第１８０４堀： ウィードの良いところを伝えるには (Part2)
"That's a point. If we can win over the merchants who sell Weed's goods, independent of the state, our name will naturally spread."
"Yes. Though, that falls under Ratz's jurisdiction, doesn't it?"
As much as I, Mikos, might personally recommend certain items, I can't guarantee the supply, and the strategy wouldn't hold water without Ratz's confirmation.
"True. It would be best to have Ratz verify the catalog as well."
"I think that's a great idea."
"Agreed. When it comes to supplies and trade, Ratz is far more capable than we are."
"Then let's call her in."
Indeed. Nothing can proceed without Ratz.
With that, Yuki-sensei summoned her, and she arrived in a mere ten minutes.
"Yes, yes~! Your favorite bunny girl has arrived for you, big brother!"
Ratz appeared with her signature flair. She was supposed to be working, but she definitely pawned her duties off on someone else, didn't she? Well, she’s undeniably more efficient at her job than I am, so I suppose it’s fine. Sometimes, it’s better not to know how the sausage is made.
"Sorry for the trouble, Ratz. About the matter at hand—you know how Ohe is planning to send envoys to the southern nations? We’ve been asked to have our people accompany them."
"Ah, that. Weed’s reputation is practically non-existent, and we need to clarify Ohe’s standing, so the plan is for Weed to join the delegation to verify things, right?"
"Exactly. Ideally, I’d like to engage with every country we have ties to, but we don't have the bandwidth to spread ourselves that thin. We have to consider safety, too."
Right. In a perfect world, I’d want to connect with every nation that has ties to Ohe, but we’re currently in a state of war. More importantly, this situation is still under wraps. Even in Weed, there aren't many envoys who possess both the negotiation skills and the combat prowess to handle potential dangers, and frankly, I don't see the need to force such a deep integration just yet.
"Indeed. I suppose the most we can do is have the current envoys mention that Weed was part of the mission. I heard Kagura is heading out?"
"Yes. I thought that, given her race, Kagura would be the best choice for negotiations."
"That is certainly true. We can't send a demi-human in this political climate. Ohe is one thing, but if Weed sends a demi-human, the other side might get cold feet. I agree that we should send a human."
"I’m glad you agree, Ratz. Regarding that mission, I was thinking of having Mikos accompany Kagura."
"Mikos?"
Ratz turned her gaze toward me.
"Originally, I thought she would be the best person to act as our promotional face—to explain Weed and present our offerings to them."
"Ah, that is undoubtedly true. Kagura is suited for serious explanations, but when it comes to piquing interest, Mikos is the optimal choice."
Exactly. Ratz and I are on the same page. Kagura is just too stiff. She’s perfect for a diplomat or an envoy, but she’s not exactly cut out for conveying the charm of a nation.
"We were discussing that, and Mikos suggested we curate a catalog of Weed’s products and select trade goods that might spark interest or lead to future contact from their side."
"I see. And that is why you called for me."
"Precisely. I figured you’d be the best one to handle the selection and keep track of our inventory."
"That is definitely my department. Though, I’ll need to consult with Eris to calculate the monetary value of the supplies..."
*Ugh.* Dealing with Eris regarding the budget is necessary, of course, but it’s still a headache. As Mikos, I’m not exactly fond of it. I know it’s a vital role, and I do run a publishing house, but still...
"I’ll speak with her as well. For now, Mikos and Ratz, I need you two to select items that will catch their interest and that we can supply consistently. We don't have much time, so let's aim to finish in two or three days."
"Understood."
"Got it~!"
And so, Mikos and Ratz began the process of selecting gifts and trade goods. In the New Continent, Weed’s name is at the very bottom of the ladder. We have to make a name for ourselves somewhere. Regardless of our military strength, if we don't establish ourselves as good neighbors, we’ll never gain any allies.