第３１１堀：話し合い 裏 後編 (Part2)
"That is why, to the best of my ability, I spread the knowledge I possessed, thinking it would improve people's lives and help them live safely. Conveniently, I had connections to the nation's leaders, so funding was never an issue, and the knowledge I was drilled in by my mentors as a mere hobby proved useful."
"Then, isn't the current situation different from what you, Taizo-san, originally hoped for?"
"……Actually, that’s not necessarily the case."
"What do you mean?"
"Eras have turning points. I believed we were at one. The civilization level of this world is stuck in a state of monarchy—feudalism and absolute monarchy. However, Hifi-sama is the one attempting to raise the banner of rebellion against them. She is likely using the pseudo-industrial revolution I sparked as a foothold to ignite a civil revolution."
"So, Taizo-san, you believe this is how the era moves to the next stage."
"Yes. Admittedly, a great deal of blood will be shed in this war, but I believe that by overcoming it, we can finally advance to the next phase. No matter how much I speak of the democracy of our homeland—well, during the Great War, it certainly looked like militarism, but it was technically a democracy. It was a constitutional monarchy, after all. But if I just say that, no one will listen, and the royalty and nobility who hold the current power won't be convinced. To them, in Japanese terms, it would be like the collapse of the Edo Shogunate. Conflicts that occur at such turning points in history are never resolved through mere discussion. History has proven that."
"Is that why you developed and provided weapons, such as guns?"
"Correct. It is true that a great deal of blood was shed in our world, but here, I have introduced modern weaponry. If those are used, the enemy can be suppressed in one stroke."
"So, Taizo-san, you believe that rather than waiting for the civil revolution that will eventually come to this world, causing it now will result in less bloodshed?"
"Exactly. However, I don't harbor the naive expectation that it will go smoothly. If the leaders of a monarchy or feudal system are capable, the citizens can live healthy lives. I don't believe every king leading these nations is a fool. And that is where the next problem lies."
"The next? Isn't your goal to advance the era?"
Indeed, this is merely a measure for the problem that follows.
"What we must consider is the scenario where, by some mistake, a semi-permanent connection is established with Earth. If that happens, what will they do when they see a place with a low level of civilization, yet filled with unique creatures like monsters, magic, resources, and technology?"
"Wouldn't Japan naturally try to form a friendly relationship?"
"……Taiki-kun. That is far too optimistic."
Yuki-kun seems to grasp the gravity of this situation.
"As Yuki-kun says, Taiki-kun, you are being a bit too optimistic. Well, if we are lucky enough to connect with Japan, perhaps it would be fine. But if we connect with other nations—nations with militaristic ideologies—this continent, no, this entire world, would be subjugated in the blink of an eye."
"……"
"It is true that powerful monsters and magic exist, but they are the exception. Unfortunately, the civilization of this other world does not yet possess the comprehensive knowledge and power to surpass Earth's technology. And even if a connection were made with Japan, they would likely try to talk their way into conducting research on resources and biological specimens. To our world, this place is a mountain of treasure. And 'discussion' only works when the power of both parties is balanced. At worst, a Third World War could break out over the resources of this world."
"……So that is why you tried to advance the civilization of this continent, even if only by a little."
"Yes. As things stand, even the Hifi Holy Kingdom where I reside—while nominally a friendly nation—would be treated as a vassal state or a colony in reality. The same goes for the countries you were summoned to. We have already provided them with a *casus belli* to invade. We were kidnapped and abducted. That alone is enough to justify attacking as an enemy nation. It doesn't even have to be our homeland, Japan. Other nations would trample this world under the pretext of 'protecting' us Japanese, us Earthlings. After all, the opponent has a low level of civilization. They cannot even keep proper records. They can simply keep the ones who are convenient to use and kill the rest."
There is a brief silence. Yuki-kun understands, but Taiki-kun, while he grasps the logic, seems unable to accept it.
He is young. But that is the reality of the world.
"It is not something I can leave to someone else. If it is going to happen someday, and if there is even the slightest possibility, I will push it forward with my own hands now. I am prepared to bear the infamy, the shame, and everything else. All so that those who come after can live in peace. It is ironic, though, that our greatest enemy is the people of Earth—our own kin."
It is ironic, but because of that, we people of Earth are not only capable of fighting against this unique world, but we possess the power to overwhelm it.
"And so, unfortunately, I have no intention of stopping this war. Therefore, it would be a loss for us to be hostile toward you, my fellow countrymen who came as envoys. We even have blood relatives involved. So, I have a proposal. Won't you come to my side, to the Hifi Holy Kingdom? Don't worry, I will naturally accept those who are like family to you as well. What do you say?"
Yes, to avoid the worst-case future, even by a little, we need allies who know the other side.
As things are now, even with the technology of my era, we would be swatted away like insects.
I cannot believe this world could possibly stand against the military might of a more advanced future Earth.
I am a proud man of Yamato, a Satsuma Hayato; I cannot return evil for good.
Now, I understand Taizo-san's line of thought.
He is acting based on his own reasons.
Personally, I cannot deny Taizo-san's opinion.
Well, that is, if not for the anomaly that is Yuki!!!
But since we are currently in the middle of probing each other, we cannot reach a mutual understanding just yet.
And so, the thoughts of the Hifi God, Taizo-san's ideology, and the predecessor, Comet.
There is one person Yuki knows who is familiar with all three of these individuals.
The next conversation will be with that person.
Come forth, you useless goddess, you good-for-nothing deity!!!
Lastly, I see some troubling opinions in the comments section regarding the Second World War, but please consider them as Taizo-san's opinions.
Honestly, the facts regarding this sort of thing change one after another, so I personally do not support any one side.
Therefore, I ask that you refrain from arguing over who is right.
I apologize for creating what seems like a spark for conflict.
Everyone, please get along!!