第９８０堀：敵の姿形 (Part2)
"If we were to do that, the subsequent governance would likely fall into chaos, but it would still be better than being ruled by a tyrant. If such a situation were to arise, we would move with all our might to stabilize the peace, so it should be manageable."
I pushed aside the "what-ifs" that hadn't happened yet. Right now, the focus was on intelligence regarding the Hein Empire—a massive nation that bisected this vast territory.
"And the red line represents the countries of the former Imperial faction. Among them, the Hein Empire is..."
As he explained, Shou-san took a red pen and drew a line across the territory of the former Imperial faction, circling a region that accounted for about a third of it.
"It is this area here."
How should I put it? Compared to the rest of the former Imperial faction's territory...
"That’s a strange border. Usually, even if there are irregularities, it would be closer to a circle, wouldn't it?"
"Indeed, you’re right. It’s more of an ellipse, or rather, a strip."
"Yes. And for some reason, it runs diagonally across the territory controlled by the former Imperial faction."
Exactly as Deryu-san said, the territory was shaped like a strip. Moreover, as Eris-san pointed out, the border cut diagonally across the former Imperial faction's domain. Under normal circumstances, as Rurua-san suggested, it should be closer to a circle. If this were due to geopolitical reasons, like following a coastline or a mountain range, it would be understandable for a nation to expand into a strip...
"Shou-san, does this Hein Empire follow a mountain range or something? Is that why it has this shape?"
"No, nothing of the sort exists. There are indeed mountains near parts of the border, but they are not enough to hinder the movement of people."
Then why such a shape? With a national territory like this, the range they have to defend would be vast, which should be a struggle. As I racked my brain trying to find the answer to that mystery, Yuki-san spoke up.
"In that case... does it mean they seized the key transportation hubs?"
"Mm. As expected of Yuki-dono. Our research results point to the same conclusion."
"Um, Big Brother, Emperor Yupi, I don't really get it. I understand that people gather at transportation hubs, but doesn't that mean it's easier for other countries to attack them?"
"Ho-ho. Aslin is clever. You have a knack for strategy, too. We thought the same and were troubled by it at first. However, as Yuki-dono says, a transportation hub is not just a weakness. Can you see why?"
When he said that, it clicked.
"I see. So, disadvantages are advantages, and weaknesses are strengths?"
"Ho. A fine sentiment. That is exactly right. Is Shera also good at this kind of thinking?"
"I wouldn't say I'm 'good' at it, but it is a phrase Yuki-san often uses. It’s to notice things one hadn't realized before, and to ensure that a failure doesn't end as just a failure."
Yuki-san always says that. Don't let a failure be the end. Find the good in it and nurture it.
"Now, let's hear the answer."
"Yes! Firia understands! It’s the opposite of 'enemies will attack because they hate that you control the transportation hub'!"
"Ah! I see!"
Once she said that, Aslin seemed to understand as well.
"“That’s exactly why there are places they want to protect!”"
"Mm. A perfect answer. In other words, there were countries that would be troubled if logistics and trade stagnated due to the Hein Empire being attacked."
"So, it split into those who wanted to seize the Hein Empire's territory and those who thought it better to cooperate with the Hein Empire and protect it."
"As Yuki-dono says. Well, it likely wasn't as simple as it sounds, as it is a territory that easily invites resentment, just as Aslin said. Their diplomacy must have been exceptionally skilled. We believe they used their control over the transportation hubs to increase their allies. Otherwise, they could never have maintained a country in such an irregular shape."
I shared the same opinion. Someone there must have been incredibly skilled at diplomacy. That is how the country was able to survive in such a form.
"I understand the origins and the territory now. And why the Hein Empire hasn't sent out soldiers."
"Mm. It’s easy to understand why they didn't send soldiers. For the Hein Empire to send troops themselves would mean..."
"They would have to pass through other countries, wouldn't they?"
"Exactly. Even if they see us as a common enemy, they wouldn't easily accept another country's army passing through."
Emperor Yupi was right. If they were to ask other countries for cooperation, they would be taking on significant risks. Moreover, for the Hein Empire to fight against the Zuraburu Great Empire, they would need to cross through multiple nations. They would have to negotiate with many countries, which would normally be difficult.
"The idea of them being the 'leader' is starting to seem suspicious, too."
Yuki-san's words echoed quietly in the silent space. The enemy has their own circumstances. In games, they might ignore diplomatic realities and unite to attack, but in reality, it doesn't work that way.