第１２５５堀：種族の居場所 (Part2)
"Indeed. Well, I've heard that non-humans are treated poorly there, but it's natural that there would be a hierarchy among them. However, we can't have that brought here. Otherwise, some fool might try to take us back as cheap labor," Seraria stated.
It was true that on the continent of If, races other than humans were often viewed with prejudice, considered lesser beings and relegated to the status of slaves. In response to this, villages of demi-humans had sprung up, as well as nations like White Forest, founded solely by demi-humans. However, even these were largely ignored due to the overwhelming population of humans.
Still, with Yuki's intervention and the established relationships with the Rogari continent and the New World, the upper echelons of the major powers on the If continent were gradually beginning to change their approach towards demi-humans. However, whether this shift in perception could truly permeate down to the general populace and the exchange students who would soon arrive was questionable.
"Well, let's make that the first and foremost point of caution regarding the If continent. If they cannot adhere to it, then it's immediate forced repatriation. Furthermore, the sale of slaves from Weed... no, from the Rogari continent will be prohibited," Yuki declared.
"Indeed, that is the best course of action. The remaining issue concerns the common sense of each race..." Rurua began.
"For the most part, I believe it's fine to simply 'adhere to Weed's common sense.' After all, anyone coming to Weed would first be educated on these matters, wouldn't they?" Rock, the Guild Master, suggested.
Indeed, those entering Weed would be thoroughly instructed on the local customs, and provided with pamphlets. Regardless of noble or commoner status, a unified standard of etiquette was enforced, with no tolerance for lawlessness. These were truly basic matters, such as returning greetings, paying for goods, not expecting tips, and using restrooms properly. For nobles, there were also rules about respecting the order of things and the acceptance of proxies. Occasionally, there were still individuals who insisted on priority simply because they were nobles.
"The problem arises with excursions outside of Weed..." Rurua mused.
"For exchange students, it should be prohibited in principle. However, exceptions can be made if the destination country permits it. That is not something Weed can dictate," Yuki replied.
"And the matter of slave trading will be settled separately from the exchange student program, correct?" Rurua clarified.
"That would be best. Furthermore, what if high-ranking officials from various countries question the existence of these 'rare races' that we've mentioned? Will there be fools who deny their existence and claim they are 'just humans' to take them along?" Grand Master asked.
What did he mean by that? We tilted our heads, unable to comprehend Grand Master's words.
"Ah, there is indeed such a possibility. For instance, they might claim that 'gemstone people' don't exist, that they've never seen them, and that these are simply 'humans' adorned with such accessories," Yuki interjected, dropping a bombshell that left us speechless.
"Precisely. We have never seen them either. Even those who claim to have seen them, like Queen Miyabi, Chieftain Gaul, and Lord Coral, are few. If our claims lack credibility, then that's that. If they persist, it would be seen as 'Weed forcibly suppressing them'..." Grand Master explained.
"Which would be a loss of face for Weed, wouldn't it?" Rurua pointed out.
"Indeed. It's a petty point, but if no one has seen them, or rather, if the dignitaries of major powers have never seen them, then how much trust will be placed in Queen Miyabi and the others when they claim these individuals are of such races?" Grand Master elaborated.
Hmm. We understood what he was saying, but that was simply how the world worked. It was truly infuriating.
"...Hmph. Indeed, Grand Master is correct. In that case, we will need to bring the genuine article," Yuki conceded.
"That's right. Well then, for the gemstone people, rock people, and winged people, let's contact Queen Liliana first," Rurua suggested.
"That would be wise. For the Lake of the Saintess, it is recommended to go through the Holy Kingdom of Litea. I will make inquiries, or rather, the Adventurer's Guild will offer its cooperation. Of course, Yuki, you will contact Saintess Alstaire through Rurua," Grand Master added.
"Understood. Well then, shall we... no, that might be too hasty. Let's decide where to go for drinks today," Yuki proposed.
"Oh, now you're talking! What shall we drink and eat?" Rock exclaimed.
"Hmm, I think I'd like some meat," Kina said.
"Kina, you're being too obvious," Rurua chided.
"So what?" Kina retorted.
Despite having just discussed such serious matters, the conversation had swiftly turned to drinks. As we exchanged glances, wondering what to do...
"Hobis, do you all want to eat anything in particular? This is also a chance to get to know Kina and the others better. If we don't go somewhere with food we want to eat, you'll get bored," Rock said.
With that, we had no choice but to join the conversation. While there was likely nothing we couldn't eat, it would be unpleasant to go to a place that served our least favorite foods. After all, such rare races tended to exist in lands rarely visited.