Side: Yuki

Anyway, let's just forget about what happened yesterday.

Yes—completely erase them from memory.

I'll seal that data away somewhere too... Deleting it completely would probably leave a bad impression, after all...

To be honest, I really want to permanently erase it. But I doubt that's the only copy, so if I carelessly delete it, another one will probably be cleverly leaked later on. If that happens, I'm confident I'll become a shut-in.

Ah, no, no, stay focused.

Now that greetings are out of the way, today we need to seriously search for a base to make traveling to and from Rhodei easier. On top of that, if we don't throw the captured Holy Sword Wielders into a dungeon with flawless defenses, we won't be able to sleep in peace.

Well, Aslin's Ten Magical Beasts seem to be keeping watch without sleeping, but we can't keep asking them to do that forever. It's not impossible, but a slip-up is bound to happen eventually...

If they manage to escape, the Holy Sword Wielders will probably have learned their lesson and won't make any obvious moves again, instead operating quietly behind the scenes... Their flashy actions up until now came from baseless confidence that no one could beat them. But now that they know about irregulars like us, they'll switch to low-profile activities that are hard to trace.

If that happens, tracking them down will be a pain for us, so I definitely want to avoid that outcome.

Therefore, securing a base is an urgent matter.

"That's the situation. I'm going to talk things over with your father and look for a suitable base."

I say this to the four guards accompanying me, as well as Samantha and the others who were going to handle Amanda's protection and monitor the Holy Sword Wielders.

"Umu. Leave things here to us. Though, it's not like we have much to do anyway."

Derieu says, shrugging her shoulders.

Since there was no fight with the Holy Sword Wielders, it must feel a bit disappointing for her.

"Derieu, I understand how you feel, but peace is best. Why don't you use this opportunity to teach Amanda a few things? It'll be a problem if she remains weak herself. Besides, I'm here, so healing won't be an issue."

With Rurua around, training should be fine—as long as there are no fatal injuries.

At worst, they might take her wyvern away from her and turn her into a wyvern breeder—or rather, a caretaker.

...Though if they tried that, the nation would fall. Mostly because of Wy-chan.

"...That's true. Amanda, if you have the motivation, we can train you. What do you say?"

"Eh? Me?"

"Yes. If you remain as you are now, there's a possibility that someone will try to take your wyvern away from you. In reality, that would be impossible, but if people think Amanda herself is weak, more fools will be encouraged to underestimate you and make stupid moves. Do you currently have the strength to drive them away?"

Ellis reached the same conclusion as me and asked Amanda if she wanted to train.

You can't force skill onto someone who isn't willing, after all. Half-hearted determination only leads to injuries.

"...If it's just magic..."

"Magic alone won't cut it. Worst case, you could be ambushed and pinned down by multiple large men. Could you handle that?"

"...I can't. But if you teach me, can I really gain that strength?"

"That depends on your motivation.. However, Derieu and Rurua, who would be teaching you, are both more skilled than me in certain fields. And, incidentally, the four children Amanda adores are as well."

"Fweh!? Aslin-chan and the others too!?"

""Ehem~!""

Aslin and Filia puff out their chests proudly.

It wasn't exactly wrong, but they weren't really skilled enough to teach others...

And just as I thought that, Labyris and Sheila bonked them both on the head.

THUMP.

It was light, but getting hit made both of them make a "Fumyu" sound and clutch their heads.

"Geez, stop that. Didn't you fail at teaching everyone at school like that before?"

"That's right. It's a good thing the injuries weren't severe, but it could have been terrible. You shouldn't make promises you can't keep."

The two of them are top students at Weed's school. Of course, that's partly because I taught them even before the school was built.

Back when Kurse conducted a magic class, he asked them to assist students who struggled with mana regulation. The two were more than happy to help. But in an attempt to solve the students' mana-control problem, they simply dumped a huge amount of mana into them... To put it simply, it was like using ordinary firewood for a campfire, noticing that the flames weren't getting big enough, and then handing someone dynamite.

