第７５４堀：大陸間交流宣言 (Part1)
### Chapter 754: Declaration of Intercontinental Exchange
**Side: Yuki**
"Hey. The Litea group left, but are you sure that’s okay?"
"They didn't go far. It seems some idiots were causing a scene at the entrance, so I had them go handle it."
Seraria and I were discussing this in the waiting room.
Well, I understand why she’d be worried. One of the major powers of the Rogali Continent had suddenly walked out. If they were to cancel their participation on the spot, it would be a massive blow to our reputation. Public distrust would surely skyrocket.
"Idiots? Isn't that something we’re supposed to handle?"
"They were pushing their way in, claiming to be nobles from a country under Litea’s protection."
"Ah... so that’s why Alstaire went out there."
"Exactly. We could have handled it ourselves, but to avoid any strange complications later, it’s better to have the parties involved deal with it directly."
"And while she’s at it, Alstaire and the rest of the Litea delegation can save face by resolving it themselves, right?"
"That’s the idea. There are fools running around in other countries using their name to cause trouble. If we don't investigate and take action immediately, it’ll become a real problem."
When you’re dealing with nations, maintaining appearances is such a hassle. I really want to be free from these kinds of headaches as soon as possible.
While we were talking, the opening ceremony for the Intercontinental Exchange Conference continued. Right in front of us, the Goblin Military Band was performing the opening act. Honestly, I wouldn't call it "professional," but it wasn't just some half-hearted effort either; I was genuinely surprised at how well they were playing. It made me realize once again that whether it’s people or monsters, if you give them the right tools, they’ll grow on their own. I mean, my own musical ability is limited to a bit of guitar and clicking castanets.
"It’s surprisingly impressive, isn't it? The military band. Maybe we should try something like that ourselves."
"Well, I don't think it’s a bad idea, but it’s not like you can just pick up an instrument and suddenly be good at it."
"That’s true."
"Actually, I have no idea what kind of instruments even exist in this world."
"Let’s see... I’m not an expert, but there are lutes—like smaller guitars—and wooden flutes, I suppose?"
"So, string and wind instruments. Maybe some brass, too."
"I’ve seen trumpets before, though the quality isn't quite as good as what they’re using out there."
The history of musical instruments is quite old on Earth, too. It wouldn't be strange for them to exist here.
"Well, this event has certainly established that these kinds of performances are a way to demonstrate national power."
"Yeah, I suppose so."
On the monitors in front of us, many of the representatives from various countries were watching the Goblin Military Band with genuine surprise.
"Military bands like that require strict discipline to function, after all."
"Exactly. I’m sure the other nations have realized that now."
Keeping the formation while playing music and staying in sync with your comrades—that is incredibly difficult. The higher-ups from each country would understand just how much effort the Goblin Military Band was putting in. I’m surprised myself; I didn't expect them to perform at this level. Steve had asked, "The band members want to do the opening act, is that okay?" and I had given the green light. I knew they could stand and read sheet music, but I never imagined they’d do it while marching. Goblins might just be the most versatile race in our nation.
Still, an opening act is just an opening act.
*"That was a magnificent performance. Everyone, please give a round of applause for the Goblin Military Band!"*
*Waaaaah!! Clap, clap, clap...*
With Eris’s announcement, the venue erupted into a standing ovation.
Wait, isn't that a bit too much hype? I’ll have to have a word with Steve later. He went overboard.
"A bit too much, isn't it? And I’m the one who has to give the greeting next..."
This would only add more pressure to Seraria, who was about to step out.
"Well, it’s too late to worry about it now. The venue is excited, and the kings of the various nations are surprised—let’s just call it a good thing."
"True. I’ll back you up."
"Yes. I’m counting on you."
With that, we left the waiting room to finally declare the opening of the conference and begin the introductions of the various nations.
*"Now, in conjunction with the opening of the Intercontinental Exchange Conference, we will hear words from Her Majesty, Queen Seraria of Weed, the host nation."*
Following Eris’s announcement, we walked to the center of the conference hall and arrived before a white podium, decorated with unnecessarily luxurious carvings.
"Your Majesty. I leave the rest to you."
"I’ll be collecting my reward for all this hard work later, you know."
With that, I stepped back slightly. Seraria stood beside the podium, slowly turned to survey the audience gathered there, and then stood before the microphone.
*"Ahem, yes. The microphone seems to be working. Can everyone hear me? If you can, please wave your hands."*
When Seraria said that, the audience erupted, waving their hands from all corners of the hall. She turned around once more to confirm it.
*"It seems you can hear me. Then, let us begin. Everyone, please be quiet."*
At her single word, the roaring crowd fell silent in an instant. As expected, this is the true power of a ruler. It was a feat only possible through the grace and poise Seraria possessed as royalty.
*"It has been... I’m not sure if I should say 'a long time.' It has been nearly five years since Weed was founded. Or perhaps I should say it has only been five years. I cannot judge that myself. But there is one thing I know for certain. The reason we are all here today is thanks to the support of many people—not just from Weed, but from every nation present. This was by no means achieved by my power alone. First, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone here and everyone listening to this broadcast. Everyone, thank you."*
Seraria offered her thanks. It is rare for a queen to thank her people in such a manner. The words of a nation's leader are not cheap; apologizing or bowing too easily can cause all sorts of problems. But no one here would dare complain about her doing so. After all...
*"And now, from this moment on, I declare the Intercontinental Exchange Conference open!!"*
Yes. What was beginning now was the Intercontinental Exchange Conference. This was the moment history was made. Despite the troubles behind the scenes, the fact that nations from different continents, who had previously ceased their skirmishes, were gathered here in one place was a historic moment. It was the first-ever summit of major powers.
To complain to Seraria now would mean antagonizing all the countries participating in this summit. And with this declaration, the entirety of Weed seemed to tremble.
*WAAAAAAHHHHHH!!*
A massive roar of applause. It was the beginning of a festival, and though the treaties hadn't been signed yet, many people believed that this declaration was the true beginning of peace. If anyone here refused to sign after this, it wouldn't just be the dignitaries of the nations who would know—everyone present would see it. The sentiment would be disastrous for them.