落とし穴外伝：２０２３年末スペシャル 安全な冬を (Part2)
"That’s right, that’s right! Whatever the case elsewhere, this is Weed. You don’t need to worry about tomorrow here."
"Ah, of course, that excludes those who are just lazing about without working. But I especially don't want the children to feel that kind of anxiety. I want them to keep smiling. That’s all there is to it. Right, Yuki-sama?"
Yayui looked at me with a beaming smile. *Well, I don't know if I'm quite that noble... or am I?*
Still, it’s true that not having to fear for tomorrow is the right way to live.
"We have food in storage, and the children have worked hard this year, too. It’s the least I can do. The only things that’ll really take a hit are my wallet and my working hours."
When I answered that, Lyushi looked blank for a moment, then broke into a smile...
"Ahaha, that’s right. This is Weed, after all. And you are that kind of person, Yuki-sama. You’re the one who healed me when I was nothing more than a dying lump of flesh; of course you’d do something like this."
"Well, I’m not sure if you should be happy that you’ve become strong enough to call yourself that, but if spending a little time and money makes so many people smile, then that’s fine by me. It’s perfect for boosting my popularity, too. Look, I became quite popular when I saved you, didn't I?"
That’s right—this is also for the sake of my own popularity.
She had suddenly brought up such a heavy topic, so I had to steer the conversation elsewhere, or it would have been too hard on the children.
And yet...
"Sigh..."
Prol and the others all let out a collective sigh, and the children and teachers watching from the sidelines offered wry smiles.
"Um, Principal-sama~"
"What is it?"
"That kind of lie really doesn't suit you at all."
"Is that so?"
"I heard you saved Lyushi-neechan, but 'popularity-seeking'? That’s just not it."
At the child's words, everyone nodded in agreement.
"Haa, there’s nothing to be said when you’re being lectured by the children. Well, everyone, Yuki-sama likes to spread such silly rumors, so please cooperate with him if you can."
"Okaaay!"
For some reason, they only ever show this kind of solidarity at times like this.
"And Lyushi, even if you’ve overcome it, don't talk about such shocking things in front of the children. Look, Yuki-sama had to give such a painful retort, and now the children and teachers are giving wry smiles."
"Ahaha, I’m sorry."
Lyushi seemed to understand that her words were inappropriate, given my awkward attempt to deflect, and she apologized properly.
Since that was settled, there was nothing left for me to say.
"Alright, now that I’ve made a fool of myself, make sure you eat your fill, stay warm, and welcome the New Year properly. Listen to the adults, and if you’re going out for snacks at night, make sure you get permission. I’ve asked Priestess Lilishe and Sister Hairen to give you a spanking if they catch you without a permit."
"Ugh. I don't mind Lilishe-neechan, but Hairen doesn't hold back!"
"Then you’d better go out fair and square. Well then, Teacher, sorry for the disturbance."
When I said that, the homeroom teacher smiled.
"This is a school, so there is no problem with the principal coming and going. Please come and show your face to the children again. All of you secretaries, too."
"Yes!"
And with that, we left the bustling year-end school.
"Now then, next is..."
"Next is the General Government Building. In addition to the bonus under the joint names of Seraria-sama and Yuki-sama, we are planning to distribute sweets and food, just like at the school."
That’s right.
They’re incredibly busy there too with the year-end and New Year holidays, so it’s a matter of us doing our part.
Though, perhaps our showing up might actually be a hindrance...
"Alright, let’s put our backs into it. There’s still plenty to do!"
Adults who work are truly busy at the end of the year!
Being able to spend the year-end without feeling that my life is in danger is a very rich experience, isn't it?
Well, even so, I’ve had New Year’s Eves where I was out acting like an idiot, adventuring in the middle of a freezing mountain.
I thought I was going to freeze to death.