第１４８０堀：伝手は大事 (Part2)
"My homeland? Ah, you mean Gartz? But even as an allied nation, contacting them without authorization... and wouldn't relying on another country take too much time?"
"That won't be an issue. I’ll secure the necessary permissions, and time is not a concern. So, let’s get moving immediately."
"Eh? Senpai?"
"Sasari, you come along as well. There will be times when you'll need to operate while I’m away."
With those words, I left the inn and headed toward our destination.
"My, what a rare treat to have Kirue and Sasari visit me."
"I truly apologize for intruding upon your workplace, but I have an urgent matter regarding my duties that I must discuss with you, Shera-sama."
Indeed, the place I had headed to was the Gartz Embassy in Weed, which also serves as the workplace for my mistress, Shera-sama.
Under normal circumstances, Shera-sama should be fulfilling her role as a supportive wife to her husband, but in the current state of Weed—or even Gartz, for that matter—such leisure is a luxury no one can afford.
Supporting her husband and receiving his favor is a given, but to be a bride also means working for the sake of one’s homeland, Gartz.
In this way, Shera-sama serves as a vital bridge between Weed and Gartz.
Of course, there are Gartz diplomats stationed at the embassy, and for routine business, one should go through them to coordinate with Gartz. However, for an urgent matter like this, utilizing Shera-sama’s position as a former princess of Gartz allows us to cut through the red tape at maximum speed.
Naturally, depending on the nature of the request, there is always the possibility of being turned away...
"Ah, that matter. I’ve already received inquiries from many of our allied nations. Honestly, my sister... no, the kings of every nation are quite the handful, aren't they?"
For once, Shera-sama offered a wry smile.
It seems every country is funneling their requests through Gartz to act as an intermediary for Rumel.
"It sounds like Rurua-sama is having a difficult time as well, having to contact Alstaire-sama."
"Ah, I see. Rurua-sama was originally a leader in Litea, so she must have had a certain relationship with Rumel."
Sasari seemed to realize this, clapping her hands together.
"Yes. It is fortunate, I suppose, that the burden is spread out. Now, regarding the Ewai Kingdom matter."
"Yes. Unfortunately, as a mere maid, I lack the connections to gather information, so I had to rely on you, Shera-sama."
There was no need to hide my intentions, so I asked for her assistance plainly.
"Understood. Actually, I have already made contact with the diplomats from Rumel. My sister has already made the Rumel King aware of the slave auction. They are currently swamped with requests for visitation permits and assistance for the Ewai Kingdom. Since they lack a Gate, they will likely come to Weed within a few days to discuss establishing a means of travel."
"Eh? A Gate to a non-allied nation?"
"Yes. Yuki-san has already consented to it. We are taking this opportunity to place Gates in non-allied nations as well; we will charge taxes and usage fees, but they will be able to utilize the Gates just like our allies. Without such measures, travel would take an immense amount of time. It cannot be helped."
Shera-sama laughs as she says this, but I see—this creates a legitimate reason to install Gates in non-allied nations.
And once we gather the data from those Gates...
"Fortunately, we discovered a Gate in the dungeon. We should use it to allow not just our allies, but many people living on this land to utilize it and enjoy its benefits."
"Ahaha... that was quite convenient, wasn't it?"
"Yes, it was extremely convenient. Well, we were originally struggling with how to handle it, so it’s a good opportunity."
While Sasari seemed taken aback by the blatant, opportunistic maneuvering of the allied nations—perhaps even finding it cynical—Shera-sama responded with a smile.
Ah, she has truly become so magnificent.
"So, the Gate installation will be carried out by General Steve and his unit, led by my sister, as they travel from Gartz to the Ewai Kingdom. They are scheduled to depart tomorrow and have it operational in three days."
"That fast!? Have you already notified the Ewai Kingdom?"
"It seems Rumel has already pushed the matter through. That said, the Ewai Kingdom doesn't seem to be blaming us for the trade; rather, they seem delighted at the prospect of observing or even participating in the auction."
"Is that because the alliance has effectively legitimized an otherwise illegal trade?"
"Likely. They are probably considering future market expansion as well, but Kirue, Sasari, you two must work hard to investigate that aspect too. I’m counting on you."
" "Understood." "
With the means to reach the Ewai Kingdom secured, all that remains is to prepare for the journey.
Ah, no—I suppose I must also confirm the nature of the lodging facilities and the defensive measures.
In that case, should I turn to my husband next?
Being a maid doesn't mean I lack connections.
If anything, I have ties to a wide variety of people.
Well, in the end, it all comes down to whether or not one can translate those human encounters into results.