第１６８３堀：研究者の性 (Part2)
If one is alone, perhaps one could retreat to the mountains and live without money, but in a place where many people gather—a nation—money is a necessity. Or rather, perhaps it is more accurate to say that because money exists, one can bypass tedious complications and acquire the things one desires. Yuki-sama wears a troubled expression whenever he speaks of this, calling it a "monetary economy."
"I see. I shall certainly keep that in mind for my next report or presentation."
Ruhau-san seemed satisfied with that, and we continued our tour of the university. Unlike Zurabul, this was an institution dedicated to researchers; even upon seeing us, Nonoa-sama, and the university president, the scholars merely offered a slight bow before returning to their work, with no one daring to strike up a conversation.
I find myself at a loss—should I call them focused, or perhaps just extreme? It bothers me that they react this way even when the head of the nation and the university’s top brass are present, but since Nonoa-sama and the president say nothing, I am in no position to complain.
"Well, I suppose that’s just how researchers are," Yuki-sama remarked, observing the scholars whose behavior might otherwise be considered rude.
"Ahaha, you’re right, aren't you? I’m the same way, after all. Right, Nairua, Wazfi, Cleena, Samantha?"
"I have no comment."
"Indeed. As Comet-san says, research is the priority. I prefer to keep everything else to the bare minimum."
"...Mm. Most of us believe that excess is unnecessary in the pursuit of knowledge. Though, Yuki is an exception."
"I, for one, have been active as a diplomat, and while it might be a stretch to call me a 'martial type,' I specialized in offensive magic, so I wasn't quite that detached. Nevertheless, I cannot argue with the importance of money."
Samantha-sama may have come from a magic academy, but as a daughter of a duke, she understands the weight of wealth all too well. Then again, the others here are also of noble birth—and Cleena-sama, despite the twists and turns of her life, is now a princess of August. I suppose it is a matter of aptitude.
"This is the general layout of the university. Regarding the details of specific research, you will need Nonoa-sama’s permission, so please submit your requests in advance."
"Naturally. While there are no state secrets that would threaten the nation, these are projects our young people are pouring their lives into. We cannot allow them to be viewed carelessly."
Nonoa-sama is quite right. For us, it would be the equivalent of someone asking to peek into Comet-sama’s laboratory. It is unthinkable to let people from other nations see such things at this stage. Presenting the finished results is one thing, but there are many things in the midst of development that simply cannot be shown—some because they are dangerous, others because the world is not yet ready for them. After all, Narjia-sama has a habit of installing self-destruct mechanisms in everything.
"I see. There isn't anything that catches my eye yet, or rather, nothing has been introduced, so I can't choose. But there is one thing I'm curious about."
"Oh? And what research might that be? If you apply early, I would be happy to facilitate it—especially since Nonoa-sama is here."
Indeed, with the person who holds the authority to grant permission right here, the timing could not be better.
"I want to see Ruhau’s research. You’re doing alchemy, aren't you?"
"Me, Yuki-sama?"
"Yeah. You’re the one guiding us around, after all. It’s only natural to be interested, right?"
"Ruhau’s research, is it? Hmph. You are welcome to see the results, but please, do not try to poach her."
"Results aside, I can't make any promises about Ruhau herself. She might decide she prefers Weed, after all."
"No! Nonoa-sama, I would never do anything so ungrateful!" Ruhau-san replied in a panic.
Yuki-sama is quite mischievous.
"Well, if it comes to that, a secondment would work, wouldn't it? We haven't had anyone come over from your side yet."
"Ah, that might actually be a possibility."
"Hmph. There are other candidates besides Ruhau-kun, you know?"
"Um, am I supposed to feel like I’m being toyed with?"
And so, the little sage watched Yuki-sama and the others with a troubled look. It is not limited to researchers; the same applies to businesses. It is all about how to turn an idea into currency. Information is merely information. The true challenge lies in transforming that information into value.