Chapter 126: Commemorative Photograph
“Now, let us conclude with a group photograph.”
At the end of the commemorative ceremony for the diplomatic exchange between the Kingdom of Repuitari and the trading ship Paraiso, the invited guests, Dry Ringo and Fia Ringo, nodded in agreement without a second thought.
According to RINGO’s research, photography technology was only prevalent in the Kingdom of Repuitari among the surrounding nations. The man introduced as the photographer was energetically giving instructions to several subordinates while setting up a large camera mounted on a tripod.
“This is the latest model of our country’s camera. It is the first time we are showcasing it to foreign guests. The venue is bright even indoors, so we can capture beautiful images. We can also make duplicates, so you should receive them by tomorrow!”
Some of the attendees, aside from Dry and Fia, were genuinely impressed by the photographer’s enthusiasm, while others cast anxious glances, worried that the representatives of Paraiso might take offense. After all, the camera was nothing compared to the images being projected onto the windows and tables from the camera set up at the top of the mast. It was hard to believe anyone would be astonished by a mere photograph at this point.
In fact, one had to wonder why the photographer had not been informed of such basic information. Who was responsible for that? The naval officers began to grow suspicious of one another, but unfortunately, it was nobody’s fault.
It turned out that the photographer simply did not believe the information he had been given. He likely took pride in handling such advanced technology as a camera. Although he had received the information directly from an officer, his familiarity with the technology made it hard for him to accept that foreigners could possess superior skills. He dismissed the higher-ups’ comments as mere chatter.
Nevertheless, Paraiso was not so petty as to dwell on such trivial matters. They merely nodded lightly, maintaining their expressions, and took their positions as instructed.
“Now, let’s take the picture. Please try not to blink; we wouldn’t want your sleepy face to be captured! Now, please look this way.”
After that, the photo session proceeded smoothly. Naturally, Dry, Fia, and the guard soldiers were cooperative, leading to an expected outcome.
During the commemorative ceremony, they declared their respective positions and promised to conclude a treaty after discussions. They signed the oath and exchanged the documents, concluding with a firm handshake and a group photograph, marking the end of the ceremony.
“Now, the representatives of Paraiso may take a moment to relax. We will call you once the party venue is ready.”
“Understood. Thank you for your consideration.”
They were led to a waiting room, and in consideration of their potential fatigue, the maids also exited. They would return when called, but the presence of people around the room had vanished.
“It seems there are no eavesdroppers here,” RINGO concluded after monitoring the situation. This was the result of the navy conducting thorough sweeps of the area to avoid any potential discovery that could tarnish their reputation.
“The upper echelons of the navy are indeed mostly realists. They are a very easy organization to work with. Moreover, the navy serves as the driving force behind the Kingdom of Repuitari. They maintain unequal treaties with other nations, effectively colonizing them, and monopolizing markets through the export of technological products. While merchants handle the operations, the navy fundamentally stands behind them.”
“This country really has a strong navy, doesn’t it? The problem is that while they dominate foreign affairs, they seem unable to manage domestic control,” Fia remarked.
According to the analysis from the local strategic AI, the Kingdom of Repuitari’s foreign currency acquisition relied heavily on the navy, with the wealth flowing in from abroad being managed by the navy and its affiliated organizations. However, domestic sales and logistics were not under the navy’s control, as they appeared to be held by another organization, namely the Senate.
“It seems the navy’s influence over production is also strong, and they are gradually eroding the Senate’s stronghold. However, being unable to control logistics is a significant drawback. The railway transport is navy-led, so the situation is expected to change in a few years.”
Further complicating matters was the presence of the army. While the navy was achieving remarkable victories, the army had not made any notable contributions since the unification war. As a result, they seemed eager to establish their own achievements.
“It seems they sometimes accompany the navy on landing operations, but since command authority generally rests with the navy, things haven’t been going well. Consequently, the navy has begun to operate its own ground forces, deepening the conflict.”
If word got out that the navy was being overly accommodating towards Paraiso, the army and the Senate would likely revel in the scandal, according to the predictive analysis.
While taking time to resolve issues was acceptable, having everything turned upside down would be quite troublesome.
“For that reason, the local strategic AI is actively pursuing a policy of supporting the navy. There may be discussions with other factions as a formality, but the primary negotiation target will be the navy.”
One of the initiatives stemming from this policy was the current commemorative ceremony and the hosting of the exchange party.
About an hour later, they were greeted by their escort: Lieutenant Commander Deck Estainka of the Repuitari Navy and Major Rebidel Klinkika. Under their escort, Dry and Fia entered the party venue.
The method of participation in the party was decided to align primarily with the customs of the Kingdom of Repuitari, as a gesture of respect from Paraiso. Most of the attendees were navy personnel, but there were also participants from the army and the traditional Senate. If they were deemed unreasonable by these attendees, it could provide ammunition for attacks against the navy, so Paraiso had conceded. This would also be duly recorded as a favor, but it was ultimately a minor issue.
“Now, allow me to introduce you. From the far southern country, we have the representatives of the Paraiso fleet.”
“I am Dry Ringo, the fleet commander of Paraiso. First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude for providing such a venue today. There are many matters we must decide for the healthy exchange between our nations, but we have managed to overcome the first hurdle. Until now, our conversations have been somewhat tedious, but I hope we can enjoy this occasion more freely. Thank you.”
“I am Fia Ringo, the fleet staff officer of Paraiso. We are grateful for the warm welcome extended to us despite our sudden arrival.”
Their ceremonial attire was refined, primarily white, adorned with golden decorations and black accents that emphasized its design. Above all, their beauty captured everyone’s attention. With silky white hair like threads of silk and porcelain-like skin, their features were complemented by transparent golden eyes and petal-like pink lips. The pair of fox ears extending from their heads further accentuated their delicate charm.
Truly, their appearance resembled that of living biscuit dolls, leaving everyone breathless.
“Thank you. Today, three guard soldiers will also be present. They are armed, but it’s merely ceremonial, so please rest assured. I would appreciate it if our conversation could remain at the level of greetings. If our exchanges continue, there will be opportunities to become more familiar, so I ask that we keep it light today.”
At this introduction, the three Communicator Androids standing behind them gave a slight bow.
“Then, I hereby declare the commencement of the Paraiso Welcome Party. We have several events planned for later. Everyone, please enjoy yourselves to the fullest.”
◇◇◇◇
RINGO, borrowing the eyes of the guard soldiers, observed the surroundings. Occasionally, they were approached for greetings and handshakes, but the Brain Unit was handling the interactions appropriately.
“Ma’am, that waiter is the individual in question. He was inserted through the machinations of the Senate, and his background is unknown.”
“Oh? What’s the pretext?”
“He claims he wants to help since it feels awkward just being invited. The navy doesn’t trust him, but he has proven to be quite capable, so they are using him under supervision. He acts as a bridge for the arrangements and procurement of supplies, particularly in areas involving the Senate.”
Thanks to RINGO’s investigation, that man was completely marked. Even if they were caught off guard, the guard soldiers could cover them immediately.
Thus, when the waiter approached the guard soldiers with drinks, they outwardly displayed no particular wariness. The navy’s guards stationed at the party venue were also watching, but it was unlikely they would act overtly in such a situation.
“Here are your drinks.”
As the Communicator Android took a glass from the tray offered, it turned to the waiter to express gratitude.
“Attack Detection (Red Alert). Freezing the surface personality of Control AI RINGO. Activating the second persona. Information infiltration detected. First-class combat readiness.”