第１００６堀：報告あり (Part2)
"Indeed. While the benefits to Weed itself are beyond estimation, it is likely done out of consideration for us, the Zuraburu. Even if the higher-ups are aware of the circumstances, those below are almost entirely ignorant. Moreover, if we were to tell them that there exists a nation superior to our own, it could destabilize our country. It is not something that can be easily trusted."
"True. That is precisely why one tends to underestimate the opponent. We ourselves grew by exploiting that very weakness, yet here we are, troubled by that same arrogance."
That was the same for us, too.
When I received the report that the Second Front Army led by Vol had been routed, I thought it was utter nonsense.
I knew the Gusdo Kingdom lacked such military strength, and more than anything, I didn't want to admit the impossible reality that our nation's pride—our front army—had suffered a catastrophic defeat.
If even I, who stand at the top, felt this way, it is no wonder my subordinates were skeptical.
"This issue is two sides of the same coin. The larger a nation becomes, the more it trusts in its own power and security, wanting to believe it is the greatest. After all, that is what makes a country a place where its citizens can live in peace."
"That is sound logic. Nevertheless, if we continue like this, we will eventually be tripped up. Things went well with Weed, but such luck cannot last forever. Perhaps we should ask Weed for their thoughts on such matters."
"That would be wise. Though, I can already predict the answer that will return."
"Oh? And what kind of words do you think will come?"
"Most likely, 'I treat every nation equally.' Not in the sense of making diplomatic relations equal, but in the sense of responding to envoys from any nation without discourtesy."
"Ah, I see. Not treating them poorly just because they are an unknown or small nation, is that it?"
"Exactly. To do otherwise would be the height of national arrogance. Well, there will certainly be those who weave lies and seek to deceive us for profit, but that can be verified later. Even if the other party is rude, we should respond with sincerity and then lodge a formal protest afterward."
"Do not resort to poor conduct from the start. I see. Well, that is only natural."
What Shau is saying is the fundamental basis for interacting with others.
One must not look down on or elevate an opponent based on prejudice, but rather treat them properly as a guest.
"Often, it is the great powers that become unable to do that. Pride, face, arrogance, and complacency—these things intertwine to rot the nation from within, creating enemies both abroad and at home."
"Like the Hain Empire..."
"Yes. Although, General Wave of the Hain Imperial Navy was quite reasonable."
"Well, no matter how much a nation declines, there exist true warriors whose core remains unchanged. That reminds me—has that General Wave returned to his home country yet?"
That reminded me of the fools who attacked the Gusdo Kingdom, which is governed by Yuki.
General Wave was indeed a reasonable man, but it is impossible to do anything when those around you are idiots.
After taking those people back, what kind of response did they face in their home country?
"No, I am not aware of that matter. Originally, it is Yuki who keeps track of the movements of the Hain Imperial fleet."
"Ah, now that you mention it, that is true."
We had ceded Aurelia Port to Yuki, after all.
And Yuki and his companions had already handled those negotiations.
"If I recall the information from Yuki’s side correctly, they predicted it would take nearly two months of sailing."
"Two months, you say. In that case, is it about time?"
"Yes. It has been about two months since the Hain fleet appeared at Aurelia. I believe it is time for some movement."
"Then, this is perfect. The Information Management Bureau is connected to this radio, is it not?"
I cast my gaze toward the radio placed before me.
"Yes, that should be the case. Although, we have yet to conduct a live operational test..."
"It’s a good opportunity. While the main purpose is for them to contact us, there may be times when we need to issue instructions from here. Let us see if they have been training properly under Firia’s guidance."
Thinking this, I reached for the radio...
『This is the Information Management Bureau. This is Officer Magnu. Please respond.』
"Oh, what is it? This is Yupia."
"Your Majesty, your response is incorrect. That will lead to suspicions of impersonation."
"Ah, that’s right. Just a moment, I’m in the middle of paperwork."
This was the secret password that served as proof of my identity.
『Confirmed. First, we have received information from Lady Firia. It seems Weed has received a communication from the Hain Imperial fleet that was heading from Aurelia back to its home country.』
Oh, how convenient—it seems they have begun to move on their end as well.
I looked toward Shau, urging him to continue.
Now, what exactly is happening within the Hain Empire?
They say speak of the devil and he shall appear; is the situation finally beginning to unfold?
What kind of information did Yuki and his group obtain?