第９６５堀：どう対応しましょうか？ (Part2)
"Well, I understand your feelings, but we really should attempt to negotiate properly. Unfortunately—or perhaps, unluckily—our nation of Weed has not yet received a declaration of war from the Haine Empire, nor have we issued one ourselves."
"……Indeed, from an external perspective, that is a delicate matter. As it stands, Weed has only established diplomatic relations with the Zurable Great Empire. We haven't even had formal discussions with Haine yet. Well, one could certainly use that fool as a pretext to incite a war, though."
"I have no intention of going to war over a reason as trivial as that. We will continue to seek dialogue until the very end. At least, so long as no massacres have taken place."
"……That hits close to home. However, we do not regret making that choice. At the time, it was the best course of action for us."
Though Showu offered a bitter smile at my words, he replied with immediate resolve. The determination of the Zurable Great Empire is truly genuine.
"Indeed. I understand the background and the reasons behind your decision. However, Weed has not yet reached the point where we must decide to fight. After all, we cannot entirely rule out the possibility that the whole affair was merely that man's own arbitrary decision."
"……True, a fool of that caliber would likely act on his own accord."
"It is painful to admit, but regardless, the fact remains that for Gusdo, Haine’s arrival was too late."
Princess Parfil’s words were factual, but if it was indeed a solo act by that idiot, there is still a possibility that future conflict could be avoided. The reputation of the Haine Empire has already hit rock bottom, so it’s unlikely to sink any further, at least...
"If we can manage to hold talks with Haine, it might be possible for Weed to act as a mediator between the Zurable Great Empire and the Old Emperor faction."
"……I understand what you are saying, Yuki-sama, but if such a thing were even remotely possible, the war would have already ended."
"Showu-sama is right! They have spun lies, deceived the nation, and spread suffering among the people!"
As Showu and Princess Parfil say, there is a strong possibility that they are beyond reason. Nevertheless, as I mentioned earlier, Weed—and by extension, Sea-Cypher—maintains the stance of being a third party with no original ties to this land. Taking that into account, a possibility still exists. It is doubtful that the Old Emperor faction truly desires to add more enemies to their list. Anyone capable of strategic thought should realize that the participation of further enemies would spell the ruin of their nation.
……Hm? Wait a moment. This dynamic feels familiar. Other countries intervening in a conflict between nations. I thought it resembled the Three Kingdoms period before, but it feels like something else entirely. Well, it is only natural that all war histories share certain similarities.
I should stop wasting energy on unanswerable questions and summarize the situation.
"If we approach this with hostility from the start, nothing will change. Fortunately, we in Weed have yet to suffer any actual harm. Therefore, we can discuss this calmly. As I said before, for us, this is not yet a state of war."
"Understood. If that is what you say, Yuki-sama, I have nothing further to add. However, I will report these developments to His Majesty."
"I see. This is not a matter of us picking a fight with the Zurable Great Empire, so I would appreciate it if you could convey that clearly."
"Yes, leave that to me. For our part, if we can avoid further bloodshed, there is nothing better. However…… please do not push yourselves too hard."
"Exactly. There is no reason for Yuki-sama and the others to overexert yourselves for our sake! That’s right! I shall accompany you as well! There is the matter of that rude individual, after all. It is only fitting that I go myself."
Ugh, she’s brought up something troublesome. And yet, what she’s saying is perfectly logical.
"……"
Even so, seeing the sheer intensity of Princess Parfil’s rage, not only we and the members of the Zurable Great Empire like Showu, but even the retainers of the former Gusdo Kingdom were left speechless, unable to agree.
"Was there a problem with what I said?"
Perhaps Princess Parfil, tilting her head with such nonchalance, is a more formidable person than she appears. The type who is usually quiet but terrifying when provoked. Still, remaining in this silence is not good...
"Incoming report from the scout team! We have confirmed the Haine fleet! Given that they are following the same route as the merchant ships, their target is likely this Port Aurelia!"
"Report the details."
"Yes, sir!"
Nice work, Shera-chan and the others. That has, for the moment, broken the awkward atmosphere!