第２９７堀：協力体制整う (Part2)
"As you may have already realized, August is currently in a dire situation. It is not the surrounding powers—Zilba, Roel, or the demi-human nation of White Forest—that have caused this. One of the smaller nations to our rear, the Holy Kingdom of Hifi, declared war on us and immediately launched an assault on the region where my father, His Majesty, was conducting an inspection. His Majesty immediately rallied the Royal Guard he had with him and the local forces to intercept them in order to protect the people, but the enemy's offensive is fierce. Seeing that the situation was grim, he called for the evacuation of the surrounding villages and towns, and sent word to the royal capital, using the messengers who were also tasked with transporting the wounded."
Upon hearing this, only my juniors, Amanda and Eoid, looked surprised.
"No way... is that really happening?"
"...I didn't think Yuki-san and the others would lie, but this is..."
As I suspected, they had already caught wind of the information. Well, with wounded soldiers being brought in, the news would spread quickly enough. Damn it, I have no choice but to reinforce the soldiers tasked with maintaining public order.
"I understand the situation. So, you called us here because you want to borrow the power of the Dragon Knights, correct?"
"You are quick to grasp the point. That is correct."
"Ehh!? B-but I... I've never been to a battlefield..."
"You don't need to worry about that. I am not asking you to fight on the front lines. I want you to perform reconnaissance."
"You want to grasp more accurate information, then."
"Yes. At the moment, the information is chaotic, and there are parts where I cannot measure how much is fact. There are three things I want you to investigate. First, the positions of our army and the enemy's. Second, the number of enemies. Third, confirmation of my father's safety. If possible, I would be grateful if you could bring my father back with you. However, if he is in the middle of combat, there is a possibility that they might mistake you for the enemy and attack the Dragon Knights. So, that is only if possible. That is what I am asking for. How about it? Will you accept?"
"U-um... I think I can do that."
Amanda-kohai seems to think it's doable after hearing the details. The problem is Yuki-dono.
"I understand the situation. However, we have been entrusted with the protection of the Dragon Knights, Amanda and Eoid. You understand that, as their guards, I cannot simply nod to heading into a war zone, even if it is just for reconnaissance, right?"
"Yes. I am well aware. Naturally, I will provide proper follow-up. I will explain the situation to the Principal myself, and ensure it is understood that Yuki-dono and his group are not at fault."
I understand that I am asking for something unreasonable. I am asking to use the military assets of another country. Amanda-kohai hasn't had to deal with this kind of political maneuvering yet, so she likely accepted it with the mindset of a fellow student, but Yuki-dono, who received the request from the Principal, understands just how bad this situation is. That is why I must speak clearly; otherwise, it could lead to a major problem later.
"I see. So you have thought about that much. Very well."
"You understand? Then..."
Seeing Yuki-dono nod, I thought I had secured their cooperation and began to stand up from my chair, when—
*Then, we should properly discuss the contract.*
I heard the voice of the petite Principal from somewhere.
"This voice is..."
"As always, a disgustingly young voice."
*Still as rude as ever, Feigel. You’ve become a complete old man, while I am still a fresh, blooming maiden.*
"You are a child in appearance, not a maiden."
*Sigh, why did you become so cynical? You were so cute when you first enrolled.*
"You are the one who caused that. Anyway, that is enough. Have you invented something again?"
While I was bewildered, the old master was calmly exchanging words with the Principal's voice.
*Hahaha. That is correct. Inis, you should try to develop a bit more ability to grasp the situation. With that said, Yuki-dono.*
At those words, Yuki-dono took a spherical crystal out of the pouch hanging at his waist. It was a magnificent, perfectly spherical crystal. Even just this would be worth a considerable amount. But that wasn't the only issue. Inside the crystal, faint but clear, was the figure of Principal Popuri herself, and from it, her voice resonated.
"P-Principal!? Since when did you become a crystal!?"
*Oh? Is that your reaction? Calm down. Here, Feigel. Explain it.*
"...I know you make outrageous things, but to think you'd go this far. *Ahem.* Princess, this is likely a magic tool that allows communication with someone far away."
"What!! You managed to create something so incredible!!"
*That’s right. I’ve been researching it bit by bit, and it’s finally complete. The cost of a single unit is very high. Therefore, I cannot entrust it to just anyone, and you understand what would happen if it were misused, right?*
"Yes. I understand that."
*Well, that’s that. I had it transported by Dragon Knight Amanda, partly to introduce her, but it seems I was a little late.*
"No. I see this situation as a stroke of luck. With this, the discussion can be settled smoothly, and I can go to rescue my father."
*Yes. That positive attitude. You haven't changed. As for me, I am satisfied to see Inis's dignified appearance. And I can trust you.*
"Then?"
As I looked at the Principal with expectation, she smiled with a gentle face...
*Dragon Knight Amanda!!*
"H-hai!?"
*I have received the petition for the rescue of the August Kingdom, and I have decided to respond to it. From now on, use your own judgment and Eoid's to join the rescue effort!!*
"Yes!!"
*As for the mercenary group acting as guards, I want them to continue protecting Amanda and the others with an increase in their reward. I ask that you stop them from doing anything reckless.*
"Understood."
The Principal, giving orders like that, was as kind a person as she had always been.
*Now then, I will prepare the contract documents on this end as well. Do not neglect your preparations on your end, Inis.*
"I understand."
*Also, make sure to issue an order so that, even by mistake, the guards, Yuki-dono and his group, are not separated from Dragon Knight Amanda and Eoid. Include freedom of action as well.*
"Yes. I will treat Dragon Knight Amanda-dono and the mercenary group guarding her as my direct subordinates, and I will ensure they can conduct operations freely."
*Yes. That won't be a problem. Now, all that's left is to give the orders. Inis, you can do it. I pray for a good report.*
With that, the voice faded away. I don't know how it works, but being able to communicate over long distances is truly convenient. I must thank the Principal properly for this, among other things. No, first I must break through the current situation. If we lose, there will be no one left to thank.
"Now, look at this map."
Feigel spread out a map, and I began to convey the planned reconnaissance areas.
...Father. Please, stay safe.
The Holy Kingdom of Hifi.
What on earth are you planning!!
How will Yuki and the others move!!
What will become of August!!
Ah, the children are about to start talking soon.
You know what that means, right?