第１６７１堀： 学校訪問の近況について (Part2)
"Ah, the supply of maritime goods is practically non-existent. I suppose it’s a matter of not having enough ships that have secured safe passage, nor the personnel trained in navigation and seamanship."
"Ah... that’s not a problem that can be solved easily, is it?"
Now that he mentioned it, it was obvious. Even if Yuki could use his Dungeon Master powers to conjure land or buildings, he couldn't simply manifest skilled people—especially those with specialized technical expertise. Furthermore, when it comes to civilians rather than government employees, their participation is entirely dependent on their own free will.
That’s when an idea struck me.
"Yuki, about those maritime affairs—is it being left entirely to the private sector?"
"No, I’ve at least entrusted the management of the port to Sisua and Sona’s subordinates. I don’t know if they’ve settled on a name yet, but let’s call it the Fishery Division. Something like that has been established."
"So, the top brass is handled, but everything else is basically private, right?"
"That’s about the size of it."
"In that case, people are naturally going to be hesitant. Wouldn't it be better to use Weed’s military personnel as a precedent? Have them operate the ships, harvest seafood, and establish a method for dealing with monsters."
"A precedent, huh... I suppose expecting to hire rookies right off the bat is a bit of a stretch."
"It certainly is."
Well, if there truly were no talent available, there would be nothing to do, but that wasn't the case here.
"Actually, this is my first time at Weed’s port, but you have the port you’re renting from Zurable, right? Aurelia, was it?"
"We do. There’s been talk of poaching talent from over there to act as instructors."
"Instead of just instructors, wouldn't it be better to have them actually do the fishing out at sea?"
"Practical experience over teaching, then."
"If people don't gather, there's no point, is there?"
No matter how much we plan, it’s meaningless if the necessary personnel don't show up. We have to provide the initial workforce—the proverbial 'shills' to get the ball rolling. Of course, they would be shills who actually work hard.
"If Sisua and Sona haven't seen results yet, I’ll propose it to them."
"That would be for the best. A seaside resort without seafood is unthinkable."
"That’s exactly what we’re struggling with. Even the Adventurer’s Guild can’t move because there are no ships."
"Well, that’s to be expected."
As we were talking, the server brought our orders and set them on the table.
"Alright, let’s eat for now."
"Agreed."
"““Itadakimasu.””"
We all said in unison and began our lunch. This soy-butter pasta has a wonderful balance. After savoring the joy of the meal, I brought up the topic again.
"Yuki, Taiki, come to think of it, we ended on the topic of the resort, but we started with the discussion about classes, didn't we?"
"Now that you mention it, we did."
"We did. We were talking about what to do in class, which led to the introduction of our countries. So, to get back on track, is it Rogari after Zurable?"
"That’s right. We’re scheduled to head to Nonoa’s land of magic."
"Nonoa’s place, huh... I’m interested, but..."
After all, Nonoa’s land of magic is a nation that churns out mages, the kind of place where other countries are desperate to recruit their graduates. While the members of Weed are far beyond that level, it’s still more stable to hire from a proper institution when you want to bolster national strength without raising suspicion. Even if Yuki and I can identify talent with our Appraisal skills, the people using that talent won't be able to utilize it immediately if they haven't grown themselves. Considering that, talent that is already somewhat polished is invaluable. That’s why visiting Nonoa’s school is great—it serves as a way to promote Ranks as well.
"I’m fine with it, but won't that run afoul of international agreements? Graduates from Nonoa’s magic school are in high demand all over the Rogari continent, aren't they?"
"Ah, that is a factor. Recruiting isn't allowed until three months before graduation. Otherwise, the students wouldn't be able to focus on their studies."
"I thought so."
"But there are exceptions. Like when a country makes a contribution upon request, for instance."
"I suppose that makes sense."
"So, could you put in a word with Nonoa for us?"
We continued our conversation over the meal. It seems the desire to secure excellent people is universal. In Japan, it’s like saying graduates from prestigious universities have an advantage in job hunting. Though, it seems that’s not quite as true lately.