第１０６５堀：ことが終われば次がある (Part2)
"Yes. With my belly this big, I can't exactly go out and about."
"Mm. Leave the book reading to me."
"Leave it to us. First, we must get everything properly categorized."
Truth be told, I’d prefer my wives, who are nearing their due dates, to spend their time resting at home, but they told me that would only stress them out more.
And so, I’ve tasked them with organizing the backlog of books and conducting research.
Of course, it’s not a task they could finish on their own, so I’ve also had the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance’s joint research team for the magic depletion phenomenon—which finally launched recently—pitch in.
They have the numbers, at least. Besides, document research is their specialty; human-wave tactics are perfectly viable here.
Well, I can’t show them the classified documents of the Zurabul Empire, but I have to keep circulating whatever is safe to share, or this will never end.
"So, Stasia. I recall there was talk of a goblin village in a corner of that continent. What’s the status on that?"
"Oh? Ah, you mean that. Yes. I’ve already made contact. They said there’s no problem with us visiting. They did mention they wouldn't be able to provide much in the way of hospitality, though."
"I see. You managed to sort that out properly. It would be rude to keep them waiting too long. I’ll head over there soon. I’ll be stopping by Findar on the way, so pass along my regards."
"Yes, understood."
Next, I have to keep moving forward with the investigations into the magic depletion phenomenon in the various countries where things have stalled.
"Comet, any developments on the If Continent?"
"Nothing much over here. Though, the White Forest might be worth a look. The northern region is mostly uninhabited, and it’s covered in snow for more than half the year. We only scrambled to set up a hideout there back in the day, so there’s a possibility there’s more to it."
"True. Then, let’s send a request for cooperation to the White Forest."
"Got it. I’ll handle that from my end."
"And what about the Lancer Magic Academy, the central hub for magic accumulation? Popuri, any issues there?"
"Yeah, it’s fine. No problems. The thinning-out process is going well so far. The Betz sword users are helping out, after all."
"I see. That’s good to hear."
The biggest concern on the If Continent is the mountain in the center of the continent where the Lancer Magic Academy is located.
Magic accumulates there, and there’s no telling when a monster outbreak might occur.
Extreme caution is required.
Not only that, but it’s also an ideal location for investigating the magic depletion phenomenon.
"Well, leaving us aside, what about the Rogari Continent, where Weed is located? Specifically, what’s happening with Dragon Mountain?"
"Gaur, the village chief, is still enjoying Weed to the fullest alongside the High Elf Queen, Miyabi. If I have the time, I want to ask him about the magic depletion phenomenon. And I need to ask about the 'Evil Dragon' as well."
I need to verify the existence of the dragon that appears in stories—the one said to attack nations and be called a disaster.
"Zargis, have you heard anything about that from Chief Gaur?"
"No, I haven't had the time to look into that. I’ve been occupied with compiling data from the various observatories and crafting tools. Besides, matters regarding the village chief and Queen Miyabi are more within Queen Seraria’s purview than mine."
"Ah, now that you mention it, you're right. Seraria, how are things on that front?"
"Unfortunately, I haven't done anything of the sort. Well, there are requests to export luxury goods, but that’s the same for every country. As for me, I’m doing my usual diplomacy. I’ve been so tied up with the Zurabul Empire’s movements lately that the paperwork has really piled up."
So, no movement on the Rogari Continent either.
It seems I’m left with dealing with the mountain of usual work.
Man, being a queen with so much work is tough. As I was thinking that like a bystander, Qual dropped a bombshell.
"Regarding Your Majesty's work, there have been numerous requests from people who wish to have an audience with Yuki-sama as well."
"You’re quite the popular one, aren't you?"
"…*Sigh*. First things first, I suppose. The magic depletion research is important, but we need to start by clearing out the backlog of work."
"Yes!"
In the end, even when the busy work is finished, the same old busy daily life just returns.
Honestly, more than anything, the idea of people wanting an audience with me gives me the chills.
There is no such thing as being able to relax just because something big has ended.
After one job, another is waiting.
That’s just how the world works.
Just like a snowman who keeps on writing forever!
I wonder when I’ll ever get a break.