第１１０２堀：学生の終わりと始まり (Part1)
**Chapter 1102: The End and Beginning of Students**
Side: Yuki
"…And that concludes the terms of the contract we are proposing. Do you see any issues?"
I directed my question toward Popuri, who was scanning the documents with a serious expression. Strictly speaking, these were contracts for Nilua and Wazfi, but as their guardian, it was essential for Popuri to review them. Regardless, the Academy needed to ensure everything was in order, making her oversight mandatory.
"…Hmm. From what I can see, there are no problems. Though, the real question is whether these two are truly capable—whether they are worth hiring."
Popuri’s concern was only natural. This contract included provisions for Weed to employ Nilua and Wazfi. In short, if they failed to prove their worth, they would receive only the bare minimum compensation. Personally, I would have been happy to support them unconditionally, but I didn't have the confidence to present such a document to Eris and expect her approval. Hence, these conditions. And, of course, I had included a few loopholes…
"Well, even if they lack aptitude for the primary roles, it’s not a problem. We can simply have them serve as exchange students sent from the Lancer Magic Academy to Weed."
Yes, in that scenario, they would fulfill the role of exchange students. They could find their true calling while stationed there. Though, I suspect that concern is entirely unnecessary.
"Ah, I see. That is an option… Still, remember this: you two didn't win your positions through pity, but through your own talents. That is the true meaning of what you’ve learned at this Academy. Never forget that."
"Yeah, I know."
"We get it, really."
Nilua and Wazfi responded to Popuri’s admonition with casual ease. They weren't burdened by the pressure; they were ready to let things unfold as they would. Then again, Nilua had no path to return to, and her personality had been somewhat fractured by her previous circumstances. As for Wazfi, she carried the distinct scent of those research-obsessed lunatics. Well, I’d just have to keep an eye on both of them. It would be the height of cruelty to save them only to cast them aside later. On Earth, abandoning a pet is a crime; abandoning a student is simply unthinkable.
Oh, that reminds me.
"Nilua aside, Wazfi, will you face any trouble from your home country?"
"Hmm? Oh, I’ll be fine, Yuki-sama. Like Nilua, I’m just the daughter of a baron and a concubine. Besides, I came here on my own, and I paid my own tuition. My life is my own to lead."
"I see. That explains why you’re so resilient."
"Hahaha. If you aren't this thick-skinned, you won't survive as anything other than an heir in a baronial house."
"Mhm, mhm. Micos-chan understands that all too well."
Wait, Micos, you’re technically the eldest daughter, aren't you? Ah, right—that region is heavily patriarchal. Micos had no choice but to live in the shadows or be married off. She’s my wife now, of course, so she surely understands that sentiment. In every world, children who cannot inherit must find their own way to survive.
"Actually, Wazfi won't have any trouble with her home country. If she reports her current standing at the Academy, she’ll probably even be granted a title."
"Ah, I don’t need anything like that. I’d just be tied down by noble rules. It would be nothing but a shackle on my research. Besides, they’d definitely interfere, so just like Nilua, I’d like to keep my origins hidden. Please."
"In that case, are you sure there won't be any issues? I’ll ask which country you’re from, just in case. It’ll be easier to provide support if something happens."
"Oh, if that’s the case, I’d be happy to tell you. I’m from the Zilba Empire!"
Wait, Zilba? If the Emperor finds out, he might start making demands… Hmm, should I handle this diplomatically? Doing it behind their backs feels like a recipe for trouble. I’ll consult with Jessica later. As for Wazfi, she has no attachment to her homeland. That’s probably the right call. If that Emperor knew, he wouldn't let such talent go to waste. I should prepare for potential friction with her family. I’ll keep that in mind.
"Alright, for the time being, you’ll stay in Weed as exchange students while you look for work. Now, sign these contracts."
I placed the documents in front of them. Once signed, the deal was done. It felt surreal to be drafting employment contracts even in another world, but a contract is a contract, regardless of the realm.
"Well? If you have no objections, sign them."
"Yes."
"Okay!"
Prompted by Popuri, they both reached for their pens, but their hands froze mid-air.
"What’s wrong, you two? Is there something you don't understand?"
"No. Headmistress, thank you for everything up until today."
"Yes. Thank you so much for doing all this for us, even though we’ve only ever caused you trouble."
The words of gratitude were delivered without a hint of hesitation. To my ears, their feelings were pure and unclouded—a sincere, heartfelt message to Popuri.
"…What a thing to say. Here!"
*Whack!*
Popuri looked like she might tear up for a second, but she quickly broke into a smile and slapped them both on the back. The sound echoed through the room.
"Ouch!?"
"Don't you dare think that a single 'thank you' clears the debt of the trouble you’ve caused me. You are to remain in my debt forever, and you will keep thanking me for the rest of your lives."
"Wait, isn't that a bit tyrannical?"
"Yeah, seriously."
"Hah. You think this is the end? Your lives have only just begun. Leaving this place isn't the finish line; it’s the start of something new. Besides, signing this contract doesn't mean you’re off to Weed immediately. Depending on how you work from here on out, you could still be rejected. So, save your thanks for when you’re officially hired."
Hahaha, that’s so like Popuri. Lara was smiling, and Kagura and the others were wearing wry smiles, but no one denied it. Because there wasn't a single lie in her words. This was, indeed, just the beginning.
"You heard her. Now, to get started, sign the papers and take your first step into society."
"…Somehow, hearing it put that way makes it feel terrifying…"
"…Yeah. Did we rush into this?"
"Come on, write! It would be embarrassing to come all this way and not sign. Hurry up! Once you sign, I’ll personally put you through some special training, you young pups!"
At her shout, they quickly scribbled their signatures. It was a bit anticlimactic, but that was just how they were. Then again, Popuri’s own master was… well, let’s just say she was the type to cause trouble wherever she went.
"Now that the papers are signed, let’s talk about your work."
"Straight to business, then."
"I’ve been waiting! So, what should I do?"
"Nilua, you’ll be working with Kagura and the others, assisting with the exchange student program."