第１１４９堀：増員の話 (Part2)
"Ah, you're right. I can't deny it. The truth is, I’m long overdue for a break."
Hmm. The fact that I’m surrounded by beautiful women and can’t even react—let alone make a move—is proof enough of that. My honest desire right now is just to have some time off to relax.
With that settled, I head toward the shower and begin washing up.
"That’s why I’m thinking of bringing Princess Fiora of the Dafaio Kingdom into the fold."
"But wouldn't that be difficult unless the water issue is resolved? Besides, didn't you say that princess prioritizes her own country above all else?"
"Yes, I did. But if we keep a firm grip on that aspect, she’ll work properly for Weed, won't she?"
"True. ...Ah, I suppose they’ll be under pressure regarding the water situation as well, so that’s part of it, too."
"Exactly. The fact that we helped them is undeniable. You mentioned offering land as compensation, but if they can solve their national crisis just by leasing land, any country would jump at the chance."
At the time, I had suggested it as a pretext, thinking the other party would hesitate, but I suppose it could be interpreted as them solving their problems simply by leasing out land.
I finish washing and rinse off the soap.
"…I see. I can't possibly handle every single issue myself. So, you're saying I need a dedicated point of contact?"
"Or rather, someone to ensure proper, formal procedures are followed. The fundamental problem right now is the rule-breaking habit of everyone 'relying directly on Yuki.' If we can organize that, it’ll be for the best."
"I see. Well, I can understand that."
We continue our conversation as we slip into the bath.
*Sigh.* This feels good.
"So, Princess Fiora will be the point of contact for the smaller nations. That includes dealing with the mana depletion phenomenon, of course. You’ll only have to handle the truly critical matters."
"And the compensation for the Princess will be the protection of the Dafaio Kingdom?"
"That’s right. And you’ll need to sleep with her and produce children, too. You’re taking up a woman’s precious time, after all. It’ll also prevent any unnecessary women from coming after you in the future."
"…Is that really necessary?"
"Obviously. You’re summoning a princess—even from a small nation—to work for you, so you must pay the proper price. Besides, it would be even more troublesome if the person acting as our liaison started forming marriage ties or relationships with other countries on their own."
"She’s right. It’s a fact that it’s better to bring her into the family."
"Yuki-san, please do your best. We’ll be patient, I promise."
Labyris and Shera are in agreement, too. I suppose that just goes to show how busy and dire the situation really is. Or perhaps the real issue is that I haven't had a proper liaison for the smaller nations until now.
…Well, in this instance, I suppose it can't be helped.
"Understood. I’ll accept that. But what about the other wives—"
I started to say that I needed their consent, but—
"That goes without saying. Everyone is already in agreement. In fact, it’s more of a problem when you get so exhausted that you pass out like you did this time."
"Ah, is that so?"
I mean, I think it’s only natural to be exhausted when you’re pulling all-nighters, but if everyone is on board, then I guess it’s fine.
"Also, while you’re resting, you need to increase the number of direct subordinates who can handle your duties. Unlike Jessica, Cleena, and Samantha, Princess Fiora’s main role will be as a liaison for the small nations, not just as your direct subordinate. It’s different."
"True. Still, the question is where to find them."
My paperwork is primarily handled by Ria, with support from Jessica and the others when they aren't busy with diplomacy, but that’s nowhere near enough. In that sense, Ria is effectively my only secretary. And unlike the 'public proxies' like the one Seraria mentioned, like Quar, I don't have enough staff who can act on my behalf.
"When it comes to that, we can't just pick from anywhere. I think slaves are the best option for your direct subordinates."
"Slaves, huh."
Indeed, in terms of having no ulterior motives, slaves are the best choice. If I were to hire nobles, they’d have all sorts of lateral connections.
"Well, there will be an education period, so we’ll have to take our time with the direct subordinates."
"It’s not like it can be done overnight, either."
There are mountains of tasks I want to delegate. I want to hand off anything that doesn't require my direct presence. It’s problematic for Ria to meet people in my stead, given her secret status as a Hero.
"I understand. I’ll look for some slaves when I have the time."
"Yes. Make sure you go soon. If you’re the one who chooses them, everyone will be satisfied. Besides, I’m looking forward to seeing what kind of girls you pick."
"That’s true. It’ll be the first time Yuki has chosen for himself, after all."
"Yes. I’m looking forward to seeing Yuki-san’s taste."
"My 'taste,' you say... but my wives are my taste."
I highly doubt I’ll be able to feel any lust just by looking at female slaves at this point. Regardless, it seems certain that I have to be the one to select them.
Yuki seems to have accepted the need for more staff. Well, I’d die from the workload otherwise. More than anything, the lack of direct subordinates is the real issue. I have plenty of military power, but the fact that everything is bottlenecked at me is the problem.