Volume 2 Chapter 25 Who is the Subject？ It's Me
The improved version of the Magic Stone of Diamond, known as the Great Magic Stone of Diamond, was effortlessly completed, proving the validity of Lene's theory through the materials created by her alchemy.
Without delay, Lene and I set out to deliver it to Your Excellency Duke Hoffman at Lord Reichner's mansion.
However, His Excellency was currently conducting training at the military facility attached to the mansion, so under Lord Reichner's guidance, we decided to head there as well.
"W-Wow, there are so many soldiers..."
Lene gasped, covering her mouth in surprise as she took in the sight of the facility.
As expected of a military facility, it was quite expansive, with barracks and training grounds neatly arranged, but the number of soldiers was far greater than I had anticipated.
There must be at least a hundred soldiers packed into the training area!
"And this isn't the only training ground. There are others as well, so the number of soldiers gathered here is likely even higher."
"Ahh... No wonder I've been seeing so many soldiers around town lately."
Lene sighed at Lord Reichner's explanation.
I see, considering that, the number of soldiers stationed in Sartzstadt must be quite substantial.
I wonder when they all arrived.
"Hey! Watch your flank!"
"Guh!?"
Just as I thought I heard Duke Hoffman's voice, the 3 of us turned to see a soldier crumpling to the ground, having taken a blow from His Excellency's wooden sword right in the side.
It seemed like His Excellency was personally giving them a lesson... but is he really okay?
That looks like a broken rib.
"Ah, it's Marquis Reichner... and Ryuuji with them, isn't it?"
"Hello there, it's good to see your spirit up, Your Excellency."
Ignoring the fallen soldier, Duke Hoffman and Lord Reichner exchanged casual greetings.
This must be a familiar scene for them; it's terrifying.
I found myself thinking I never wanted to be a soldier.
"Thank you for your hard work in guiding them, Your Excellency. I brought the item you requested."
"Oh, you've already brought it? That was quick."
His Excellency looked at me with a hint of admiration as I raised the burlap sack in my hands.
Yet, he looked completely unbothered, not a bead of sweat on him, nor did he seem out of breath.
It's clear that the title *Steel King* is not just for show; he's incredibly tough.
"Yes. However, let me first mention that what I have is a completely new magic stone, rather than the *Magic Stone of Diamond* you requested."
"Hmm, what do you mean? What's a completely new magic stone? I could have sworn I asked for the *Magic Stone of Diamond*."
Lene's explanation made His Excellency furrow his brow.
Well, that reaction is pretty much expected.
"This 'Great Magic Stone of Diamond' I've created is essentially an enhanced version of the 'Magic Stone of Diamond.' You can think of it as such. The main difference is that it's not a sustainable type but an activation type. This means you'll need to infuse it with Magic Power before use."
"Hmmm..."
His Excellency was rubbing his chin, pondering the matter.
He might be wondering about the slight difference in the delivered goods.
While the sustainable type continuously exerts its effects just by holding it, the activation type won't manifest its power unless you actually activate it.
However, the activation type is powerful.
Due to its power, it consumes internal energy more readily, and keeping it in a sustainable form could lead to premature energy depletion.
That's why I chose to make it an activation type this time.
"Well, as soldiers of the national army, you're accustomed to handling Magic Power... But with an activation type, I assume you'll need to recharge it after use, correct?"
"Yes, that's right. However, this magic stone has a considerably long duration. It's just an estimate, but it should last at least 3 hours."
"...That should be more than enough. Now, it all comes down to the effectiveness."
For now, it seems I have your understanding regarding the differences in the delivered item.
As His Excellency mentioned, all that's left is to discuss its effectiveness.
"Then, Your Excellency, I will now activate the magic stone. Please deliver a serious strike with all your might."
"Eh!?"
It was Lene who let out a teary wail in response to my proposal.
Ah, Lord Reichner's eyes are bulging too.
Of course, taking a serious strike from the 'Steel King' head-on would be fatal.
Without a doubt.
"Hmph...? You have that much confidence, Ryuuji?"
"Yes, the effect is guaranteed."
His Excellency narrowed his eyes with interest, his imposing presence was incredible, but I nodded without changing my expression.
Good grief, the 'Steel King's' killing intent is terrifying.
"Ry, Mr. Ryuuji! This is absurd!"
"It'll be fine, let's show them the accuracy of our achievement."
With a playful reply to the tearful Lene, I imbued the 'Great Magic Stone of Diamond' I took out from the sack with magic power.
A faint light leaked from the magic stone.
A sign that it had activated.
"Then, I won't hold back. Ryuuji, make sure you don't regret it even if you go to the underworld."
"Anytime you're ready."
The killing intent swelled to its limit.
To avoid showing any resistance, I raised my empty hands, still holding the 'Great Magic Stone of Diamond'.
As the 'Steel King' drew his sword with a serious intent towards the unarmored, defenseless man, tension rippled through the soldiers watching over the scene.
"Ngh!"
Discarding his shield, the 'Steel King' swung his sword down with both hands.
If it hits me, my body will be split in 2 from right to left──
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