第１０８５堀：報告と対処 (Part2)
"It's no different from when you came to Weed and explained things to us. Just as we sought a fundamental solution rather than merely a water supply back then, this current discussion isn't just about reporting; it's about deciding how to respond at each stage."
"Ah, I see. Indeed, I believe we've been making some assumptions on our end."
"Yes, that's right. And the same goes for us. We might also be presuming that you can handle things on your own."
Unless we align our understanding on such points and devise a response manual, the field will fall into chaos.
With that in mind, we meticulously decided on the extent of potential malfunctions, whether repairs should be handled in the Dafai Kingdom or if contact with Weed was necessary, and where repair materials should be stockpiled, among other minute details.
However, unforeseen circumstances are bound to occur. In such cases, we agreed that they should contact us without hesitation.
Later, this will be formally documented and compiled into a manual.
Hah, it's tough that in this world, simply 'providing aid' isn't enough.
Still, I suppose it can't be helped, given that we're hiding a dragon.
Above all, we constantly monitor the water device and collect data, so what exactly caused a malfunction can be easily recorded. This means that if it were just Weed, this level of response wouldn't be particularly meaningful.
But this is, after all, another country. We must ensure they save face.
Just now, I felt the need to help them save face regarding the construction, but having to be so considerate about this water supply and maintenance is quite troublesome.
No, perhaps I should think of it this way.
It's better that we're solving the problem at all.
Normally, resolving a water shortage or slaying a dragon would be impossible. It's more constructive to be glad that we possess the ability to solve such issues.
"…It's been a long discussion, but the investigation report and the confirmation of the water source's status are complete."
"Thank you. With this, I can deliver good news to my father, to the kingdom."
"However, please be aware that it's not yet fully resolved."
Yes, I hate to dampen your spirits, but it's not truly resolved yet.
We've only blocked the tributary of the reservoir that Coral created; it's not yet certain that the river's water volume will truly return.
I wouldn't want you to misunderstand that point.
If an imprudent report is made, there will be those who later complain that nothing was resolved at all.
"Yes, I understand that fully. Then, as I believe there will be some time until the construction site's safety is secured, I would like to return to the Royal Capital once with the investigation team's belongings. Would that be acceptable?"
"Yes. Then, how should we handle communications regarding supplies?"
"If I have returned, please contact me. If not, please contact my adjutant."
With that, Princess Fiora exited the conference room and began preparations to return to the Royal Capital.
"Phew. We managed to get through that. So, Shouu, how do you evaluate our handling of things so far?"
I asked Shouu, who had been listening to the entire conversation beside me.
I wanted to hear the opinion of the Great Imperial Advisor, a source of pride for the Zuraburu Empire.
"Hmm. Honestly, it's difficult to evaluate."
"So, it's not something you can evaluate?"
"Yes. On the surface, it's certainly fair to say that you've resolved the Dafai Kingdom's issues, but what you're concealing is, in a sense, a ticking time bomb. The fact that you're keeping the dragon a secret from the Dafai Kingdom is a delicate matter."
"To be honest, it seems like it would cause a lot of trouble if we told them directly."
"Yes, I understand that. However, if it comes out that Weed concealed and took away a dragon that was in the Dafai Kingdom, that will become a problem in itself. Those who are envious won't imagine the risk that the Dafai Kingdom might have been attacked and suffered damage if the dragon had remained."
"Ah, I see, that angle. Indeed, from an outsider's perspective, it could be interpreted as us unilaterally recruiting the dragon and bringing it into our ranks."
"Precisely. It could also be seen as extracting a dragon, a military asset, without the Dafai Kingdom's permission. While a creature like a dragon is usually incredibly difficult for an ordinary country to even repel, let alone control, if it's known that you already have ties with the Dragon Village and have brought in another dragon… when Coral's existence is revealed…"
"So, the deterioration of relations with smaller nations is unavoidable?"
"Yes. You should definitely consider how to handle that. And perhaps you should tell the Dafai Kingdom the truth when the opportunity arises. If you don't, things will become even more complicated if it's revealed. Even if it's post-facto consent, if it's known that you at least communicated with the Dafai Kingdom, troubles should be somewhat mitigated."
"…You're right. Shouu, I appreciate your valuable insights."
"Not at all. I apologize that I couldn't offer a proper proposal, only opinions for reference."
Shouu bowed his head as he said this, but I thought, 'Indeed, he lives up to his title as Great Imperial Advisor.'
All my wives were impressed as well.
Well then, it seems I should have a serious talk with Coral about this.
Dragons aren't simply meant to be defeated.
While a hero unilaterally slaying one might make for a heroic tale, it also redraws the geopolitical map, leading to various complications.
Think of it as what someone in charge of an RPG world has to deal with.