第８２３堀：海を征く (Part2)
Before initiating the gate’s operation, I perform a final, meticulous check. I cannot afford any malfunctions caused by a stray scratch or a faulty connection. As I inspect the gate’s status, my mind drifts back to the deliberations that led to its installation here.
"The system is designed to connect to distant dungeons, isn't it? Given the immense distances between the If Continent and the New Continent, it stands to reason that installing a gate on an aircraft carrier shouldn't be impossible, wouldn't you agree, Zargis?"
"You are quite right, Taizo-dono. The fundamental requirement for a gate is merely the presence of magical power. By that logic, provided there is sufficient space to house the installation, it could function even in the sky."
"In the sky, you say? Then we shall need to experiment with a massive aerial battleship next."
"Indeed. That would yield data of far higher precision. We might even reach the point of developing our own gates from scratch."
"That sounds wonderful. I’ve always wanted a door that could take me to buy Häagen-Dazs whenever I pleased."
"Hahaha..."
The madmen are already dreaming of expanding from aircraft carriers to sky-based gates. It is truly terrifying—a testament to the fact that a researcher’s ambition knows no bounds. While it is true that I must eventually pioneer an aerial route, the thought is daunting.
"I just hope there aren't any floating castles up there..."
"If such things existed, we’d have to worry about the existence of an entire aerial nation before we could even begin to dream. Not to mention the monsters."
"That’s exactly why I chose this specific airspace for our flight tests..."
If I simply wanted to fly, I could have just built a runway on the ground in Weed. I’ve made excuses about DP shortages and the like, but those are trivial matters that could be solved by cutting costs or lowering material quality. I could have brought in a Zero or some other half-century-old aircraft instead of a jet fighter. However, given the incident with the wyverns, I held off, fearing the potential threat of unknown aerial monsters.
But thanks to Hairen, we’ve confirmed that the New Continent is currently free of such beasts. In other words, the New Continent offers the freedom to fly without the constant threat of monsters. Well, that, too, is becoming questionable.
As we discuss this, the time for the gate’s activation arrives, and Steve and his crew arrive safely.
"...We are now commencing the inspection and maintenance of the aircraft carrier *Liliana*."
"Right. Good luck. And before you start, make sure you go pay your respects to Dressa, the captain and person in charge."
"Understood."
With looks of resentment directed at me, Steve and the others depart.
"...Yuki-san, isn't this pushing it a bit? Expecting Steve and his fellow goblins to manage two aircraft carriers all by themselves..."
"It’s not just Steve’s unit. I’ll be bringing in John and the other monsters later on the sly. Besides, the carriers wouldn't function properly otherwise. I’m glad we have the gate for transport."
"...It’s still standard overwork, though."
"I’d love to use people as crew, but the security risks are too high."
"That is the crux of the problem. If the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance were to see such modern weaponry, things would get messy very quickly."
Excessive power only breeds fear in others. I must keep any element that might cause further anxiety hidden at all costs. Consequently, Steve’s monster unit has been tasked with maintaining two aircraft carriers by utilizing the gate. Of course, I’m not forcing them to work without rest. If they don't get proper downtime, their precision will suffer, and their dissatisfaction will only mount.
"They already look like they’re brimming with dissatisfaction. What happened to that time off you promised?"
"I intend to grant it eventually. But jokes aside, once this phase is settled, I’ll schedule their leave. They’re liable to start a mutiny otherwise."
"I wouldn't be surprised if they just boycotted the whole thing. I know I would."
Even from Taiki’s perspective, it seems my treatment of Steve and the others is harsh. I realize now that I’ve been pushing them too hard. They are just so convenient to use, I suppose. As I think this...
"Reports have come in from all departments. The hull and navigation systems are functioning perfectly."
"Thank you, Steve. Alright, contact Dressa. The aircraft carrier *Liliana* is ready for operation. We are setting sail across the seas of the Sea-Cypher Kingdom. Maintain strict vigilance!"
"Yes, sir!"
And so, whether or not this is a first for this world, we have begun our maiden voyage across the seas of this other world.
Yes. In an RPG, the real game begins once you get your ship! In *Dragon Quest*, you’d often set foot on uncharted lands only to be wiped out, or get paralyzed by a sea jellyfish and meet your end! That was the trauma of the third game!
And so, the story reaches its midpoint. Yes, this "Victory Dungeon" is now at its halfway point! Or perhaps it isn't. Well, please bear with me for the long haul.
I suppose it’s about time I started collecting some orbs, isn't it?