第１６５３堀： 学府の２人 (Part2)
I had thought about asking Narjia, but...
"Big Sis Narjia is more about practice than theory. Plus, she’s the type to just brute-force everything with raw magic power."
I remembered teaching her that, now that I think about it. She’s definitely a sensory-based learner. I mean, if you told her to write a proper thesis, she’d probably do it, but she’d much rather be building things.
"So, do you have some sort of complaint about Comet?"
Oh, right. I’d completely forgotten about Hiiro and was thinking about Comet-san.
"No, it’s just... if Comet-san is coming, doesn't that make us unnecessary?"
"Exactly. Her knowledge and magical prowess are overwhelmingly superior to ours."
It’s true. Comet-san is stronger and smarter than us, and above all, she is a Dungeon Master who stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Yuki. Well, she leans more toward being a researcher, so she’s apparently a bit inferior to Yuki in other areas, but still. The point is, if someone of her caliber is going, is there really a need for us underlings?
"Of course there's a need; that’s why I’m calling you. Comet can’t grasp every detail on her own, and in her current form, she’s inevitably going to look like an adult. You and Wazfi can blend in with the students. I can’t pass for a student, and while Prol might have a chance..."
"You must be joking. I am Yuki-sama’s bodyguard, am I not? It is unthinkable for me to leave your side."
Small as she is, Prol-san could definitely pass for a student, but she’s far too serious. Besides, she’s not just a bodyguard; she’s essentially Yuki’s secretary. I can see why leaving his side is out of the question.
"Well, that’s how it is. You two are going to mix in with the students and investigate the situation from the inside."
I started to nod in agreement, but then I looked up and asked, "I heard we were investigating the situation, but is it really so bad that we have to infiltrate the student body?"
I realized, a bit late, that I hadn't heard the full details.
"Ah, well, they’re apparently half-doubting everything. I mean, they’re being told to study abroad in a small country they’ve never even heard of. You two can understand why that would be, right?"
" "Ah..." "
That made perfect sense. When I heard that the Lancer Magic Academy had made massive concessions to accept a group from a small, unknown country, I was nothing but suspicious. And since Wazfi, myself, and even Principal Popuri had picked a fight with Yuki and his group, I understood all too well that a simple order wouldn't be enough to smooth things over.
"I don't mind them pushing back, but if they cause trouble for other countries, it becomes an international incident."
"Understood. I’ll silence them with my fists."
"I agree as well. I’ll make sure to use every tool at my disposal."
"Good. It’s important to beat them down in a variety of ways. I need to make sure they understand that while magical ability is important, it isn't the only thing that matters."
If we don't do that, people who think they’re special won't settle down. Just like my shitty old man. Then again, he didn't learn his lesson until his head was on the chopping block, so I’d like to think the students are at least a little better than that.
"And, if things go south, the teachers might get involved too. I’ll handle them, so just let me know."
" " "Huh?" " "
I couldn't help but let out a stunned noise. Students were one thing, but teachers?
"Um, Yuki-oniisan... are you saying teachers who are under orders from above would do something like that?"
"Well, the war between Zurabl and Hein ended in a decisive battle, not a total war. There are people who lost without ever getting to show their strength, or even reaching the battlefield. Apparently, they’re using this to sort people out by merit for future control."
" " "..." " "
I was speechless. No, I understood the logic. Zurabl had defeated Hein and become the regional hegemon. To demonstrate that authority, they were gathering participants for this international exchange not just from the victorious countries, but also from the countries that had sided with the defeated Hein. It was a way to show off their magnanimity and authority, thereby stabilizing Zurabl’s influence. So, it wasn't strange to think there would be teachers like that.
"So, be prepared for that. Though, I doubt a little bullying is going to do much to either of you."
Ah, so that’s why we were chosen. It all makes sense now.
The former top two of the Lancer Magic Academy. They’re doing well and working hard in Weed, too.