."

"If possible, it would be better to ask Arabata-sama…"

"Something might go wrong if we don't!"

As everyone discussed the security of the Holy Capital or something, the door suddenly opened from the outside.

The person who appeared was Mapleleaf's court magician, Crown Windsor.

"I've heard the story. I will be your guide."

Surprisingly, Crown offered to be our guide, so I sincerely expressed my gratitude.

"Thank you. I appreciate it."

After saying this and looking back at everyone, for some reason, everyone had very awkward expressions and looked down.