The hallway was painted a dazzling shade of crimson, overwhelming to the eyes.
Elaborate floral patterns adorned the floor and ceiling, stretching endlessly in a regular pattern, separated by latticed screens on either side, dividing the rooms.
Walking down this long, expansive corridor was a group of individuals.
Leading the way was a young man clad in red and black attire, Emperor Ryubuchi of the Khenis Empire.
Following closely behind him were several dignitaries of the country.
Despite being relatively small among this group, Ryubuchi exuded an undeniable aura of authority, leading the others.
“It seems the situation needs to be approached not only from the perspective of healthcare but also from a military standpoint… Hoshikan.”
“Yes. If this disease was intentionally spread, the goal would be to hinder the Imperial Blue Army by afflicting the Cadennis Principality with illness. To prevent this, the materials for potions were preemptively purchased, and further infection was spread to politically unstable regions recently incorporated into the Empire, making it difficult to concentrate resources on the Cadennis Principality.”
The elf, who wore official uniform so perfectly that there were no creases to be seen, replied as if he knew everything just by calling his name.
A strange illness had spread throughout the Khenis Empire.
It began in the occupied territory of the Cadennis Principality. Then, it spread rapidly within the country, far too quickly for a natural contagion.
Given the Empire’s long-standing battles with monsters, it naturally suspected foul play in this cursed disease.
The prayers of priests helped contain the epidemic.
Especially when dealing with a curse sent by evil gods, the need for cooperation among humans was paramount.
However, at present, this was challenging. The relationship between the Holy Kingdom of Diletta, which should take the lead, and the affected Khenis Empire was at its worst since its founding.
Originally, relations between the Khenis Empire and the Holy Kingdom of Diletta were far from cordial. However, tensions escalated when the Empire acquired control of the “Promenade” in the mountains, establishing a foothold across the mountains.
In this situation, it was difficult to expect assistance from the Diletta Holy Kingdom, particularly from the “Central Great Temple”.
The weakness was exploited by the “Fallen Kingdom of Ciel-Terra”
No, considering they were the ones who threw it at the Empire from the mountain pass to begin with, it’s unclear whether they had planned this far ahead from the start.
“I can’t believe they’ve tamed Lugarut… How is the Blue Army faring?”
“We have confirmed cases, but the situation is under control thanks to divine magic and potions. However, resupplying will become difficult. Naturally, there are no infection control measures for personnel sent from the rear to the local area. Additionally, the morale of the troops is declining. There are requests to deploy soldiers without status to the front lines.”
“I leave that decision to you. Can the Blue Army handle the spread of the disease caused by demons or magicians and their familiars?”
“Likely so. We will endeavor to locate and eliminate the source as quickly as possible.”
Hoshikan’s response was calm.
Regardless of the adversary, the Blue Army would not fall behind.
Even if they were devils. Devils were no different from gods, close to immortality by human standards. However, they would not cooperate indefinitely for free. Once dealt a heavy blow, they would retreat, indicating “we can’t deal with this anymore.” The elite soldiers of the Blue Army would handle such tasks.
The real trouble lay in adversaries who preferred to hide rather than confront. However, it was still a matter of time.
—For the disease to be granted by a devil, some price must have been paid in return. Regardless, we can’t afford to shoot the same arrow twice. We just need to minimize the damage.
Ryubuchi always saw things from a broader perspective.
Even the Demon King’s army couldn’t spread disease indefinitely.
Gods, whether holy or evil, were conservative in bestowing their blessings. They would respond to requests, but usually demanded some form of payment.
If this epidemic was contained without significant results, the “Rose Princess of Hellrage” would suffer losses instead.
“Very well. … You maintain the situation until the Blue Army finishes its work, Gosho.”
“Understood. Preparations are underway for isolating infected individuals, regionally isolating areas with increased infections, and distributing soap for hygiene maintenance. A sanitation division will be organized within a day or two to work on containing the spread of infection in coastal areas. We have also requested an increase in production of non-magical medicines from the guild.”
A man in his prime, with a strong physique more reminiscent of a warrior than the slender, elf-like Hoshikan, responded reverently.
This was Prime Minister Gosho, the head of the Empire’s administration.
“Very well. Once the source is eradicated, distribute potions to suppress the epidemic in one fell swoop.”
“Haha. We have also selected alternative recipes for medicinal potions.”
Following Gosho, several high-ranking officials specialized in medical administration continued, and one of them handed documents to Gosho, who read them while walking.
“For domestic production…”
It’s insufficient. About half of the target. If this drags on, it will fall even shorter.”
The thought crossed Ryubuchi’s mind of appealing to Diletta under the guise of “humanitarian aid” or “fighting against monsters”.
However, abandoning the people of Cadennis, an occupied territory, would damage Diletta’s reputation.
Ultimately, they would only announce their support and then delay the procedures with various excuses. They would use the people of Khenis as hostages to demand diplomatic concessions.
Ryubuchi could see this future clearly.
“…In that case, I shall arrange with Faraiya.”
“Understood. I’ll urge Rusha to make the arrangements.”
“A route that circumnavigates the continent of Pangaea… It will take time and money, but there’s no other choice.”
If they were to procure from the Republic of Faraiya, they could transport using the latest high-speed ships. Though the distance would make it time-consuming, it would still be faster than transporting overland from a nearby country.
Even if they were to purchase from private entities, diplomatic negotiations would be necessary. However, Faraiya and Khenis currently had relatively good relations.
—Whether to transport by magical engine ships or enchanted high-speed vessels… including arrangements, it would take roughly two months. It’s still faster than waiting for the harvest of Fukuretsuyukusa. In any case, if insurance is to be secured, procurement should be done here. Until then, even gathering small quantities locally to tide over…
“War is not just about wielding swords and spears.”
My lord… You seem to be enjoying yourself?”
“Hmph.”
Ryubuchi didn’t particularly deny Hoshikan’s words, tinged with faint amusement.
—The die is still in my hands. Surely you don’t think you can win this? What will you do next, “Rose Princess of Hellrage”?
The flowers in the vase placed in the corridor writhed ominously.
