第８８９堀：竜山の情報 (Part2)
Ratz should be in the position of a vice-representative just like us, yet she’s still kept busy with work in the Commercial District.
"I see. I’ve got the gist of it. I feel for the prince who got stuck with all that paperwork, but let's set that aside. Now, about this investigation of Dragon Mountain—what do you princesses think about it? From our perspective, this is shaping up to be a pretty rough job. If you have any intel, we’d like to hear it."
"Indeed. If you have any information, we would like to hear it as well. After all, we aren't exactly looking to pick a fight with dragons."
This was an important point. We knew the name "Dragon Mountain," but we knew nothing of the actual situation on the ground. I assumed that was why Yuki-san had sent Lowel and Charl along with us—to fill in those gaps.
"Fair enough. First off, as far as Gartz is concerned, Dragon Mountain is essentially a hazardous material we’d rather not touch."
"Yes. As my sister says, Gartz... no, every nation has chosen to watch from the sidelines until now simply because we lack the means to counter dragons. If we did something reckless and invited an attack on our nations, we wouldn't be able to handle the consequences."
As I suspected, they shared the concerns Yuki-san had voiced. Well, it wasn't as if the dragons of the mountain were actively attacking anyone, so there was no reason to go out of our way to poke the hornet's nest.
"However, this time is different. To stabilize the position of the Rogari Continent in international exchanges, we must eliminate potential sources of instability. That is why we are grateful for this investigation of Dragon Mountain."
"Indeed. It was a great help that Weed took the initiative. There had been talk that, depending on the circumstances, Gartz and Roschur might have had to form a coalition to handle the matter."
...Though, it was Queen Miyabi who brought the idea to the table in the first place. Well, there are a lot of complicated factors involved, so now isn't the time to bring that up.
"I see. So, the nations are in favor of this. Does that mean we won't face any interference?"
Zargis asked this with a look of expectation. If we didn't have to worry about interference from our allies, we could focus on the investigation without watching our backs. But...
"Unfortunately, Zargis, the world doesn't work that conveniently."
"I would like to provide as much convenience as possible to you, Zargis-san, since you have provided us with so much technological support. However, there are many complications regarding Dragon Mountain. That is precisely why we are accompanying you."
As expected, it wouldn't be that simple.
"Complications? Could you be more specific?"
"Dragon worship. There are many who revere the dragons as gods."
"That region is not under the control of any nation. There is only one town and a handful of villages, but it is said to be a comfortable place to live, free from the threat of monsters. It is truly the protection of the dragon. Because of that, their faith is extremely devout."
Ah, so it’s like they’re worshiping a deity. Much like the Beast God, Tora-san. I was just nodding in understanding when...
"Hmm? Wait, what about the reports that there are many powerful monsters near Dragon Mountain?"
"Exactly. If there were no monster damage, it should be a paradise. It wouldn't be strange if there were more towns and villages. But I’ve never heard of such a thing."
"Indeed. The stories from the Adventurer Guild and what the princesses are saying now contradict each other."
Mauve-san and the others were right. The information was too different—in fact, it was practically the polar opposite. Why was that?
Riel and Kaya seemed just as puzzled, and when they turned their gazes toward Lowel and Charl...
"Ah, that. It’s simple. Only the existing towns and villages are spared from monster attacks."
"Yes. As my sister said, only the towns and villages that exist now are safe, but if anyone tries to build new ones, they are immediately destroyed by monster attacks. That is why there are no settlers, and why the nations have not tried to intervene."
"That’s a strange place, isn't it?"
"...Riel. I think that’s probably why they call it the 'protection of the dragon'."
I agreed; there had to be some reason why only the original towns and villages remained. Hearing this, Zargis...
"...I see. And we are heading toward a town with such fervent dragon worship. There must be some reason for it, but this sounds like it’s going to be fun."
Seeing him smile like that, I realized he really loved chasing after mysteries like this. Yuki-san was much the same way.
Let’s keep this in mind: Mauve and his group are heroes. As top-tier adventurers, they would be more than capable as escorts. And we are heading to a town that worships dragons. I just hope this doesn't turn into something troublesome.