第１３５７堀：挨拶と作戦概要の説明 (Part2)
"Now then, I know things are a bit hectic, but let me explain the operation. Essentially, we are heading out as representatives of the Intercontinental Exchange Alliance to provide reinforcements. However, the likelihood of us actually stepping onto the front lines to fight is virtually nil. Once the gate is opened, we won't be alone; we’ll be sending in the Monster Army from Weed to begin the defense. We are strictly on standby in the rear."
"Eh? Is that really okay?"
Mikos tilted her head, looking puzzled.
"It’s fine. We are merely standing as reinforcements for the sake of the alliance; we aren't there to engage in actual combat. In terms of sheer numbers, we aren't much of a force, and if we were to get injured, that would be a major problem in itself. Besides, Steve and his crew are far more effective as an anti-army force."
After all, Steve and his subordinates are authorized to use modern weaponry.
From mortars to, in the worst-case scenario, tanks and aircraft.
With that kind of firepower in play, us standing on the front lines would be nothing more than a hindrance.
We can defend ourselves with magic shields, of course, but if we were to face something like magic-nullifying rounds, we’d be truly helpless.
"Then, what if a Dungeon Master appears?"
"That is the one time we must absolutely not step forward. In that event, Yuki will handle the negotiations and decide the response. Well, we might move if Steve and his team request it, but that’s about it."
"So, we’re just window dressing?"
"You can think of it that way. That said, we’re still equipping ourselves properly because being unable to move or fight when the situation demands it would be unacceptable."
They call it "reinforcements," but that is the reality of our role.
Mikos seems to find the whole thing absurd, but that’s just how the world works.
It would be sheer stupidity to have overwhelming force at your disposal and fail to use it, only to let the damage spiral out of control.
Part of the reason we’re keeping this strictly to our own people is to ensure that orders are carried out without hesitation.
"Now that you understand the gist of the operation, let’s talk about the battlefield."
I had already received the data and briefings regarding the projected battle site from Yuki, so I proceeded to relay that information to everyone. I conjured a massive holographic monitor in front of us and displayed the map.
"The projected encounter with the enemy forces is here. It’s a grassland about ten kilometers from the northern town. There’s nothing particularly notable in the surroundings, but the terrain is surprisingly uneven, so I expect it will be difficult to spot the enemy. Keeping that in mind..."
I placed an illustration of what would be our base—a fortress—at a specific point on the map.
"This is the highest elevation in the area. As soon as Steve and his team arrive, they will establish a base here to receive both the enemy and us. As for the structure of the base..."
I displayed the blueprints.
The design was a sturdy fortress constructed of concrete.
Viewed from above, it was star-shaped.
It was modeled after the Goryokaku—a convenient structure that allows for defensive fire from any direction.
Well, it would be meaningless against aerial forces or heavy artillery, but in this case, we are dealing only with a ground-based infantry unit. Since they lack any mage-types capable of heavy firepower, this design is sufficient.
Oh, and of course, we intend to deploy plenty of barbed wire and concrete walls before they get close to slow them down.
"So, to be honest, if the enemy manages to reach this fortress in large numbers, we’ve already lost. With Steve’s firepower, they can annihilate the enemy long before they get within range, so in that sense, there’s no need to worry about the fighting."
As I finished my explanation, Menou raised her hand.
"Yes?"
"This operation assumes the enemy is heading toward the northern town, right? What if they decide to bypass the fortress? What then?"
"Ah, we’ve considered that. Our mortars—the 81mm and 120mm—have a maximum range of eight kilometers, so if the enemy deviates from the fortress, we plan to pursue and shell them. Naturally, we have plans for redirection as well."
We have various ideas, such as having Steve’s unit act as bait to lure them in, or using the dungeon’s abilities to restrict their movement.
"If a powerful Dungeon Master is present, we might not even be able to build the fortress, which would change the premise entirely. But given that they’ve already attacked the town, we estimate their DP reserves aren't that high. It’s not a certainty, but it’s a reasonable assumption."
Just as I was finishing my explanation, I received word that Steve and his team had arrived at the site.
Right then, let’s get to work.
Agil is quite capable as a leader, too.
Though, her talent as a researcher is truly in a league of its own.