Imperial VI-2

A seemingly strong individual steps forward.

"Could you accompany us to the castle? If you come along willingly, I promise you and your companions will suffer not a single scratch."

I guess I'm still too soft. I thought I'd be safe if I had Alex with me, but this many opponents—perhaps even that was too much.

No choice but to comply. The fact that the destination is the castle is also suspicious.

"I understand. I'll accompany you."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Please follow me this way."

The vehicle prepared for us was an elegant carriage. It didn't seem like we were being captured.

Inside the carriage were Coil, Lilka, Alek, me, several imposing knights, and researchers from the lab.

Um, I think this man was...

Wasn't this guy Ivan Lucas?

"Oh my, it's been ages. Long time no see, Taro-sama. I've heard quite a bit about your recent accomplishments."

"It's been a long time. Mr. Ivan. I'm still just a novice, after all."

"Please, don't be so modest. You've developed your own magic devices, mastered multiple spells, and even combined them to defeat several powerful monsters. That's truly impressive work."

"It was just luck, really. But I'm curious—what exactly are the requirements for the guard knights? Surely it's not just to commend our achievements, is it?"

"As for that, we'll discuss it when we reach the castle. I can't say any more than that."

The middle-aged, sturdy knight spoke briefly and then fell silent, saying nothing further.

Ivan continued talking to himself, murmuring quietly.

Shaken by the carriage ride, they arrived at the castle.

We were led straight into a remarkably luxurious room, still dressed as we were.

It looked just like a throne room from a fantasy tale.

As I glanced around the room in curiosity, a lavish young woman entered from a different entrance than the one we came through.

I recognize her.

Empress Veronica Adams.

By the time I realized it, everyone around me had already bowed their heads and knelt.

Rilka and I knelt a moment later.

"Please raise your head. We meet again. Adventurer."

When I looked up, the Empress was gazing at me.

She seemed more confident than before, standing with a bold demeanor.

"It's been a long time. It's an honor to see you again."

Is this the right way to say it? I'm not entirely sure, but I'll give it a try anyway.

Others also offered their greetings.

"Well, what was it again?"

An attendant immediately whispers something in his ear. Or rather, is this really okay? Upon closer inspection, he appears worn out. He looks quite exhausted.

"Adventurer Taro, are you aware that the Empire is currently in a state of war?"

"Yes, I am aware. I've heard that the Kingdom has declared war on us."

"You seem to have a general understanding. Now, where shall I begin?"

The war is currently at a stalemate. At first, the Empire's new weapons—the magical mechanized soldiers and magicians—achieved continuous victories, but the kingdom has managed to resist thanks to mysterious technology, and now they're stuck just short of final victory."

Magical mechanized soldiers? The phrase sent an unpleasant shiver down my spine.

Still, to have gotten so close to victory—this empire truly possesses unimaginable power.

"Then, Taro. I'd like you to conduct an undercover investigation."

"Huh?"

My voice came out strangely, so unexpected was the request.

"Exactly. I need you to infiltrate the kingdom and carry out a secret investigation."

I still don't get it. Why me? I can't do stealth at all. And now I'm supposed to invade the kingdom!? This makes even less sense.

"Allow me to explain..."

The nobleman stepped forward, whispering into the empress's ear.

"We've determined that the new weapons the kingdom has been using are related to magic stones. Apparently, these stones seem capable of infinite use."

Infinite use of magic stones!?

That's impossible. There must be some limit somewhere.

"As you've noticed, it's impossible for something to be used infinitely. There must be some mechanism at play, but we couldn't figure it out."

"Then, if I were to investigate it myself..."

"You can do it. You're the one who can."

You've developed countless magical artifacts, solved the magical stone disease, and conducted research on magical stones and artifacts across various nations. Don't you also know about Nihon's specialized technology?"

I instinctively look away.

Actually, that sounds like something I've heard before—when I came here.

"You possess a rather unique perspective, and your personal combat strength is exceptionally strong. You're the perfect candidate for this role."

There's no turning back now.

There's a reason why not just me, but Coil and Rilka were also brought here. We're essentially hostages.

Even though no weapons are being pointed at us, you understand what's going on, don't you?

The guards and nobles stare at us with that unmistakable expression.

The Empress maintains a straight face, but who knows what she's truly thinking inside.

Anger? Or perhaps an overwhelming urge she can't suppress?

"With respect, I decline..."

"Can't you feel embarrassed at all!"

Aleks shouts, cutting off my words.

Taken aback by the sudden outburst, I can only stare at Aleks.

Aleks stares at the Empress with an expression I've never seen before. Guards immediately rush forward, surrounding the Empress to protect her.

"Are those with noble or royal power supposed to belittle the weak! Is that what a just person would do?"