The result was an obvious disaster.

The students who couldn't properly control their mana were given an amount they couldn't possibly control, causing it to explode... It didn't become a major incident, but some students suffered minor burns. At the time, Rurua and Elju even had to rush to the school.

From Kurse's and my perspective, it was useful because we were able to teach the students about the dangers of magical explosions, and we also learned that Aslin and Filia's sense of what was "normal" was still immature.

However, the wives were naturally furious.

That incident was officially treated as an accidental magical explosion from inexperienced students, but Aslin and the others were told the real cause—and since then, they haven't been put in teaching or assisting roles.

Even regarding combat training, their teachers are mainly Seraria and Derieu, who are among the top three in Weed, making their standard far from normal. Additionally, in terms of individual skills, Aslin has Tamer skills and Filia has Blacksmithing skills, which are even harder to teach. When it comes to those specific individual skills, no one among our inner circle can match them.

So, since they aren't at a stage where they can teach, letting them boast and make light promises could lead to trouble later. To prevent them from getting wrapped up in accidents, we treat them a bit strictly.

Eris's comment was just to point out that they were stronger than Amanda, but it would be problematic if Amanda secretly tried to get lessons from Aslin and the others.

Amanda's abilities weren't quite on Samantha's level, but she can still perform chantless magic. Knowing this, Aslin and Feili might try to teach her lower-potency magic that they consider inconvenient, or high magic that they themselves can't even use yet—without even realizing what standard level that represents.

Well, currently, that "standard level" is being taught by Seraria, as well as Tori, Riel, and Mobu, who used to be adventurers.

"While Aslin and the others are indeed stronger than you, Amanda, they are still children. Do not attempt to learn from them in secret, or you'll get blown away."

Ah, Eris made sure to warn her properly too.

"Y-Yes."

Realizing they didn't know how to hold back, Amanda nodded her head furiously.

Looks like everything is under control here, so we might as well head off to talk to the Duke about the base.

"I'll leave things here to you. Don't overdo the training."

"Yes. Take care."

"Umu. Leave it to us."

"Have a safe trip, Danna-sama."

"Onii-chan, bring back souvenirs!!"

"Anii-sama, me too!!"

"Geez, you two. Ah, I'd like some sweets, please."

"...Sheila, you too? I'd like a hair accessory."

Right. Souvenirs for the kids.

...I'll need to buy gifts for the wives in other locations too, or it'll become a problem. Let me write that down in my notebook.

"Um, what should I do?"

Just as I was writing down souvenirs in my note, Eoid, who had been forgotten, spoke up.

Ah right, Eoid fulfilled his duty by delivering the personal letter yesterday. Even so, sending him back alone is dangerous and pointless, and then there's the matter with Amanda...

Now then, what to do?

"Hey, Eris..."

"Yuki-san, please take Eoid with you. Walking around the city would be better than watching Amanda train. Amanda probably doesn't want to be watched while training anyway."

"Eh? I don't really mind?"

"If you want him to watch you get beaten to a pulp that badly, I won't stop you."

"Eoid, don't cause trouble for Yuki-san and the others!!"

"O-Okay, got it."

That was quite the quick shift.

But considering Eris completely neutralized the Academy Headmaster, Amanda could easily imagine what being beaten to a pulp would look like. No one wants their partner to see them like that.

Well, her quick change of heart left Eoid looking a bit taken aback, though... Hopefully, it doesn't cool down their young love.

* * *

After that exchange, we arrived in front of the duke's office.

The butler was standing there and bowed deeply.

"We have been waiting for your arrival, Sir."

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

"Not at all. His Grace has just had a moment to catch his breath, and Her Grace arrived a short while ago as well."

"I see, that's good then. We're here regarding the continuation of yesterday's discussion."

"Understood."

The butler knocked on the door with refined movements.

