第１５３１堀：どういう建前で？ (Part2)
"…However, as I mentioned earlier, all we know is that one of their executives has entered Old Vinocia under the guise of salvation. Therefore, I believe we should question the higher-ups of Hinsa about this, including that aspect. And since the Ritea Church might also be cooperating if it's for salvation, we should inquire with them as well."
"Ah, I see…"
Oh, Lilishe's tone of voice changed.
It sounded like she was smiling, but not really.
It's a natural reaction when you realize you're being used, but it sends a chill down my spine listening to it.
"Hmm. Understood. So, first, we need to gather information from the higher-ups of Hinsa and the local Ritea Church, correct?"
"Yes. While I myself cannot arrange immediate meetings with either of them at our request, I believe Yuki-sama and the others can."
"Indeed. We were already planning to meet regarding the legendary treasure that Princess Canaria mentioned, so let's focus on that. Perhaps asking something like, 'Are there any organizations providing aid, or rather, support?' would be best. How about using the reason that we want to provide financial assistance?"
"That's a good idea. Instead of being directly involved, we'll offer financial support. They'll likely misunderstand and think we're doing it to appease the princess, and from the perspective of the executives' trading company, it would be like an alliance giving money to a dark guild. They'd be laughing all the way."
Hahaha, I understand what she's saying, but it's truly infuriating!
To use our money for evil deeds, I swear we'll crush the dark guilds!
As I was thinking this, Lilishe seemed to have an idea and clapped her hands.
"That's right! Just money might not be enough, and it would damage Weed's reputation if we're just looking for treasure in Old Vinocia, wouldn't it?"
"Well, that's true. But there's no other reason to go to Old Vinocia."
Yeah, as Yuki-sama said, the primary reason for going to Vinocia is to seek the legendary treasure that Canaria-san told us about.
Of course, behind the scenes, it's about the dark guild's attack.
"If we offer support to Old Vinocia without proper justification, wouldn't that bypass Ritea?"
"That's right. Offering unsolicited support would imply Ritea is useless. So, the fee for our intrusion is per person, right?"
"That's right. It's like offering relief funds with the meaning of 'Sorry for the disturbance.'"
"Then, I have a proposal. Regarding the auction, the alliance knows the state of Vinocia, correct?"
"Ah, that's for sure. We've shared the information from that auction with all the countries."
"In that case, it wouldn't be a problem for churches from each continent, who are pained by the current state of Old Vinocia, to dispatch personnel, would it? The Ritea Church is also sending people, after all."
At Lilishe's proposal, everyone froze.
I understand what she's saying, but it seems a bit far-fetched, or maybe not.
As for Yuki-sama, who is the highest-ranking person here…
"Can it be done? It's not as a country, but rather as each church accompanying us on our trip to Vinocia."
"I believe it can be done. Rather, with their backing, wouldn't it be possible for churches from each continent to go to their aid while preserving Ritea's face? The search for Vinocia's treasure would become a pretext, and the rescue would become the main objective."
"As Bamai-dono said, if that hope is realized, the search for the treasure that Canaria mentioned will become a pretext, and Weed, or rather, the alliance's reputation will improve. However, Ritea also has its pride. What are your thoughts on that, Priest Lilishe?"
"Oh my. It's just that the people who are in need are asking for help, and the churches from each continent want to lend their strength to Ritea. There's no problem at all. They don't want to undermine Ritea's reputation and cause chaos; it's purely for the salvation of the people."
Ah, I see.
Lilishe is saying she'll bend Archstair and the others to her will.
Hahaha.
Those on the receiving end must have a stomach ache.
"...Understood. If that's the case, from Ritea, it will be Priest Lilishe and Rurua, and from the Continent of If… I'll ask Egil. And for the Haiden region…"
"If that's the case, it's Enola."
"There's no one but Enola!"
"Indeed. And for the last region, Zurable…"
"It will likely be Senal-sama. I will consult with Emperor Yuppia for the details."
"Alright, I'll leave it to you. Please act immediately. I will make plans with Bamai-dono based on this premise."
And so, Yayui and I remained there to continue assisting Yuki-sama.
Pretexts are necessary in the world when one needs to act.
Though there are times when you defeat your enemies openly.