第１７４５堀：人質たちの扱い (Part2)
While it was certainly necessary to show them Weed, dragging pregnant women along seemed excessive.
"Ah, was that you, Hairen? It was actually the King and I who requested it."
It was Queen Dana who answered my question.
"Eh? You requested it?"
"Everyone in Ohe knows that Rurua-sama—or rather, that Weed’s medical technology—is exceptional."
Well, that was true. I had treated not only the hostages but also the residents of the northern town and the soldiers. Since I used Area Heal for external injuries and had the goblins handle interviews and treatments for illnesses—partly to prevent the spread of any new diseases—it would be impossible for them not to know.
"Because of that, I have placed my absolute trust in Rurua-sama. I accompanied the group in the hopes of giving birth here in Weed."
"It was also a judgment call, thinking that even if something were to happen in Ohe, Weed would be safe," the King added.
"Fair enough."
It might sound rude, or perhaps unfortunate, but the medical technology in Ohe is worlds apart from Weed’s. I was shocked when Rurua told me that in her discussions with Chinau, their exclusive physician, they had only just begun to focus on basic hygiene.
Then again, perhaps Weed is simply too advanced. It’s hard to take seriously a place where "washing your hands with water before an examination" is considered a breakthrough.
"Hairen-sama, I have a request for you."
"Eh? For me?"
"Yes. I will, of course, examine Queen Dana myself, but would you be willing to serve as the primary physician during her stay in Weed?"
"Wait, what? Didn't they ask Rurua to do it?"
Taking over for her seemed like it would only worry Queen Dana. As I thought this, she spoke up.
"No, if Rurua-sama remains in Ohe, it ensures that the King, my daughter, and many of our soldiers will be able to return safely. That is why we requested this arrangement. Besides, Chinau, my personal physician, is coming along as well."
I looked to the side to see Chinau standing close by, offering a slight bow.
"Hairen-sama, I have heard much about you. They say that despite your youth, your skills rival those of Rurua-sama. I look forward to working with you during our stay. I also hope to learn much from your medical knowledge."
"So that’s the angle, too. Well, if Rurua and Queen Dana are satisfied with it, I don’t mind. Though, looking at the situation, it seems Lilishe-sama will be the one looking after the Queen anyway."
"And who is this Lilishe-dono?"
"She is the master who taught both me and Hairen-sama."
"Ohhh!"
The people of Ohe were visibly moved by that revelation. It was true that having Lilishe-sama oversee things was a relief, but that woman had a mischievous streak. She was someone I respected, certainly, but she possessed a presence that even made me flinch at times.
"I hate to dampen the mood while you’re all feeling so inspired, but if the environment in Weed doesn't suit her, she will have to return. That could be detrimental to the child, so please understand that," Yuki said, being his usual self—either oblivious to the atmosphere or simply stating the obvious.
He was right. Weed might have superior technology, but that didn't automatically mean it was a comfortable environment for her.
"Yes. I understand that perfectly. Thank you for your consideration, Yuki-sama."
"Indeed. I have already made that clear to my wife, so we will see how she fares once we arrive in Weed."
"True, there’s no point in debating it here. Rurua, Hairen, I leave Queen Dana in your care."
"Understood."
"Leave it to us."
There was no way I would ever put a pregnant woman under unnecessary strain.
"And keep an eye on her diet. No overeating."
"..."
At that remark, Rurua, the people of Ohe, and I all pointedly looked away from Yuki. Telling us to stop eating delicious food meant that we would have to stop eating it ourselves. It would be quite problematic if we told her to stop while we continued to indulge...
"Well? Why the hesitation? Her child's life is on the line, after all."
And so, amidst that exchange, the transport of the hostages concluded, and it became our turn to depart.
Hairen is excellent when it comes to her work. She does unnecessary things, but she is excellent. That much is certain.