第１２７４堀：海へ出る目的 (Part2)
"Think nothing of it. As I said before, the sea is a den of monsters, so the notion that 'an enemy might come from across the ocean' never even crossed my mind. Regardless, cooperation with the Weed Navy is paramount when it comes to any 'threat from the sea.' With that in mind, Yuki-dono, could you relocate your aircraft carrier?"
"I'd like to say yes, but that’s a matter that requires thorough discussion. We have the defense of Aurelia Port to consider, after all."
"Indeed, you are right. We shall need to convene a formal meeting. Show, gather the generals. We must discuss our defensive posture."
"At once. I shall select those well-versed in maritime affairs, with General Wave at the center."
"Hmm. That is certainly necessary, but I believe we should also confirm if there are any others who wish to venture out to sea once more."
"Understood. Now that we have unified with the Hein Empire, such measures are indeed required."
"Quite. I had intentionally kept them separate until now, but perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to integrate them and forge a new legion."
Indeed, for Zurable, this would mean the establishment of a new military force. It is clear that such a thing will be essential for the future of the Great Zurable Empire. I had been pondering how best to draft the documents for this matter, but...
"So much for the sea, then. What of the Goddess? That, too, is a matter of concern for me."
"Indeed. Was it Senal? I heard rumors that the mastermind who incited those fools, or perhaps their remnants, might still be at large?"
"That, too, is a work in progress. We can't afford to have them meddling in our affairs, either. Though, I have been told by the person in question that they are no longer around..."
"To take that at face value would be unwise. Well, I shall leave that to you. Besides, you will come to our aid if the worst should happen, will you not?"
"That is what allies are for."
That, at least, is a great source of comfort. When all is said and done, the knowledge that Yuki and the people of Weed will stand with us provides an immense sense of security. Of course, one must never let their guard down, but even if it were a god, there are few who could stand toe-to-toe with Weed and hope to survive.
"Well, in any case, we are just getting started. Trouble is an inevitable companion to change. Especially since the Great Zurable Empire has only just brought the Hein Empire to heel. It would be wise to assume we shall face more turbulence than other continents."
"I am well aware of that. That is precisely why we have the exchange student program."
"And it serves as a threat, too—that any internal rebellion would be crushed with ease."
Yes, this exchange student program is also intended to spread the influence of Weed throughout the territories of the Great Zurable Empire. With such a 'superpower' as an ally, surely no one would dare raise a banner of revolt. As a deterrent, this program is indispensable.
"If Senal’s testimony warrants it, I may have to head out for an investigation again..."
"That goes without saying. You have my full permission to go whenever you require."
"Yes. That is the purpose of this program, after all. Explaining and persuading those who know nothing of Weed is a tedious affair."
"Indeed. Once the program is fully underway, those matters should become much easier."
"Understood. Well, we’ve finished the operational trials; all that remains is to have the various nations review it and begin accepting students."
"I see. And how is the selection process for our students proceeding?"
"At present, the numbers are small, so we have completed the selection via recommendations alone. We intend to implement testing for wider intake once the scale of the program expands."
"Hmm. That seems prudent. Yuki-dono, do you have any objections?"
"None at all. Though, keep in mind that other nations are looking to send their 'high-born' children, so we will need to take that into account."
"True. This is the inaugural exchange program, after all. Nations have their pride to consider. Show."
"Understood. I shall make the necessary adjustments with that in mind."
Now, if only there were a young person capable of handling such nuances... Hmm. This may prove to be a more difficult challenge than I anticipated.
It appears the reason for the recent naval buildup was to open routes for domestic stabilization. However, one cannot help but wonder if that is truly the extent of it.