第１９４４堀：最前線の町へ (Part2)
"You make it sound so simple, but every one of these tasks is a headache. You do realize that, right?"
"I do. Still, Vilia and the others have finally reached the place where they can achieve their goal. Consider this the beginning, so do your best."
"Well, I suppose that’s true. The journey up until now was really just a reconnaissance of the north."
"Indeed. Though, it wasn't as chaotic as we feared. The town of Uesa was the only exception."
That is exactly how it is.
As Sia-san said, while the wild monsters were certainly strong, they were mostly small fry like goblins and wolves; seeing an orc was rare enough that the roads remained relatively safe.
In these past six days, we only encountered them twice, and spotted them from the air fourteen times.
It is likely the result of diligent road patrols and security measures, which is a relief.
"I’ve read your reports. That was a pleasant miscalculation. When the monsters closed in on Uesa, I feared the rest of the region was in trouble, but it seems that isn't the case. By the way, have you heard any reports of monster attacks in other towns or countries?"
"We’ll be gathering information on that at the Ioa Adventurer’s Guild. For now, we haven't heard anything of the sort."
"Yeah, it’s a different story once you cross borders, but even after entering the Kingdom of Ioa, the only incident we heard of was the Uesa attack. Nothing else."
"Exactly. That, at least, is a blessing. I wouldn't go so far as to say it was an isolated incident, but for the moment, there haven't been any major casualties in the surrounding areas."
That, truly, is the best news.
As Sia-san noted, the monster attacks seem to have been confined to the town of Uesa, with no other reports of damage.
Our current assessment is that the attack there was likely an isolated event.
"I see. Well, we won't know for sure until we gather more intel, but it’s peaceful for now, which is the most important thing. And, I know you’ve entered the Ioa Kingdom, but where exactly are you?"
"Yes. We are currently at a location recommended—or rather, suggested—by Archbishop Dodona and Guild Master Sanal."
"The front lines of Ioa. Known as the Northern Three Great Fortress Walls."
"What’s that?"
"It refers to the northernmost point of Ioa, Eia, and its symmetrical counterpart on the other side, Ganaia. They are considered the nation’s supreme military strength, the places that hold back the tide of monsters most effectively. The areas that function as the primary fortresses and defensive walls against the monster swarms are collectively called the Northern Three Great Fortress Walls."
"I see. That sounds about right. In that case, should I use drones or familiars to scout the perimeter?"
"That would be a great help. We want to survey the surroundings. Besides, we didn't come to the Three Great Fortress Walls themselves. We’re in the town just before them. This is where adventurers handle monster extermination and find lodging. The fortresses are strictly military territory."
"That makes sense."
Indeed, we have passed the royal capital of Ioa and arrived at the town just before the front lines.
This is where the business of life—supplies, lodging, and the like—takes place.
The fortresses are purely defensive hubs; they are less supply centers and more military garrisons.
After all, they can’t have civilians knowing the inner workings of such critical defensive positions.
"We’re heading to the Adventurer’s Guild now. While we’re there, it would be a huge help if you—or rather, Headquarters—could gather data on the surrounding area."
"Yes. We’ll likely be taking on jobs from the guild, and in the worst-case scenario, we might be sent straight to the front lines."
I’d like to think that won't happen, but if they’re desperate enough, they’ll send anyone capable of fighting.
If it means protecting the people, that is.
"Understood. Well, it depends on the situation, but if it comes to the worst, feel free to go all out."
"Haha, I hope it doesn't come to that."
"If it does, we’ll definitely be treated as heroes."
"In that case, should I have Vilia play the 'Knightman' again?"
"That might actually be an option."
Wait, what!?
We’re doing that again!?
Vilia and her party of adventurers have finally arrived.
And, before we knew it, six days have passed.
Which means...?