第４０８堀：模索する未来と残っているモノ (Part2)
"Ah, but it’s not like it’s a gloomy story. It’s just that I don’t really know what I should be doing. Vilia pointed that out to me. She said I often look like my mind is elsewhere, just staring blankly into space. And unlike her, I don’t have a firm goal like 'working hard for Yuki’s sake.' So, for now, I’m thinking I’ll just try my hand at various things to gain some experience."
I suppose, having been liberated from the shackles of my past, I’m finally satisfying the desires I had back when I was a princess. To me, it feels fresh and enjoyable. Well, of course, there are plenty of hardships, too. But compared to when I was a slave, this is much better—I suppose I shouldn't underestimate the experience I gained during those times.
"I see. Well, gaining experience is never a bad thing."
"Right? Do you have any suggestions?"
"Suggestions, huh? I’m military personnel, so I could introduce you to a trial enlistment in the army right away."
"No, the place I live is already on military grounds, isn't it?"
"Ah, that’s true, I suppose."
"Besides, I can just go through Aslin, so that’s fine."
"I bet."
"And honestly, how did you manage to conquer Ex so easily with those unmotivated goblins?"
"They’re the type who can get things done when they actually try."
"The fact that they *can* do it is what makes them truly terrifying."
"If military-related work is out, I’ll have to ask the wives. I can’t give you an answer right now."
"Well, that’s fair. Let me know when you figure something out."
"Got it."
With that, we paused our conversation and took a sip of our drinks. If we kept talking forever, my iced café au lait would end up lukewarm. Though, I suppose I’ve mostly finished saying what I wanted to say.
"Dressa, you’re thinking about a lot of things, aren't you? Should I be doing something, too?"
"Ria, you have your duties as Yuki’s guard, don’t you? And you’re his wife, too. Just like me."
"...Hmm. Jessica is right. But since there are so many things one can do in Weed, there are a few things that have caught my interest."
"That is true. I, for one, intend to search for all the delicious food Weed has to offer."
"As long as it doesn't interfere with your work, you’re free to do as you please. Jessica takes walks, doesn't she? You could consider that a hobby of sorts."
I see. It doesn't have to be all about work; I could put my energy into play or things that pique my interest. Hmm. That’s actually quite difficult.
"Ah, I see. Is that how it is?"
"Jessica, you’re so stiff."
"Ria, you’re far too carefree."
"Ratz mentioned she’s going to open a toy store. Why don't you try helping her out with that?"
"Oh, that sounds nice."
"Yes, that might be a good idea."
"...I’ll try making new toys."
"No shooting magic, though. That’s dangerous."
"...Too bad."
"You should discuss that with Ratz, the future shop manager."
...A shop might be interesting, but I certainly don't have the funds for that, and unlike Ratz, I doubt I’d be able to keep it going for long. I don't know the first thing about what sells or how to manage a business. Ah, but I could study, couldn't I? In that case, maybe I could ask Ratz to teach me.
"Still, even if you wanted to try different things, I’m surprised you took a cleaning job. That kind of work under the scorching sun is tough, and it’s hard to get people to do it."
"That much is nothing to me. I grew up by the sea, after all."
"Ah, I see."
"Wait, come to think of it, why were you and the others at the park in that heat? You weren't there to eat a bento, were you? Just a walk? In that heat?"
"Ah..."
For some reason, Yuki looked troubled by the question. Did something happen?
"Well, I suppose it’s fine to tell you. There aren't any major issues, at least."
"Issues?"
"Uh, to put it simply..."
And so, Yuki began to explain why they were at the park. Apparently, there has been some interference from other countries—though it’s hard to even call it that—and because it’s so subtle, the nation can’t exactly lodge a formal protest. That’s why Yuki and his team have been stepping out to investigate.
"...I see. Come to think of it, I might have seen someone saying strange things at the park."
"You saw them?"
"Yes. Well, it was at the level of 'what on earth is this person talking about?' so everyone, myself included, just ignored it. But I suppose, as the authorities, you can't just leave that alone."
Does this concern me now? A strange tugging feeling stirred in my heart. Even though I live in Weed now, did I really just think it didn't concern me?
"Well, we have more time than I thought, so we’re going to stop by the police station to gather some information."
"Wait."
"Hm?"
"I’m coming with you."
...I have a feeling I’ll find something. Things don't always go as conveniently as one hopes. But, one can still move forward, step by steady step. Dressa is starting to take action in her own way, and I wonder how she will become involved from here on out.
Also, before I knew it, July is almost over. A week of summer vacation has passed, so I suppose it’s time to shift into high gear? Don't get hurt out there.