第１７７７堀：治療からの情報 (Part2)
It seems he still struggles with Princess Carrie, his direct superior.
"And do you truly believe we have never treated those who fell in the fires of war?"
"That is..."
"There is no distinction between friend and foe. If a heart still beats with the desire to live, I will save it. Hatred and lamentation are only possible because one is alive. The same, of course, holds true for joy."
Kagura’s words are a creed that everyone studying medicine in Weed is bound to hear. If an enemy is wounded—or rather, once you have committed to treating them—you must see it through to the end. The origin lies in the phrase "Medicine is a benevolent art," which, in modern terms, speaks to the nobility of the medical profession and the mission of those who practice it. Simply put, it is a reminder that medicine is a virtuous calling, not a path to mere profit; it is a testament to the pride inherent in the craft.
"...My apologies."
"I am glad you understand. Now, have you been able to tolerate solid food?"
"Yes, I am eating normally now. Though I was surprised when it was only soup at first."
"I believe I explained the risk of refeeding syndrome. If you provide a large amount of food to someone in a state of extreme starvation, the body goes into shock, which can lead to death. That is why we increase the intake gradually."
Indeed. It brings to mind the famous historical account of Toyotomi Hideyoshi—then Hashiba Hideyoshi—and the siege of Tottori Castle. After four months of starvation tactics, the castle surrendered, but when food was distributed to the starving soldiers and citizens who emerged, nearly half of them perished from refeeding syndrome.
Well, given that their period of starvation was only about ten days, there is likely no need for such extreme concern, but it is better to be cautious. It would be a disaster if a valuable source of information died simply due to poor dietary management, causing problems for our future endeavors.
"Hmm. Indeed, I believe I have heard of such cases."
"In this world, there are few places where one can eat to their heart's content. I imagine many children and vagrants have died after ravenously consuming food given as charity."
"Ah, yes. I recall such stories. When a soup kitchen coincided with a festival and more food than usual was distributed, there were many deaths among the vagrants."
I see. The conditions certainly match. Vagrants, unable to eat their fill on a daily basis, likely use festivals or soup kitchens to gorge themselves or stockpile food. In that sense, one could call them chronically malnourished, existing in a state of extreme starvation.
"Festivals, you say... Come to think of it, while I have spoken of myself, you know nothing of Baron Siana and his peers. If it is not too much trouble, would you mind telling me about them?"
"Indeed, it would be unfair not to share."
A skillful way to steer the conversation. She didn't press for information; she drew it out through casual chatter. The credibility of such information is likely high. Though, I doubt anything of critical importance will emerge.
"The land I governed... or rather, are you familiar with the Budeak Kingdom?"
"No, I am from the south, so I know nothing of the northern nations."
"I suppose that is to be expected. We rejected the demi-humans. Those from the south do not approach the north. It is only natural you would not know. Then, allow me to briefly explain the Budeak Kingdom. Though, there is nothing particularly noteworthy about it."
Baron Siana begins to speak of his homeland with a wry smile. Yet, his expression is gentle, revealing a deep love for his country.
"He is a good lord. To think they would treat such a vassal as expendable... No, if it is an order, one must obey... Perhaps it is because those in power are fools incapable of judging the situation, or perhaps the superiors themselves are simply that troublesome."
"Indeed. Judging by his actions in battle and his words thus far, he appears to be a man of good sense. The fact that he is attacking us under orders suggests that his superiors are the ones who are truly problematic."
Sharing my sentiment, Proff wears a troubled expression as she listens to Baron Siana. And rightly so. An organization capable of forcing such a sincere and capable lord to act on unreasonable orders... The very thought gives me a headache.
"Negotiations... or rather, I hope we can at least have a proper conversation."
"I truly hope so."
Aurelia and Hobis nod in solemn agreement with Proff and me. For now, Baron Siana seems like a reasonable man. Why, then, did he end up participating in this war? What is the state of affairs in the north? I look forward to the information to come.