第１２６５堀：ためらいと決断 (Part1)
Chapter 1265: Hesitation and Decision
Side: Yuki
"Phew..."
With the meeting on countermeasures against hostile factions successfully concluded, I finally had a moment to breathe. I let out an involuntary sigh and settled back into my office chair to organize my thoughts.
The investigation into the magical power depletion phenomenon across the various continents remains in a holding pattern for now. Or rather, expanding the investigation is effectively impossible. We simply lack the personnel. For the time being, we have no choice but to continue with the current staff, chipping away at the problem bit by bit. The base we built on the snowy mountain, towering between the Haiden and Zrable regions, has also been left to its own devices.
*Ah, come to think of it, I forgot to ask about that place.*
Remembering this, I re-checked the data I received yesterday, and sure enough, the information on the Great Mountain Range was included. But, as expected, there was no fluctuation in the readings there either. It seems the situation with Hylen’s barrier remains unchanged...
"Well, we can't increase the headcount for the current investigation. That much is certain. Instead, we’ll implement the exchange student system to expand the scope of our reach."
Yes, the exchange student system is meant to raise awareness of the magical depletion phenomenon across the nations, encouraging them to conduct their own active investigations while simultaneously allowing us to travel to those countries with ease. This isn't an unnecessary detour; it’s a shortcut. That is precisely why I cannot afford to let hostile factions drag their feet or sabotage our efforts.
Fortunately, the exchange student system itself has been welcomed by every nation. Today’s meeting successfully addressed the risks posed by the covert activities of these hostile groups, and all nations have agreed to the plan. After all, this offers them a potential way to deal with the nuisances lurking within their own borders. Normally, admitting that one cannot even handle criminal organizations within one's own country would be a source of shame, but since they aren't directly involved, they won't be held responsible. More importantly, considering the internationalization of these enemy organizations, the cost is considered a bargain.
Of course, there will likely be fools who try to pull strings from the shadows to inflict damage on us or their rival nations, but the members of the major powers, who are aware of my abilities, have told me to handle those types along with the rest. In other words, the major powers intend to use this to secure their own status even further.
That said, if the betrayal originates from within a country, we must impose fines or other penalties. If we don't, the nation won't be able to save face. We have yet to discuss the specific rules, but we have taken a step forward.
"The only thing left is the number of exchange students. That will determine the scale. They’ve left that entirely up to us, but... it’s a question of how many we can actually manage."
Incidentally, regarding the countermeasures against the hostile factions, the plan is for each country to gather intelligence and bring it to a later meeting. In short, the countermeasures cannot progress until the exchange student system is somewhat up and running. That is why I have to decide on the numbers, but...
It’s late to be asking this, but I find myself wondering if this was truly the right choice. It is an act that puts my wives, my children, and the people living in Weed at risk. Even if I decide not to conduct these operations within Weed itself, there is no guarantee that Weed will remain safe. I know that, but does that mean I should be the one to actively invite danger? Is it my place to make such a decision?
"Yuki-sama, are you alright?"
"Hmm. Yuki, your face is more troubled than usual."
I looked up to see Samantha and Cleena standing nearby, peering into my face with concern.
"Was I looking that troubled?"
"Yes. Very much so."
"Hmm. Without a doubt."
Beyond the two of them, Fiora, Orelia, and the others were nodding in agreement.
"I see. Well, this plan involves bringing the threat into Weed’s sphere, after all. Normally, one wouldn't intentionally invite danger into their own home, so perhaps that’s what’s weighing on me."
As I said this, I rubbed my face. It isn't exactly becoming for a husband or a leader to wear an expression that worries his wives and subordinates.
"Is that what it is? It certainly is quite unusual, isn't it?"
"Hmm. For Yuki, Weed is home. Bringing enemies into it is definitely rare."
As they said, I have always operated on the principle of ensuring safety, minimizing damage, and maximizing results. That was the norm. Or rather, who in their right mind would willingly invite criminals into their own home? As I pondered this again, Cleena added:
"But, people have been coming here from elsewhere for a long time, and there have always been various problems. That’s all. Yuki, you don't need to overthink it. We can all work hard together. This is just another day."
"Cleena-san is right. Yuki-sama is kind, so you always do your best to ensure no one suffers. However, Weed is not something that will always be protected from the sidelines. You have raised us, Yuki-sama, and raised yourself, so that we could be independent. I believe it is time to trust in that. Right, Orelia and everyone?"
When Samantha asked them, the three of them nodded.
"Yes. It is a significant undertaking, but I do not believe Weed will be defeated by it."
"That’s right~! We won't let anyone do as they please with the Weed that Yuki-sama and all of us have built!"
"Y-yes! They are right! We will help you, Yuki-sama!"
Oh, I see. They have their resolve. No, I should have known that from the moment they showed their determination to follow me. The same goes for those who chose to come and live in Weed. Since they decided to live in this land, they must have been prepared for the risks that come with it.
"Hmm. Besides, we wives have supported this strategy. So, you should do it with full confidence."
"Indeed. Please leave the backup to us. That is why we are here."
That’s right. I’ve already received their permission. To hesitate and stand still now would be the same as failing to trust my wives. Then, there is nothing left to do but act.
That’s right. Since I am using my home as bait, I will absolutely expose and crush every last one of those hostile organizations. I will do it with that resolve. Isn't that what I said from the very beginning?