第１３７０堀：内部の敵は？ (Part2)
Yuki is feeling unwell? Surely that is a matter of greater importance than the affairs of the Principality of Suls.
"No, my health is fine. I’m just having the information on the individuals who infiltrated Suls scrubbed as quickly as possible. Kirika’s subordinates and my drones have arrived in the Kingdom of Kinauf and the Kingdom of Irinau and have begun their investigation, but... well, it’s only one person and three drones per country, after all."
"That is... a headache-inducing situation, to say the least."
Jessica could only offer a wry smile at Yuki’s words. It seems our reach has finally exceeded our grasp as our sphere of operations continues to expand.
"But, Yuki-sama, is that the reason for your silence? Manpower shortages have been an issue for some time now; is there something else weighing on your mind?"
Stasia is right. A lack of information is hardly a new development for us. That being the case, why has Yuki remained so tight-lipped until now?
"Personnel from those two countries have been sent into Weed as well. They likely have some sort of agenda, but they haven't made a single move. It’s possible they’re just here to gather intelligence, but..."
"If we look at this logically, the situation dictates that they should be making a move by now."
"Indeed. There couldn't be a better time for it. Though, as long as you are aware of them, Yuki-sama, their efforts are ultimately futile."
I see. As Menou and Shou suggest, if they intended to strike at Weed, now—while our forces are spread thin—would be the optimal moment. Yet, they remain stagnant. Now that we know for certain that the two countries involved in the Suls incident have embedded themselves within Weed, their lack of action is nothing short of unnatural.
"Well, there’s no use dwelling on it. I’ve acknowledged your plan to move out. Prioritize safety above all else. Especially you, Lilishe—do not take any unscheduled actions."
"I can't promise that~. I have my own pride as a goddess, after all~. Though, since I have no enemies, I doubt it will come to that."
"No enemies, you say... Ah, you mean the gods or Dungeon Masters who picked a fight with you?"
"Exactly~. From the current intelligence, I can tell that no one has come to bully my followers. This is strictly political~."
Lilishe-sama stated it so nonchalantly. Her intuition in such matters is unnervingly sharp. I suppose I can trust her—though I won't be letting my guard down, of course.
"I am investigating that front, so be patient a little longer. There is no reason to make enemies of everyone on all sides. Regardless, please explain the current situation to the King of Suls and his retainers, and gather detailed information regarding the Great Flood. Also, find out what they desire. Oh, and you’ve heard that if they complain about the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance entering their territory, Alstaire is to handle it personally, right?"
"Of course~. It’s not like I have the assets to settle their reparations anyway~. Oh, but if you were to help me, Yuki-san, perhaps it would be possible~?"
"No. Doing that would cause me to lose face with Litea and the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance, so I won't be doing that."
"You didn't deny it, so that's a relief~."
Indeed. With Yuki’s capabilities, it might be rude to say, but he could procure whatever they desire. If they do lodge a complaint, at worst, Weed could provide the necessary resources through Litea or the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance. However, if they were to resort to such a thing, the reputation of Suls would plummet to the depths, so if they have any common sense, they wouldn't dare.
"Well, rest assured, I won't cause everyone too much trouble~. Now then, let us depart~."
With the goddess’s leisurely voice acting as our signal, we set off toward the royal capital of Suls. The enemy, who appears to be doing nothing at all—what will happen once Lilishe arrives on the scene? We shall see.