第１８６９堀：危険物の退避先として (Part2)
"Ah, as for my meetings and paperwork, I’m treated as Seraria’s direct subordinate, so Quar and the others handle the processing for me. Since my office is also located in the General Government Building alongside Seraria’s, there are quite a few people who come by with requests or to seek an audience."
"I’d be uneasy if the comparison were me or Seraria, but if Labyris says it’s fine, then I suppose it is."
"Yes. I prioritize Yuki and Aslin and the others over work, and I’m not afraid to ask for help when things get tough, so it’ll be fine."
I’m not the type to shoulder burdens I can’t handle. Besides, life with my family is far more important. I’ll keep the work to a reasonable level.
"I see. That’s a relief."
"It’s fine. It’s a request from you, Yuki. That’s the kind of relationship we have, isn't it?"
We’re family, after all; we’re meant to help one another. As much as we can, at least. I know my limits, and I won’t overreach.
"Now, returning to the subject of the New Continent—how are things progressing with the survey team, led by Aslin and Firia?"
While the rumors and the machinations stirring in the shadows are certainly concerning and warrant caution, my friends are far more important to me.
"That, huh? Preparations are going smoothly. Since it’s a small group, they’re equipped with Item Boxes and Item Bags. They’re planning to carry plenty of supplies, so they’ll be well-stocked. As for combat strength, we have Deryu, Taiki, and Hory as well."
"I’ve heard as much. With a Hero and a Demon Lord as a pair, I suppose there’s no need to worry about their combat capability, but..."
"What is it? Is something bothering you?"
"It’s the same as with Seraria. To me, those two will always be my precious little sisters."
Yes, that’s where the anxiety stems from. I know full well what those two are capable of; I know that ordinary monsters or people wouldn't even stand a chance against them. But worry is worry, regardless of the facts.
"I see. That’s where your head is at."
"That’s exactly where it is."
"Well, there’s not much to be done about that, is there?"
"Indeed, but the anxiety remains all the same."
"In that case, would you like to join the monitoring, or perhaps participate in the meetings? Though, it’s more likely that Hivia and her group will be the ones out in the field."
"Hm? Ah, I see. There’s no particular need for Aslin and the others to head to the site for the survey, is there?"
"I suppose not. Though, everyone involved is the type who wants to be on the front lines. Hivia and Wazfi, in particular, are field-work enthusiasts."
It’s true; Wazfi and Hivia are the type who insist on being where the action is. If that’s the case, there’s no need for Aslin and Firia to go, but...
"I have a feeling those two will want to go to the site as well..."
"Well, it’s a new place, after all. It’s only natural they’d want to see it with their own eyes."
They have their own curiosity, too. If they know they can go, it’s only natural they’d try.
"I’ll have to talk them out of it..."
"I’m sure you can try to talk them out of it, but do you think they’ll listen?"
"Nghhh..."
They’ll surely tell me they’ll be fine and head out to the field anyway.
"Seraria is going through the same struggle, so all I can say is: do your best. If you’re free, Labyris, you could always tag along..."
"That’s it! I’ll check my work schedule."
"No, no, it’s not like you can just become free that easily..."
"You never know until you try."
"Besides, there’s also the matter of monitoring Hairen..."
"I’ll do that at the same time, so it’s fine."
I simply can’t leave those two to their own devices. Not as their big sister. Yes, since I’m their big sister, I should consult with Shera. If it’s her, she’ll surely be a great help. With that decided, I leave the office and head out to contact Shera.
"Er, Labyris? What about what I was saying?"
"It’s fine now. I understand the situation with Hairen, so let me know once the details are finalized."
I reply as I call Shera via telepathy, moving to rendezvous with her. Yes, this is the natural behavior of a big sister doing her best to keep her younger sisters out of harm’s way. If I can’t manage it alone, I’ll just have to get everyone involved.
Labyris is, surprisingly, quite the sister-complex. As for what will become of Shera... that is a story for next time. Incidentally, treating the matter of Hairen with this level of nonchalance might actually be the safest approach.