第１６５４堀：出発前の確認 (Part2)
"No, I would like to think no one is foolish enough to go that far, but to demonstrate the true strength of Weed, showing overwhelming offensive power, restorative techniques, and profound knowledge is an easy way to make the point. I realize the concept sounds rather violent, but for our nation to continue being treated with such insolence because they fail to understand our capabilities is an even greater problem."
"Show, have you actually received permission from Eupia for that?"
Seraria narrowed her eyes as she asked.
Yeah, it’s a staggering approach, even for her. You can’t just go around doing things like that without authorization.
Well, it’s not that Hiiro couldn’t do it, but actually going through with it is a different matter. If it were against irredeemable bandits, we wouldn't hesitate, but using such methods to discipline teachers or students who are just acting cocky? That’s a bit much.
"Yes. I have been told that even if the worst happens and they die, it is acceptable. After all, in the name of the Emperor, they were told to receive instruction properly. We have declared Weed to be an equal, and even an ally who led us to victory in the Great War. To harm such dignitaries? Ordinarily, that is a capital offense."
"...I thought it sounded insane, but it’s actually quite standard, isn't it?"
Seraria seemed genuinely convinced.
It felt strange to Hiiro, but when she glanced at Vilia...
"Hiiro, in most places, if you simply talk back to a noble or even just walk in front of them, you’d be kicked—or at worst, cut down on the spot, wouldn't you?"
"Ah... right. That used to happen."
Hiiro remembered.
It’s unthinkable in Weed now, but in other countries, such tyrannical behavior by nobles is the norm. In fact, even ordinary people killing vagrants is an everyday occurrence.
Perhaps hearing that murmur, Seraria wore a deeply sorrowful expression.
"Oh, Seraria-onee-sama is different. She always helped us properly."
"Yes. It is thanks to Seraria-onee-sama that we are who we are today."
"Thank you, Hiiro. Still, defying the orders of a superior and being rude to state guests is usually a matter of life and death, isn't it?"
"Exactly. Well, considering Yuki-sama’s character and the environment he was raised in, he would likely insist on a proper trial and punishment under the law, but unfortunately..."
"Our destination is the Zurable Empire."
"Precisely. Yuki-sama—no, the laws of Weed—do not apply there. There is no small amount of chaos following the recent war, and those who fail to uphold the Emperor’s decree are simply fools who do not understand the significance of their selection. Even if Yuki-sama and the others were to overlook it, we would deal with them ourselves."
Show stated this with absolute clarity.
Well, if someone were to point a sword at Onii-sama and try to kill him, Hiiro and everyone else would be in total agreement with an execution, too.
As I was thinking that, Show-onee-sama broke the tense atmosphere with a smile.
"Well, we will provide warnings in advance and conduct demonstrations. I understand that it is unreasonable to expect them to believe us without showing them anything."
"That’s true. They wouldn't believe us if we just said it with words, would they?"
"Yes. What I mentioned earlier is a last resort. We wouldn't use innocent people as lab rats, after all."
"Lab rats, huh? Come to think of it, we couldn't get Taiki-kun and Taizo-san to come along."
That’s right. For this visit to the academy, Taiki-onii-sama and Taizo-onii-sama were unusually absent.
The reason was...
*"It’s not like we’re being dragged into this or there for an investigation, so Ranks can’t intervene."*
*"True. I’m interested in the Zurable academy, but I can’t find a reason for a small nation to participate."*
That was the gist of it. A convincing reason.
Weed has enough going on as it is; mixing in other nations is quite complicated, isn't it?
"I find it regrettable as well, but for now, there is the matter of the great powers, so I must ask for a later date."
"That’s the safest bet. And, it’s about time. Everyone is gathered, so, did anyone forget anything?"
Before I knew it, it was time to depart, and Onii-sama checked with everyone once more...
"Alright, we're off."
"Yes, have a safe trip."
And so, Hiiro and the others set off for the Zurable academy.
You always check your belongings before a long trip or a journey, don't you?
When I was a child, adults asked me over and over again.
Now that I’m an adult, I truly understand the necessity of it.
Even so... sometimes, you just forget things!