第１３３３堀：本人からの意見 (Part2)
"That’s the situation. I’ve spoken with Narjia, but it’s been difficult to get a firm grasp on things."
"Well, I don't believe Narjia was mistaken in what she told you. Our race—if you can even call us that—doesn't share any common physical traits. If there is one thing we have in common, it would be this..."
The forest fairy vanished instantly, only to reappear in the kitchen a heartbeat later.
"The ability to teleport like this, perhaps? Though, it’s not so much 'teleporting' as it is simply dissolving my physical form and reforming it elsewhere."
"So, you turn into magical energy and drift over there, then?"
"You’re quick to understand. It’s a great help."
"I grasp the logic, but I still don't understand how you manage to retain your memories and sense of self while in that state."
"That is outside my area of expertise, I’m afraid. Please, have another cup."
"Thanks. I suppose you must leave some sort of marker on your energy so you know it’s yours..."
Yuki-sama mused aloud as he took another sip of his coffee. The conversation had drifted into territory I could barely follow, let alone contribute to.
"Come to think of it, do you retain consciousness while you're in that magical energy state in the air?"
"Indeed. If I didn't, I wouldn't be able to move."
"I see. If you can think, that means those functions are still active. I’ve heard you can even cast magic in that state."
"I can. Though, it’s much the same as when I’m invisible."
"No, that’s entirely different, considering my attacks can’t land on you when you're like that."
He was right. Even if someone is invisible, an attack can still connect, but when a fairy turns into pure magical energy, physical and magical attacks alike pass right through them. In other words, they are effectively invincible while they strike. The more I heard, the more absurd their existence seemed.
"So, turning into magical energy is the defining trait of a fairy. Hmm, I suppose all the nations can do is circulate that information and leave it at that."
"Precisely. I can’t offer any other explanation. That is likely why you left coming to me for last, isn't it?"
"I suppose so. I was hoping for some other perspective, but it all came back to this. Sorry for the trouble."
"Not at all. This is hardly a bother. I go to the commercial district for walks and shopping myself. However, I would advise against assuming other fairies will be as friendly. We are a race of individuals; our knowledge is fragmented, and our tastes and temperaments are far removed from those of humans. It is rare for us to find any value in engaging in dialogue with people."
I finally understood why I felt such a sense of unease around them. They aren't human, so conversation doesn't function the way it should. Power and material goods mean nothing to them. In short, I possess no leverage to negotiate with them. They are the kind of beings that make it clear I am ill-suited for diplomacy.
Yes. That is precisely why I find them so difficult.
"I’m thinking of going to meet the Water Fairy soon. What do you think?"
"I know nothing of that particular fairy, so I cannot say. Has anyone met her before?"
"Yes. I’m thinking of taking Narjia and a few others along, based on an introduction from someone who knows her."
"I see. If there is a prior acquaintance, it might be somewhat better. Still, do not let your guard down. Once you are dealing with water, she will be able to exert her power anywhere. Be careful."
"Thanks. Oh, and if you’re willing, could I take some data on you? There’s always the risk of fairies being captured, after all."
"Hmm. It’s not that I don't trust you or your wives, Yuki, but I would prefer not to give an immediate answer. Is that acceptable?"
"Of course. You’re free to refuse. Just let me know if you change your mind. The location would be the Weed hospital."
"Understood."
There are very few people who can speak to Yuki-sama with such candor. Only the heads of nations or other high-ranking dignitaries usually dare. It seems that fairies are indeed beings whose very existence operates on a different plane than ours.
As I was thinking this...
"Forest-san, how have you been lately?"
"Ah, Ria-san. It is good to see you well. I’ve been enjoying the *Weekly Weed* you recommended."
"Right? Micos is the one making it—have you tried any of the delicious shops they featured?"
"I have. It is quite nice to have so many delicious things to eat."
...Are they surprisingly approachable, after all? Or is it just because Ria-san is a Hero?
Well, either way, it just goes to show there is still so much for me to learn. Asking someone who they are rarely yields a straight answer. After all, it’s quite common for people—or beings—not to truly know themselves.