第１３６０堀：落ち着いている会議室 (Part2)
Whether it is connected to the Great Flood or not, there is a distinct possibility that they might exploit our frantic movements to their advantage.
I had considered using that as a feint, but given that the International Exchange School has only recently opened its doors, I chose the path of stability. As proof of this, the members from Weed—most notably Ratz and Eris, who are deeply involved in the school’s administration—are not part of this advance guard to Sulus. The group is composed primarily of my wives, who hold official diplomatic standing. Well, I did bring Deryu and Ria along for their combat prowess, of course.
As I pondered this, Eupia turned toward me.
"What shall we do? I believe feigning chaos could be a viable tactic, could it not?"
"No, we won't be taking that approach this time."
It seems Eupia and I were thinking along the same lines, though I dismissed the idea immediately. It’s a bit unsettling, really—the way she tracks my thoughts suggests our minds work in similar ways.
"The International Exchange School has only just begun. I think it’s best to wait until things have settled down."
"Hmm. I suppose you are right."
"Besides, General Steve and his forces have already established a base and completed preparations for interception. It would be harder to lose than to win at this point. Though, I don't know much about General Steve myself, I have heard from General Dressa that he is quite the formidable individual. What is he like?"
"Ah, that’s right. I suppose you haven't had many opportunities to speak with General Steve, Queen Emerald."
"Indeed. My focus has primarily been on maritime defense. I speak often with the navy led by General Dressa, but rarely with General Steve."
That was true. Queen Emerald’s interactions were centered on the maritime monster issues of Sea-Cypho, which were handled primarily by Dressa and the Weed Navy. She had likely crossed paths with Steve at ceremonies, but she wouldn't know the specifics of his background.
"He is, in a word, absurd. It is said that his individual combat capability surpasses even General Dressa’s. Furthermore, his ability to draft and command this operation without a single delay is truly excellent."
"Oh? To that extent? Well, I suppose I had heard as much from General Dressa."
Indeed. If Dressa and Steve were to face off, Steve would win, no matter how you look at it. Perhaps because she is still young, Dressa is prone to being baited or provoked. Seraria or Deryu would be a better match for him.
That is, of course, only if there are restrictions on weaponry. If firearms are permitted and the distance is unrestricted, even Seraria or Deryu would have a near-zero chance of victory. When it comes to combat utilizing modern weaponry, the advantage rests firmly with Steve.
As we were discussing this, an announcement echoed through the conference room.
『Communication from the Sulus expeditionary force. The enemy is expected to enter the interception range shortly.』
This conference room is not the command center itself. The actual processing is handled elsewhere, and the information is simply relayed here.
"Well then, I wonder how long they will last."
"A mere instant, I should think?"
King Zilba’s comment was met with a nod from King Lowday, and several other monarchs followed suit.
I couldn't help but feel a bit conflicted. It’s fine that they don't perceive the enemy as a threat, but the total lack of tension is perhaps a bit much.
"Brother, do you want a refill?"
"Ah, yes, please."
"I’ll take one too. And some gyoza."
"I suppose I shall have some as well."
Wait, I suppose we aren't any different, are we? And so, we continued to watch the progress of the battle while eating our ramen.
Since we are utilizing modern weaponry in the conflict against Zuraburu and Hein, information leakage is inevitable, so we have chosen to be transparent about it. Given that these are all major powers who already know a great deal, it hasn't become much of an issue.
And, as expected, not a single one of them believes that Weed will lose. That is only natural, provided one knows the specifications of the weapons we have brought to the table.