第１５８７堀：港開発提案について (Part2)
Of course, I am mindful of the debt we owe to Weed, but that consideration is not without its limits. To maintain our mutually beneficial relationship, we must pursue the dark guild that has fled—or rather, gone rogue. Above all, what nation, having once tasted the convenience of Gate technology, would ever dream of opposing it?
Indeed, whether or not this aligns with Yuki-sama’s grand design, the nations already within the alliance have reached a point where they cannot conceive of a world without the Gates. To ensure their continued use, they will cooperate to the fullest extent of their abilities. That said, as I mentioned, while we are considerate, our capacity for cooperation is not infinite.
"And so, as a solution, we have decided to conduct a coastal survey and proceed with the construction of a port."
If this had been a disorganized discussion merely aimed at siphoning funds, everyone would have rejected it outright. But the proposal Yuki-sama had prepared was one that promised tangible benefits to us as well.
"Regarding the overview, while it is documented in the report, allow me to explain it briefly."
Even I, when I first read that report, was wide-eyed with astonishment. I could hardly believe we were building a port solely to track down a dark guild. Yet, upon closer inspection, it became clear that this would be a boon not only for the Rogari continent but for others as well. Surveying the coastline, cataloging the monsters, and then constructing and operating a port under those conditions—I realized that establishing a hub in Rogari, a land notorious for its high monster density, was an endeavor of immense value.
Granted, nations like Zlarb, which currently export marine products, might not be uniformly thrilled, but adjustments for those matters are slated for a later date. After all, there is no guarantee that marine resources can even be harvested reliably yet. Even along the coasts owned by Zlarb, there are countless areas where monster activity is so severe that fishing is impossible. If this project leads to a solution for that and opens up new shipping lanes, it is an unparalleled opportunity in the long run.
The only thing to regret is...
"Furthermore, as the costs and personnel will be covered by Weed, we ask the respective nations for their authorization of this plan. Specifically, for the nations of the Rogari continent, we request permission to pass through or develop the land required for the port. Naturally, appropriate compensation will be provided."
Yes, Weed is prepared to shoulder all the costs and provide all the manpower. Under normal circumstances, this would be unheard of. However, asking for both the funding and the freedom to use the land would surely ruffle the feathers of the local lords who hold the territory—even if the heads of state present here might be more amenable. After all, they would be creating a powerful commercial rival, if not worse. That is precisely why the proposal includes provisions for aid in cases where the port site conflicts with existing territories or competing harbors.
One might think the real challenge lies in negotiating with those local lords, but because they have been left with so little to contribute, they have effectively handed the port development project over to Weed. Since we are deliberating this within the framework of the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance, this development must be conducted under its banner. While Weed would never boast of it, it is obvious that if we allow them to handle everything—providing neither funds nor labor, and merely granting land usage—it would be a stain on the honor of the great nations. Moreover, we have already decided that we intend to study and utilize the finished port.
In short, we cannot simply leave this entirely to Weed.
"Wait a moment. If we do that, the significance of the alliance becomes far too thin. My kingdom, Sea-Cypho, wishes to provide funding and share our expertise for the port's construction."
Before I could speak, Menou-dono, who had accompanied Queen Emerald of the Sea-Cypho Kingdom, raised a hand to interject. Sea-Cypho is the preeminent power in the trade of marine products. If they did not lend a hand in this venture, it would be a far greater blow to their prestige than to any other nation. If the Rogari continent becomes capable of harvesting its own marine resources, Sea-Cypho’s profits will inevitably diminish. Yuki-sama had promised to maintain a balance, and I am certain he will, but to ask for such considerations while contributing nothing would be disastrous for their reputation. That is why they are speaking up now.
Well, the other nations are in much the same position, to varying degrees.
"The Ex Kingdom will also provide funding and expertise."
"The Gartz Kingdom as well..."
Voices rose one after another. It goes without saying that every single nation participating in the meeting raised their hand. That is how much interest—no, how much value—they recognized in this new port, the port that Weed would build.
The dark guild?
Ah, well, I suppose that will work itself out.
Every nation wants a stake in this port development project. My, it truly is a matter of the utmost importance, after all.