第１５２１堀：お手伝いの狙いは？ (Part2)
"However, regarding merchants from continents other than Rogari—specifically those from the If Continent, the Haiden region, and the Zurable region—there have been whispers suggesting that perhaps Litea itself is at fault. It seems they lack a deep understanding of the situation in Rogari, let alone Litea. Of course, this isn't the sentiment of every single one of them, but the opinion exists."
"Hmm. It is true that because they are unaware of the scope of the Litea Church, they cannot grasp the full extent of the Great Flood. But, Yuki-sama..."
Prol turned to me, seeking my opinion after hearing Orelia’s report.
"Yeah, that’s not a good trend. If merchants from other continents stop trading with Litea, the fallout would be immeasurable. We really ought to implement countermeasures beforehand, but it’s difficult for us to intervene clumsily."
It’s not that I *can’t* say anything, but if Weed were to step in to provide support instead of Litea, it might lead some to believe that Litea is truly on the verge of collapse.
"It is a delicate situation. Unless Litea itself declares that there are no issues, any move we make could be futile—or worse, counterproductive."
"Indeed. Eupia-sama and Show-sama expressed the same sentiment. They suggested that, for now, we should report the current situation to Litea. Furthermore, they requested another discussion with you, Yuki-sama, regarding the matter of compensation, with Narjia-sama present as well."
"Ah, I see. It would be problematic not to meet with Zurable."
I hadn't heard much of substance from Narjia-san. She had only mentioned handing out fifty free passes. Well, I knew it couldn't just end there. I needed to ascertain to what extent Zurable intended to get involved, and it was a fact that I had to pry out their expectations regarding compensation.
"What did they say on their end?"
"Yes. Both Eupia-sama and Show-sama stated that they are prepared to face Litea’s problems with the utmost sincerity and asked that you call upon them whenever you are ready."
"I see. So that’s how it is."
"Is there a problem?"
"No, it’s just that usually, the Emperor of Zurable and his right-hand strategist wouldn't offer to come at a moment's notice. In other words..."
Before I could finish, Nina, while processing documents, chimed in.
"The Zurable Empire intends to use this active participation to solidify their standing as a cooperative ally, moving past their status as newcomers."
"Exactly. Zurable hasn't been part of the alliance for long. While they joined as a major power, they haven't actually *done* anything yet. If anything, they are in a position where they are being helped by Weed. Well, I’m sure you and your people see it differently, Yuki-sama..."
"As Fiora says, they have the reputation of being a great power—larger than any other, in fact. But while the heads of state might be on board, many of the subordinates in other countries remain skeptical. They likely want to dispel that doubt."
"Surprisingly earnest, aren't they? Even though Zurable is a cut above the rest."
Nina remarked on my assessment. Even so...
"They probably couldn't see Litea’s plight as someone else's problem. They have a church over there, too. Senal was trying to do various things as well. And, of course, it goes without saying that they understand the nightmare of civil unrest all too well."
Until recently, Zurable had been locked in fierce combat with the Haing Empire. Though things had finally settled down, they were currently governing the various countries under their umbrella following Haing’s surrender and cooperation. They knew better than anyone how devastating it is to have your internal affairs torn apart, as is happening to Litea.
"So, Emperor Eupia understands that their standing within the alliance is paramount from here on out?"
"That’s the gist of it. There’s also the motive of winning trust through active international cooperation. Though, to be fair, this whole affair might have been a genuine coincidence."
Still, for Orelia’s investigation and Eupia’s inspection of the open-air market to overlap so perfectly? That’s a bit too much of a coincidence. If they were aiming for that kind of timing, they would have just asked us for cooperation in the first place. It was likely a case of 'a ship arriving at the right time.'
"Well, we’ll discuss that in the upcoming meeting—or rather, I’ll hear them out tonight. Orelia, please handle the arrangements later."
"Understood."
"Now, as for the work regarding myself, Hovis, and Yayui..."
And so, we began to share the information we had gathered. There is no such thing as countries helping each other for free. There is always an agenda, and one cannot simply dismiss it as selfless goodwill. It’s all quite tedious, isn't it?