第１４３３堀：共同地の構想 (Part2)

第１４３３堀：共同地の構想 (Part2)

Jessica rose from the bed as she spoke.

Ah, so it’s a shift system, then.

"I don't intend to pull an all-nighter by myself, naturally. Besides, both the outside and headquarters are keeping a watchful eye on things."

"I see. In that case, please, both of you should get some rest as well."

Jessica offered this consideration, but—

"No, I’m not quite sleepy yet. We’re only turning in because there’s no electricity to keep us occupied."

"True enough. At this hour, back in Weed, we’d barely be getting started, wouldn't we?"

It was 8:30 PM. While the world outside was plunged into darkness and the rest of the populace had long since drifted off, for us—and those capable of wielding magic—the night was far from over. Still, it was a bit early to sleep.

"We did get some rest in the carriage, after all."

"It’s surprisingly easy to sleep in those, isn't it?"

"You think so? I find carriage travel to be quite exhausting."

"It’s still leagues better than a horse-drawn cart. Now, Jessica, if you don't mind, would you care to join our conversation?"

"Certainly, provided I can keep watch while we talk."

"Then, here’s some coffee. Agil, would you like some?"

"No, I’m good. If I drink that, I won't be able to sleep. You two should get some rest while you can—you never know what might happen. I’m sure I don't need to tell you that. Well, goodnight."

With that, General Agil crawled into the bed Jessica had just vacated.

"Ah, Jessica smells so good."

"What on earth are you saying? Please, just go to sleep."

"I want... boobs..."

"I truly don't know what to make of you."

Well, comparing Jessica to General Agil makes the difference obvious enough. That said, the General’s physique is, in its own way, quite unique, and I think she could stand to be a bit more confident in it... much like Her Majesty Eupia.

*“Shut it, you bouncy brat! You wouldn't understand this feeling,”* she might say.

I decided to keep my mouth shut, lest I provoke her. Jessica accepted the coffee and sat by the window, though she turned toward us rather than looking outside.

"So, what was it you wanted to discuss?"

"Ah, yes. It’s about the operation of the joint alliance territory that Yuki-sama proposed. Are you sure you don't need to look outside?"

"Oh, that’s just Agil’s hobby. I’ll keep my watch from here."

She gestured toward the dungeon management monitor.

"I wouldn't call it a waste, but both methods have their merits."

"I see. Then, Jessica, what is your take on Yuki-sama’s proposal?"

"We were discussing whether or not it would place too heavy a burden on us."

"True, the workload will increase, but since Weed isn't the primary focus, I don't feel it will be overwhelming. Naturally, some level of assistance will be required, but we must also maintain Weed’s original trading post."

"Indeed. Come to think of it, would it be possible to turn this new joint territory into a trade hub?"

"It would be possible, yes. In the future, we could even shift trade away from Weed entirely."

"Wait, what? Wouldn't that risk stripping Weed of its very reason for existing?"

Jessica’s point was valid; it sounded as though she were suggesting we relinquish Weed’s trade interests. On the surface, Weed’s power and influence—despite being a small nation—stem from the construction of gates and the fees collected from using the country as a trading hub.

Of course, the reality behind the scenes is quite different.

"In the future, yes. If Weed holds onto exclusive trading privileges forever, resentment is bound to build."

"“Ah.”"

We both nodded in understanding. While it might be fine for now, eventually, voices would surely rise, demanding that trade be conducted elsewhere. Those fools who ignore economic encroachment and the delicate balance between nations would complain, unaware of the truth behind why Weed holds that power.

So, this is about providing a facade—a place to appease them. Perhaps the major powers would remain uninvolved, or at least keep their participation to a minimum, while the smaller nations take part?

Hmm, that’s something to consider. Still...

"A fascinating topic. I’d love to go into detail, but there’s no use hashing it out now."

"True. After all, whether what we discuss here actually becomes reality is..."

"Indeed. First, everything depends on the outcome of this Kinauf mission. I hope it concludes peacefully."

We nodded to one another, and before long, we settled down to sleep.

Ah, may tomorrow’s discussions go well. This land is the perfect tool to realize the vision of what happens when trade hubs are established outside of Weed. If it goes well, all the better; if it fails, well, that is simply the way of things.