The Legend of the Reclusive Princess Zuicho of the Rikan Empire ~She Escapes From The Palace Everyday and Works as a Capable Government Official.~ - Chapter 9

“…However, as of now, there has been no impact on the central region… Either they stocked up a large amount of sugar, or the people of Taga province are just doing really well…”

The Emperor, who was sitting next to me, tilted his head in confusion.

As I flipped through the reports, I realized it had been nearly a month since the first attack.

“If this report is accurate, the market price of sugar should have skyrocketed by now…”

“Yeah. That’s what I thought, so I decided to visit some of the local condiment stores and pastry shops just to check. There was no price fluctuation, and there weren’t any shortages either.”

With that, the man lightly spoke and picked up a paper bag that had been lying on the desk. I wondered what was inside. Could it be something valuable?

He took out several sweet-smelling pastries from the bag.

 It was just pastries. 

“…You went out for a secret inspection again, didn’t you?”

I didn’t mean to scold him, but as his subordinate, I felt I had to say something. I threw a cold glance at him, but he just smiled in a carefree manner and started placing the pastries on my desk.

Each one was beautifully shaped and looked absolutely delicious. He had simply said he bought them from a “local pastry shop,” but typically, pastry shops that use sugar are considered high-end. The fact that he picked one of the more popular shops made me realize just how in tune he was with the trends in town.

(…The Emperor really sneaks out regularly…) Just like me, Saya thought.

I sighed inwardly, setting aside my habit of sneaking out, and gave him an exasperated look.

“Come on, don’t be so serious. I just went to do a little shopping. …You’re going to eat them, right?”

“I’ll have one… but you visit these shops so often, you must know their regular prices, don’t you?”

I tilted my head slightly and asked, “You like sweets that much?”

“Well… occasionally, when I feel like it.”

“Really? You always bring sweets that you can’t finish, so I thought you didn’t like them. In that case, I’ll make some tea.”

“Not that I don’t like them… Just bring the tea, please…”

“…? Alright, just wait a moment.”

Leaving the man behind, I stood up. I didn’t mind him visiting pastry shops, bookstores, or even weapon shops—he could do whatever he wanted.

(Maybe he’s embarrassed about being seen as someone who likes sweets?)

I thought, reflecting on how men, no matter their age, still have a childish side. I walked toward the break room with a more serious expression and tightened my lips as I passed through the door.

While I could have easily asked one of my subordinates to prepare the tea, they were all busy with their tasks. I didn’t want to trouble them with something so minor.

Straightening my back and walking briskly, I made my way to the break room.