第１２３１堀：帰る時にはなぜかお土産で荷物が増えることがある (Part2)
As I was pondering this, Stasia, who hails from the same continent, chimed in.
"That would be a tall order, but it is precisely where they should demonstrate the authority and power of a great nation. For instance, if there is any arrogant behavior within Weed, they should be subject to beheading, clan demotion, or, in extreme cases, the nation itself should be held accountable."
I see. Indeed, using one’s power precisely in such moments is one way to handle it.
However, the decision rests with the leaders of each nation.
There are international relations to consider, and even within a country, if you carelessly neglect those beneath you, it could easily spiral into civil unrest.
Well, that’s not a judgment for us to interfere with.
"That’s true. The damage to the reputation of the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance caused by behavior in Weed is something that must be avoided at all costs—far more than worrying about the families of the exchange students. I’ll have the Archbishop of the Haire Church issue a recommendation. Or rather, it might be better for the Haire Church to issue a formal proclamation."
"Oh, that’s a good point. The Haire Church has branches in every country, so wouldn't that work well?"
Oh, Enola’s idea wasn't bad at all.
Indeed, the Haire Church is the largest denomination in this New Continent, and even after the incident with those fanatics, its foundation remains unshaken.
While they have certainly lost some trust, thanks to their previous activities, people seem to recognize that the fanatics were an anomaly.
Couldn't we do the same with the Litia Holy Church in Rogari, and the Enaria or Hifie Churches on the If Continent?
I’ll suggest it when we get back.
"Yeah, that’s a good plan. So, we gather those who have received permission and recommendations from their countries, and the Haire Church conducts the testing all at once?"
"I believe that is a sound proposal. Though, the testing methods would need to be discussed with each country... Ah, we should also coordinate with the great powers of the other continents. It would be problematic if the standards were too disparate between continents."
"That’s certainly true. Even if differences in talent are unavoidable, we need to standardize basic etiquette and common sense, or else trouble will break out between the exchange students themselves."
Well, etiquette and common sense vary from country to country to begin with, and there will be students who understand that and those who don't.
That is precisely why it’s best to establish basic rules for studying abroad and teach them in advance.
"Alright. Understood. That also needs to be discussed. Is it reasonable to wait until that’s decided before welcoming Fusola and the other test candidates?"
"Indeed. Taking them there while nothing is decided—I wouldn't say it’s meaningless, but it certainly wouldn't be efficient."
With that, we spent the rest of the journey discussing the future, eventually returning to the town of Aoku.
Since we were traveling by horse this time, there were no unexpected delays, and the Viscount, having heard of our arrival through a messenger, had come out to the edge of town to greet us.
Well, the issue wasn't that...
"Yuki-sama! I’m going to Weed! I’ll go with you when you return!"
"Excuse me?"
Fusola, having spotted me, came bounding over with her eyes sparkling as she declared this.
I couldn't help but wonder what on earth she was talking about.
"That’s great, Fusola-chan."
"Oh, it’s going to be fun."
"Yes! Aslin-onesama, Filia-onesama!"
At the welcoming words of Aslin and Filia, she immediately drifted over to them, chatting away happily.
Man, I know they’re close, but I can’t help but feel like I’m being left behind.
As I was thinking this, the Viscount hurried over to me.
"I am overjoyed at your safe return. And please, accept my apologies for Fusola’s rudeness."
"The journey was comfortable thanks to the guards you arranged, Viscount. Please, don't worry about Fusola-san. It’s better for a child to be that energetic. But, what was that about?"
When I asked, Viscount Kinao wore a look of apology...
"They say you should send a beloved child on a journey, and since you mentioned that visiting would be acceptable, she insisted that she must go..."
"So, you were pressured into it?"
"Yes. Furthermore, I have a brazen request: would it be possible for her family to accompany her as well?"
"I see. It would be reassuring if her family were with her."
I had thought it would be a hassle if it were just the Viscount and his daughter, but it seems that won't be the case.
"But, what about going together on the return trip?"
"Yes. We have received word from Zufuia that there are no objections, and since one should strike while the iron is hot, we decided to proceed."
Well, that makes sense. Or rather, they probably have orders to strengthen the ties, so there’s no reason to refuse.
Besides, if we don't take them now, it will just lead to more tedious paperwork later.
Considering that, this might be the optimal solution.
"And the preparations?"
"They will be complete by tomorrow, so if you could kindly wait until then..."
"Understood. I will contact the country as well."
And so, it turned out that our luggage would be increasing on the way home.
Traveling really does consume money and increase your baggage, doesn't it?
A wooden sword from a school trip was a dream of mine, though I never actually managed to buy one.
Is there anything you’ve ever decided to buy and bring home from a trip?