第１６６７堀：学び舎はどうですか (Part2)
"Well, surely that’s a matter of individual discretion, isn't it? It’s not as if you can tell at a glance who lacks the ability to manage their assets. It’s hard to take complaints about that seriously."
"That may be true, but the sheer number of people struggling is the problem."
"Then what? Should we lower the overall quality of the food?"
"That would just invite a different set of complaints."
"Then they’ll have to learn to endure it. The whole point of focusing on agricultural reform is to address those very issues. If we increase food production and the availability of spices, the range of culinary options will expand. Besides, Weed doesn't exactly keep those kinds of cooking techniques a secret."
It is true; we freely share the recipes for dishes that have become popular in Weed. We even make public the kind of high-level culinary secrets that would normally be kept under lock and key. However, since the final seasoning always depends on the individual cook, the real question is how much they can arrange and adapt those base recipes. Perhaps if we frame it as creating an environment where such things can be replicated, the unrest will settle down.
Regardless, the root cause is a lack of money, which stems from a lack of work. With agricultural reform, job opportunities will increase, so unless someone is truly beyond help, they won't find themselves completely destitute. Well, those who are determined to squander their wealth will do so regardless of how much work or money they have.
"I suppose that can't be helped. Well, as long as the students are enjoying themselves, that’s what matters. Are you planning to introduce other things, like sports?"
"Hmm, honestly, I’m still debating how much we should actually share."
"Yes, as Stasia says, if we aren't careful, it could lead to the formation of factions. And above all, the teaching period is quite short. I think it’s best to keep it strictly at a recreational level."
It is true that while having a variety of sports is a good thing, there will always be those who try to equate popularity or skill with the inherent worth of a person. Furthermore, since this involves other nations, we could even be accused of inciting civil unrest if things go poorly.
"I agree with that. If we spread sports too carelessly, it could lead to racial discrimination based on differences in physical ability. That’s the reason I don't really encourage sports in Weed. There’s also the matter of physical enhancement through magic; if we allow that, the gap between those skilled at it and those who aren't becomes painfully obvious."
"Oh, you’re certainly right about that. If I were to use physical enhancement, I’d completely overwhelm everyone else, so I haven't even considered it."
"Haha, Deryu would definitely be overwhelming, wouldn't she?"
"Indeed. But Ria would be just as overwhelming."
After all, they are the Demon Lord and the Hero. The only ones who could stand a fair chance against them would be the high-ranking officials of Weed.
"No, Deryu and Ria are both extreme cases. Still, when you factor in racial differences and the use of magic, it becomes truly complicated. Some people even use physical enhancement subconsciously."
"Exactly. I need to discuss that with Eupia and Showu, or it’ll lead to trouble. Otherwise, we’ll need to establish rules to ensure absolute fairness. If this were a tournament, it would be fine to include racial differences and magic as part of one's overall strength, but..."
"Well, that’s exactly why there are so many gladiatorial games, isn't it?"
Indeed, for measuring clear combat capability, a tournament where people fight is the best method. Everything, including those factors, is part of one's true strength. Sports, however, require a fair starting line, which is where the difficulty lies.
"Now, what about Comet’s introduction to Weed technology...?"
"Ah, that’s straightforward. It’s just an introduction to tools, and the second half is just showing videos, so it’s simple enough. Though, I did think your introduction to Weed might overlap with yours, Yuki, but you changed your approach, didn't you?"
"That's right. If we kept it the way it was, it would have turned into a debate."
As Agil-san pointed out, Yuki-san was supposed to be the one introducing Weed, but as things stand, it has turned into a session where the students are thinking through the challenges themselves. It feels as though Comet-san has taken over the role of introducing Weed instead.
"That couldn't be helped. It’s turned out to be much more lively than I expected. Comet, please handle the talk about Weed. Narjia, Wazfi, Firia, and Hiiro, I’d like you to provide support."
"Understood."
"Leave it to me."
"Understood."
"Leave it to us!"
The student members agreed immediately, seemingly without any issues. After discussing Ryshi-san’s medical matters and a few other minor details, we turned in for the night to prepare for tomorrow.
The classes seem to be going well. The students are more capable than I anticipated, and it’s a good thing that the discussions are progressing so smoothly. The only question left is how far we should take this.