第８７５堀：男たちの飲み会 (Part1)
Chapter 875: The Men’s Drinking Party
Side: Taizo
“…And that’s how it went down.”
“I see. So that’s why Yuki-kun has been slumped over like that this whole time.”
I nodded, finally understanding the situation after hearing the story from Taiki-kun.
The only other time I’d seen Yuki-kun in such a state was when he lost a game. And not just any game—it had to be a serious, high-stakes match. Specifically, Poké*on.
While that might seem common enough for most people, it was rare for him to show such vulnerability to us, even if we were his inner circle, given his position.
If it were just a game, that would be one thing, but it was truly unusual to see him this distraught over matters concerning his work or his wives. He knew all too well how much his own agitation could affect those around him.
“Still, if he just wanted to mope, he could have done that at home, couldn't he? Why go through the trouble of gathering us all for drinks?”
The man speaking while savoring his beer was my research colleague, Zargis-dono. He had also been summoned by Taiki-kun and, like me, had only just grasped the situation from the explanation.
But since we were here, it would be a waste not to drink. I decided to join him.
*Gulp, gulp…*
The beer felt wonderful as it flowed down my throat. Meanwhile, Taiki-kun continued his explanation.
“Well, Yuki-san can’t get any rest at home. Apparently, he spent all of yesterday being smothered by Kagura and Mikos.”
“Ah, the plight of a popular man.”
“So that’s it. It must be quite a burden, welcoming multiple women into one's life.”
Normally, I would lecture such an unfaithful scoundrel, but in this case—or rather, given the state of this world—it was only natural. Even in Japan’s history, polygamy was surprisingly common. There was a time when such practices were necessary to preserve bloodlines.
So, it wasn't inherently wrong. However…
“Even so, I do wonder about a man laying hands on students who look up to him as a teacher,” I mused.
“Guh?!”
A choked sound escaped Yuki-kun the moment I said that.
“Taizo-san, don’t. He’s already beating himself up over that exact point.”
“Ah, my apologies. Well, in a normal teacher-student relationship, it would certainly be something to be rebuked for. But in Yuki-kun’s case, he’s already properly greeted their parents. Even in my era, there were cases of teachers and students marrying, though it usually started as an engagement first.”
“Well, when you put it that way, I guess so. Even in our time, there were people who used to be teacher and student. Zargis, what do you think?”
Taiki-kun decided to ask for the opinion of Zargis-dono, a native of this world.
“Hmm. Personally, I have little interest in romantic relationships, but in this world, marriage is often a matter of survival for oneself and one's family. Marrying for pure love is quite a luxury. This is especially true for those of high status. From that perspective, the marriage of Lady Kagura and Lady Mikos is a boon for the individuals, their families, and the nation. There is absolutely nothing to complain about.”
“True enough.”
This world is harsher than Earth. That is precisely why one seeks a partner with the strength necessary to survive a lifetime together. If a child chooses a partner based solely on whims of like or dislike, it causes trouble for the whole family.
Then again, even on Earth, no parent would willingly hand their child over to someone they knew would make them suffer. From that viewpoint, there are few people as reliable as Yuki-kun to entrust a daughter to.
“But surely he understands that logic? So why is Yuki-kun so troubled?”
“Indeed. His wives have all gotten along and given their permission, so there’s no need to be this depressed.”
“Now that you mention it, you're right. Yuki-san, what exactly is the reason you're so down?”
As we pointed out, Yuki-kun is a sharp man. Since he understands why they are marrying him and he has the consent of his other wives, there should be nothing to worry about, but…
“…It’s just, how do I put it… I’ve gone and accepted more. I know I have permission, and I know they like me. But I’m afraid of this becoming ‘normal’… Sorry, I’m not making much sense.”
Yuki-kun finally spoke. He was still slumped face-down on the table, though.
Setting that aside, I felt I had to address his inner turmoil.
“I see. No, I think I understand what you’re trying to say. It’s that… well, ‘acquiring’ women sounds wrong, but you’re afraid of that process becoming a mundane occurrence.”
“Ah, I get it. To be fair, there are rumors floating around about Yuki being a pervert who’s just obsessively collecting women.”
“I’ve heard those. But that’s just jealousy talking.”
As we discussed this, Yuki-kun finally lifted his head, took a light sip of his beer, and opened his mouth.
“…Taizo-san is probably right. If I don’t keep checking my common sense like this, I feel like I’ll eventually turn into some arrogant bastard who thinks it’s only natural for women to fall for him. Well, I’ll admit to the pervert rumors, though. Having all those beauties as wives and then claiming I’m not ‘collecting’ them or that I’m not a pervert… I don’t exactly have much credibility there.”
“…I see. It is indeed dangerous to take such things for granted. Humans tend to grow accustomed to their circumstances. Yuki-kun’s concern is perfectly valid.”
People often forget the small, everyday happinesses they possess. And they often become arrogant. Those with power and authority must constantly fight against this. If you don't continuously discipline yourself, you'll find yourself acting selfishly before you know it.
And as a result, you destroy yourself. History has proven this time and again. Many nations rose and fell because of the arrogance that comes from forgetting what is truly important.
However…
“But Yuki-san doesn't seem like the type to lay a hand on someone just because they're pretty.”
“Agreed. As Taiki-dono says, we know better than anyone that the rumors of Yuki being loose with women are just that—rumors.”
“Well, yes. I understand Yuki-kun’s concern, but I don’t think it’s good to worry excessively about idle gossip.”
“You think so?”
Perhaps somewhat convinced by my advice, Yuki-kun tilted his head while nibbling on a snack.
Good, it seems we’re making progress. There’s really nothing for him to agonize over. There is love, and there is financial stability. There are no problems here.
“Taizo-san is right. This time, your hesitation actually caused trouble with Kagura and Mikos, didn't it? I think you should have more confidence in yourself.”
“Wait, is it really okay to have ‘confidence’ in being popular with other women when I already have wives?”
“““……”””
When he put it like that, none of us had a comeback.
It’s hard to argue that a man with a spouse should take pride in being loved by other women without it feeling like infidelity.