第１３７４堀：共通の認識を持つ (Part2)
"Lately, there have been nations demanding the cession of water sources and an increase in food exports, but... surely not to the point of inciting a war..."
"Ahaha~. That’s because we, Litia, are pulling the strings behind the scenes, isn't it? Who would dare pick a fight head-on? If they did, intervention would be inevitable, wouldn't it?"
"So, that is why you sought the aid of the Dungeon Master?"
"Well, there’s no absolute proof of that yet, but as for evidence—won't the parties responsible be arriving shortly?"
"You mean to say, the ones who orchestrated this situation are coming to negotiate?"
"That’s right~. Under normal circumstances, it’s not as if a ten-thousand-strong army could be repelled in such a short amount of time, is it?"
"...I see. You figured there would be no need to panic even if Litia's envoys arrived at this very moment."
King Suurus and the others nod, having reached the same conclusion as us.
"Even if they were to contact them again to request deployment, considering the time needed for military organization and the accumulation of supplies, it would take at least a month, wouldn't it?"
"If they were to offer reinforcements under those conditions, it would be difficult to refuse. No, I would welcome them with open arms. And then, under the guise of a return favor, they would take what they desire, wouldn't they..."
"Well, that’s just speculation on my part~. That’s precisely why I want to conduct an investigation to gather evidence, and why we must solidify our defenses. It’s a common tactic to send 'reinforcements' without waiting for an answer, only to establish effective control. I wonder if you have the leeway to drive them back?"
"We do not... Would you really go that far for us?"
"If you ask, we will do it~. After all, it would be an act of trampling upon territory without cause. That is the very purpose of the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance~. Though, I will have them install a Gate to make movement easier~."
"So, the swift march is only possible because of the Gate."
"Well, I didn't say we would place it in the royal capital~. It would be fine if we were granted permission to set up a camp near the north, where we are currently based~."
To speak of "installing" a Gate when it has already been set up...
No, this is merely standard negotiating procedure.
Otherwise, it would be an act of installing a Gate without permission, which would become a diplomatic incident.
This way, they can use the Gate openly.
And a "camp"—they aren't calling it a fortress, after all.
"Hmm. If that is the case, then there should be no problem. However, if we express the desire for it, you will have it removed, correct?"
"If there is a justifiable reason, yes~. I have no intention of building a town there, after all~."
"...A justifiable reason. Once this trouble is over?"
"That is not for me to judge~. Nevertheless, that is highly likely. Once Suurus is no longer in danger, there will be no reason to station troops, and they will withdraw."
Indeed, the current deployment of troops is to protect Suurus.
Once that significance is lost, there will be no reason to keep them there, and for the sake of the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance's reputation, they would surely withdraw.
"And the costs for the stationing?"
"That is also a matter for consultation~. But as I said before, we won't do anything that becomes a burden~. I don't see the point in helping if we do that. I think a simple gesture of gratitude would suffice—though, I suppose you have your own pride to consider, don't you?"
"That is true. Setting that aside, could you please facilitate our participation in the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance and sound them out regarding reinforcements through Litia? According to Priestess Lilishe’s prediction, they are already on the move, are they not?"
"That’s right~. We will take this conversation back and report it to our superiors, but how shall we handle communication once the other side makes their move?"
"For that, I will send an envoy to your quarters later; please communicate through them. Also, when the envoy arrives, have them guided to my office. I wish to receive the official letter."
"Understood~."
With that, we left the conference room and returned to our waiting area.
All that remains is to wait until we are summoned, but...
『This is Steve. The envoys of the two nations have begun to move. The situation is likely to develop, so please be on your guard.』
Hearing this, we all exchanged glances and nodded.
Now then, I wonder how exactly things will unfold?
Creating a shared understanding is important.
Otherwise, the conversation just won't click.
Still, saying "I told you so" carries a certain credibility, though it is quite a hassle.
There are many things in this world that require both sides to put in the effort.