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Chapter 78: Beastman Territory - Episode 3

<Beastman Territory - Capital Bistoria>

Central Union Parliament - Assembly Hall

Two days after Drago's visit to the village...

"It's time. Today, the Chairman is absent due to an inspection, but we will proceed with the regular session as scheduled."

In the meeting room, representatives from 11 races, excluding the Dragonkin, were gathered.

Gacha-

"Wha... Chairman, why are you here?"

"Weren't you scheduled to return the day after tomorrow?"

"Well, I had some urgent matters to attend to, so I flew back on my own! Kukuku."

"What... Don't the escorts have any control over this?"

"Alright, alright, I did this on my own."

"But..."

Normally, no one expected me to appear, and only Maria and I weren't surprised and confused.

"Well, it doesn't matter. Since everyone is here, let's start."

In the midst of this, Maria, the chief of the Fishman Gyojin Tribe, maintained her usual laid-back atmosphere.

"Yes, that's right. Then... before we begin the regular reports, there is someone I would like to introduce to all of you."

"Huh? I haven't heard anything."

"Me neither. Who could it be?"

Apparently, only Maria and I were not informed. The other members seemed unfazed, as if it was expected.

――Then, shortly after, the doors of the meeting room opened, and the President of the Japanese Trading Company entered. He had relocated his base to the capital about a month ago, and we had already had several conversations.

"Excuse me. Today, I was invited... Chairman? Why are you here?"

"That's what I want to know. Ryuunosuke, why are you here today?"

"Ah, well..."

"Oh, excuse me. ...Today, we invited Ryuunosuke-sama here as a representative of the Japanese Trading Company to become a member of the Union Parliament, in recognition of his contributions to our Beastman Territory."

They were acting as if it was the unanimous decision of the entire group, but I had never heard of such a discussion before.

(This is clearly strange.)

If there had been repeated discussions and unanimous approval, I could understand. But suddenly having the person in question present... it's unthinkable.

However, at this point, there was no use in throwing a wrench into the works. I needed to understand what was happening first.

With that in mind, I exchanged a glance with Maria before speaking.

"Hmm... Indeed, considering the contributions of the Japanese Trading Company, there is qualification for Ryuunosuke-sama to become a member."

"Oh, the Chairman also thinks so!"

"If the Chairman agrees, then there should be no problem."

"Yes, yes!"

"Now, Ryuunosuke-sama, please take your seat over there."

As if it had been prepared in advance, Ryuunosuke was guided to the newly added seat, and he took his place.

(There's definitely something strange going on here.)

The fact that all the other members, aside from Maria, unanimously agreed... It seems like they have been influenced by something related to this man.

(But what could it be? It's hard to imagine that he brainwashed them. It doesn't seem like he did it on his own, either. Perhaps it's some skill or something done by his subordinates... Hmm, I don't know.)

After that, there was some discussion, but there were no negative opinions.

Once the formalities as the Chairman were done, it was time for me to present the matter I had hastily come here for.

"Everyone, may I say something as well?"

When I said that, everyone turned their attention towards me. Including Ryuunosuke, all the members displayed an outward attitude that didn't show disrespect.

"I would like to talk about something regarding the Nanashi Village."

As I spoke, everyone adjusted their positions and focused on me. Even Ryuunosuke seemed to be paying attention, but I couldn't tell if he fully grasped what he had just said.

"As of now, I can confidently say that Nanashi Village is not a threat to the Beastman Territory. As long as they don't turn against us, they will undoubtedly become a stable source of food supply."

"Oh... What about their military strength?"

"The village has a population of about 70, with only around 10 of them capable of fighting. However, even the strongest among them are only around B-ranked adventurers."

"I see, in that case, it works in our favor. If the Chairman says so, we can rest assured."

"Yes, that's right."

"But... considering the future..."

I paused for a moment and continued, "The issue of food supply to the Beastman Territory is an important matter. That's why I'm thinking of moving to that village and keeping an eye on it."

"What?!?"

Naturally, the reaction was as expected. It is unimaginable for the Chairman of the Union Parliament to become a mere village resident.

"I happened to become a villager by chance. Thanks to that, I can infiltrate the village and gather detailed information about it."

"...But, if that's the case, what about your duties as the Chairman?"

"I see. I intend to pass on the Chairman's position. It's perfect timing since we have a new member of the Parliament."

"I refuse! Please choose someone else if you're going to do that."

"Hmm... In any case, you may perceive my actions as irresponsible. But my decision to move is firm, please understand."

"Chairman, even though I'm a newcomer, please allow me to speak."

"Ryuunosuke-dono, you are also a member of the Parliament. Feel free to express your opinion without hesitation."

The boy who had been silent until now seemed to have something to say about this matter.

"I agree with the Chairman's proposal. Even if the people in the village are not a current threat, they may change and become a danger. As a fellow Japanese, I believe I understand their nature to some extent."

"That might be true."

"Certainly, Ryuunosuke-dono's words carry weight."

The other members also agreed, and even though the boy had made the statement, it had the meaning of saying, "I, too, might betray you at any moment."

(I'm still inadequate. While I acknowledge his ability to run the trading company, it's not something he achieved on his own. It must be some skill or something done by his subordinates...)

Afterward, there was some discussion, but there were no dissenting opinions.

The proposal, including the selection of a new Chairman, was passed.

It was decided that the news of Ryuunosuke's appointment as a new member and the circumstances surrounding it would be spread to Bistoria, the capital, and the lords of various towns.

Eventually, the parliamentary session came to a close...

"Hey, I'm coming to your house after this. I won't let you escape until you explain everything!"

As we were leaving, Maria whispered that in my ear.

She must have felt the same way I did towards the members and the boy.

Considering my future actions, including my personal situation, I felt that I should tell her the truth.

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