第６７８堀：めでたしではなかった (Part2)
"Roday and Ex... no, just Roday, perhaps. Ex also has that history of letting criminal organizations run rampant. As for Zilba and Enaria, they should be desperate for our cooperation. White Forest is... well, we will have to cooperate with them, I suppose."
"As you say, Your Majesty. We can frame it as compensation for the trouble caused by this recent incident. As for Roday, we can negotiate separately and treat it as a gesture of gratitude for their cooperation."
"Still, it is surprising that Zilba cannot finish them off. It just goes to show how much of a threat those mass-produced magic swords are. Ensure they are managed strictly."
"Understood. Since the Duke faction was doing as they pleased in the palace, I am currently re-confirming various matters. I will ensure the mass-produced magic swords are thoroughly investigated as well."
"Good. I am counting on you for that. Having a neighboring country like Zilba in such a state would be a significant blow to August right now."
Indeed. If things were to become any more chaotic, the interior of August could fall apart.
It’s not that they can’t fight, but the recent affair with the foolish Duke faction has already led to a decline in their authority and centripetal force. If they aren't careful, some might even defect to the enemy and threaten the August throne. It is only natural to be on guard against such a fatal wound.
"What is surprising is the rift between the Enaria royal family and the Church. It does not seem to be to the benefit of either party, but I suppose it is common for subordinates to act on their own accord everywhere."
"Yes. It is a painful topic for us as well. However, regarding Enaria, there is a prospect of resolution since they are scheduled to participate in the unveiling of the Holy Sword, which is a relief."
It seems the August dignitaries do not view the Enaria situation as particularly grave.
Well, it is a matter concerning a country not just next door, but on the other side of the continent, so it is only natural they would be hesitant to intervene.
Moreover, with the Hifi Holy Kingdom bordering August, they likely don't feel much urgency regarding Enaria.
"Speaking of the Enaria Church, what is the status of the Hifi Holy Kingdom? I have heard reports that they were presented with unreasonable demands by the Duke faction."
"Your Majesty. It has only been five days since we suppressed the Duke faction, so we have not yet sent an envoy to the Hifi Holy Kingdom. We intend to visit once we have solidified our internal affairs. Fortunately, the Duke faction did not resort to military force against the Hifi Holy Kingdom—it seems their plan was to suppress us first—so aside from the threats, no actual harm has come to them."
"...Threats, was it? If I recall, it was a demand for submission as an apology for a previous incident?"
"Yes, I believe that was the case."
"Hah, a mere apology will not suffice. Do you think returning the staff of Lady Hifi, which we held onto previously, would be enough?"
"Superficially, yes. Or rather, it would be best to return the staff properly at this juncture. The Duke faction may have seen that staff and assumed the Hifi Holy Kingdom was inferior, leading them to believe they could force their will upon them."
Ah, that’s right. In the process of covering up Hifi’s covert operations, they had entrusted the August King with a valuable staff once used by the Holy Maiden Hifi.
It was meant to signify: "We apologize for the trouble," and "Thank you for your assistance."
In reality, in terms of specifications, the Narjia-series items were ten to a hundred times more powerful, making it a "valuable" item only in the literal sense—a rather sad reality. However, since it boosted the effects of recovery magic, it was undoubtedly a precious item on the If Continent.
"I see. That, too, has become one of our blunders. Return the staff, and add a donation on top of it."
"That would be wise. Fortunately, we can recover the funds from the Duke faction. Since they were the ones who caused the trouble, it is only natural they bear the responsibility."
"Very well. See that it is done."
That seems reasonable.
With that, the problem with Hifi is, for the time being, resolved.
The only thing left is to see what happens when they come face-to-face with the people of the Sia Church in Enaria.
Now then, it would be best to stop listening.
If I get dragged into another consultation, it will only drag on.
Just as I thought to stand up, a soldier rushed into the room.
"What is the meaning of this!! I am currently meeting with guests!!"
"My deepest apologies!! But this is an urgent matter!!"
Princess Inis reacted even faster than the soldiers.
It’s truly a shame that you’re a woman, Princess.
Setting that aside, it is no small matter for a soldier to interrupt the King during a meeting.
What on earth happened?
"Inis, it is fine. Speak, what has happened?"
"Yes!! I report!! The warehouse where the mass-produced magic swords were stored—upon inspection, they have been replaced with ordinary swords!!"
" " "What!?" " "
Whoa, so that’s how it is.
Don't tell me they’re connected to that small country in the Zilba Empire...
Ah, forget it. If I keep thinking like that, it might actually become true.
I heard nothing.
...That won't work, will it? Yes, I’ll listen to the details. Damn it!!
So, the mass-produced magic swords have vanished.
Is this connected to the skirmishes in the Zilba Empire!?
And is there anything I’m forgetting!!
It’s time to recall everything that has happened on the If Continent!!