落とし穴外伝：お酒のついでに (Part2)
"Indeed. Rather than meeting them individually and risking a misunderstanding, it would be better to introduce them collectively. It serves as a subtle warning, too. After all, there’s a distinct possibility they don't even know what a 'Dragonkin' is."
"In truth, I suspect the only people who have ever laid eyes on a Dragonkin are those here in Weed."
"True. It was only after we became involved with Weed that we began to have such frequent contact with humans."
If humans had been able to encounter the Dragonkin with any ease since ancient times, their relationship would surely have evolved into something quite different, and I wouldn't be agonizing over how to handle them now.
However, if we misjudge how to approach this, there is no guarantee that Gaul or Coral won't lose their tempers. Should that happen, my reputation as their caretaker would be utterly shattered. It is best to have Yuki-dono introduce them first and provide a proper explanation.
As we were discussing this, Yuki-dono joined the conversation.
"While we’re on the subject, there’s something I wanted to consult you about—it concerns 'races'."
"Races?"
"Yes. We were just talking about the Dragonkin, but there are many other races out there, and they aren't exactly common sights everywhere. As intercontinental exchange becomes more active, there’s a risk that rare or exotic races might be bought and sold. I want to hear what you know about any races we might be unaware of."
"I see. It is true that rare races are often traded as slaves."
"Hmph. Any fool who tries to make a slave of me or Gaul shall simply be reduced to ash."
"That’s exactly what I want to avoid. It’s best to prevent such trouble before it starts."
"Well, that is only natural. As for the rare races we know of..."
"Yes. I’ve already asked Milly and the others, but..."
Yuki-dono said, casting a glance toward Milly.
"Hmm. About that, Yuki-san... most of the 'rare races' we hear about are just things from literature, folklore, or rumors. We’ve never actually met them."
"For example?"
"Let’s see... *gulp*. There’s the Gem-kin, who have jewels embedded in their foreheads."
Ah, I have certainly heard tales of such a race, but...
"Hmm. I have never met such a race myself. I have heard the name, certainly. What about you, Gaul? Coral?"
I turned my gaze toward the two of them. We had, for the most part, remained sequestered within our own territories, so I doubted they had encountered such rarities. But then again...
"Ah, I’ve met them. I have an acquaintance who is one."
"Oh? I know of them as well."
"Are you serious!? That’s a massive discovery, Onii-san. They’re considered a phantom race."
"It’s incredible. To think we’d get eyewitness accounts so easily."
Oh, how unexpected. To think they had actually met them. Come to think of it, Gaul and Coral had spent time wandering in search of a sanctuary; perhaps they crossed paths during those travels. Unlike me, they possess wings, allowing them to traverse places that would be considered impassable for others.
"Well, I’m surprised you know so much. In that case, I’d like to hear the details tomorrow."
"Understood. If it is for that purpose, I shall spare no cooperation. Though, I do expect appropriate preferential treatment in return."
"I understand that much. For now, let’s just eat and drink."
"Indeed."
And so, we spent the rest of the time drinking and chatting boisterously about these 'rare races'.
Wait a moment. Have I been tricked into giving up information too early?
Drinking and rambling on—it’s a wonderful feeling. Plus, there’s no tab to pay at Yuki’s place, and the bonus of being able to sleep right where you sit!
Honestly, I think I’d like to have a drink myself, for the first time in a while.