第１３１３堀：総合庁舎の現状 (Part1)
Chapter 1313: The Current State of the General Government Building
Side: Fiora
I am currently overcome with emotion.
I knew that when the Master first began, he had built and managed the dungeon entirely on his own, but hearing about the monsters who supported him during those early days—specifically, the recollections of his conversations with General Steve of the Goblins—has been eye-opening.
The content was, as I recall, about budgets and similar matters, but it clearly illustrated that even the Master had a humble beginning.
I had never been able to shake the image that Yuki-sama, having arrived as an emissary of the gods, must have had some measure of leeway from the very start.
Well, I suppose compared to others, he did have an advantage, but the idea that he had no choice but to utilize mere goblins as his subordinates is truly beyond imagination.
In terms of military assessment, a goblin’s combat strength is calculated at one-tenth that of a regular soldier.
In other words, it takes ten goblins to equal the strength of a single regular soldier—a truly dismal evaluation.
This means that Yuki-sama’s initial military force was not even comparable to a small army; it was barely equivalent to a few farmers.
To think that he repelled high-level adventurers like Mauve and his party with such forces—the level of difficulty must have been astronomical.
Furthermore, the idea of enhancing their combat capabilities through education is equally surprising.
I suppose he simply lacked any preconceived notions.
Wait, now that I think of it, the Master once said that he found it fun to take the weakest monsters and turn them into the strongest.
Perhaps that was the pride he held?
Regardless of the reason, General Steve, who walks before us now, is considered to possess combat power in warfare that exceeds even the wives.
With his firearms for long-range attacks and heavy bombardment capabilities, one can only agree with that assessment, though for those of us who rely primarily on swords, spears, and bows, it brings only a wry smile.
The generals themselves often complain that they dislike such "outdated" weapons.
I, too, wondered what they were talking about at first.
As I was lost in these thoughts, we arrived at the General Government Building, the heart of Weed’s administration and governance.
This is the nerve center where the management of the residents and the kingdom’s finances are handled.
There are many systems here that I hope to introduce to my homeland of Dafaio someday.
And what met my eyes there was…
"Master. It is surprisingly crowded."
"Indeed. I didn't expect to see people standing and waiting..."
The waiting area for the Resident Services Division was overflowing—well, perhaps not overflowing, but there were enough people that some were unable to find a seat.
There were women holding children and others in the late stages of pregnancy. I was just about to instruct Orelia and the others to bring over some chairs from somewhere when the staff appeared carrying sofas.
Phew, it seems they are functioning properly, which is a relief.
Just as I was feeling reassured…
"Alright, while we’re at it, let’s check on the health of those waiting. We can at least do that, right?"
That was true. Since they were being made to wait, some might be feeling unwell.
"Yes!"
The Master made the decision instantly, and we replied immediately, approaching the area.
The staff members, upon seeing the Master, looked startled and immediately snapped to attention.
Well, it is only natural for them to react that way when the country’s number two appears, but because they stopped so abruptly, the waiting residents tilted their heads in confusion, wondering what was happening.
"There is no need to be so stiff. Please, continue your work. Everyone, I apologize for the wait. We are bringing in more chairs now, so please take a seat. Also, is anyone feeling unwell? Especially you, the expectant mother and the children—are you alright? It must be difficult to stand for so long."
Before anyone else could move, the Master took the lead, showing concern for the residents.
The residents were stunned at first, but the pregnant woman who had been addressed seemed to snap back to reality.
"Oh, yes. N-no, I, I’m fine! I am honored to be spoken to by you, Yuki-sama!"
It seems she recognizes the ruler of the country.
In Weed, we do use photographs to explain who the dignitaries are, after all.
While some may not remember, it is heartening to see those who do. However, she immediately tried to kneel on the spot, only to be supported by the Master.
"Ah, there is no need for that. Here, bring the sofa over."
"Yes."
Orelia, who was nearby, took the sofa from the staff and set it up immediately, helping the pregnant woman sit down gently.
"It might be the proper etiquette for nobles, but consider me an exception. Besides, with wives and children present, I’d like to reduce the burden on everyone."
"O-oh, yes."
The pregnant woman nodded, looking humbled.
"So, how are you feeling?"
"Yes. I am fine. Truly."
Seeing her response, the Master nodded.
"It seems so. However, please do not overexert yourself. There is an infirmary in this building, so if you feel unwell, please inform the staff at the counter. They will guide you there immediately."
"Thank you very much."
"Then, it may take a little while, but please wait a moment longer."
Just as the Master turned to leave…
"U-um, if it’s not too much trouble, would you mind placing your hand on my stomach?"
"On your stomach? Why is that?"
"In my hometown, there is a story that if someone of high status touches you, you will give birth to a healthy child..."
Indeed, such stories do exist.
High-ranking nobles and priests are said to possess divine protection.
By having them touch you, it is believed you receive a share of that blessing, praying for the safety of both mother and child.
"Ah, I see. I understand."
The Master, appearing to grasp the situation immediately, gently placed his hand on her stomach.
"Oh, it moved. It seems healthy."
"Thank you. This child is happy, too."
"I hope so. Well, prayers aren't a bad thing, but if you feel even slightly unwell, make sure to go to the hospital."
"Yes. That is why I came to the Resident Services Division."
"Ah, I see. For now, please wait a little longer."
"Yes."
With that, the Master stepped away from the woman.
"Well, it seems the sofas and chairs have been arranged."
"It appears so."
I looked around and saw that the placement was finished; there was no one left standing.
Orelia, Hovis, and Yayui had returned to stand behind us, so it seemed there was nothing left to do.
As I was thinking this, I noticed a woman heading toward us.