第２６２掘：前略ではなく、全略。 全カット (Part2)
"Yes. I will not lose to those immature upstarts who, knowing nothing of what it means to govern a nation, force their ideals upon others and ultimately choose the foolish path of destruction."
Deryu said this while slamming her fists together, while Rurua stood nearby, tapping her staff against the ground. Honestly, both of them were quite well-endowed—especially Rurua, whose assets were particularly distracting when she moved.
"Kirika and her team are handling the reconnaissance and security. As long as we stay within the range of movement, there shouldn't be any issues."
"I see. The real trouble is them operating in other countries where we can't easily intervene."
"Exactly. Geographically, Cleena’s homeland is the most vulnerable. Then there’s the demi-human nation. They don't have official diplomatic relations, so they are effectively isolated."
"Official, huh? So, in the shadows, they have normal relations after all."
"I heard from Samantha that they maintain standard diplomatic ties with Roday and Cleena’s neighboring homeland. It’s what you’d call an open secret."
"So it’s just the way things have been for a long time... I need to look into that more thoroughly. I should also ask Samantha’s father about those details."
"...Aren't you glad Samantha is with us?"
"...Well, yeah. So, the problem is them moving in places we can't touch."
"For that, we should capture the Holy Sword Users who are lying in wait and make them talk."
"That’s the shortest path."
As I was talking with everyone, Amanda and Eoid approached us, followed by Wai-chan, the wyvern.
"Sorry to keep you waiting, everyone."
"We’ll be counting on you for protection during the journey."
The two of them bowed their heads to us. Wai-chan was practically prostrating, pressing its long neck entirely against the ground in a display of total submission.
"Yes, leave the escort to us. Well, it’s a journey by air, so I don't expect any trouble on the way. If there is anything, it’ll be once we reach the Duke’s city."
"...That’s exactly it. Eris-san, please help us. The Principal says there will surely be some low-level nobles or others trying to snatch the wyvern away."
"Ah, I see. That sounds likely. Don't worry, leave it to me. That’s part of the reason for this escort."
"Thank you so much!! Ever since I tamed a wyvern, I’ve had to meet so many high-ranking people. It’s always so exhausting... and this time, it’s even outside the academy."
Amanda has it rough. It’s the first achievement of its kind on this continent, so she’s bound to face these kinds of struggles for a while. Actually, in this continent, it looks like it’ll be a lifelong problem for her.
I decided to probe Eoid a little.
"Hey, Eoid. Amanda is in a pretty tough position, isn't she?"
"Yes. They’re calling her the second coming of the Dragon Knights from long ago."
"...That’s rough. So, how do you feel about it as her childhood friend?"
"How do I feel?"
"Well, obviously, with Amanda being held in such high regard, there are all sorts of motives involved. There will be marriage proposals, and more guys falling for her at first sight. What are you going to do when that happens?"
"...That is, if that is what Amanda wishes."
...What a cliché protagonist.
Since this is a mode of transport that can be used openly on this continent, I want to avoid it being snatched up by people from other nations who aren't our allies. If that’s the case, there’s no problem if Eoid—who already has high favorability—ends up with Amanda. So, I’m going to reject any drawn-out, indecisive romance drama.
"Eoid, I think Amanda likes you."
"...But I’m sure there are better people than me. For someone like her right now, I..."
"Whether you’re a match or not isn't for you to decide, Eoid. It’s for her. It’s not good to make assumptions and try to end things on your own."
"..."
"Well, I’m not saying you have to do it right now. But you don't have much time. If you don't want to let her go, nothing will start unless you pour your feelings out."
"...Yes."
If he’s agonizing over it, then the feelings are there. In that case, there’s a perfect event coming up; I’ll give him a push then.
"Ah, it seems everyone is gathered. Amanda, Eoid, I’m counting on you to deliver the letter. Make sure it reaches Duke Huge of Roday."
"Yes. Understood."
"Leave it to us."
Before I knew it, Popuri and Lara had come to see them off, speaking earnestly to Eoid and Amanda. ...I’m the biggest outsider here, even if I’m officially the one in charge.
"Then, Yuki-dono, I leave their journey in your hands."