第７４１堀：使者への対応 (Part2)
"You realize we aren't at that stage yet, don't you? First, we need to hear their conditions. No one just hands over supplies for free out of the goodness of their heart. Or rather, even if the envoy believes it's an act of goodwill, the person who sent them definitely has an agenda."
"Fair point. So, we meet them first, then? Where is the envoy?"
"For now, I have them resting in the guest quarters. It’s quite a distance from the Kingdom of Seasypho to here, after all."
"Come to think of it, I’ve never heard you mention the distance. How far is the Kingdom of Seasypho from the Kingdom of Haiden? Do our borders touch?"
Ah, that’s true. We hadn't discussed geography before.
"It’s quite far. Haiden is said to be centrally located on this continent, but in reality, it’s more inland. Seasypho is a nation completely facing the sea, and there are several smaller countries between us. There are mountains and rivers, too. It’s quite a journey."
"Hmm. In that case, isn't it safe to assume they came regarding the war?"
"Why do you say that, Yuki? May I ask for your reasoning?"
"It’s not a complicated matter. It’s simply a question of time. Thanks to our communication network of Gates and Calls, we can contact others and gather information instantly, but the Kingdom of Seasypho—and other nations, for that matter—can't do the same."
"Ah!"
Everyone realized what Yuki was getting at. A chorus of voices rose as the others caught on.
"So, you mean that because the Seasypho envoy left immediately upon hearing about the war, they don't know about the Magic Gear yet? But surely they must have heard something? After all, Archbishop Enol’s decree was broadcast across the entire continent."
"It’s impossible that they haven't heard of it, but the envoy isn't in a position to mention it."
"Ah!"
At that reply, the voices rose again. Well, the King and the Princess remained silent.
"I see. Even if they know, they aren't at liberty to speak of it."
"Indeed, the envoy has no right to comment on such things. However, they will certainly try to gather information."
"Or, there is a possibility they will send a second wave of envoys. When the situation changes like this, rather than recalling an envoy, it’s common to send a new one to update the intelligence."
"We aren't in a situation where they could be recalled anyway. They are already in the middle of an audience with us. If that’s the case, does it mean there is a second envoy on the way..."
That’s right. You wouldn't bother recalling a messenger from the battlefield. It’s faster to just send the next one.
"Then, for now, we should meet the envoy and hear what they have to say. By comparing how much the next envoy knows versus this one, we can gauge how much they’ve grasped of our situation, even if they don't say it outright."
"Hmm. You’re right, Yuki-dono. What do you think, Carrie?"
"I agree. We should have the audience immediately. If the second wave arrives, we might lose the chance to get them to talk."
"Very well, it’s decided. We shall meet them now. And, Yuki-dono, can I count on your assistance?"
"Of course. In what capacity do you need my help? Also, what about the compensation? If we don't settle that, it’ll lead to various problems."
With that, Yuki offered his cooperation. For Yuki, the destabilization of Haiden and Findall would impact future intercontinental exchange, so he didn't want that to happen.
But as Yuki said, lately—or rather, ever since I met him—it’s as if Yuki has been solving every problem Haiden and Findall face. On the surface, it’s presented differently, but those who know of Yuki’s involvement will inevitably start doubting the royal family’s standing, or worse, fools will start appearing who think they can just rely on Yuki for everything.
"You’re right, Yuki-dono. If we don't prepare a visible, tangible reward, we’ll be looked down upon, and you’ll be undervalued as well. Though, the original goal was to make intercontinental exchange a success..."
"Few people understand that. What is gained through intercontinental exchange is far greater than money or precious goods... *Sigh*, there are just too many fools out there."
"Don't say that. There are still those who are skeptical about Weed. It’s true, they can't even imagine being able to travel instantly using Gates. Well, that’s fine. Now, about your compensation..."
"If we pay too much, people will complain. So, how about..."
With the discussion of compensation concluded, we proceeded to have our audience with the envoy from the Kingdom of Seasypho. And when we heard how Yuki intended to lend his strength, we were struck with dread.
Now, how exactly did Yuki offer his help? It’s a common enough method these days, though.
Well then, next time, the envoy from the Kingdom of Seasypho finally appears!
Oh, and the reason the King of Haiden couldn't recognize Hairen was simply because he didn't look like himself.