第１２９６堀：姉妹の近況 (Part2)
"To be perfectly honest, I don't find it ideal. That's precisely why we established the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and implemented the student exchange program, making it accessible to everyone, not just the top brass. For instance, if both Mikos and I were to fall, exchanges between Haiden and Weed would immediately stagnate. We must avoid such a situation. That's why Solo is currently at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, preparing a replacement."
"So, in that sense, this student exchange is essential, isn't it?"
"Yes. Although, it also gives me a reason to see you, my dear sister, so I wouldn't mind if my work wasn't entirely consumed by it."
"You know, you don't have to wait for work to visit me. It's been quite some time since you got married, I wouldn't think of you as someone returning home."
My sister, Kanna, offered a gentle smile. Her kindness was as unwavering as ever. In the past, I sometimes wondered if we were truly sisters, given our different hair colors. But as we talk now, I can clearly see the bond of sisterhood.
"Anyway, to get back to the matter at hand, I'm not the only one being tested, am I?"
"No. I'm currently in negotiations with the Lancer Magic Academy and the country of magic."
"The Lancer Magic Academy, you say? Wasn't that the alma mater of Amanda and Eoid?"
"Yes. It is the highest institution of magical learning on the Continent of If."
"Will they be coming?"
"No, they hold diplomatic positions similar to ours, so I doubt they'll have time to study abroad."
Amanda and Eoid work as dragon riders and escorts, serving as jack-of-all-trades for various nations. While the opening of the gate has reduced their burden, aerial combat power is still highly valuable on the Continent of If. They're constantly flying around, responding to requests for bandit suppression and monster extermination, like goblins.
"What a shame."
"Did you have that much of a connection with them?"
"Not as much as you do, but I was curious about the magical system of the Continent of If. I heard from Lord Yuki that it's quite a harsh place, so I was interested in the environment."
"Ah, I see. In that case, why not speak with the teachers and students from the Continent of If who are coming for the test? That's precisely what the exchange program is for."
"That's true, but it's difficult to find an opening. I thought it would be easier to talk to someone who understands the situation."
"If you dismiss it like that, then what's the point of the exchange program...?"
"Well, that's also true. Lord Taizo is also coming, so you could ask him."
"Um, could you please keep that to your private matters?"
Lord Taizo is a prominent figure in the Holy Kingdom of Hifi, and while I believe he's easily accessible... I'd be troubled if you became too preoccupied with him. I understand your researcher's blood is boiling, my dear sister, but I'd appreciate it if you could exercise some restraint.
"I understand. So, you mentioned a 'country of magic.' What is that? What's its name?"
"Its name is the Country of Magic. It's a nation founded on magic, located on the Continent of Rogari."
"Oh, so it originated in a similar way to Haiden?"
"Yes."
However, the reality is quite different. Unlike us, where Lord Souta from Japan came and introduced magical education, it was the goddess Nonoa who taught them magic. Hmm? In that sense, are they the same? But in terms of educational level, it's astonishing that most commoners can cast Fireball, a basic offensive spell. Well, I suppose the goddess's blessings play a role, but considering that, the goddess's abilities are truly unreasonable. However, if I mention that now, Kanna might argue, so I'll refrain from going into further detail. I'm not exactly free either.
"Sister Kanna, though I hate to leave, I must speak with the Princess regarding your earlier request. I'll take my leave for today."
"Ah, time has flown by. Yes, please give my regards to the Princess. In the meantime, I'll inform the Headmaster of this matter. Come back later to pick up the approval letter."
"Understood."
This part is always a hassle. Normally, the discussion should proceed from the Princess to the Headmaster, then to Kanna. However, to minimize trouble, they've adopted a procedure of first persuading the person who will be doing the actual work. It also makes it harder to refuse if Kanna readily agrees.
...Sigh, I hope the Princess doesn't get angry about me pushing for my sister.
Kagura's older sister. Does anyone remember her? No, even the snowman is a hazy memory. I only recalled her name by rereading it. That's just how human memory works, so don't worry about it. Still, it's important for work, so I should remember.