"Your Grace. Yuki-sama has arrived to continue yesterday's discussion."

"That's fine. Show them in."

"Yes, sir."

Following that brief exchange, the door opened, and we stepped inside.

"Ah, Yuki-dono. Or should I say... son-in-law?"

"Dear, what are you saying? Considering Yuki-dono's position, it is only natural for us to show him the proper respect."

"No, 'son' is fine, Father-in-law, Mother-in-law."

When I said that, the old man beamed with a bright smile, and Viyu-san, who had only been lightly scolding him, wore a similarly lovely smile.

"See, Viyu? My son says so himself."

"Sigh. If we ever become a burden to you, please tell us. Don't hesitate. You are my son-in-law now, after all."

"Yes. I won't hesitate to tell you then, Mother."

"You certainly don't hesitate, do you? But that's what I like about you!"

Despite being nobles, this family is full of pleasant people.

Judging by this, the eldest son and daughter whom I haven't met yet probably won't be a concern either.

"Anyway, my apologies. Since we barged in during your work, we should get straight to the main topic."

"What are you saying? We are already family. Work can be done on the side, so tell me what you need."

"Yes, just as my husband says. A head of the household who prioritizes work over family matters when it isn't critical doesn't deserve to have a family. Speak without hesitation."

"Then I won't hold back."

"It's regarding yesterday's video camera."

"Ah, that video camera. Of course, I won't speak a word about such a legendary magic tool. After all, it holds the wonderful love between my son-in-law and my daughter."

Cough.

Damn it... are these two still attacking me with that?

No, wait. It's a misunderstanding.

The Duke and his wife think the video camera is a unique, irreplaceable item, so they assume I'm talking about keeping it hidden. What I'm actually thinking is that I can provide them with a large number of video cameras—under certain conditions, of course.

So our assumptions are completely different from the start.

Unless I forcibly steer the conversation in the right direction, we'll be talking about that confession scene forever... They need to understand that this is slowly destroying my mental health.

"Say, Viyu. What do you think about turning that scene into a stage play?"

"Indeed. A story about staying true to love amidst anxiety would surely appeal not just to nobles, but to commoners as well."

S-Stop it... I don't mind listening to other people's love stories on the side, but don't make me the original source of a stage play. Please, seriously stop!

Instead of freezing up under this psychological attack, I need to force the conversation toward the actual subject... And while I'm at it, I'll crush the stage-play idea too.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it, but what I want to discuss is a little different."

"Is that so? Ah, drop the formal speech, we're family after all."

"...Pardon me, then. To put it simply, video cameras can be obtained—or rather, produced—in large quantities. So, could you give us some vacant land somewhere? We'll use it as a workshop and storage facility."

"""Huh?"""

At those words, Father, Mother, and even the butler froze.

"W-Wait a moment. I was naturally planning to prepare land or a mansion for you. But video cameras can be produced in large quantities? I-Is that really true!?"

"It's true. The production method is special, so I can't share it with anyone, though."

"That goes without saying! But is it really fine to tell us something like this so easily? This isn't just a fortune—it's an extraordinary asset, you know?"

My father-in-law held up the video camera as he spoke.

"That's exactly why. Up until now, we've operated as a mercenary group. We can't just walk around selling such a major invention. Interference would come from all sides immediately."

"...Indeed. Something of this caliber... those with ill intentions would jump at it, making enemies of everyone around us."

"That's why I brought this to a trustworthy father-in-law. Though I'm sorry for dragging you into various troubles like this."

When I said that, the old man slammed his hands on the desk and stood up.

Whoops, did I make him mad?

Well, considering what a revolutionary artifact the video camera is in this civilization, I suppose it's understandable.

"I don't mind!! I shall sweep away any troubles! My son trusted me enough to tell me something this important. If I don't live up to that, I'm not much of a man!! You don't mind, do you, Viyu?"

