第１７７４堀：情報を集めるために (Part2)
In other words, while not absolute, it simply means there are many regions inhabited by people. And, of course, many nations.
If Weed, or even the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance, were to barge in and initiate a campaign of subjugation in such places, it would undoubtedly descend into a quagmire.
That is precisely why Yuki took this course of action—he needs intelligence on the enemy, and he needs it now.
Choosing to rely on humans rather than the Ohe was a deliberate decision; after all, Weed is a multi-species nation, and involving them would only invite unnecessary complications.
That being said, the path we must take is…
"I know, I know. The goal is to speak with those on the northern side who are actually capable of reason, grasp what is happening up there, and bring this conflict to an end."
"Though it feels like a long road ahead."
After all, this is only the beginning.
And we are dealing with the absolute bottom-feeders of their ranks.
Until now, we’ve been able to negotiate directly with the leaders of enemy nations. It’s ironic that I’d live to see the day I’d miss the relative simplicity of those talks.
"It’s a coalition, after all. Previously, the nations we negotiated with were clearly defined, and there was always a church lurking in the background. Well, in a sense, it’s similar, but..."
"I hate to say it, but the situation is far more dire than it was with the Akenoki of the Haire Church. You realize this, don't you? You can't just easily manipulate a coalition into action. And the objective—exterminating demi-humans? If you think about it rationally, have they any idea how much devastation that would cause?"
The idea of annihilating an entire race is something even a fool wouldn't entertain, yet this is coming from those in power. They’ve completely lost their minds. Their subordinates aren't even trying to stop them; I’m the one who wants to ask *them* what we’re supposed to do.
"That’s why I told you it was going to be troublesome. Still, the fact that Baron Siana surrendered proves that not everyone in the coalition is on board with this, which is a silver lining."
"And yet, we have no information on this church? I was investigating while in the Ohe capital, but I came up empty-handed. Is it even possible to have this little information? This is a church capable of uniting people on such a massive scale!"
Exactly. That is the most baffling part.
We have absolutely no intelligence on the church the enemy keeps mentioning. Given the vastness of the continent and the fact that the enemy has formed a coalition, this church must be an incredibly large organization.
How is it possible that the Ohe knows nothing about it?
Especially when they are championing such a dangerous, anti-demi-human ideology.
"Ah, regarding that, I suspect it’s a matter of environment."
"Environment?"
"Listening to the Ohe King and Princess Suena, it struck me that they know far too little about foreign nations. Didn't you think so?"
"Well... I suppose I did feel they were lacking in knowledge regarding the movements of other countries..."
It’s strange, really. Even the nations they trade with are unreachable. I kept wondering why, given that there had always been contact.
Still, I had assumed it was simply because of their strong anti-demi-human sentiment, so it didn't strike me as particularly unnatural.
"Well, anti-demi-human sentiment has always existed, after all."
"Yes, I suppose it’s understandable that they wouldn't know. I doubt anyone would bother to inform them. Besides, it would be a death sentence for any messenger."
"Exactly. That’s why. There’s no doubt that demi-humans are being ostracized, and since they reside in this forest, they likely kept their interactions to the bare minimum."
"...I see. You’re right. The environment may indeed be the cause of our intelligence gap."
The forest is a unique environment, of course, but it’s difficult to actively gather information in a place where demi-humans are being persecuted.
"Especially since the further north you go, the more intense the persecution becomes, right? It begs the question: why would they bother investigating the situation in the north if they never intend to go there? It’s enough for them to just trade with the southern nations."
"So, it’s vital that I focus on extracting information from Baron Siana and his peers, then?"
"That’s the size of it. So, good luck."
*Sigh.* When he puts it that way, I have no choice but to give it my all.
I believe Rushi is helping out as well, so perhaps I should enlist her cooperation.
Then again, she’s been through so much—I wonder if she still has trauma regarding men?
"Ah, as for Rushi, feel free to use her however you like. She isn't a doctor, but she has been studying to be a nurse."
"Oh, that’s perfect."
And so, I began my efforts to gain the trust of the prisoners, alongside Rushi.
Information is a funny thing; people rarely look for it unless they are forced to.
Even nations are no exception.
There are always, quite surprisingly, things that remain hidden in plain sight.