第１６８８堀：言われてみれば意外とかかわりがある (Part2)
"Indeed. It is understandable that one would prioritize research over mastering healing magic. If sent to Litea, one would have no choice but to work as a healer."
It’s the classic case of being forced into a path regardless of one’s own desires. Not that there’s any malice behind it, of course. After all, unless one is a study-obsessed individual like Luhau, becoming a healer is a guaranteed way to never go hungry, and it commands a great deal of respect. Above all, it allows one to contribute to their local community. It is the definition of a "win-win-win" situation—that is the life of a healer.
"So, the only way to reject that position was to knock on the university gates and enroll?"
"……I had no particular grievances with the orphanage or the Magic Kingdom, so I didn't run away. I simply appealed through the proper channels."
"And it seems Lady Nonoa discovered them, had Luhau enrolled in the university, and waived any further obligation. Naturally, they were still expected to conduct research into healing magic, of course."
"Thanks to that, they were absolutely fascinated by my medical knowledge."
Indeed, if they were under direct orders from Lady Nonoa, Rurua—as the pinnacle of Weed’s medical field—would have been an invaluable resource to them.
"Also, surprisingly enough, they were quite fond of *onigiri*."
"Onigiri? You mean, rice balls?"
Tori tilted her head, clearly unable to believe Rurua’s words. I found myself pondering the significance of the rice ball as well.
"Yes. Rice balls, made by molding cooked rice."
"Is that so? Perhaps we should make some for them next time?"
"That sounds lovely. It might be a good way to grow closer."
Aslin and Labyris always have such heartwarming ideas. Well, Yupi does devour the rice balls those two make, so it isn't entirely off the mark.
"Wait, does that mean they’re being eaten in the Magic Kingdom?"
"Milly, that is almost impossible. Goods unique to Weed rarely reach the smaller nations unless you are a noble or incredibly wealthy. More importantly, making *onigiri* requires cooking rice, which is quite a high hurdle to clear. Oh, perhaps the university provided them?"
Ratz immediately interjected to deny the possibility. She, after all, has a firm grasp on the flow of goods. Milly works at the Adventurer’s Guild, so she likely asked because the very idea felt out of place.
"As it turns out, Luhau had visited Weed for sightseeing, and that is where they first ate them."
"Eh? They came all the way to Weed just to eat *onigiri*?"
Why, of all things? Not that they taste bad, mind you, but while there are places that serve them, there are far more delicious things to choose from, aren't there? I’ve always associated *onigiri* more with humble, everyday fare.
"It seems they were served at the hotel breakfast. They were laid out buffet-style."
"Ahhh," the group chorused in unison.
"That makes sense. The hotels are the primary places pushing Japanese cuisine here in Weed. And the convenience of a quick *onigiri* is hard to beat. Of course, those who are used to it usually just scoop some rice into a bowl and grab some miso soup, too."
"I see. Come to think of it, Seraria and the others have started eating Japanese food as a matter of course, haven't they?"
My husband looked at me with a surprised expression.
"Now that you mention it, you're right. It’s become so natural that I don't even think about it. I just find myself reaching for an *onigiri* whenever I see them sitting out."
For some reason, when I return home, there are always pre-made rice balls waiting in the banquet hall. They are stored properly, so they taste freshly made right up until the moment you take them out—a godsend when you’re feeling a bit peckish. Above all, Japanese food is simply delicious.
"Yup, yup. You eat the *onigiri* and then go grab some miso soup, too."
"……When I eat an *onigiri*, I find I need the miso soup to go with it."
Riel and Kaya nodded in agreement.
"Well, I’ve asked Kirue and Sasari to ensure that *onigiri* and miso soup are always available, so that’s fine. But setting that aside, so Luhau has actually been to Weed?"
"That is correct. Which is why they are well-versed in our circumstances, and considering their magical aptitude, they are quite exceptional."
And with that, the conversation regarding Luhau came to a close. I suppose this means the influence of Weed is gradually permeating even the smaller nations. In reality, it is difficult to perceive the presence or absence of skills. Whether it’s exercise, study, or work, the things you can do increase so gradually that you rarely feel the change.
By the way, a simple salted *onigiri* is truly the best remedy when you're feeling exhausted.