第５０３堀：恒例のお約束 (Part1)
Chapter 503: The Usual Routine
Side: Kagura Kamishiro, Affiliation: Haiden, Second Daughter of the Kamishiro Dukedom
"What... is that?"
That was the first thing I said when I saw it.
No, I think that’s understandable.
I mean, it just didn't make any sense.
The area that looked like a gate was enveloped in a pale blue light, and from it, countless Orcs were moving in and out.
What’s more, those Orcs were wearing strange clothes.
They weren't armor, but rather peculiar outfits covered in countless pockets.
On their backs, they carried strange weapons—things that looked like spears.
"That is the gate, the entrance and exit to Weed. It’s a magical technology that allows for instantaneous travel to distant locations."
"It’s magnificent. With this, it means Haiden will never have to worry about supplies again, doesn't it?"
"Well, even if we were besieged, they wouldn't run dry."
"Haha, that’s a troublesome prospect, isn't it? And besides supplies, I assume reinforcements can come through as well?"
"Of course."
Somehow, before I knew it, even General Jojin of the Imperial Army was there.
I’m certain that just a short while ago, I had been struck hard by my escorts, Ria and Jessica, apologized, and was discussing cooperation with Haiden, but...
"So, we’re going to pass through that gate now and head to Weed—our base of operations."
"Eh? Why?"
"Why? Well, if you see our strength for yourself and confirm the state of our nation, you’ll feel more at ease, right?"
"Ah... now that you mention it, I suppose so."
"We’ve only pledged our loyalty a few days ago. I am grateful for the generosity you show by inviting us to your royal capital so soon."
"As for me, it’s a welcome development, as it provides me with even more material for my arguments."
...Hey.
Both of you, don't you have anything to say about the fact that the people we summoned can immediately contact their homelands and travel back and forth?
This is insane, isn't it!?
As I was thinking this, a hand was suddenly placed on my shoulder.
I turned around to see who it was, and it was Jessica.
"...W-what is it?"
Recalling the powerful slap I had received earlier, my body stiffened.
"Please, don't be so afraid. I considered the matter settled with that single blow earlier. The same goes for Ria. We are well aware of your circumstances."
"I-I see. Thank you for that."
"But that’s not what I wanted to talk about. You’re having trouble keeping up with the current situation, aren't you?"
"Y-yes. My knowledge is shallow, after all."
"That’s not something to be ashamed of; it’s only natural. It’s just that Lady Catherine and General Jojin are terrifyingly flexible."
"H-huh?"
While I was wondering what she meant, Lady Catherine and General Jojin, who had been listening, joined the conversation.
"Well, normally, you wouldn't believe a story like this. But Kagura, there’s no point in denying what’s happening right before your eyes. You have to accept reality and do your best. Common sense doesn't apply when it comes to the prosperity of a territory."
"Indeed. If you only do what is expected to promote the prosperity of your territory, you will only achieve average results. Well, I cannot say if it will work in the long run, but it is obvious that a territory that lets a giant fish swimming right in front of it escape will inevitably decline. Naturally, the same applies to war. If you do not accept the reality before you and correctly grasp the situation, you will only end up sending your subordinates to their deaths in vain. Well, this should be a good experience for you, young Lady Kamishiro. Though, even in my long life, I have never seen a development like this. Hahaha!"
"Y-yes!! I will learn from this!!"
I see. They are just as confused as I am, yet they are desperately trying to accept it and move forward.
Indeed, me making a fuss won't move the conversation forward; it will only delay the schedule.
"Wait, come to think of it, Lady Jessica, how did you know what I was thinking?"
"I used to be hostile toward Yuki in the past, so I was in a similar situation."
"...Eh?"
"And Kagura, Lady Catherine, General Jojin—this is just the beginning. Weed will far exceed your imagination."
"Yes. I will prepare myself."
"Hahaha. I shall brace myself so that this old man doesn't die from too much surprise."
"...And this is just the beginning?"
"Also, I have a warning for you, Kagura."
"What is it?"
"Honorifics are unnecessary. I’ve spoken with Ria, and for your own safety, it would be best if you got along with us."
"What do you mean by that?"
As I tilted my head in confusion, Ria, who had been silent, opened her mouth.
"It’s simple. We aren't the only wives Yuki-san has, and there are still plenty of people who hold a grudge against you, Kagura. We settled for a slap, but if you're not careful, you might lose your head."
"..."
"Hey, Ria. Don't scare her."
"Ehh? But Yuki-san, it’s a possibility."
"It’s not zero. And even if we say we settled for a slap, we don't know if others will show such restraint. It would be best for you to stay with us. As a safety measure, that is the best course of action."
"Understood. I can't have Kagura dying on me. The two of you, protect her."
"Okay~"
"Understood. With that said, Kagura, please do not leave my or Ria's side."
"O-okay, I understand."
Wait, does no one have anything to say about him having so many wives!?
I heard that the wives were the ones who came to Baide with him.
Just how many are there!?
"...Could it be? Is my virtue in danger?"
I muttered to myself.
Yuki was currently explaining the situation in Weed to Lady Catherine and General Jojin.
His expression was serious, but... look, I’m Japanese-looking, and if I do say so myself, I’m a beauty, right?
If Yuki has a hobby of collecting women, will I be targeted?
But if I offer my body, could Haiden be saved?
"That won't happen~"
"Indeed, it won't."
"...Why? He has many wives, doesn't he?"
"Yuki-san is quite the straight-laced person, you see."
"Unless there are unavoidable circumstances, he doesn't do things like that. Usually, it’s a matter of taking responsibility after having utilized someone to the fullest."
"Well, that might sound like there’s no love involved, but we’re very much in love, so it’s not a problem. At his core, he’s a very kind person."
"Basically, Yuki likes to do everything on his own, so we are actually very worried about him."
"I-I see. Is that so..."
I don't understand.
What is this "taking responsibility after utilizing someone to the fullest"?
What kind of situation leads to having so many wives?
Doesn't that just mean Yuki likes women?
"...I hear some unsettling talk, Kagura."
"W-what?"
"I don't do things like that, so don't worry. And I’ll refuse that kind of relationship. If you want me to help Haiden, you’d better prepare proper benefits. If I were to marry someone like you, it’s guaranteed that I’d be dragged into Haiden’s politics. I’d rather pass."
"...Well, being dragged into it is a given. But why doesn't Weed want Haiden? I don't get that. Even a marriage with me would be a good way to bring Haiden under your control, wouldn't it? Even if you don't bring it under your control, it wouldn't be a bad deal to maintain a good relationship with Haiden, right?"
From the seriousness radiating from Yuki’s words, I realized my virtue wasn't in danger, but I didn't understand why Yuki would reject a marriage with me that could strengthen the relationship with Haiden.
I am from a ducal family, and a special one at that—a family of heroes with the blood of the first generation.
Political marriages are a matter of course; that’s just how the nobility works.
That’s why it was strange that Yuki, as the leader of Weed, would refuse such a thing.
"You can say that after you’ve seen Weed. We’re incredibly busy on our end, too."
And with that, we finally prepared to pass through the gate...