LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 263.2
Chapter 263.2. Resolve
Muttering softly, she looks at the former ruins district residents. In a distant corner, someone is handing over the ration vouchers they just received, while others are having their blankets and coats snatched away. Seeing how they quietly withdraw without complaining, one could guess they’re in debt… Living in the Hakata outer district for the past few years, they must have their own troubles.
“Distributing rations to everyone doesn’t make for a happily-ever-after story, does it?”
Taking in the sight, she sighs with sadness. The real world isn’t a realm of clear-cut good versus evil like in stories. But even so, a sense of discomfort stirs within her chest.
“As Sakimori would say, reality is harsh. It can’t be helped.”
Adopting a deliberately nonchalant tone, Rei shrugs his shoulders, and indeed, he’s right. Reality rarely unfolds so conveniently. Even the Amatsugahara Corporation distributing these rations isn’t doing so out of pure goodwill.
“This turmoil has allowed the Amatsugahara Corporation to purchase the eastern Hakata lands, hasn’t it?”
“Yes, that’s correct. Those lands will be designated as Special Relief Farmland, with the crops harvested there sold at low prices.”
Returning to his usual tone, Rei nods. The Amatsugahara Corporation has acquired eastern Hakata and is set to extend its reach southward, aiming to monopolize the entire eastern Kyushu coastal region. With continued dungeon liberation, they could secure their position as Kyushu’s dominant power.
“They’re selling those crops cheaply, and the tax rate is only 3%, which is incredibly low. That’s because it’s designated as relief land with a special tax rate.”
As the name implies, Special Relief Farmland is a category established by law shortly after the dungeons appeared to aid struggling populations. It had rarely been applied before, but due to the current crisis, the tax rate was exceptionally low.
Other power players had tried to acquire such farmland, but since the crops were only sold within the inner districts, combined with rivals waiting to exploit such moves, it was rarely utilized.
Because the Amatsugahara Corporation sells these crops to both outer town and abandoned town residents, the law was applied. Consequently, they plan to rapidly push forward with farmland development.
Luckily, they seem to have enough manpower. The former ruins district residents who received the rations will gladly work the Amatsugahara Corporation’s fields.
“This is amazing. To think we could help so many people~”
“Indeed-nya. This is the proper way to use one’s position for relief-nya.”
“Exactly. I must report my contributions to Sakimori. I have many unemployed relatives. This will require plenty of personnel in the future.”
Hana, chattering excitedly, opens a cardboard box and starts pulling out rations to hand out to the people. Watching her, Karin and Yoko puff out their chests smugly. As usual, the two had refrained from helping, claiming they were there as security. Some things never change.
In the bustling atmosphere, filled with lively chatter and people hard at work, Konoha focuses on a small child delightedly wrapping themselves in a blanket and smiling warmly.
“So warm~”
Giggling with joy, even such a thin blanket seems to make the child happy, their smile tugging at her heartstrings.
“Using one’s position for relief… Amano Sakimori may be a scoundrel, but this makes you think.”
The goods have a dubious origin, but the people are happy. As the evidence of corruption is distributed away, it vanishes bit by bit.
“I won’t deny that Sakimori is a scoundrel. This world is what it is.”
Rei, unabashed, states it matter-of-factly. Konoha hums in thought, bowing her head as she continues to reflect. She’s been mulling something over for a while.
“Rei. I wish to tip the scales slightly toward good and help people.”
“Hm? What do you mean?”
Raising her face, her eyes alight with resolve, she meets Rei’s puzzled gaze and continues.
“I will establish a profit-oriented organization to aid people—the Jester Knights.”
“Not a non-profit?”
Rei’s expression shifts to one of disbelief at her unconventional choice. In response, Konoha flashes a serene smile.
“In this world, non-profits are unrealistic. We’ll wield power, wealth, and strength to both earn and save lives. Thankfully, we have today’s achievements. I’ll secure funds from my mother as compensation and establish the organization.”
“Wouldn’t that just be a company? What kind of company would it be?”
“Well, that’s something to consider moving forward! For starters, I want to handle preserved foods that adventurers can easily consume! Affordable, nutritious items that struggling people can also eat!”
“What about manpower?”
“There’s an abundance right before our eyes. For experienced personnel, I’ll recruit from the Heike clan’s resources.”
Tilting his head slightly, Rei nods in acknowledgment, while Konoha, full of determination, snorts confidently. Employment is the best way to help those in need. Her aim is to provide relief in a way different from Amatsugahara Corporation.
She’s confident in her plan. Partnering with Amatsugahara Corporation would allow them to supply preserved foods to adventurer guilds. Considering how much she’s acted the jester so far, Rei would surely lend his support.
“I’ve been pondering this all along. It’s not enough to just have a name for oneself. I want to do something truly meaningful! Developing preserved foods is my first priority. The second is supporting various regions.”
“Requests for support would likely flood in. Well, with Konoha-san’s connections, it might just work.”
“Connections are a tool too. I’ll establish a company and save people! Now, let’s begin recruiting from the folks right in front of us!”
Eyes ablaze with passion, Konoha approaches a family, their shoulders slumped after having their rations stolen by thugs.
“I won’t dismiss this harsh reality; instead, I’ll gather it piece by piece. You there, family! Share your story with me!”
With firm resolve, Konoha sets out to save people. While others might scoff at the idea of combining profit with relief, she remains undeterred. That’s precisely why she embarks today on a path where her mission of “salvation by the jester” can begin, her eyes gleaming with conviction.