第７４５堀：嫌な予感はするけれど (Part2)
"I-I see. Just what kind of conversation were you having?!"
"……I saw nothing, and I heard nothing. Now, shall we listen to the report?"
"Sigh, the image of Lady Hairen is... No, I am a citizen of Weed now. I am a faithful follower of Lady Luna."
It seems Catherine has somehow ended up making Luna the object of her faith. As a Japanese person who believes in the eight million gods and values the freedom of religion, I have a few things I’d like to say... but knowing Luna’s true nature, I can’t help but be worried.
Well, in Luna’s case, she usually knows who she can push around, so she likely knows her limits. It’s a difficult issue. I’ll have to consult with my wives later. Hairen doesn't think about anything, but Luna hides troublesome motives behind her desire for "amusement."
Come to think of it, is it even okay to steal followers from Hairen? No, multi-faith is acceptable, so I suppose it’s not a problem.
Well, never mind that. Let’s get on with the meeting.
"……The visual records show this. Based on our judgment as those who were present at the scene..."
I showed them the recording, explaining to the waiting members that while I was surprised by the visit from the Sea-Cypho Kingdom, it was a reaction that could be considered natural from the perspective of the surrounding nations.
"I see. Well, it is certainly a natural reaction, all things considered."
"Indeed. It is only natural to gauge the state of an opponent during or after a war."
Stasia of Findar and Georgin seemed convinced.
"Regardless of their true intentions, however, I am relieved that the damage from the Akenoki did not reach the Sea-Cypho Kingdom or the neighboring countries."
Archbishop Enol seemed relieved upon hearing about the Akenoki. That makes sense. If the Akenoki had spread destruction, the backlash against the Hairen faith would have been severe, even if they were brainwashed. Plus, they had been using torture; a decline in the authority of the Hairen faith would have been inevitable.
"But to think they are interested in the shovels that are officially adopted in Weed... That is certainly concerning."
When Catherine said that, everyone nodded. That is exactly the point that bothers me.
"Was it called a 'trench'? Indeed, it becomes an extremely effective tool on a battlefield where firearms are used."
"……This is a troublesome matter. There is a high probability that the Sea-Cypho Kingdom has acquired the technology related to firearms."
The two from Findar were truly sharp—or perhaps it’s because they serve as generals, one active and one retired—to grasp the effectiveness of the shovels and the technological level I fear the Sea-Cypho Kingdom might possess based solely on my explanation.
"As Findar says, I am uneasy about Sea-Cypho’s technological prowess. Rumor has it they are also strong in naval warfare. For now, I would like to send scouts from our side as well."
Whether the Akenoki are involved or not, the Sea-Cypho Kingdom has become the opponent I am most wary of. This is because they may have introduced firearms, weapons that completely changed the nature of war on Earth. I don’t know how advanced their technology is, but it would be a mistake to think of them as the same as our previous enemies.
Up until now, our enemies were thankfully anachronistic, lining up in formation to charge, which allowed us to win easily thanks to the long-range advantage of our guns. I’m not sure if that will work against the Sea-Cypho Kingdom. Well, since they came all the way to Haiden on foot and horseback, their firearms are likely of a certain level, but I don’t intend to let my guard down. They are at the level of the Hifie Holy Kingdom in the If Continent, where Taizo-san used to belong.
"But isn't it strange? Even in the Haiden Kingdom, the knowledge of firearms has been completely forgotten..."
"That’s because magic is more efficient, after all."
Everyone nodded in agreement with Kagura and Mikos, but I had a single, unpleasant premonition.
"Yuki-san. Could it be that, just like with Taizo-san, the Sea-Cypho Kingdom has..."
"Don't say it. If you say it, it might become reality."
I stopped Ria from finishing her sentence. Yes, there is a high probability that another person from Earth is involved in this problem. Well, not that I have any proof.
"For now, let’s think about the Sea-Cypho Kingdom after the supplies arrive. First, let’s steadily advance intercontinental exchange and solidify our foundation."
At any rate, promoting intercontinental exchange and strengthening our allies is what will benefit Haiden and Findar. That is the top priority. I have a bad feeling about this, but I can't let that take precedence. There is much to be done.
Now, what will happen to Yuki and the others?! And what of the fate of the Goddess Hairen?!
Well, it’s going to be a lecture, isn't it?