第１５８４堀：学生さんたちの今後 (Part2)
"And then, while it’s not exactly the clincher, I’m not sure what pretext Yuki—or rather, Weed—would use to aim for the sea. If it’s specifically for Litea, one might argue that could cause problems. How do you intend to handle that?"
"Ah, I see your point. The concerns included. Well, one could conversely interpret it as an invitation to the sea precisely because we caused them trouble."
"Oh, I see."
"Right. Like a gesture of gratitude."
So, rather than a conflict arising, it would be framed as a token of appreciation.
"Even so, there are various issues with that. Litea’s request was strictly directed toward the Alliance. If it’s for Weed as an individual, saying it’s a thank-you for finding the treasures of Hinsua doesn't quite add up, does it?"
"That is certainly true."
On the surface, the arrangement is that Weed, having acquired Seraria, requested Litea’s assistance to search for the treasures in Hinsua. Under those circumstances, it would be strange for Litea to offer a guided tour of the sea as a thank-you. If anything, it is Weed who should be expressing gratitude for having his unreasonable requests accommodated.
"But if you say that, wouldn't the same apply to Roschur, Gartz, and Rumel?"
"That’s the thing. There’s no reason for them to send us to the sea. So, we’ll have to negotiate from a different angle. The best approach would be to frame it as a coastal development project."
"You mean in Rogari?"
"Rogari suffers the most from monster attacks. If we can build a port there that doesn't collapse and can withstand monster raids, it could serve as a model for other continents. That’s the direction we’re pushing."
"Yeah, that sounds doable. I’m looking forward to the fish in Rogari."
"Hiiro, you’re always thinking about eating fish..."
Ever since we joined the navy, Hiiro has been diligent about distinguishing between edible and inedible fish. Well, it just goes to show how delicious the fish are, but sometimes it’s hard to tell if she’s researching for work or just because she wants to eat them.
"It’s not a bad thing at all. If we discover species unique to Rogari, they could become a valuable resource. Of course, it also serves the purpose of surveying dangerous sea monsters, and noting the differences compared to regions like Haiden. Weed, and indeed all the Alliance nations, currently have almost no information about the sea. We’ll be providing the first pieces of that puzzle. Coastal maps, monster and fish distribution, tidal currents... we’re essentially in need of everything."
"Yeah. Hiiro will do her best."
"Good, give it your all. That said, it’s not something you can do alone. It’s a coastal development project. We’re planning to make Dressa’s navy and Aslin’s monster corps the core of the operation. Naturally, we also intend to dispatch a standing army from Weed."
"It sounds like an even bigger undertaking than I imagined."
"It’s a matter that requires the Alliance’s permission, too. If we downplay it too much, our true intentions might be exposed."
Indeed, we must act with the future of the Alliance in mind. However...
"Brother. We are currently in the middle of the International Exchange School exams, aren't we? Once the exams are over, the real work begins. Is it really alright to commit so much manpower to this?"
That’s right; even in our current state, the key figures of Weed are busy enough to be at their breaking point. Hiiro seemed to realize this as well.
"If Hiiro and the others go to the sea, the school will be neglected, won't it?"
If we focus our efforts on naval duties, it means we won't be able to be involved with the school.
"As for the school, we’ll have to leave it to the students other than Hiiro and Vilia."
"Other than us?"
Just as I was wondering if there were such students...
"Well, it’ll be a matter of promoting or transferring students from Weed’s school. Considering the future, interaction is essential, and since the number of international students will increase, we needed to expand our staff anyway."
Ah, when he puts it that way, it makes sense. While the number of students is limited now during the trial phase of the exams, once things are in full swing, the student body will grow significantly. At that point, we wouldn't be able to manage it on our own.
"The idea is to have you pass on the notes and precautions that Vilia, Hiiro, Shera, and Labyris have taught you to the other students in Weed. So, you will need to teach them."
"Hiiro and the others will be teachers?"
"Yes. That’s why there will be times like this—I know you’re busy, but I need you to lend me your strength."
And so, we began preparing the handover for the school and consulting with Dressa on naval operations. The students, too, would be moving on to the next stage. There is no doubt that everyone, everywhere, is busy.