第２２４掘：今後の行動 (Part2)
It seems the Holy Sword was something the Dungeon Master created while searching for the cause of the mana depletion.
"I was confused for a while, but after speaking with Yuki-dono and Steve-dono, and looking over the maps, I realized the countries I knew no longer exist. I had Zargis-dono here look through the records of the Zilba Empire, and it appears that the information I possess is from at least 400 years ago."
For Peace, it must feel like being Urashima Taro. Though, I suppose if I said that, she’d ask who on earth that is.
"As for me, Yuki-dono, I have no objections to following a new Dungeon Master. I was a bit worried about you keeping humans close, but I believe your wives are very reliable people. Given the way Weed is run, I understand that you view it as an organization that incorporates humans. ...Though, I cannot say I am fully convinced from the bottom of my heart... I will cooperate as much as I possibly can."
My wives have said scary things like they’d destroy the world if I were killed, so this level of hesitation is unavoidable. If anything, the fact that she’s holding back her true feelings makes her quite reasonable.
"Now, regarding how specifically I can cooperate: I believe the best course of action is for you to visit the dungeons that have become ruins and recover the research results. It is a shameful thing to admit, but as I served primarily as a combat unit, I know very little of the actual research content. Therefore, I suggest we start by investigating the area directly beneath the capital of the Holy Kingdom of Enaria. That is where my master’s early base was located."
"There was a dungeon in the Holy Kingdom of Enaria? Wait, has the Holy Kingdom of Enaria existed for that long?" Seraria asked, looking puzzled.
In the old days, ruins functioned as active dungeons, so it would be strange for a royal capital to be built on top of one. However, there is quite a history behind this.
"One of the people who killed my master conquered the dungeon and founded the Holy Kingdom of Enaria on that site. They likely wanted to seize the early base to recover powerful weapons and supplies. At the time, we were in disarray after our master’s death, and we had completely forgotten about that initial base."
"I see. Putting aside why those people betrayed them for now, if they know how a dungeon functions, they wouldn't just leave it alone. It’s better to manage it themselves to earn wealth and bolster their military strength, isn't it?"
"Yes, as Seraria-dono says. And, based on what I have heard from Yuki-dono and the others, Enaria is currently managing the Holy Sword. If that is the case..."
"So, it’s a double reason why investigating Enaria is the best move?"
"Exactly. I have identified other potential locations for old bases, but the surrounding areas are in a state of war, and it is unclear how each country will move following this ceasefire. Therefore, it is best to start with what is within our reach."
No one had any particular objections, and there was no opposition.
"Alright, then our immediate goal is an investigation in Enaria. I’ll find a way to establish connections within Enaria, so Zargis, once you finish the survey of Zilba, you’ll be doing the research in Enaria."
"Wait!? You really work people to the bone!"
"Don't worry. It's unclear if the dungeon is still in use, but we’ll likely be taking it over, so I think it’ll be easier than the Zilba job, right?"
"...If you say so, then fine."
"Also, Peace, you’re coming with us to explore Enaria."
"Eh, but if I leave the dungeon's range, my mana will run dry and I will vanish..."
"Zargis has been working on that. Right?"
"You really are a taskmaster. It seems that your body, Peace-san, and mine are composed largely of mana, which makes that continent feel suffocating. So, I had Narjia-san enchant this pendant to create a membrane of mana."
"A membrane, you say?"
"Yes. It’s not for defense, but rather a filter to prevent mana from dispersing. This should suppress the mana decay. If you run low, you can just have the people around you replenish it."
"...I see. In that case, there is no problem."
"Do not be overconfident. That only extends your time limit. If you push yourself, you will reach a state of mana depletion immediately. Let’s see... considering Peace-san’s mana capacity, it will last three days."
"Three days is plenty."
"That is only if you do not use mana in combat. If you consume mana in battle, it won't even last half a day. Do not forget that."
"...Understood. I am grateful, Zargis-dono."
Peace immediately put on the pendant. Now, the issue of her accompanying us was resolved.
"Now, the final problem is the ceasefire with Enaria and the members who will go on this exploration..."
"Me! Me! Me!"
My wives all raised their hands in unison. Naturally, that included Seraria and Rurua, who had just returned to the fold.
...This is going to take the longest to settle.
The real show in this new continent is about to begin. The past connections and the relationship with modern-day Enaria. And, which of my wives will be the ones to head to Enaria with me!
Eris, Ratz, Deryu, and Kirue are pregnant, so they’re out.
Well, they’ll be giving birth soon, so don't go calling that a death flag, alright?