第１２０６堀：面接幽霊の (Part2)
"Then, confirming Hivia's remains seems surprisingly simple."
"Well, that's assuming the remains are still there. Even if we're lucky enough to find them, I suspect they'd be nothing more than bone."
Honestly, given it’s been over two hundred years, the chances of even bones surviving are slim. Still, knowing how far Hivia had ventured, and the new revelation that there are wyvern zombies in the Great Forest, is vital intelligence. Our surveys up to this point hadn't turned up a single trace of undead. Whether they existed in her time and vanished, or if they only manifest in specific pockets of the forest, we have no choice but to investigate for ourselves.
"Alright. In that case, Hivia, I want you to join the Great Forest survey team. You'll be providing support from the rear, of course. We don't even know if you'll be able to maintain your physical form out there."
"Yeah, I agree with that. Comet, Agil, I'll be counting on you."
"Leave it to me."
"If you know the location, that shouldn't be a problem. Could you give me the details?"
"Sure thing. And let me know the route you're planning to take, Comet. I might be able to offer some advice."
"Sure! Is that alright with you, Yuki?"
Comet turned to me for confirmation. I saw no reason to object.
"Go ahead. Just make sure you coordinate properly and double-check the maps. And Hivia—keep in mind that this is classified information."
"I know, I know. Besides, who’s going to believe a ghost?"
"True enough. Also, if you feel your physical condition or mental state becoming unstable, make sure to talk to Sota, Kagura, Mikos, Enora, or Stasia."
"Huh? Are Mikos, Enora, and Stasia shrine maidens too?"
"Not exactly, but if you're with friends, you'll be more likely to hold onto your sanity even if things start to slip, right?"
I’m usually skeptical about relying on 'bonds' in situations like this, but psychology has proven that being around those you are close to makes it easier to remain calm.
"Ah, I see. I wouldn't want to hurt my friends, after all."
"And Noriko will be staying behind as well. Her origins are a bit unique, but as a senior ghost, you should ask her for advice."
"Wait, really? Noriko-sensei is going to stay with me?"
"That’s why I came here, after all. Besides, I promised to tour the Academy with Fiora, so I’ll be counting on you to show us around then."
"Yes. I was hoping Hivia-san could guide us during the tour."
"Sure thing. Leave it to me."
Good. I’ve secured a guide for Fiora and Noriko. With any luck, we might be able to uncover something about the 'dead points' at the Academy—whether they are tied to Hivia’s will or something else entirely.
"Alright, Hivia, go ahead and iron out the details with Comet and Agil. We’re going to check in with Deryu regarding the situation with Wazfi and Nairua. Should we speed things up?"
"Actually, the opposite. With this new intel from Hivia, we’ll need more time to adjust and coordinate. If Wazfi and the others are ready, have them return to the Academy. There are things we all need to discuss."
"Understood. I’ll pass that along. Right, thank you all for your cooperation. Everyone, get back to your duties."
As I spoke, the members in the room dispersed to attend to their respective tasks. Once the room cleared, I turned to Popuri, who had remained behind.
"Well? Did it go well?"
"Yes. I think this was the best possible outcome. No rampage, no tragic farewells; she’s accepted her own existence and wants to head to Weed as a member of the Academy. Though, it seems our worries—yours and mine—were a bit excessive."
"Heh, if 'excessive' is the worst of it, I’ll take it. But we haven't confirmed she’s completely settled yet, so keep an eye on her while she's at the Academy, Popuri."
"Of course. Leave it to me."
"Well then, I’d love to say that’s a wrap and take a break, but..."
"Hahaha. Well, in this world, nobody gets to rest that easily. Just like everyone else."
After a shared, weary chuckle, I headed back to my own work. Hivia’s motivation was high. Now, I wonder—how exactly will she make her mark from here on out?