第１９３３堀：歴史をたどる中でのヒント (Part2)
"Indeed. For now, they’ve limited themselves to mere protests. As I mentioned before, when the folks from the Central Church came to complain, Archbishop Dodona simply stepped forward and demanded they produce Bishop Petra."
"It seems that, as long as they claim the name of the Clearstream Church, they cannot simply ignore the words of Archbishop Dodona, who shares a bond of friendship with Bishop Petra. They merely said 'wait a moment' and have been silent since. One should assume, however, that they are busy devising various countermeasures."
Naturally. Having called for a pause, they are undoubtedly preparing something.
Still…
"There is no reason for us to simply wait for them, is there?"
Yuki said this with a wicked grin, and King Giadana mirrored his expression with a smile of his own.
"Exactly. We need only summon the Bishop ourselves. That will dismantle their claim to legitimacy. As it happens, people under your command, Yuki, are already in motion."
"Oh, what a coincidence. It seems our paths have crossed quite fortuitously."
The Chancellor added, feigning surprise at the coincidence.
With that, they both began to laugh.
What a grotesque farce this is.
And yet, the coincidences are, in fact, real.
"Well, since they were already heading to the northern kingdom of Ioa to verify the standing of the Clearstream Church and the Adventurer Guild, there is nothing improper about it."
Indeed, Nina, Vilia, and the others are currently making their way to the northern kingdom. The pretext is flawless, and the objective, in a sense, remains on track—or rather, it is the true objective all along.
"True. Still, it will take some time. Will they make it in time?"
"That will depend on how we handle it. If we relay word to Archbishop Dodona that we are attempting to make contact with Bishop Petra, won't that serve as a check against the other side's movements? Or, we could simply agree to talks to buy time. Neither side is a small force that can be moved easily; arranging a seat at the table will take a considerable amount of time in itself."
Ah, the standard procedure—or rather, the expected response.
Getting powerful people to sit down together is truly a monumental task.
"Bwahahaha! And yet, Yuki and I can meet so easily, not only to discuss such matters but to engage in idle chatter as well!"
King Giadana burst into laughter at the thought.
He’s right.
While we do have communication magic that utilizes water mirrors or reflective surfaces, it is not something that can be done frequently or with ease.
The magical cost is simply too high.
Which is why this technology, which allows us to lounge about and talk through a monitor, is nothing short of impossible.
It’s almost too convenient, being able to miniaturize the device and carry it into an office or a private chamber.
"I imagine they are currently rewriting their letters over and over, agonizing over how to explain this to the local power brokers and the members of the church who know nothing of the truth."
At those opening words, the men fell silent for a moment before erupting into even louder laughter.
*Sigh.* It is certainly entertaining, I suppose.
"Yuki, King Giadana, Chancellor... I understand it’s exhilarating, but..."
"Ah, my apologies. In any case, we shall pursue contact with Bishop Petra through our northern investigation. Ena, please coordinate with King Giadana to gather intelligence."
"Understood. I shall."
"And I am to handle the recovery of the demi-humans from the church faction?"
"Well, if there are any to be found. Things are calm for now, so please focus on medical duties in the south. I’m sure the King and his people are concerned about those who evacuated."
"Indeed. I shall have Ena contact you the moment Lady Enola is needed. I leave my people in your care."
"Certainly. I apologize for the trouble."
The three of them transitioned seamlessly into summarizing their next steps. The speed of their mental shift was impressive, but...
"Understood. However, could you please put down those drinks before you go? Even as a doctor, I can only permit a small amount of alcohol. And the biggest issue is that you are both still technically on the clock."
That’s right. Yuki rarely drinks, but these two are discussing state affairs while imbibing.
Though, I suppose it’s not unheard of.
A little drink to lift one's spirits while working is not entirely uncommon.
It isn't strictly forbidden by law as it is in Weed, but even there, drinking on the job usually earns one a stern look.
"Come now, it would be rude not to drink a gift, wouldn't it? Right?"
"Indeed, indeed. It would be the height of discourtesy not to drink such exquisite wine and offer one's impressions."
"Well, I am glad you enjoy it. I shall have Ena bring you more next time."
" "Ohhh!" "
It’s hopeless.
These two are bottomless pits.
Yuki seems to be playing them, but as a doctor, I can only sigh.
We haven't confirmed the cause yet, but we have found something that looks suspicious.
What happened one thousand years ago?
What does the Clearstream Church in the center know?
And how is the north involved?