"Of course not. As family, it is natural. And for our house, if we pass up an opportunity like this, there is no meaning in our existence. The House of Duke Hughes will protect Yuki and the rest with all our strength!"

...It's hot. Or rather, passionate.

I'm glad, but why are they so hot-blooded?

"However, Yuki. Is there a reason to take risks by producing them in a separate location?"

"Indeed. If produced here at the Duke's estate, security would be flawless, and any suspicious individuals would be spotted immediately."

As expected of a Duke, noticing the unnatural point in my proposal and asking about it right away is impressive.

Well, it saves me the trouble of explaining things from scratch.

"That's the goal."

"The goal?"

"You mean purposely making it easier to approach?"

"Exactly. You know what the video camera can do, right?"

"Yes. I was surprised when I first saw it, but by pressing this button, it records the current scene... Ah!!"

"I see. You can use the video camera to capture undeniable evidence of wrongdoing."

"Eventually, people will figure out that the Duke Hughes family is the source of the video cameras. And those who aren't happy about it will make a move, right?"

"I see. As expected, Yuki, you didn't lead a mercenary group for nothing."

"...With this, we can settle scores with those who have been interfering with our house all at once, since we'll have irrefutable proof."

O-Oh... Samantha's mother is beautiful, but her intimidating aura when she's angry is incredible.

I can feel the pressure, even if it's invisible.

"For those reasons, I thought it would be better for you to use them rather than us. Even if we're a well-known mercenary group, we lack connections, and people would doubt the authenticity of the video cameras themselves."

Nobles would try to cover things up even if there was evidence, as long as the other party's social standing was lower.

Well, that's the same on Earth too—covering up scandals is a specialty of high-ranking officials.

That certain country where a massive explosion occurred uselessly suppressed information, claiming only around a hundred died when it was clearly in the thousands.

"...Leave it to me. I'll personally explain the video cameras to His Majesty so that no one can make excuses later."

"Yes. Once His Majesty and the Prime Minister know the facts, excuses become impossible. Dear, start preparing for an audience with His Majesty at once. Let's quickly eliminate the trash."

"I'll leave that side to you, but do you have any good recommendations for a base location?"

If I don't cut off the topic here, this conversation will never end.

"Ah, my apologies. We can't start without preparing a location first."

"We got a bit too excited. For now, after receiving word from Samantha, I've selected a few residential choices. As for a place that can serve as a workshop and is easy to monitor... there are about three options."

"Then I'll go check them out later. Where are they?"

"No, we will accompany you."

"Indeed. If it were just a matter between newlyweds, I wouldn't intrude, but producing video cameras makes it an issue for our entire family. That's fine, isn't it, Samantha?"

"Yes, I understand."

With this, securing a base location is practically done.

Next is Amanda's matter.

"So, as a final topic, how do you intend to treat the Dragon Knight, Amanda? She's a classmate of Samantha and has a decent relationship with us. Naturally, we're also her classmates."

That's right.

While the marriage with Samantha and the video camera issue found a resolution, the question remains: how does the Duke intend to treat Amanda, who is currently part of the Academy's military power?

If there's any move to absorb her into Rhodei, I'll need to keep that in check. Her mobility as a Dragon Knight is valuable to us, and keeping her positioned at the Academy makes travel to other countries far more convenient.

"You don't need to worry about that. Our ducal house will not lay a hand on Dragon Knight Amanda. Of course, that includes any romantic advances. On the contrary, we wish to cooperate and build a friendly relationship with her."

"...Saying 'romantic advances' means you already knew about Amanda?"

"Anyone can tell by looking at her. That flower-like smile she shows only to that boy named Eoid... tearing that apart would be utterly tasteless. Besides, if we anger her, we might end up submerged in a sea of flames."

Wy-chan's capabilities could actually pull that off, which makes it terrifying.

While I was thinking about that, Father-in-law pulled out the personal letter sent by the Academy from his desk.

"As Viyu says, drawing the Dragon Knight's wrath is one reason, but this is the primary cause."

