第８２６堀：胃袋を握る (Part2)
That, of course, would be pointless, as it deviates significantly from Yuki’s true objectives.
"Pointless? In what way, exactly?"
"Oh, I didn't expect a maritime nation like Sea-Cypho to ask such a thing. Well, let’s just say you’re still reeling from the monster situation and our sudden arrival. To put it simply: we have no desire to see our business partners vanish."
"Ah."
Wow. I mean, he’s not wrong. Any nation would want to avoid losing its trade partners. But to steer the conversation that way without revealing a shred of Yuki’s actual intent? That’s cold.
"Shall I return the question? Why is the Sea-Cypho Kingdom content with its current size? Surely you could expand further?"
"……I understand. It seems we have been lacking in composure. Simply growing larger is not always the answer, is it?"
"Precisely."
Yikes. He actually bought it. Well, I suppose explaining the phenomenon of mana depletion would be like speaking a foreign language to them anyway. Plus, it’s the truth—the larger a nation grows, the more those side effects manifest.
"So, you are saying you will lend us your strength for the sake of our future national interest?"
"Indeed. Though, naturally, I expect some flexibility regarding future trade and the like."
"……Please, go easy on us."
"Rest assured, I have no intention of making demands so unreasonable that they would cause the Sea-Cypho Kingdom to collapse."
But he’ll still make sure to turn a profit. That’s just the kind of man Yuki is.
"However, any talk of national interest is moot unless we successfully push back the monsters. There is no point if Sea-Cypho is destroyed while we stand by. Would you not agree?"
"Yes, you are right. We must prioritize the immediate reality over future prospects. We must eliminate the threat of the monsters."
As Chancellor Aquamarine spoke, the others nodded in unison. No matter how grand the future one paints, there is no shining tomorrow without first overcoming the crisis at hand. They don't even have the luxury of time to be intimidated by a nation like Weed.
"Then, we shall move on to concrete countermeasures. However, that will be impossible without the cooperation of your military. As powerful as this carrier, the Lilishe, may be, it is but a single vessel. We lack the manpower. I hope you understand that."
"We are well aware. Besides, if we were to leave everything to Weed, the name of the Sea-Cypho Kingdom would be dragged through the mud. We intend to keep pace and cooperate fully."
Hmm, I see. The Chancellor’s thinking seems to be returning to normal. The fear and confusion have faded, and his expression has sharpened. Well, he is a chancellor of a great power, so it’s no surprise he could pull himself together in such a short time. Even so, he’s already effectively had the initiative snatched away from him. My condolences.
As I offered a silent prayer for him, the conversation shifted to future policy.
"Then, we must first discuss our upcoming schedule with your military representatives."
"Indeed. I doubt they would dare refuse to cooperate after seeing this ship, but there is one concern."
"The other monsters, you mean?"
"Yes. I fear there is a high probability of friction regarding that."
It’s true; the monsters Yuki leads are not native to this continent. Moreover, a species of those very monsters has come from the sea to drive the Sea-Cypho Kingdom into a corner. It’s highly unlikely they’ll be able to cooperate seamlessly with Weed, who brought along the kin of their greatest threat. At worst—or rather, quite naturally—they’ll likely accuse Weed of secretly controlling the monsters to bring Sea-Cypho to its knees.
"Well, we have no choice but to persuade them. However, please be aware that should we be attacked, we will retaliate."
"……Could you, perhaps, handle that with a bit more diplomacy?"
He’s saying the same thing General Lake did. Still, I understand how hard it is to suppress the urge to kill when you’re told that the monsters who have been attacking you are suddenly your allies. The real trouble is only just beginning.
I wonder how the military representatives will react. As I pondered this...
"Kirue, may I have a refill?"
"Certainly. Right away."
Since we were still in the middle of lunch, I went ahead and asked for more curry.
"Oh, may I have a refill as well?"
"Me too!" "And me!"
Following my lead, the folks from the Sea-Cypho Kingdom started asking for seconds one after another.
Yep. We’ve definitely won them over through their stomachs. That’s what I thought, anyway. An army marches on its stomach, after all. But bad food won't restore their morale. So, if you have something delicious, all the better.
Curry on the high seas. It’s Friday, after all!
...Well, it’s actually Tuesday as I’m posting this.