第７９０堀：第一印象 (Part2)
"Lord Lake, if we continue to stand here talking for so long, the soldiers who have traveled such a great distance will grow weary. Would you mind if I guided you to the stationing point first? We can save the formal greetings for after you have settled in."
"I am grateful for the generous reception you have shown us, despite our arrival as a reconstruction support force. Ordinarily, it would be proper for a military unit to decline such hospitality, but since you have gone to the trouble of preparing for us, I cannot ignore your kindness. It is embarrassing to admit, but we shall gratefully accept your offer."
"Very well. Please, this way."
And with that, my initial encounter with the Sea-Cypho Kingdom came to a close.
For a while after, Princess Carrie took the lead in guiding the Sea-Cypho army. The stationing point had been prepared in advance, and arrangements for a field kitchen were already underway. Usually, we wouldn't go to such lengths, but this was a measure intended to keep the Sea-Cypho army confined to this specific area, hence the excessive hospitality.
Thanks to this, King Haiden gathered the necessary food and supplies by leveraging Weed’s newly established intercontinental trade functions—or rather, by soliciting support. Since he paid in cash, the national treasury took a significant hit, but he clearly judged it a better alternative than war. Naturally, we provided some covert assistance as well; had we done it too openly, other nations would surely have complained.
As the Sea-Cypho army moved toward their stationing point, I established contact with Weed.
"Hmm. If there are no suspicious movements, then I suppose it’s fine? Judging by the footage, he is a solid general. It’s impressive that he didn't show any agitation upon hearing of Weed's existence. What did you think, Rurua?"
"Indeed. I also believe it is remarkable that he remained so composed, treating you with proper respect rather than looking down on you, my Lord."
Seraria and Rurua evaluated General Lake with such praise. It was the perspective of leaders, after all.
"But he’s almost too competent. It’s hard to tell what he’s actually thinking."
"Indeed. A person of that caliber likely wouldn't carry information in the form of documents. He is likely operating under secret orders."
Milly and Deryu seemed to believe that gathering information from General Lake or his inner circle would be a difficult task. I shared their opinion.
"Well, if it doesn't look like a war is brewing, that's a relief. I'm glad you all aren't going to be dragged into danger."
"Ratz is right. It’s better if there’s no fighting at all."
"Exactly. As Ratz and Eris say, if there is no conflict, there is nothing better."
"Mm. Yuki and everyone's safety comes first."
Ratz, Eris, Samantha, and Cleena were relieved that, for the time being, it hadn't escalated into a fight. Honestly, we were relieved too. Dealing with a skirmish here would be nothing but a nuisance.
"Well, it seems the initial contact went without a hitch. I'll report back at the scheduled time."
"Understood."
Just as I was about to cut the connection...
"Ah, it's Father!"
"Daddy!"
Sakura and Sumire came running over, with Kaya following close behind.
"You two. I told you that the mothers are working, so you shouldn't come in, didn't I?"
"We're sorry! But we heard Father's voice."
"We thought Daddy had come home. We're sorry."
When Kaya gently scolded them, the two apologized honestly.
"No, it's alright, Kaya. The conversation is mostly over anyway. But I'm sorry, Sakura, Sumire. Father is still working far away."
"I see. Father, good luck with your work!"
"What time will you be home today?"
"Let's see. I'll be back by dinner. So, take care of your little sisters, okay?"
"Yes!"
"Alright, let's go, Sumire. Come to think of it, Schans and the others are waiting for snacks."
"That's right, Sakura. We have to hurry."
With that, the two dashed out of the room to look after their younger sisters. As everyone watched them with a warm feeling, I noticed something.
"By the way, where are Tori, Riel, and Ria?"
For some reason, the three of them were missing from the report.
"Oh, those three are busy preparing lunch in place of Kirue and the others. They were quite enthusiastic about it."
"They seem to be having fun doing something different from their usual duties."
I see. It seems the three of them are properly fulfilling their duties while remaining in Weed, and enjoying themselves in the process.
"I see. I'd like to taste the food they worked so hard to make, so please save some for my lunch."
"That is, if Sakura and the others don't eat it all first."
And so, the reception of the Sea-Cypho reconstruction support force went smoothly. I pray that things continue to progress just as easily.
The Sea-Cypho Kingdom's reconstruction support force has arrived. For now, everything is proceeding without any issues, but...
Forgive me. It feels as though we could investigate for a long time and still not uncover any real information. One shouldn't expect a reward just because they stir something up. That’s how this situation feels.
Well, since they’ve arrived safely, I hope it stays this way.
What? That’s impossible?
No, no, I’m sure the Sea-Cypho Kingdom is just a good country that rushed to provide relief!!
...Though, I doubt it.