第１１９５堀：交流会の結果と目的 (Part2)
"Hmm. The criteria for that judgment are a bit unclear. It’s certainly true that this would be a new stimulus for Hivia. But that also risks exposing Princess Fiora to danger—or, more accurately, putting all of us at risk."
"No, Yuki-san. If you go that far, there’s no end to it."
"Fair point."
As Taiki-kun pointed out, I had been exaggerating the risks, but if I were truly that concerned, I wouldn't be able to do anything at all. Even our current surveillance measures could be considered dangerous.
"That's true. Oh, and since Sota-san is here, that means Mizu is here too, right?"
"Indeed. I am here."
With that solemn reply, a metallic dragon model emerged from the bathwater.
"What do you think about providing further stimulation for Hivia?"
"Hmm. I have heard the talk, but this Princess Fiora... honestly, I cannot say. However, even if it leads to an outcome where Hivia becomes a vengeful spirit, Sota and I are here. And behind us, we have the likes of Amaterasu-Omikami, Akiten, and you, Yuki-dono. There should be no problem. I said as much when we discussed the possibility of contacting Hivia. I understand the caution regarding the safety of our own, but it is exhausting to be asked the same 'obvious answer' over and over again."
Struck by Mizu’s bluntness, I offered a wry smile.
"Come now, Mizu. Even when people know the answer, there’s still that lingering 'what if.'"
"I understand that as well. It simply means it is time to steel your resolve. Though, I suppose you are also concerned about Princess Fiora’s level of skill."
"Exactly. Princess Fiora hasn't been here long. Wazufi and Nairua were students at the academy to begin with, and they’ve been training with Deryu and the others."
That was the biggest concern regarding involving Princess Fiora in the Hivia-related matters.
"Come to think of it, what is Princess Fiora’s actual ability like?"
"Her leveling has only just begun. But she has more practical combat experience than Wazufi or Nairua, so she’s strong in that regard. She can handle minor troubles. But... when it comes to spirits, she’s completely out of her depth."
"That would be expected. I wouldn't even call myself infallible. If even I am like that, I worry all the more for Princess Fiora, who lacks prior knowledge."
"Not knowing is truly a difficult thing, isn't it?"
"In any case, shouldn't we confirm her own intentions first? Even if Sota-san and Mizu-san are there to follow up, if she doesn't want to go, forcing her won't yield any results."
"You’re right, Taiki-kun. If it were Labyris or Deryu, they’d reject it instantly."
Even Labyris, with all her knowledge and power, is still terrified of ghosts. We have a ghost named Noriko in Weed who writes manga, but even now, if she meets someone at night, they scream. Lately, Noriko has been paying attention to her appearance and looks like a normal person, but whenever she manifests, she inevitably ends up looking like something out of a horror film. Incidentally, the children are completely attached to her. After all, she writes picture books quite normally. It always strikes me as absurd to see Noriko earnestly teaching the children that "there are bad ghosts, too."
Hm? Something is...
"Ahaha, well, those two are terrible with ghosts. Even with Noriko-san, it’s not so bad if you meet her during the day, but... hm? Wait a second."
"Come to think of it, we do have Noriko-san."
"We do. That mass of extreme vengeful spirit energy. It’s a mystery how she keeps her sanity."
"That is because she was summoned by Luna-dono; there must be some sort of correction applied to her. How about assigning Noriko-dono as Princess Fiora’s bodyguard?"
"Ah, that’s a possibility. Fighting fire with fire, or rather, ghosts with ghosts. Alright, the plan is set. Let’s finish up in the bath and get on with the after-party."
" " "Yeah!" " "
And so, when we emerged from the bath, the women were already waiting, ready to pounce, and the idea of the men having a relaxing time was completely dashed.
"Somehow, this feels more exhausting than a battle royale."
"Taiki-kun. Don't you dare say that out loud. It’s even harder for Yuki-kun."
"After all, it’s one wife after another. Honestly, the reality is that I don't feel even a shred of envy for being surrounded by such beauties."
"Yes, that is the fate of a popular man."
"Hmm. Even for a god, dealing with women requires great care. Well, do your best."
If you think that, then help me...
The situation with Princess Fiora, Nairua, Wazufi, Orelia, Yayui, and Hobis is fine. With the internal affairs somewhat solidified, I’ll get to work clearing out the remaining tasks.