第１１００堀：まずは一安心 (Part2)
"Hmm, was that too difficult? Well, to put it simply, considering all the variables, it’s safest for me to take you under my wing. That’s the long and short of it."
"No, I understand that part. But what do you mean by 'opposing factions'?"
"Look, the Lancer Academy of Magic is the pinnacle of magical education on the If Continent. There are plenty of people who couldn't get in, or who question the necessity of this institution altogether. Think of the Rogari Continent, or the New Continent where Kagura and her companions hail from."
"Ah! I see! Hahaha! That’s brilliant! I never would have thought of that approach!"
Ah. So, Principal Popuri and the others actually do value my talent enough to regret losing it. That’s precisely why they were so adamant about keeping me from falling into the hands of hostile forces.
...Wait, no. Is that right?
"…No, that’s just a convenient excuse, isn't it? I see now—it’s thanks to the Principal, who went to such lengths to help me."
"Exactly. So, be grateful. Given my position, even lending a hand like this is irregular."
"Hahaha, I suppose you’re right. Still, the Principal is soft-hearted, no matter what anyone says."
"Well, she is the Principal. She’s on the students' side. Though, she certainly knows how to bring the hammer down on those who misbehave."
Indeed. Yuki only went this far because Principal Popuri put in a good word for me. If it were truly none of his business, he would have just ignored the situation entirely.
"Anyway, Nairua. You can greet the Principal later. For now, I can't exactly take you in for free."
"Oho, you’ve got a point there."
After all, supporting a single person is a massive undertaking. It’s only natural that there must be some form of compensation. Still...
"But the only thing I have to offer is myself. I have neither status nor money left to my name."
"I don't need that. I already have plenty of wives; I couldn't handle any more, even if I wanted to. Plus, I have children to look after."
"Oh? Isn't it your hobby to gather women and keep them as your harem?"
"Unfortunately, no. If I could live such a carefree life, I would, but that’s not the reality."
At Yuki’s words, the ladies standing behind him nodded in solemn agreement. What could that mean?
"I see. Nairua, you know my official title, but you have no idea what my actual duties entail, do you?"
"Well, I only know you’re the Prince Consort of Weed. I’ve been gathering information solely through my own contacts and efforts. What is it? Is the work of a Prince Consort really that grueling? Can’t you just have your wives behind you help out?"
"They are already helping. Or rather... have you not heard of Kagura and the others' positions?"
"Ah, I arrived right in the middle of class, so..."
"Right. Kagura, everyone, please introduce yourselves properly once more."
"Yes!"
And so, the women who had been standing quietly behind him—the ones referred to as Kagura—formally stated their positions to me.
"Well, the daughter of a baron is one thing... but a princess of the royal family, a duke's daughter, and an active bishop? What kind of combination is this?"
Even I was stunned by the status of his wives. And they were all from competing factions, no less.
"...Anyway, Mikos-chan is the type of girl for whom status means nothing."
"It’s fine. Mikos is incredibly useful. Hey, Nairua, don't bully Mikos."
"Ah, my apologies. I didn't mean anything by it. It’s just, given the status of the others..."
In fact, given their standing, I should be the one trying to get on Mikos's good side. If I were to speak carelessly to the others, I’d likely be facing the executioner's blade.
"So, as you can see, most of my wives—or rather, all of them—are key figures in their respective nations and hold vital posts in Weed. Even then, we are desperately short-handed. With that in mind, adding more nights of intimacy without reducing the daytime workload would be nothing short of a nightmare."
"...Ah, those are words from the heart. Even I can understand that. Wait, if that’s the case, doesn't that mean you’re so busy every day that you don't have a spare second to breathe?"
"Exactly. Every minute and every second counts. This time, I’m visiting at Popuri’s request to confirm the necessity of this academy."
"Necessity? Ah, you mentioned that earlier. The whole 'existence of this place' thing?"
"Correct. So, Nairua, you will eventually come to my side, but before that, you’ll help me prove that this academy is essential. In fact, you’d better—you are the academy’s top student, after all."
"If that’s the case, I’d be happy to lend a hand. Though, I’m not sure what someone like me can actually do."
"We’ll figure that out as we go. For now, let’s head to the Principal’s office so I can explain our positions properly. Popuri is waiting."
"Eh? You’ve already made arrangements?"
"Well, coming with me was the original plan, wasn't it? What’s wrong? Are you thinking of backing out and living as a commoner, or perhaps hiding away in this academy forever?"
*Gulp.*
Indeed, this is the turning point of my life.
"...Did I make the wrong choice from the very beginning?"
"Well, you can think about that once we get out of here."
True. That is certainly an option. Above all else, securing my safety is the top priority.
I’ve secured the talent. Now, whether she becomes truly useful will depend entirely on her own efforts. I wonder if Nairua can survive the working environment of Weed!