A table set beneath the warm sunlight, prepared with a lovely assortment of sweets and cups…-.
Contrary to that peaceful setup, an awkwardness lay amidst the three princes seated facing each other.
Elfen: “Coffee results in relaxation. Don’t you think it’s perfect for a get-together like today?”
Joshua: “I could say the same about black tea. It has the power to ease one’s heart. Therefore wouldn’t you say black tea is essential to having an enjoyable conversation?”
Lid: “Ah… well…”
Lid forced a smile as Elfen, Prince of the Land of Coffee, and Joshua, Prince of the Land of Black Tea, confronted each other over their prepared drinks.
Lid had somehow gotten himself dragged into this argument at a tea party where he had no idea what would be served, and he withheld a heavy sigh as the tension mounted.
Lid: “…I think both black tea and coffee are good. This coffee has a rich flavor, but the aftertaste is so refreshing that it’s delicious.”
Elfen: “Naturally. I selected and roasted the beans myself, so it’s my special blend.”
Elfen nodded at Lid’s words, and spoke plainly.
Joshua: “Oh, well this is special too. I had these specialty tea leaves prepared just for today.”
Though Joshua’s words were polite and said with a smile, there was a bite to them, and Lid hurriedly turned his attention towards the black tea sat near him.
Lid: “…a-and, this black tea was made with fruit wasn’t it? It smells so nice.”
Joshua: “That’s right. Doesn’t it smell fresh and vibrant? It’s quite popular with the ladies, who select brands with sweet fragrances.”
Lid: “Hm…? The ladies?”
Elfen: “This coffee is also the type that OO prefers.”
At those words, Lid’s emerald green eyes went wide as he looked at the other two.
Lid: “Could it be this tea party was actually prepared for OO?”
Elfen: “Yes, she is the guest of honor… is something wrong?”
Lid: “Aaah… it’s just that the two of you looked so angry so I thought you were a bit down… but it turns out you were thinking about her and having a serious discussion.”
Joshua: “Angry? …my apologies if that’s how I looked.”
Elfen: “Myself as well. I just didn’t want to lose out to tea…-.”
Elfen coughed lightly and looked down in embarrassment.
Elfen: “It seems our personal feelings came out in the form of an argument.”
Lid: “It’s fine, after all, your feelings are definitely coming through in your coffee and the black tea. And anyway… if that’s the case, I want to help out too!”
Lid’s cheerful voice reached the two apologetic princes.
The three eagerly shared their own opinions with each other as the fragrant aromas of black tea and coffee drifted into the air.
END