第１１９１堀：やるからには全力で (Part2)
"Besides, the outcomes are often difficult to discern. That’s why I strike her—to keep her from doing anything reckless, for Hairen’s own sake. If I didn't, she’d never stop."
Is that so? Then the fact that you raised your hand against her earlier was, in the end, also for Hairen’s sake. And to think Hairen possesses such power...
"That said, she does pull quite a few pranks, and I’d like to put an end to those as well."
"Haha... That does sound troublesome."
Indeed, in that case, leaving her to her own devices is out of the question. Even so, we wouldn't even know how to caution her, so it seems Yuki-sama is stepping in on our behalf.
"That’s the gist of it. When you’re dealing with Hairen, you have to stop her properly, or you’ll get dragged into the mess yourselves, so keep that in mind. And if you can’t stop her, ask Priestess Lilishe; she’ll find a way to handle it. Or perhaps Sota-san or Enol-san from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs."
But why those choices? The only one among them we could possibly 'request' anything of is Lilishe-sama.
"And so, Master. It seems you were defeated by Aslin-sama and the others earlier?"
Ah, that’s right. In the battle just now, Yuki-sama’s team had remained until the very end, but they were ultimately bested by Aslin-sama’s group. We had assumed this was the natural result given our smaller numbers, but for some reason, the wives were voicing their surprise.
"It’s not really a mystery. Aslin and her team simply formulated a strategy and took us down. Man, I never expected there to be a depression in the terrain like that. Luck really does play a part in this, doesn't it?"
"I see. So, Master, you lost due to luck."
"Hey, hey, don't treat me like some invincible superhuman. I’m just an ordinary person."
"..."
That is the one statement we would like to refute with all our might. He has built a magnificent nation where even slaves are never driven with whips, he manages the affairs of state to ensure the people live in greater prosperity and happiness, he oversees our training, and he coordinates with other nations. Even in that fierce battle where everyone was an enemy, he still took second place. Such feats are far beyond the reach of any ordinary person; they can only be achieved by someone with an exceptional foundation.
"It seems Orelia-sama and the others don't believe that at all."
"I’d like them to reconsider that perception. If I were a perfect superhuman, there would have been no reason for me to hire you in the first place."
"Ah."
Until he said that, we had forgotten such an obvious truth. We were bought by Yuki-sama to assist him. That means that no matter how capable Yuki-sama may be, he cannot manage everything alone.
"This applies not just to me, but to Kirika here, to Seraria, and to everyone else. Ah, and to Hairen, too. That’s why we all work hard together. That is what a nation is."
Ah, those words settled deep within my chest. That is correct. A nation of one person does not exist. And if it did, it would surely be a terribly lonely thing.
"Well, everyone is different, so there will be clashes. But taking opportunities like this to talk things over can reveal a lot. So, for now, just enjoy this game and use it as a conversation starter."
Is that what this is? This game is a common topic for us? A chance to talk about many things. That is why we must enjoy this event to the fullest.
"Understood. Then, like Hairen-sama, we shall make a declaration."
"Oh?"
"Yes. While we enjoy ourselves to the fullest, we shall also create some memories."
"Yuki-sama, please be prepared. We are going to win this!"
"Ha, that’s the spirit. If you’re going to do it, you have to win."
"Yes!"
Indeed, it would be a waste to simply stand here nervous in the presence of our master, Yuki-sama, and the dignitaries of Weed and other nations. I felt that in my heart. And it would be just as dull to merely participate for the sake of enjoyment. So, we shall set our sights high. We will win this tournament. We will prove that Yuki-sama was not mistaken in choosing us.
"Though, before we even talk about ability, we don't even have the knowledge yet."
"Then, I’ll teach you as much as I can before the next match."
"That sounds good. I’m looking forward to seeing how well Orelia and the others can do."
"...Nn. I like that resolve. I will teach you, too."
"Young people should be like this. I shall cooperate as well."
"Ho. This is quite an interesting conversation. I would certainly like to join in."
For some reason, many others besides Yuki-sama gathered around us, buzzing with excitement, teaching us tactics, how to act, and the effective use of weapons for the next battle. Yes, if you are going to do something, you should do it with all your might. Enjoying yourself and playing—do it with everything you have.