第１８５７堀：いずれ来る問題への備え (Part2)
"Ah, well, military movements do take a bit of time to coordinate. So, Yuki-sama, Deryu-sama, Riel-sama—what brings you here today?"
"For me, it’s about that storefront on the main street we’ve been keeping vacant. I want to decide on the interior, so I was hoping you could introduce me to a contractor."
"So, you’ve finally found the time to open a shop?"
Ah, so that’s what Yuki-nii and the others were talking about regarding that empty space. He did say it would serve as a base for gathering intelligence on Glass Port Town. I suppose things had been too hectic to prioritize it, but it’s finally moving forward. I’m looking forward to seeing what kind of shop it turns out to be.
"Seraria reminded me of it, and I realized there’d been complaints. My apologies."
"Not at all. I was well aware of how busy you were. It couldn't be helped."
"That’s right! I’ve been telling everyone that the complaints are just because we’re still in the preparation phase, but I suppose some people might be getting restless," she added with a chuckle.
"Well, it’s only natural for people to think a merchant who leaves prime real estate sitting empty lacks talent. Is there a risk of someone trying to force us out?"
Hmm, while my instinct is to just blow away any idiot who tries that, I can’t say I don’t understand the source of the complaints. Still, being forced out is out of the question.
"In that case, Riel and I shall adjust our patrol routes to increase our presence there."
"Exactly. It’s best to haul those kinds of fools off to the station at the first sign of trouble. So, how is the public order in Glass Port Town? The patrols are out, but have there been any specific issues? That’s what we came to check on."
"So, you two came to assess the current situation."
"Indeed. Ever since the completion party, civilians have been entering the town freely. I wanted to ensure there haven't been any troubles with the nobility or similar incidents."
"Well, there are always minor squabbles, of course, but I haven't received any reports suggesting we are short-handed."
"True enough. Still, the possibility of trouble occurring outside our field of vision is never zero. Perhaps having Yuki-sama’s shop there will be a good thing after all."
Indeed. Troubles like these rarely reach the ears of the authorities—the people in charge. By establishing a shop that acts as an information hub, Yuki-nii aims to prevent such things and reduce the number of people suffering in silence. That is the true purpose.
"Then it’s settled; I should definitely get it built. So, can you provide an introduction? I initially thought about asking someone I know from Weed, but since they’re all official suppliers for the group, it would give away too much."
"Hahaha! You’re absolutely right about that. Anyone you know from Weed is essentially a world-famous artisan. If they showed up, everyone would know it’s a high-profile project."
"Understood. I grasp the situation. You want a local artisan from Glass Port Town. I will write a letter of introduction, though I suspect if Yuki-sama shows his face, that will be more than enough. As for the location..."
With that, she explained where to find the interior decorator and handed over a memo along with the letter. After checking them, Yuki-nii turned to us.
"Right, that covers my business. Now, it’s Dressa and Hiiro’s turn. Sorry to have kept you waiting."
He addressed Hiiro and the others.
"We weren't waiting. It was about the security of Glass Port Town, which concerns us as well."
"Indeed. Stability in the town is vital for the military. Even among our ranks, there are fools who act out."
Being human, even military personnel—or perhaps *because* they deal in violence—are prone to losing control. It is Hiiro and her team’s job to stop that before it happens, but there are always those who act in the shadows. Strengthening the information network to ensure such things don't slip through the cracks is beneficial for us, too. If the military’s reputation falls, we won’t be able to protect the safety of Glass Port Town.
"I see. I’d love to hear the details of your situation, but—"
"Our discussion will likely be long and drawn out, so you should go ahead and get your shop underway. Deryu, Riel, please continue with your patrols."
"Fair enough."
"Indeed. Leave it to us."
"You got it! We’ll keep a sharp eye on things."
And so, Hiiro and the others saw Yuki-nii off. They began to discuss the possibility of personnel shortages or the reduction of the fleet, moving on to determine the absolute minimum defensive force required. Since the definition of "minimum" changes depending on the circumstances, they needed to coordinate those details with the town officials to avoid any future issues.
It goes to show that Hiiro is doing her job quite thoroughly.