第６６５堀：偽物で本物の聖剣 (Part2)
"Well, fortunately, I know that you and your group are welcomed favorably by the Church, so I don't think there will be any issues with the intercontinental exchange itself. However, if handled poorly, the conflict between the Royal Family and the Church could surface. From the Church's perspective, if they can present themselves as the representatives of Enaria during the intercontinental exchange, they would effectively be positioning themselves above the Royal Family."
I see, I see. According to what Steve said, the problem is that a conflict is brewing with the Sia Church, who are trying to seize the initiative in the intercontinental exchange by using rumors that the Holy Sword User, Light, is a fake.
From my perspective, I think, "If they want to be the face of the intercontinental exchange, just let them have it and be done with it," but I suppose it’s not that simple when pride and face are involved.
Actually, there is a very simple solution, though I have a bad feeling about having to ask.
"I understand the situation, but isn't the simplest solution just to have Light use the Holy Sword? That would dispel the rumors. It would also prove that the Church was the one lying, wouldn't it?"
Exactly. The person who can use it just needs to demonstrate it in front of the public. Since it’s not that she *can't* use it, that should solve everything. Why aren't they doing that?
"……It’s not that simple, and it’s not an easy matter."
"Meaning?"
"You’ve met the Archbishop, Yuki-dono, so I’m sure you understand. Imprisoning Sia-sama was unavoidable for the country at that time. The Archbishop understands that as well."
Right. That Archbishop was well-versed in the world of politics. That’s why he warned us not to get involved with the Royal Family.
"In other words, it would be bad to openly weaken the Church's power?"
"Correct. If someone other than the understanding Archbishop takes the top position, things will definitely turn chaotic. Besides, I don't think Light, the Holy Sword User, would use the Holy Sword to disparage the Sia Church."
"I see."
What a pain. They want to restore the Royal Family's prestige without threatening the Church that’s criticizing them. It’s incredibly selfish. But if they don't, there's a possibility that Enaria will fall into chaos……
"Do you have a solution on your end? I think it would be quite difficult to convince the people in the Church who are criticizing you. They’re the ones aiming for power, aren't they? They won't be satisfied with just anything…… Wait, you aren't asking me to come up with that solution, are you?"
"No, I wouldn't ask for something that unreasonable. I already have a rough plan. However, I need your help to realize it."
"Meaning, specifically?"
"Involve other countries and hold a public demonstration where Light Revive uses the Holy Sword. If we do that, there won't be any complaints."
True, if they still made noise about her being a fake after she proved she could use the sword in front of other nations, people would think they were crazy.
"So you want to hold a showcase event?"
"Yes. I believe Betan is the optimal location. Naturally, we will cover the costs, and there will be a reward."
I see, so that’s why they want me to act as an intermediary.
Hm? Wait a minute. Can I use the King of Zilba’s situation here?
I’ll try bringing it up for now.
"I understand your request. Let me think about it. Even if we go through with it, there are many things to coordinate."
"I understand that. I’m sure you know that the sooner I get an answer, the better."
"Also, I’d like to finish my own business. Is that alright?"
"Yes, of course."
And so, when I brought up the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they accepted it smoothly and suggested that we hold the demonstration of Light Revive using the Holy Sword during the meeting to discuss the establishment of the Ministry.
"Well, that’s doable. Also, I have a personal letter from the King of Zilba. He seems to have a matter to consult about as well. I stopped by there first. Well, you might feel a bit uneasy hearing he was 'first,' but it’s about that issue with the small country he’s been clashing with. You’re aware of it, right?"
I said that while handing over the King of Zilba’s letter.
"Ah. That matter. I am aware of it. ……Hmm, hmm. So even the King of Zilba is struggling with this. Well, I suppose that’s expected if they have mass-produced magic swords."
"So you knew about that too."
"If it were just a matter of them oppressing a small country, I was thinking of interfering, but after investigating it ourselves, it seems they are running wild with mass-produced magic swords. I have no intention of getting involved. I will write a letter; please deliver it to the King of Zilba."
"Understood."
It seems there is no doubt that the small country possesses mass-produced magic swords. I had considered the possibility that the King of Zilba was lying, but he wasn't that foolish.
"For now, I’ll casually mention Enaria’s request to the other countries while I’m at it."
"Oh, that would be a great help. It saves us the trouble if you’re the one to say it, Yuki-dono."
And just like that, the discussions in Enaria concluded, but……
"Doesn't it feel like my workload just increased?"
"Well, well, you’re just delivering letters and messages."
"It’s easier than what you usually do!"
"Isn't that just what diplomacy and government affairs are like?"
Jessica and the others comforted me. The life of "eat and sleep" is still far away.
Both Zilba and Enaria have various existing problems that I’m getting involved in, though not necessarily because of me.
Does anyone remember Light-san?
She’s the girl who almost died from the shockwave of a tank cannon, let alone crossing swords with me.