第９７７堀：どこでも同じものと違うもの (Part2)
That’s it. I thought I felt a sense of familiarity with Vaito-san, and now I get it. He has an aura very similar to old man Hein from the Holy Kingdom of Enaria.
Well, he isn’t quite as good-natured as old man Hein—he has a rather sharp edge to him—but wait, old man Hein has those moments too, doesn't he? Maybe they really are quite similar.
"Now, regarding information on the monsters, I would love to explain it to you myself, but given the sudden nature of this request, I simply don't have the time. I apologize, but I will have someone guide you to the archives so you can research it at your leisure. Would that be acceptable?"
"Yes. I have no intention of getting in the way of your work, so I am very grateful just to have access to the archives."
The conversation had progressed while I was busy analyzing Vaito-san’s character. It seemed we were to be left to our own devices in the archives. That actually worked out better for us; I wanted to avoid the risk of only receiving a curated summary and missing out on valuable information.
"Honestly, it’s that kind of half-hearted attitude that keeps the guilds on the side of the old imperial faction from coming around."
"Quiet. I’m not looking for status in the Adventurer’s Guild. Honestly, I thought I was keeping an eye on you, but before I knew it, you’d grown into something so massive. My job is supposed to be helping people in need, like Yuki-dono and his group. Honestly, Yuki-dono, please feel free to work this Show-no fellow to the bone. Start by having him guide you to the archives."
"Haha, understood."
With that, we left the Guild Master’s office and headed toward the archives. Judging by that exchange, it seemed Show-no-dono—or rather, the Zrable Great Empire—had a long and close relationship with the Guild Master. Yuki seemed curious about this as well.
"You seem quite close with Guild Master Vaito."
"Yes. I have known the Guild Master since the very moment our Zrable Great Empire was born. Besides, when running a country, cooperation with the Adventurer’s Guild is indispensable, so both the Emperor and I have often sought Vaito-dono’s counsel."
I see, so that’s the nature of their relationship. Well, when you put it that way, it makes perfect sense.
"I see. Oh, is that the archives?"
At the spot Yuki pointed to stood a large door, and in front of it stood a man who looked every bit the scholar or librarian.
"Yes, that’s it. And that man there is..."
"A pleasure to meet you, everyone from Weed. My name is Noitz, and I will be serving as your guide and assistant for the archives."
"Thank you for accommodating us despite our sudden visit. We appreciate your help."
"Not at all. Monsters are a common threat to all who live in this land. I have deep respect for the diligence and caution shown by the people of Weed. Though, I do wish Show-no-dono would cooperate a bit more with the guild’s subjugation requests..."
"Ahaha, when you’re surrounded by enemies on all sides, it’s not exactly easy to do so."
"Then, take this opportunity to study monsters thoroughly and recognize the threats that surround you."
With that, the man named Noitz opened the door to the archives. Inside, bookshelves stood in rows, creating a space that could almost be called a library. Oh, with this much volume, we might actually find some decent information.
"Wow. This is amazing."
"It is amazing. There are so many."
"I am honored by your praise. I believe there are approximately 3,400 volumes in total."
" " "Whoa..." " "
3,400 books is quite impressive.
"Do you have any picture books?"
"Yes, we do. For the little ladies, I recommend the corner second from the right."
Noitz answered Hiiro’s request without a moment’s hesitation. Seeing that instant response, I formed a certain suspicion...
"Noitz-dono, by any chance, do you have the location of every book on these shelves memorized?"
"Yes. As I am entrusted with the management of this place, I have a grasp on the location of every book. Though, while I said 3,400 volumes, about a third of them are reports regarding guild requests..."
Whoa. That’s exactly the information we want most. I caught Yuki’s eye, and he nodded back.
"Noitz-san, if you don't mind, could you point us toward the books that contain information on monster types and their emergence patterns?"
And so, we began our research into the monsters of this continent. It seems the war is causing all sorts of troublesome issues even for the Adventurer’s Guild. Truly, war is such a hassle.
(My apologies, I accidentally forgot to book this. It’s all Animal Crossing’s fault.)