Nihon 5

Picking up the hero's diary placed on the table, I examine it carefully.

Still, it's remarkable how well-preserved these documents are, considering they're from 400 years ago...

Yes, we treat things like this with great care... We're told that every object holds a life within it, so we must treat them with care... Children raised in this country are often told this.

That's a good idea. If you've been taking care of things and keeping them for a long time, wouldn't you have some records from way back as well?

"I can't quite grasp what you're getting at—what exactly are you trying to ask?"

"No, I just thought you were concerned about something from a very long time ago. A diary from 400 years ago? That's surely too far back, don't you think? I was wondering if the problem might have already occurred by now."

"...Well, you're sharp indeed. Truly the legendary mage of lightning."

Not again... I'm getting used to this, I suppose.

"As you might imagine, our nation has been plagued by unusual phenomena in recent years. As recorded in the Hero's diary, monsters have become extraordinarily active."

"Does the presence of these monsters mean a dungeon has recently been generated nearby?"

"We have considered that possibility and conducted investigations in the surrounding areas. We've extended our search all the way to the borders of the kingdom and empire, but we found no significant dungeons."

"There are no other possible factors... So you're suggesting the phenomenon described in the hero's diary is actually happening? Excuse me, but isn't that rather rash?"

"I fully understand that. But that's precisely why this department exists—to examine any phenomenon that could impact the nation, regardless of how unlikely it may seem. We must consider even the smallest possibility."

Overwhelmed by the sudden seriousness in his expression.

"...Apologies for the interruption. I just had a question that came to mind, so I thought I'd ask. Um, was the request to decipher the Hero's Diary, correct?"

"Yes, it's good that your doubts have been cleared. And since you've come all the way to this country, you should take the chance to enjoy some sightseeing as well. For the young lady's sake, too."

Rilka, caught off guard by the sudden shift in conversation, was at a loss for how to respond, flustered. Yet she managed a small nod in reply.

I understand your eagerness to begin, but perhaps it would be best to eat first. I know a good place—let me show you the way."

"Then, I'll take you up on that... let's go, Riluka."

"Got it."

Exiting the facility known as the Technical Institute, they walked down a corridor with windows offering views of the outside.

Through glass with slightly warped edges, they gazed at the scenery—snow melting, revealing patches of gray beneath.

"Right this way—still a bit chilly, so we'd best hurry along."

Following the slightly hunched figure, a strong, robust voice echoed from outside.

Glancing out the window at the sound, they saw a group wearing familiar armor, practicing sword swings.

"Those are the guard soldiers. They train like that every day to protect Lord Tenshu."

"They're prepared for the monsters... Ah! That pattern... is it...?"

"You've noticed, I see. Quite perceptive. That design is a unique magical artifact of our country. By engraving such patterns onto blades, we can imbue the weapon with specific magical properties."

Similar to liquid magical stones, but different in that only the special pattern needs to be drawn to activate its effect.

"Wow, so it's possible to do something like that... Now that you mention it, the hero from 400 years ago supposedly used a weapon like this..."

As you have pointed out, we have preserved the items left behind by the hero to this day. Even the swords and blades have been continuously improved, but their fundamental design remains largely the same as what the hero originally used.

One soldier activated a spell. The blade was enveloped in flames, emitting intense heat. When swung, the flames surged forward about a meter, exploding upon impact with the target and destroying it.

Incredible... Is that what the hero once used? I truly wish to understand how it works.

Returning my gaze from the spectacle to Kysei,

"I understand you'd like to know how it works, but I'm afraid I can't disclose that. The manufacturing methods of those items are our top-secret information."

"I see, that makes sense. Then, may I at least observe from outside?"

"Simply observing won't reveal much, I'm afraid. Why don't you try a match instead? I've heard from many that you, Mr. Taro, are quite formidable."

"Nothing of the sort. I just got lucky....But I must admit, I'd like to see it up close a bit more. If the chance ever comes, I'd like to face you directly."

Honestly, even with training, I couldn't bring myself to fight a person. Thieves and bandits have all tried to catch me off guard and paralyze me. Even demon beasts typically prepare thoroughly before engaging.

"Hmm... We still have a little time before noon. Shall we test it out and see how it goes?"

"Wha...!?"

Are they actually going to do it!? I only said it as a joke...

Just as I'm thinking that, Kisai quickly heads toward the inner courtyard and starts talking to some pompous-looking person. I'm torn about what to do when Rilka looks at me with concern.

Well, I've gone this far—I might as well just get it over with and end it quickly, so I don't worry her.