第１６２２堀：関係者以外からの視点を (Part2)
"There's no other way to put it. But I think that's fine."
Nina cut the conversation short with a blunt assessment.
I couldn't help but think she shouldn't be so harsh, though I offered a follow-up to soften the blow.
"I share Nina's opinion. Adding unnecessary words would only invite confusion."
Prol agreed, stating it plainly.
Since we weren't speaking to experts, prioritizing clarity for the common folk was essential—a lesson learned from our experience in the intelligence department.
"I don't see any issues with the current phrasing myself. Aside from that, perhaps we could create pamphlets? Something people could take home to review, with clear contact information for inquiries."
"That's it, exactly! Just hearing it doesn't guarantee it's the truth, does it? Having something in writing is so important."
"And if we included photos or illustrations, it would be much easier for them to visualize," the trio of Orelia, Hovis, and Yayui added.
They were right. Relying solely on word-of-mouth would leave too much room for ambiguity, making it difficult for anyone to make a serious decision. A pamphlet to reinforce the message was a sound idea. In fact, it was likely a necessity for promoting a new frontier like this.
"Hmm, in that case, wouldn't we need local guides? It’s better to see the place for yourself, and some might find it doesn't suit them. It would be a nightmare if they felt they couldn't return once they went..."
Finally, Rushi proposed an inspection tour.
I thought that was an excellent suggestion. It would be impossible for anyone to make a life-altering decision based only on words or a pamphlet without ever setting foot on the land. In Japan—or rather, on Earth—preliminary visits were standard, but in this world, such opportunities were rare. Moving one's base of operations safely was almost unheard of, given the constant threats of monsters and bandits.
With everyone’s opinions laid out, I concluded the discussion.
"The rest is up to Sisua and Sona. When to open the town to residents, how to attract merchants, where to build tourist spots, and how to gather people—those are decisions for the two of them to make."
At the end of the day, opinions were just opinions. How they were utilized depended entirely on the judgment of the two acting lords.
"Ah, so it falls to us, then?"
"Exactly. I’m not on the ground, so I don't know the timing. Though, given the time constraints, I suggest you get started sooner rather than later."
"True, Yuki-sama cannot be tied up with the management of the port town indefinitely. So, these matters fall to our discretion?"
"Yes. Even if you want to make a pamphlet, you have to start by deciding exactly what information needs to be included."
"But... we don't have the intellect or the technical skill to create something like a pamphlet, do we?"
"Indeed. It is embarrassing to admit, but we lack those specific skills. We would love to adopt this wonderful idea, but how should we proceed?"
"Don't worry, I hear your concerns. I will help as much as I can. In fact, I can introduce you to an expert."
"An expert?"
They all tilted their heads in unison, clearly having no idea who I meant. I told them to wait a moment and set out to summon a certain individual.
The construction of the port had increased the workload, but since I was only dispatching subordinates, I knew she wouldn't be unable to move. My intuition proved correct; she nodded readily and agreed to come.
"She’ll be here in about twenty minutes."
"Oh? And who might that be?"
"That’s a surprise for when she arrives. In the meantime, let’s summarize the points you want in the pamphlet. Keep it simple for now."
I was certain she would be happy to take on the task, and through her, we could manage the progress and the call for migration at the appropriate times.
Fortunately, Nina and Prol seemed to have guessed who it was; Nina flashed a knowing grin, and Prol gave a firm, rhythmic nod.
Now, we just needed to get our requirements written down so she could easily organize them.
After all, there’s more to a rice ball than meets the eye. And besides, no one is going to apply based on rumors alone. Making the point of contact clear is the most important step.