第１８７４堀：各将軍の動き (Part2)
"No, while it would be better if such a situation never arose, it is a fact that having the experience provides a sense of security."
"And if those issues are already known, I would think we should be the ones to teach them..."
"Besides, when it comes to the utilization and deployment of monsters, they are overwhelmingly superior to us."
"Their ideas are just so wildly unconventional. Though, the source of that is undoubtedly Yuki-sama..."
It is embarrassing to admit, but words from someone who has consistently lost to their opponent carry little weight. No, perhaps if it were just the two of us, they might listen, but because we are unable to create that situation ourselves, our words inevitably lack gravity. Above all, they defeated us using those very same eccentric tactics inherited from Yuki-sama; to speak clumsily might only serve to stifle their unique strengths.
"I cannot condemn it as entirely bad. I feel relieved knowing they will gain experience from this."
"Yes. They are, without a doubt, the guardians of Weed."
"Indeed. Still, I hope this investigation leads us to the root cause..."
"What is Tori saying?"
Just as I asked that, a call screen suddenly flickered to life, displaying Tori’s name. What impeccable timing.
"Sorry to interrupt your work. I wanted to have a quick word."
"Not at all. Your timing is perfect."
"Eh?"
"Yes. We were just discussing the resumption of the southern investigation."
"Ah. Did you find something concerning?"
"We did. But first, let us hear your business, Tori. You said you had something to discuss?"
"Ah, right. You know how Aslin and Firia’s group entered the fortress, right?"
"We do."
"Yes, we are aware. Is there a problem?"
"Well, it’s about the fortress’s functions. I was thinking, why don't we try operating some of the facilities?"
The fortress’s functions?
"Are there defensive systems that remain inactive?"
I had been told the fortress’s defenses were flawless. Was there something left dormant? I racked my brain, but nothing came to mind.
"Ah, the defensive systems are working perfectly. By functions, I mean things like the recreational facilities and such."
"Ah, I see."
"I heard we hadn't activated them all yet, but isn't that because the scale is simply too vast?"
As Jessica pointed out, the fortress was designed to satisfy an army of ten thousand. To suggest activating all of that now is...
"Yeah, that’s why I said 'some of it'."
"I see."
So that is the plan. With new units coming and going, we are to have them experience the fortress’s facilities firsthand.
"We’ve been so busy since the fortress was built that we’ve barely touched them. But with Aslin and Firia here, I thought it would be a good opportunity to have the Weed units act as 'guests' and open up the parks and entertainment facilities at the South Fortress to see how they run. What do you think?"
"I believe it is a wonderful opportunity. I would like to go myself."
"Indeed. There are likely issues that only those from the outside, who don't know the site, would notice. We should definitely proceed."
Jessica is right. Nothing is ever truly perfect. It is only through use that problems come to light.
"Got it. I’ll ask Yuki-san. I’ll also invite the units from north of Stasia to come along for a break. Jessica, can you manage the Weed units?"
"Thank you. Everyone will be delighted."
"Hmm, as for the Weed side... I will find a way."
The Weed army under Jessica’s care is not limited to Weed alone. While Seraria-sama and Yuki-sama are the supreme commanders, Jessica holds the fundamental command authority and manages the armies of towns on other continents, such as Betan, Baide, and Seasifo. While each town generally operates independently, the ultimate authority remains with Weed. Deciding which units to send to the South Fortress while considering all those factors is a truly daunting task.
I will consult with Yuki-sama and the others as well, to see if we can lighten Jessica’s burden even a little.
The respective leaders—Jessica, Stasia, and Tori—seem to have no doubts regarding the movements of Aslin and her group. If anything, they seem to view this as a welcome opportunity.
Now, if only we can find the cause of all this...