第５９８堀：第二次探索と結果 (Part2)
"We have to be mindful of how many times we can actually explore, but I suppose that's a matter of mana and the like."
Ah, right. The second time went well, but there’s no guarantee we can keep accessing that mysterious space for a third or fourth time. Moving people into such a bizarre dimension must consume a massive amount of mana. As Yuki said, it’s naive to assume we can just keep going back whenever we want.
Does that mean we have to force our way through a third exploration, despite the risks? I’d rather not push my luck in a place like that again.
Oh, and let’s just ignore the fact that I was running around earlier. That was just my researcher’s libido running wild. I’m usually very cautious, I swear!
Setting that aside, everyone was wearing troubled expressions at the thought of having to force the next expedition, when suddenly, a voice piped up from Shuten-chan.
"Hmm. Toto-sama, I don't think you need to worry about that. That place is stable. It isn't connected to some strange netherworld."
"What do you mean?"
"In short, that space utilizes the entire library. The divine power—or mana, as you call it here—required to maintain it is being constantly supplied by the fact that this is a Magic Academy, and it's being drawn from those who use the library. There is no risk of it vanishing."
"I see. So, we don't need to rush the exploration?"
"That, I cannot say. While the space itself won't disappear, there is a possibility that the guiding voice has its own limitations."
"Ah, you mean if we do it too many times in a short period, we might trigger some kind of security measure?"
"Indeed."
I see, I see. So that space is built by siphoning mana from the academy students. Interesting. It’s like a large-scale version of a magic sword or a holy sword.
So, in the end, while the space itself is safe, we don't know how long the voice will continue to guide us.
"...You didn't feel any immediate danger during the previous attempts, did you?"
When Taizo-dono asked the group, all the members who had explored nodded. I hadn't felt any personal danger either.
"...Then, let's prepare for the third exploration with the resolve to find that secret room. Naturally, I want everyone to remain vigilant."
No one voiced any objections to the proposal. We don't know how long we’ll have this opportunity, after all. The resolve to settle it on the next trip is important. We don't have infinite time or budget. Being cautious is vital, but that alone isn't enough. Sometimes, you need bold ideas and the drive to act. That applies to everything—including research!
"Since there are no objections, I would like to begin selecting the team for the third exploration. First, the essential personnel: Kagura-dono, given her Kamishiro lineage. Then, Yuki-kun and Taiki-kun, who are well-versed in these kinds of mysteries. Our experts, Shuten-kun and Shiryu-dono, along with Kirue-kun to look after Shuten-kun. Cleena-kun for her knowledge of the Magic Academy, and Agil-kun, the leading researcher of magic in the If Continent. For our guards, we will have Ria-kun, Deryu-kun, Ruth-dono, Vilia-kun, Dressa-kun, and Hiiro-kun. What does everyone think?"
He wrote the names on the whiteboard as he spoke. It’s a solid lineup. Amanda and Eoid are a bit lacking in combat power, so they’re being left out this time in favor of Vilia, Dressa, and Hiiro. They are younger, students of Weed, and possess high combat capabilities. In a sense, they are convenient replacements. Plus, being from Weed, they have deep trust in Yuki and will follow orders obediently.
"As for the rest, we are open to volunteers..."
"Yes! I would very much like to join the exploration! I am also of the Kamishiro bloodline. If anything were to happen to Kagura, I can take her place, and I am a research staff member here at Heiden!"
The first to volunteer was Kanna-dono. It would certainly be helpful to have someone with deep knowledge of the New Continent's magical systems.
"I find that reassuring, but what does Academy Principal Grimo think?"
"...Hmm. Up until now, the only academy personnel involved were Kagura-kun and Mikos-kun, so as a faculty member, I would like to request permission to participate."
Oh, right. For some reason, academy faculty hadn't participated in the first or second explorations. I suppose that looks bad, doesn't it?
"Indeed, that was an oversight on our part. Kanna-dono, we look forward to having you."
"Yes, thank you."
"Now, is there anyone else..."
"Ah, I'll join too! I provided the information for the article in the first place, so please let me come along!"
"Hmm. So Mikos-kun will join as well."
This kid is interesting, too. She’s likely an intelligence agent, but she doesn't have that unpleasant vibe. She’s quite straightforward. Maybe it's because she's still a student?
I thought we were reaching the limit of how large the group should be, but then...
"If Hiiro is going, then I'm going too!"
"Princess Stasia!! Please, wait a moment!"
"Georgin!! If I can participate in this, it's a chance to show our friendly relations with Heiden, and it’s a way to learn Heiden's secrets! There is no disadvantage to this!"
"No, I don't think it's appropriate for us to be sticking our noses into Heiden's secrets! And as Taizo-dono said, there is danger involved! If something happens to the Princess, the peace talks will be ruined!"
"Ugh!! Stop getting in my way when I'm trying to go with Hiiro!!"
"That is why you need to calm down!! You sister-complex!!"
"What's wrong with being a sister-complex?!"
Oh, the Findall group is causing a scene. What's going on? Hiiro? Is that the Hiiro from Vilia's group? Why is the Findall princess screaming like that?
...Well, whether that princess joins or not is none of our concern. Let's get started on the preparations.
And so, leaving the noisy Findall delegation to their own devices, we stood up from our seats. Some people are afraid, while others are excited. Everything depends on your perspective.
Also, there is no cure for a sister-complex.