第１７５６堀：外交とはなにか？ (Part2)
"Yes. The bleeding has stopped, even for those with amputations. There are no issues."
"That is good to hear. Regarding the patients with missing limbs, please compile the usual report and submit it to us and the director."
"Understood."
We plan to have the cases of patients with missing limbs summarized in a report, which Yuki will then discuss with King Oue to decide how to proceed. After all, it’s obvious that if we were to heal even lost limbs, it would inevitably lead to trouble.
"Well then, shall we go see the sick?"
"Indeed. Showing some results will surely aid in our negotiations with the Oue side."
We aren't volunteering at this clinic out of the goodness of our hearts, using recovery magic for free. This, too, is merely a form of diplomacy—a tool for negotiation. Some might say it’s cruel to put human lives on the bargaining table, but reality is not so forgiving. After all, even the elixirs we possess are more effective than any panacea, and there are countless people—including many high-ranking officials from major powers—who would pay a fortune to get their hands on them. That, in itself, is a bargaining chip.
People sometimes compare this to holding hostages, but that’s no different than demanding we provide everything for free. I make it clear that the two are entirely different.
When we open the door and enter the ward, we find rows of beds filled with people coughing, others delirious with fever, some wheezing, and some lying in dead silence.
"Yeah, well, this is impossible."
I assess the situation at a glance and reach that conclusion immediately.
"Agreed," Kagura says, echoing my sentiment.
"Eh? Isn't that a bit too quick?" the assistant accompanying us asks, sounding bewildered.
"It is only natural. Now, regarding a detailed explanation..."
I can't act on my own without the director present, but as if on cue, the elderly man who manages the clinic walks in. He’s about as aged as the elder of my village, but he carries himself with a firm, upright posture. Then again, our village elder’s back is slightly hunched, yet he wanders around Weed quite normally—is that just an act?
While I’m pondering such things, the director approaches.
"Thank you for your continued help in treating the injured."
"Not at all. I’m sure you could have handled those injuries yourself, Director."
As a director, he is skilled in recovery magic, capable of Area Heal, High Heal, and detoxification. Though, he doesn't quite reach the level of Rurua.
"Well, as you say, but I hardly have the luxury of casting Area Heal repeatedly. And I lack the restorative power that you two possess. My, the medical texts you provided are truly magnificent. They have certainly improved my efficacy, though even then, I still cannot keep up."
Indeed, even with the same Area Heal, there is a vast difference depending on one's medical knowledge. That is why there is a gap between the director’s healing and that of Kagura and myself. Where we can heal in one cast, he might need two, and there is a difference in range as well.
Furthermore, thanks to those medical texts and our explanations, the director’s recovery magic has shown clear improvement. For us, it’s a welcome development, as it confirms that the gap in foundational knowledge affects the magic of the mages on this new continent as well.
"You mustn't expect to master this so easily. Even in Weed, many people are constantly engaged in medical research."
"If the opportunity ever arises, I would certainly wish to study in Weed."
"When that time comes, Rurua or Hairen would be happy to guide you."
"Ho ho ho, the Saintess who healed those severe burns, is it?"
It turns out this director has connections with the Oue royal family and is acquainted with their personal physician, Chinau-dono. Apparently, he was summoned to assist in treatment, but could only manage to dull the pain or use recovery magic to restore a bit of stamina. Still, it is precisely because of that limitation that we were called to this clinic.
"Enough with the small talk, Eris. Let’s focus on the patients here."
"Ah, you’re right. Director, setting aside the pleasantries, regarding the handling of these patients..."
"Yes, quite right. Is there a problem?"
"As I’m sure you realize, there is a fundamental difference between the injured and the sick..."
I explain the thinking of our upper management and the fact that money is involved, and his eyes go wide as he mutters, "Indeed."
I see—so this is why he is the one running the clinic. Just as Chinau-dono said, he isn't a bad man. However, he isn't exactly suited for politics, or business for that matter. Rurua and Lady Lilishe might like him, though.
It’s a cynical way to put it, but anything can become a part of a negotiation. And it is precisely because we engage in such things that we can hold discussions. One cannot simply accept the other party's demands.