第１１５２堀：奴隷を迎え入れる意味とその裏 (Part2)
"Indeed. That is correct. While it is not as though the destitute have vanished entirely, those who remain are simply those who choose not to work; the necessity of relying on slaves has diminished significantly."
It is a tragic reality of the world that such outcasts will always exist. Yet, the fact that fewer people are being worked to death as slaves is a triumph in itself. That is where our focus must lie.
"If I recall, the goal is not merely to use people as slaves, but to utilize them more effectively, is it not?"
"Precisely. It is a sign of the prosperity they have achieved—a luxury of sorts. In the past, they utilized slaves as mere labor, just as we do, but they have successfully transitioned away from that model."
They have ceased treating slaves as cheap, disposable tools for manual labor, instead providing them with wages and integrating them into the circulation of the economy. To say they are simply "distributing money" might sound like mere charity, but it is deeply intertwined with Weed’s educational systems and commercial infrastructure. The former slaves are encouraged to hone their skills, fostering new technologies and cultural developments that further invigorate the economy. Naturally, this also cultivates high-caliber talent, creating what can only be described as a virtuous cycle.
Admittedly, providing education to the entire common populace is a dangerous gamble for any great power, as it risks nurturing the very forces that might one day rise against the state. Few rulers would have the resolve to make such a decision. However, observing the trends in Weed and across the Rogari Continent, it is clear that if we continue to treat slaves as mere property, Zurable will eventually be branded a barbaric nation.
That is why...
"I see. So, by studying the treatment of slaves in Weed, we might be able to reduce the number of those held in such positions within Zurable as well."
"Exactly. We must strive to eliminate unreasonable human trafficking."
"Indeed, that is true. Our objective is not to suggest slaves to Yuki-dono, but to investigate how the status of slaves has evolved."
"Understood."
"We must ensure we do not produce any more fools like myself or that old man."
Beside the Emperor, who spoke these words, Emperor Hans—who had been diligently attending to his duties—looked toward me with a playful glint in his eyes.
"Fools, you say? Perhaps. This old man has dedicated his entire life to this nation, after all."
"Isn't that right? We must change the world so that such people need not exist."
"Still, Yuki-dono... I have met him before, but is he truly a man of such caliber?"
"Well, I shall take you to Weed soon enough. See for yourself. You will witness the vanguard of a new era."
"The vanguard of an era... that sounds like a heavy burden indeed."
"Aye. When the youth are walking toward such a future, we cannot afford to show weakness."
"Heh, that is certainly true."
The two Emperors shared a laugh. So, the Emperor views Weed as the future. That is precisely why he seeks to lend his strength to it. Yuki-dono is undeniably strong—in every sense of the word. But that does not mean we should simply entrust everything to him. These two understand that well. If the youth are leading the way, it is the duty of the elders to provide the support they need. And that includes me.
"Then, I shall depart for Weed."
"Very well. Take care. And do not lose sight of your objective."
"Yes, I understand perfectly."
With that response, I turned and exited the office.
"After all, one mistake could trigger an intercontinental war. That is a future I must avoid at all costs. Though, for the moment, the 'nations' themselves remain quiet..."
Indeed, thanks to the tireless efforts of Yuki-dono and his companions, the continents are prioritizing diplomacy. However, while Yuki-dono managed to suppress the goddess Senal whom we faced during the decisive battle against Hein, it seems there are other divine entities who would bare their fangs at us. Just as the Emperor has been cursed with immortality.
"Gods. Are they our allies, or our enemies? We must discern the truth. That is my greatest concern. Though, from my perspective, any god who seeks to disrupt this peace is nothing more than a destroyer."
I do not know what transpired in their pasts. But I will not permit them to shatter this peace for any reason. Therefore, it is only natural that we join forces with those capable of opposing such deities.
"Yuki-sama. Once you have finished raising those who will serve as your new right hand, what will you do next?"
I muttered the question to myself as I walked down the hallway. Yes, the answer is already clear. To "obtain power" implies that there is an "opponent against whom to wield it." And by his side, he will have Lulua, his benefactor and friend. The Zurable team seems intent on participating as support, and Show seems to feel a debt of gratitude toward Lulua, wishing to assist in that regard as well.
Well, well. It seems Yuki’s simple task of choosing slaves is already turning into quite the commotion.