He then showed me the contents of the personal letter.

There were three pages in total.

—One regarding signs of a Monster Outbreak.

—One regarding Samantha's grades, evaluation, and her marriage partner—me.

—And the last one was about Dragon Knight Amanda.

However, only a single line was written on it.

『If you lay a hand on Dragon Knight Amanda and Eoid, I'll crush you.』

...Yeah.

A crystal-clear statement of "she's the Academy's military asset."

I see... So Poppuri's achievements up to now have given her enough influence to make demands like this.

"That is a direct declaration from Headmaster Poppuri. Acting against Dragon Knight Amanda now would endanger the nation... Well, Yuki, you were probably worried that some foolish noble might try to separate Amanda and Eoid or strip her of her transport capabilities, but that possibility is virtually zero."

"Why is that?"

"While a Dragon Knight is an attractive asset, if she ramps up, the resulting damage is unimaginable. Are you aware that the Academy itself functions as a place to contain uncontrollable geniuses?"

"Ah—so that's it. So, keeping her under direct control would be dangerous, meaning it would be better to accept the Headmaster's proposal and have her dispatched when needed, huh?"

"Precisely. Even if the nation brought the Dragon Knight under its control, such an overwhelmingly powerful individual would be difficult to manage. And the people already working in the field wouldn't be particularly happy about it either. Those at the top would fear losing their positions. The nation's leadership cannot easily allow sudden shifts in hierarchy or breaking of traditions. Internal turmoil would be guaranteed."

"I see. Adding her to the roster would involve various troubles. Thinking about it logically, that makes sense."

It's like suddenly creating a weird new department in the Japanese Cabinet and bringing in a foreigner who had no prior connection.

...That would be absolutely impossible in Japan.

Japan isn't exactly known for having a high level of understanding toward foreigners, and it certainly doesn't have the flexible idea of granting citizenship after living there for several years like the United States... Well, granting citizenship after just a few years of residence would cause major issues on its own—there are already plenty of people from neighboring countries residing there...

Either way, managing a nation is difficult.

That's one reason Weed's multinational immigrant society is convenient.

We don't have established traditions that must be preserved, and no foreign nation can openly invade us by force. The only way to manipulate things is from behind the scenes through politics, but that would require getting through elections.

However, any country could think of that, leading to sabotage, and speaking in favor of a specific country would immediately raise suspicions of covert ties.

Well, who knows what things will be like ten or twenty years from now.

By then, we'll probably be retired.

The younger generation can handle it.

"That's how it is. There will undoubtedly be some fools who try to cause trouble for Dragon Knight Amanda or the people around her, but they'll be punished immediately. No nation wants to turn the Academy and a Dragon Knight into enemies."

"Then if we give Amanda a video camera to record evidence, we can deal with them right away."

"Indeed. Or rather... was that your goal all along?"

"We also want to maintain good relations with the Dragon Knight, and it allows us to demonstrate the usefulness of the video camera. If we demonstrate its value through internal political disputes, it remains an extension of power struggles, forcing His Majesty to weigh his options. But if it's for the sake of friendship with the Dragon Knight and the Academy, he will act decisively without hesitation."

"Fumu... In that case, let's arrange a meeting with Dragon Knight Amanda and gather evidence quickly."

"You're right, Dear. Since there are nobles making unnecessary moves, we should discuss things with Dragon Knight Amanda in advance..."

Now then, with this, our foundation in Rhodei is mostly stabilized.

Amanda will have to deal with a few foolish nobles, but that'll be the end of it... At least if the opponents were foolish enough to take the bait.

—Now the remaining issue is the two missing Holy Sword Wielders.

Ta-chan and the others were tracking them, but they still hadn't found them... They probably teleported directly somewhere.

I don't know whether the Holy Sword Wielders' confessions were actually true, but regardless of the Academy's situation, I'm worried about Cleana's country.