第１７５３堀：魔物を調べる者たちよ (Part1)
Chapter 1753: Those Who Study the Monsters
Side: Narua
"…Um, why exactly was I called here?"
Before me, the monitors displayed a flurry of imagery and numerical data—the hallmark of an operation command center. Specifically, this was the strategy room for the much-discussed New Continent. As a developer of magical tools, this shouldn't have anything to do with me.
"Narua, you’re interested in monster materials, aren't you?"
"Well, when you put it that way, I suppose I am..."
I couldn't deny it when Yuki, who had summoned me, phrased it like that. When crafting magical tools, monster materials often provided a superior affinity for enchantments. Since Weed is a dungeon, we have an endless supply of monsters and materials, which is always exciting, but the prospect of *new* materials is still a powerful draw.
"It’s fine, isn't it? You’re curious about the progress on the New Continent, too. I’m certainly interested in the monsters there."
Wazfi chimed in, addressing my hesitation. Well, that was true enough. But monster research was the primary domain of Wazfi and...
"I’m interested as well. Even though I’m busy studying space exploration, I haven't abandoned my monster research."
For some reason, we were currently building an organization dedicated to space development. This was Havia—a former ghost, or rather, a currently active ghost—and a senior alumna from the Lancer Magic Academy we had all attended. She was just as obsessed with monster research as Wazfi.
I could understand why those two were called. The stated reason for this meeting was, "Take a look at the monsters of the New Continent." It was only natural to call the experts. But I still didn't see why *I* was necessary.
"It’s alright, Big Sister Narua. There’s a reason for you, too."
"Indeed. Brother never does anything without a purpose. I am certain there are fascinating materials to be found."
Aslin and Firia offered their support. Then again, Aslin was essentially the supreme leader of the monsters, and Firia was the next generation of the blacksmithing and jewelry guilds—my superior, in a sense—so their presence made more sense than mine.
"Wouldn't Director Zargis, Comet-san, or Narjia-san be better suited for this than me?" I asked, naming those who clearly held higher standing.
"Well, they would certainly be useful, but they’re already buried in work," Eigil-san replied, spinning in her chair.
"It’s not that you’re idle, Narua. But I have to manage the whole operation, and I have my role as a commander. And above all, when it comes to monster surveys—while I know a fair bit—among our research members, you’re the one who has gone out to gather materials with Wazfi the most."
"I see. In that case, I also believe Narua possesses the most knowledge," Wazfi added.
"Agreed. I think Narua is the right choice, too," Havia concurred.
"Hey, Big Sister Eigil, I understand why those three were called, but why are Firia and I here?" Aslin asked.
"Ah, Aslin, you’re well-versed in monsters, aren't you?"
"And Firia, like Narua, is an expert in magical tool crafting. I want you to help select effective weapons after we observe the enemy monsters. If Yuki’s schedule holds, the countries of the Intercontinental Alliance will be clearing out the monsters in the south."
"Wait, that’s already being discussed?" I was stunned by the revelation.
"Oh? Narua, you hadn't heard? What about you, Wazfi and Havia?"
"I haven't heard of it either," Wazfi said.
"I didn't know," Havia added.
All eyes turned to Yuki.
"It’s not set in stone yet. However, the possibility is high. We’re gaining a foothold on the New Continent, after all. And since it’s on the monster side, we don't need to compete with other nations, and it will strengthen the defense of the Oer Kingdom."
"It’s usually impossible, but in this specific case, since it’s a region inhabited by monsters and untouched by human hands, there’s a high chance we can secure it," Eigil added.
I see. That was certainly a convenient location.
"Regardless, I can't have you moving on your own. We need to control the flow of information, handle emergency communications, and provide support. We have no idea what kind of powerful monsters might be lurking there."
"That’s why I gathered you all—to collect as much information as possible. Aslin and Firia, I know your primary duties keep you busy, but it would be a great help if you could check in periodically."
"Understood."
"Leave it to us."
So Aslin and Firia were in a support role. That left the main task...
"I think you understand the flow of the conversation now. For the survey of the southern part of the New Continent—the monsters—I want Wazfi and Havia to lead, with Narua as the core of the support team. Oh, and if you can get Chaear and Hope to cooperate, please do so."
"Oh? You’re going to use those two as well?"
Chaear-san and Hope-san were ghosts—or something of that nature—we had found in the Zrable region. They were currently aiming for space exploration alongside Havia. I had helped them a little, but I hadn't expected them to be involved in this.
"Well, they’ve crammed a mountain of knowledge into their heads for the sake of space development, haven't they? They should be more than capable of providing support."
"Ah, when you put it that way, you’re right."
"Besides, Chaear is the only one who seems capable of commanding on the same level as Eigil. After all, she was the master of the Great Emperor Show. That sort of thing should be second nature to her."
Ah, that’s right. Chaear-san was the master of the Great Emperor Show. That meant her military talent must be immense.
"Though, her skills might be a bit rusty..."
"No, I don't think so," Eigil interrupted. "I’ve played various games and conducted military exercises with Chaear, and my win rate is, at best, about thirty percent."
"Wait, when have you been doing that?"
"On my days off, or during these war councils. By the way, Seraria, Jessica, Stasia, and Fioria—the entire military department—have all faced her."
"This is the first I’ve heard of it. What were the results?"
"I don't know the exact records, but as far as I’m aware, Chaear has the highest win rate."
I was shocked. To think she had already been doing that with the generals of Weed—and winning.
"That’s incredible. Military exercises involve giving orders to subordinates, right?"
"Exactly. She participated as a field commander, not as someone’s assistant."
"If she’s winning at that level, couldn't you just appoint her as a general right now?"
"I think she could do it. Seraria and Jessica tried to recruit her, of course, but she turned them down."