第１８１０堀：海軍も準備万端 (Part2)
The dark guild’s clandestine maneuvers, ignited by the great monster stampede in Suls, have left not only Ritia but other major powers struggling to contain the fallout. The other continents are growing increasingly frustrated with Weed being held back, and any strategy that promises a resolution would surely be met with universal approval. After all, the terms—the transfer of manufacturing lines for vehicles and pharmaceuticals as compensation—have already been laid out.
"That said, with the Grand Master present at the party, is it reasonable to assume the other side would make a move while the event is in full swing?"
"It would be highly irregular, wouldn't it? For the very figures who should be at the helm to be attending a gala, only to suddenly manifest at a distant site to handle a crisis?"
The party serves, in part, as a venue for the leadership to deliberate on whether to issue directives. To have them abandon the floor to rush to the front lines would be an act of utter unpredictability. While they are likely aware of the existence of the Gates and would undoubtedly harbor suspicions, they lack the concrete evidence to act upon them.
"Still, it’s a heavy burden for the others. Between the party, the investigation into the town housing the guild branch, the northern and southern reaches of the New Continent, and Hiiro’s preparations with the Navy and the port town of Glass, everyone is stretched thin."
Indeed, as Hiiro notes, Weed is currently busier than it has ever been. While the disappearance cases have, in a sense, been resolved, the lingering threat to the villagers remains, necessitating a continued military presence. When one considers the state of the Adventurer Guild branch, it is clear that a much larger, darker conspiracy is at play. And then there is...
"Brother, I heard from Ratz and Eris that the official opening of the school is to be decided at this party, is that true?"
That’s right; the full-scale launch of the International Exchange School is on the agenda. While the trial run has been a success, making the decision to proceed while so many other tasks are piling up is, frankly, astonishing.
"Well, that falls under the purview of Ratz and Eris."
"It’s quite alright. Essentially, Eris and I have stepped back from our representative duties to focus primarily on our roles as Principal and Vice Principal. The school itself is being managed quite capably by the faculty, and one of us is always stationed on-site."
"Since school is out today, we’re free to be here. Managing the logistics and funding for the New Continent can be handled just as easily from here."
I see. I haven't heard of any issues regarding the school, so it seems the two of them have everything well in hand. Managing supplies and finances is a task I handle for the Navy as well, and it is a constant source of headaches. To hear the two women responsible for the administration of all of Weed speak of it so lightly is, in its own way, terrifying.
For the record, the supplies and funding for the Navy, which I lead, are also determined by their discretion. While they have delegated much of that work to subordinates since stepping back from their representative roles, they still hold the most influence in times of crisis and retain command of Weed’s shadow operations. It is certainly not a light load.
"If you two say it’s fine, then I trust it. But the opening won't be immediate, will it?"
"Naturally not. We’ll be setting the schedule while simultaneously screening the applicants. You remember when you and the others visited the schools over there, right?"
"I remember."
I remember it well. Originally, Yuki had only visited the If Continent and the Haiden region, but upon hearing of it, the Rogari and Zurable regions clamored for a visit as well. Consequently, Yuki and his group visited those two regions, providing a brief lecture on Weed and the curriculum.
"Ah, I wonder if Ruhau will come?"
Ruhau? I tilted my head, trying to place the name, but Yuki seemed to understand immediately.
"Ah, the child who skipped grades at Nonoa’s university."
"Yes."
I recall the name now. Hiiro had accompanied Yuki on his school visits in the guise of a student. I hadn't met the child personally, but I had seen the photos of them, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Hiiro, looking quite close.
"That child will undoubtedly come. They were absolutely fascinated by Weed."
Yuki spoke with a smile, clearly fond of Ruhau, but...
"Enough about the school for now. Let’s focus on the drill."
And so, we returned to the rehearsal.