第１８５３堀：聞いている話と事実が違うというのは (Part2)
Unless you’re running an organization like Weed, where everything is meticulously planned and structured, most groups simply don’t have the luxury to manage such things. Maintaining a force with that many women requires significant capital. Not to mention the constant need for careful consideration and tact.
"That is true. There is no doubt that it requires a great deal of attention. However, monster attacks do not discriminate between men and women. The desire for such an environment has existed from the beginning, and it is Petra’s achievement that she worked hard to make it a practical reality."
"I see. So, she created an environment where women could fight."
Ah, that is truly an impressive feat. It’s no wonder she’s become so famous. But if that’s the case…
"In that case, does being a famous female adventurer not actually mean that one’s name is widely known?"
Yes, just as Vilia says, if the number of female adventurers is high, then, by necessity, the buzz surrounding our own activities shouldn't be all that significant.
"It is true that it has become more common to make a name for oneself as a female adventurer than in the past, but even so, those who become truly famous—those whose names are known far and wide—are but a handful. That remains unchanged for men as well. You either steadily accumulate fame over time, or you pull off a do-or-die feat of greatness."
"Indeed. Be that as it may, we are trying to uncover the reasons behind the Clearstream Church’s tyranny. I had hoped to learn as much as possible about their internal affairs, but..."
"Hmm. Indeed. From what I have heard from all of you, the actions of the Clearstream Church are unforgivable. I have also heard from Daeda that demi-humans are gathering in the Giadana Kingdom. It is time for me to take action as well."
The way he said it felt less like he was addressing us and more like he was steeling himself.
"What do you mean by that?"
"Ah, my apologies. I shall begin moving in earnest from here on out. The demi-humans are suffering. That is not what the Clearstream Church was meant to stand for. I bear responsibility for the corruption of the Church, as it was I who sent Petra out into the world."
"We appreciate that."
"It’s helpful, sure, but what are you going to do specifically?"
Yes, as Kishua says, while I understand that Archbishop Dodona has many connections, as he mentioned earlier, the enemy—the Clearstream Church—will likely just brush him off with excuses. He admitted himself that the reason he hadn't moved until now was precisely because of that.
"Quite right. It is highly likely that if I were to approach them directly, I would simply be deceived. Therefore, I intend to ask you all to verify things for me, just as Daeda did."
"Ask us? Do you really think they will cooperate just because an unknown group like us asks?"
As Sia points out, even with Archbishop Dodona’s recommendation, how far can an unknown group like us really infiltrate?
"Of course, they will not be cooperative. However, that is only if you lack the strength to back it up."
"Strength?"
We all exchange uncertain glances at that word. Ah, I think I understand now. The Clearstream Church’s goal is to exterminate monsters and liberate lands. In other words, if you have the brawn, you are recognized. I have my doubts about an organization like that, but there is no denying that power—sheer capability—is a clear metric. Since their opponents are primarily monsters, the ability to fight is paramount. That part is fine, but when it comes to "strength," it’s not that we lack it.
"Haha, you need not worry. Since you were introduced to me by Daeda, I am sure you are capable of handling the bare minimum. In the worst-case scenario, there are ways to bolster your abilities, and defeating monsters is not solely a matter of brute force."
Archbishop Dodona says this to put us at ease, but the reason we are looking at each other with such complicated expressions is quite the opposite. Our strength is already off the charts. Even though we are Doppelgangers, Yuki has ensured we are nearly on par with the originals. We don’t intend to lose anytime soon. And that applies to Archbishop Dodona as well. Which means…
"I shall assist in helping you hone your strength. Think nothing of it; I am just an idle old man, so I have plenty of time."
The Archbishop’s goodwill is so blinding, it’s almost painful. Helping us hone our strength… I’m worried there’s not much room left for us to grow.
Question: How should one ask for guidance from someone whose strength is inferior to one's own?
Holding back is pointless, so should I just reveal our true strength and focus on supplementing our knowledge instead?