第９４掘：緊急会議 (Part2)
From that conversation, Higil had gained a certain conviction.
"What I questioned was the disclosure of information about this seemingly unprofitable dungeon, and the opening of the gates."
"Hmm, I felt the same."
"However, this was also the answer. Precisely because it is unprofitable, this is the only possible conclusion."
"A world without war, you say?"
"Yes. The gates of this dungeon. Seraria-dono said they were for trade, a way to travel safely and in the shortest time possible."
"That is correct."
"This means that the exchange of information between countries will become effortless. In other words, they can easily monitor one another."
" " "What!?" " "
"?"
Everyone reacted to Higil’s words... everyone except Lowell.
"Furthermore, if the countries agree, and Seraria-dono, who manages the dungeon, gives permission, military forces can easily move between connected nations. For instance, to the dungeon said to be beneath the Cathedral of Lithea."
" " "!!?" " "
"This means that countries using the dungeon for trade will be forced into a state where they cannot lay a hand on one another. No, rather, exchanges will flourish, the number of friendly nations will increase, and should a country that does not accept the dungeon invade one that does..."
"We could form an allied force instantly and intercept them with unprecedented speed."
"Yes. Moreover, we could share in the spoils of the invading country."
"There would be no reason not to form an alliance."
"There are many minor issues to resolve, but this must be Seraria-dono's ultimate goal. Peace in this world."
"...A far-fetched dream... no, it is not."
"Indeed. It is realistic, achievable, and arguably the best strategy to avoid bloodshed. And I have also deduced the purpose of these negotiations with Gartz."
"What do you mean? Isn't a world without conflict the goal?"
"That is the ultimate goal. The negotiations with Gartz are merely a waypoint toward that end."
"Ho, so we are just a waypoint, are we?"
"Yes, it is clear to see. Seraria-dono's objective in Gartz is the guarantee of support for the dungeon's independence."
Hearing those words, I felt a sudden sense of clarity.
"I see. Seraria-dono never denied the possibility of pointing her sword at her own motherland."
"Exactly. Seraria-dono chose the stability of the world over the stability of Roschur alone. She spoke of creating a dungeon beneath the Cathedral of Lithea as a threat. In other words, if she wished, she could easily create a dungeon underground and seize control without asking our permission."
"...Is Seraria-dono worthy of our trust?"
"Let me be frank. If we do not lend a hand to Seraria-dono, our country will perish before long. It would be a form of self-destruction. This is not a matter of belief. We no longer have the right to choose. However, if we take Seraria-dono's hand..."
"We become one of the architects of a world without war."
"Yes. We have no choice, but there is no disadvantage for us either. What Seraria-dono desires are comrades who will support her. We can assume Lithea has already agreed. Roschur would want to stop the dungeon's independence at all costs. But if major powers like Lithea and Gartz loudly proclaim their support for that independence to the surrounding nations..."
"For the sake of appearances, Roschur would have no choice but to recognize that independence."
"It would also mean we wouldn't have to go through Roschur for everything, and they wouldn't be able to look down on us so easily. If they tried to take advantage of us, we could simply threaten to withdraw our declaration of support for independence. Though, I doubt Seraria-dono would ever do such a thing."
...Hmm.
Everyone is looking at me.
"Father. These are my thoughts. But by speaking them aloud, I have confirmed they are not mistaken. My King, please make your decision."
Higil bows his head.
"Indeed. It is not yet certain, but if this is the truth, then for the sake of the many people who desire peace, I will support Seraria-dono. I will persuade the senior officials on the premise of allowing the construction of the dungeon. Everyone, lend me your strength."
" " "Yes!" " "
Well then, I must confirm this with Seraria-dono tomorrow.
And the one who devised this strategy... Yuki, was it? That young man must be the one.