第４４７堀：闇夜の情報戦 (Part2)
"Yes. I shall explain that. This is merely a projection, but it appears that when Taiki-dono’s side attempted to clear the forest for dungeonization, the system notified them that another faction’s dungeon already existed there, and instructed them to suppress it."
"I see. That makes sense."
"In other words, they are likely in the same position as us, scrambling to grasp the situation."
So, they intended to launch an all-out invasion, only to have their momentum killed right at the start.
"It is unclear how they will move from here, but there are no obstacles between this direction and the royal capital of Ranks. It is believed their intention was to launch a surprise attack on the capital and seize Ranks in one fell swoop. In a sense, it was a razor-thin margin. Had those two made contact with Taiki-dono even three days later, the capital would have already been under assault."
"That’s a relief."
"Indeed. A blessing in disguise, one might say. Thus, the current consensus is that both sides have fallen into an unforeseen situation."
"So, how will the enemy move?"
"They will likely attack. For the Idiot Princess, this surprise assault on the Ranks capital is a long-cherished desire of sorts—a way to settle a grudge. While it may have also been to collect DP, I cannot imagine she has the temperament to retreat after mobilizing such a massive force. Rather, I anticipate she will be angered by the fact that her homeland is being turned into a dungeon and will push forward to attack."
She’s turning other people's lands into dungeons herself, yet she has the nerve to complain about that? Well, logic doesn't work on people like that. Ah, this is just a projection, not something the Idiot Princess actually said. Still, it feels spot on.
"What about the possibility of a retreat?"
"There is a possibility, however slim. In such an unforeseen situation, it would normally be standard to withdraw. However, a retreat would be problematic for us as well. If you see signs of a retreat, report it immediately and then launch an attack to eliminate as many of the enemy as possible. They wish to inspect the remains for information analysis. Naturally, please report if they begin their invasion as well."
"Understood."
Either way, whether we advance or retreat, we’re the ones drawing the short straw.
"Furthermore, the construction of the defensive line has begun. The unit led by Mino-chan has deployed, and 30% of the construction is already complete. Patrol 116 is already en route to rendezvous. The scheduled completion time is 02:00. If the enemy moves to reach the defensive line before then, please engage in delaying tactics."
"Understood."
That said, it’s already 00:40. It’s impossible to form up and reach the defensive line ten kilometers away in just an hour and a half.
"Also, from this point on, overall command will be conducted from the command room. Hero Taiki-dono has already consented to this. It has been determined that the scale of the enemy is beyond what regular soldiers can handle, and they have requested a response from our Weed Monster Army. Therefore, the Weed Monster Army must now repel the Idiot Princess’s army (provisional) alone. If we are broken through, Ranks will literally become a sea of blood. That must be prevented at all costs. I expect the best efforts from every member."
"Understood."
I figured as much. The enemy’s base level is over 100, after all. Regular soldiers wouldn't stand a chance, and it’s unthinkable for the commander, Hero Taiki, to charge in himself. The Royal Guard would follow, and the casualties would be catastrophic. In that case, it’s better to finish them off quickly with our heavy weaponry.
"Well then, as it happens, we’ve ended up on the very front line."
"It seems so. Ah, Patrol 116, the Third Platoon, appears to have returned."
As I was speaking with a hint of irony, the Third Platoon, which had been sent back, arrived.
"Report."
"Sir! We successfully handed over the construction point and the construction duties to General Mino-chan. We have received the supplies and have returned to provide support."
"Good work. And the supplies?"
"Yes. They requested that we provide support from outside the defensive line should the enemy attack... Here they are."
There, I saw anti-material rifles.
"What? Did the enemy force have tanks or something?"
"No, just in case. They said that with these, we could aim properly and ensure we take down the enemy."
Ah, well, rocket launchers aren't exactly precision tools. They want us to identify the commanders and take them out for sure.
"Alright, Third Platoon, equip these. First and Second Platoons, keep your current gear..."
"...Captain John. The enemy has begun to move."
Why does the timing always have to be this bad?
"Third Platoon, begin checking and equipping the anti-material rifles. First and Second Platoons, start monitoring the enemy."
"Understood!"
So, are they turning back, or are they pushing forward? Dealing with this attack on our own is going to be a real pain.