落とし穴１０９堀：正月明けの戦争 重力戦線 (Part2)
As always, he was a man who never forgot to tap a stone bridge before crossing it to ensure it was safe.
No matter how convenient something might be, it was only natural that he wouldn't approve of anything that could have a terrible adverse effect on a person. Some might argue that one should simply endure and persevere, but in this world, a person literally wouldn't have enough lives to spare if they took that approach.
In that regard, the civilization and technological level of Earth were truly impressive. And Yuki-san, who had properly learned everything they had built up and could put it into practice, was just as incredible.
Oh, I shouldn't get distracted. I have to give Yuki-san an answer.
"Yes. We have already conducted multiple verification experiments, and no ill effects on the human body have been observed. Well, to begin with, it doesn't actually alter the body itself; the theory is to use magic to mitigate the gravitational pull acting upon the body or an object."
"Ah, so that's how it works. Well, for now, make sure to tell me if you start feeling unwell. Still, this is pretty amazing. You did a good job."
"Thank you very much."
Yuki-san praised us with a smile. However, Yuki-san could be a bit... insensitive at times.
"But you know, when you think about it... this doesn't actually reduce fat or anything, so it's not really for shaping up or dieting, is it?"
"..."
"..."
"..."
His words were met with total silence.
...No, it wasn't that Yuki-san was being mean or lacking in understanding. It was simply that we had been averting our eyes from the truth.
"In the end, rather than actually losing weight, aren't you just faking the number on the scale?"
"T-That’s..."
"...You've struck a painful nerve."
"But it is the truth, isn't it, Lady Rurua? Does this magic cause any changes in body fat or the like?"
"...No. Unfortunately, it does not burn body fat. It is difficult to say, but as my husband pointed out, it is ultimately nothing more than misrepresenting one's weight."
As Rurua delivered the cold, hard facts, all three of us dropped to our knees.
"...Hehehe. I knew it, you know? But... but I just wanted to believe I had gotten thinner."
"...The road to weight loss is a long one, indeed."
"...Yuki should be a little more considerate. We worked so hard for this day."
"Look, there’s no point in faking it when it comes to losing weight... Well, fortunately, this magic seems like it’ll be useful for various other things, so that’s a saving grace. So, Dr. Rurua, what is the recommended method for dieting?"
"Let's see... Since dietary restrictions cause stress, the only option is to burn more calories than you consume. In other words, there is nothing for it but exercise."
Rurua offered a merciless answer, dealing the final blow. If we were capable of doing that, we wouldn't have gone through the trouble of developing this magic in the first place!!
"Well, that's the only way. I'll join you, so let's do our best."
"Ugh..."
"Ugh..."
"Ugh..."
And so, our secret magical development project for dieting ended in failure, and we were forced to rely on primitive methods.
"Come on, keep it up. You've spent all your time doing desk work with books and research, right? This kind of exercise is good for you."
Yuki-san spoke as he ran ahead of us. We followed behind him, all of us dressed in tracksuits for what was supposed to be a simple jog. However, while it would normally be a trivial run...
"Haa... haa... doing this without Physical Enhancement is... really..."
"Quite... difficult... We must have... grown soft..."
Samantha and I were running while practically gasping for breath. Yet, Rurua and Cleena showed no signs of struggle.
"W-Why are... Rurua and Cleena... so fine?"
"I run regularly for my health, after all."
"...I'm currently serving as a diplomat, but usually, I'm Yuki's guard. I do basic training often. Also, you two have two heavy lumps of fat on your chests that you aren't used to the momentum of."
"...Guh. I never thought... that the symbols of womanhood... would become such a shackle. *Wheeze, wheeze*."
I agreed with Samantha. Right now, my prized chest felt like nothing more than lead weights. I mean, I already knew they were the cause of my stiff shoulders, but still!!
"Anyway, we're doing ten more laps. If you talk too much, you'll lose your breath and it'll get harder."
Yuki-san said as he picked up the pace. We desperately chased after him, having learned once again the harsh reality of dieting—and so, we resumed our magical research into finding an easier way to lose weight.
***
And with that, the New Year's Special is concluded. We will now return to the main story. However, please be aware that there is still one "pitfall" involving the children. Also, everyone, make sure to move around and burn off whatever you overate during the holidays!