第１１０６堀：完璧という言葉は人の甘えである (Part2)

第１１０６堀：完璧という言葉は人の甘えである (Part2)

To protect the gate, we had implemented a multi-layered security system, complete with defensive monsters. Given that it was situated deep underground, neutralizing it via external assault would be a feat of near-impossible difficulty.

"So, Kirika. How do you think one would go about bringing this place down?"

"Bringing down this gate? It depends on the victory conditions, of course... but if the goal is simply to render it dysfunctional, I would target a structural collapse. Since it would only require placing explosives at key points, I could carry that out on my own."

"Indeed. I imagine you could, Kirika. Tell me, have we placed any defenses at those specific points?"

"No, there are none. ...Ah, I see. Should I call this negligence?"

I finally understood what the two of them were driving at. I had just conceived of a way to conquer this location and deemed it entirely feasible. In other words, the defensive capabilities here were vulnerable; they were far from perfect. Yet, the fact that we were satisfied with the current state of affairs—while I appreciated the trust placed in our design—was ultimately a disappointment, a sign of complacency in our defensive posture.

"Well, I'll have to discuss that with Popuri."

"Though, I suspect she would argue that such a feat is only possible because it is you, Kirika. I would have to agree, but still."

"Which is to say, it is possible for someone of my caliber. That is a vulnerability that should be properly addressed. Now, here we are at the Magic Academy."

While we were occupied with that conversation, we had reached the surface, and the Lancer Magic Academy now sprawled out before us.

"Oh. Seeing it in person is quite different from seeing it on screen."

"Well, you tend to pick up on a lot more when you're experiencing it firsthand."

"I apologize for interrupting your moment of awe, Zargis, but how are the mana cylinders holding up?"

"Oh, they're fine. I have them running properly. Two rings, one necklace, and one belt-mounted unit—I’ve confirmed they are all functioning normally."

"That is a relief. The mana concentration in this area around the Lancer Magic Academy is close to that of Weed, so the cylinders themselves likely won't be strictly necessary. However, one never knows when or where they might be needed, so I ask that you keep them on your person at all times and monitor their status diligently."

"Understood. Thank you for the advice. Though, I have also enhanced their ability to absorb mana from the atmosphere, so unless the ambient mana is exceptionally thin, they won't run dry."

"I’ve never heard of such a mana cylinder being created."

"That is because it is still under development. It’s strictly in the experimental phase. I’m testing it while I’m here."

"Oh? If you can pull that off, it’ll broaden the operational range for people like Kirika. I hope you can bring it to the practical stage."

"Indeed. Zargis, if you require personnel for your verification process, please do not hesitate to call upon us."

If Zargis could perfect those semi-permanent mana cylinders, the operational range for us undead would expand exponentially.

"Yes, I will keep that in mind. But, setting that aside, let’s begin the survey of the Great Tree Sea’s monsters. We can treat the academy tour as a breather. Now, where is the research site?"

"Ah, it’s inside the academy building. Come to think of it, I believe I brought the supplies you requested?"

"Yes. Comet and Agil were in such a rush... or rather, they went ahead. My role was to follow up with the items they had forgotten."

"I see. It’s always a struggle playing the support role, isn't it?"

"Well, I’ve resigned myself to that role. Back when I served under Queen Liliana, I did as I pleased, but I never imagined I’d end up being dragged around like this after coming here..."

It is truly surprising that a member of the 'Four Heavenly Kings'—those who should be serving the Demon Lord—has joined our master’s ranks and is now conducting research. Furthermore, Zargis is surprisingly attentive; it is a fact that he often acts as the brake for Comet and Agil. No, perhaps it is only natural that someone who once stood at such a pinnacle would be capable of such things.

"You know, you’re surprisingly serious. The sheer idiocy you displayed back then is what makes it so strange now."

"Well, there was the matter of Dekira at the time. Even if one is caught up in political strife, military strength is the top priority, so that was what we focused on."

I see. So that was the situation. Even so, the fact remains that they were defeated by our master.

"Now, enough idle chatter. Please, stay close. Zargis, you are essentially an intruder here."

"Indeed. I would hate to be turned into a specimen as a 'rare creature'."

"I doubt there are any students who would go that far... well, I hope there aren't."

" " "Hahaha." " "

There is no such thing as an invincible fortress. If you cannot break in from the outside, you do it from within. And so, will Zargis be able to conduct his research at the academy without incident?