第９４５堀：戦いの経緯 (Part2)
"Well, even if I were to harbor suspicions, what would it change at this point? As someone who wishes to avoid war, there is no merit in doubting you. Of course, if you had been committing atrocities, that would be a different story, but that hasn't been the case."
"I see. I am glad to hear I have your trust. However, this is not the end of it. You seem to understand the circumstances, but regarding the matter of Aurelia Port—we had a necessity to secure that location."
"I believe you mentioned you would explain the reason for that as well?"
"Indeed. I am not certain how much you have grasped, Yuki-dono, but since you fought against Vol, you are aware that our military utilizes monsters, are you not?"
"Yes. We confirmed the presence of wyverns."
"Precisely. That is the greatest strength of our Zurable Empire. Those wyverns, in fact, are controlled using a certain item imported from Sea-Saifo."
Oh? So they are admitting without reservation that they use Magic Gear. Or perhaps they simply assume we are already aware of the fact.
"I see. So the supplies from Aurelia Port could be called the lifeline of the Zurable Empire."
"Indeed. That is why we had to obtain Aurelia Port at any cost. If the Gusdo Kingdom had sided with us, we wouldn't have needed to go that far..."
"But they chose to be hostile."
"Just so. And, as is only natural, the import of those supplies became impossible, which is why we launched our offensive."
It is roughly as we had anticipated. The Zurable Empire desired the Magic Gear, and they sought to control Aurelia Port to secure it.
"So, what you are hoping for is regular trade, is that correct?"
"Yes. I would be grateful if you could arrange that, but do you and your people, Yuki-dono, understand what that tool is? It would be meaningless if we cannot import it."
How will you answer, Yuki? If you provide them with Magic Gear, it will likely lead to the expansion of the war. But without it, the Zurable Empire will be placed in a dire situation. Either way, it involves the loss of many lives. What will you do about the Magic Gear?
"Hmm. To begin with, I do not know what that tool is specifically called or how it is referred to, but based on your description, I have an idea of what it might be."
"Oh? So there truly is a tool that summons and controls monsters?"
"Yes. However, that tool is the very thing that caused a large-scale incident on this continent."
"Oh? Might I ask what happened?"
"Certainly. Since you have spoken to us without concealment, I shall do the same."
Yuki began to explain what had transpired on the New Continent—the homeland of Kagura and the others. He kept the sensitive details vague, explaining that the monster-summoning tool known as Magic Gear had caused devastating damage to various nations, leading to the possession of such items being declared a crime. He also conveyed that the production methods remained unknown.
I see. By framing it this way, he has successfully communicated that simple exportation is not possible.
"I understand. In other words, you are saying that tool cannot be exported?"
"On the surface, yes. We also understand that you are in a difficult position."
"I see. Then, are you saying you will export the remaining Magic Gear to us?"
"Yes, provided you agree to the conditions we propose."
...So that is the path Yuki has chosen. We will have to discuss this thoroughly later. If we are not careful, we will be branded as merchants of death. And what conditions will he force upon them?
"Conditions, you say? I suppose I shall have to hear them."
"That is true. Then, allow me to state our terms. First, we would like you to cede Aurelia Port to Weed and Sea-Saifo."
"Hmm. That is of no consequence to me. If anything, you were the ones who repelled Vol. We could not take it ourselves, and if you act as the point of contact, it will save us the trouble of establishing a new trade window. However, I want you to stop exporting Magic Gear to the former Imperial faction. As I said, the reason is obvious. Well, the area around those lands has become my territory, so I imagine it would be impossible anyway."
"I have not met with the former Imperial faction, so I cannot say for certain, but I will swear that we will not threaten the Zurable Empire."
That is a reasonable enough response. Now, for the main point...
"And, the second condition. It concerns the treatment of Princess Palfil of the Gusdo Kingdom. I would like you to guarantee her life. I have heard that you will recognize Aurelia Port as the territory of Weed and Sea-Saifo, and Princess Palfil no longer holds any power."
That is right—Princess Palfil, the sole survivor of the Gusdo Kingdom. Her treatment. Now, what judgment will Emperor Yupia pass? What will be the fate of the princess? And will he truly export the Magic Gear!? What would you do in his position?