Volume 3 Chapter 31 To Pass Through Sartzstadt
The next day, I joined the port's defense.
I could just work at the workshop during normal times and rush to help in emergencies, but unfortunately, it's too far from my house to the port.
By the time I arrive, things could have already progressed in unexpected ways.
So, I rented a room in the harbor facilities and decided to work there.
This way, I can balance my usual work.
By the way, since it's better to have more able-bodied people around right now, Minori and Suzu are also on standby at a different facility.
Suzu is on duty before the ship docks, and Minori takes over after it docks.
"Still, it's unsettling that I can't see Lene."
"Hey, Master, getting flustered?"
It seems my muttering was overheard, and I was teased by one of my disciples.
They moved their workshop to this location too, but Belle stayed behind to look after Lene.
I'll bring some dried fish as a souvenir when I'm done here.
"It's not flustered, Lene just isn't feeling well. I'm worried about her."
"You're right... I know a healer's apprentice. Should I introduce you? Of course, it won't be free, but..."
Another disciple surprisingly revealed a connection.
That's very helpful.
I didn't expect a free checkup anyway, but I didn't know any healers, so this is a big help.
I hear healers are incredibly busy, juggling research and consultations.
I could ask a healer to check on her, but Lene herself is practically a healer.
It's just that she might not even realize it herself.
"Is that so? Then I might just ask for a favor to get an audience with theim soon."
"Understood!"
Alright, this might just be the chance to steer Lene towards a brighter path.
To make that happen, I'll need to prioritize my current tasks and――
"...I wonder when those guys will arrive."
I murmured this as I gazed out the window at the sprawling harbor below.
* * *
A few days later, a formal declaration of war from Goldmont arrived by fast horse from the town of Fulsburgh near the border.
And at that moment, I learned from the guard who had rushed into my workshop that there had been a change at sea as well.
"Shadows of ships on the northern horizon."
"...Well, I can't imagine the Beistein Kingdom's fleet returning quietly to port in this situation."
I pondered this as I listened to the guard.
The regular ship from Sartzstadt is still heading towards Goldmont, but I doubt they'll be allowed to return after a declaration of war.
Most likely, they're being held hostage.
I halt the work and guidance for my apprentices, and prepare to leave.
The defense squad that had rushed here from the Capital City seems ready for battle as well.
"Ryuuji, is that the fabled 'Alchemic long Rifle'?"
"Ah, Your Excellency. Yes, it boasts an impressive range. We should be able to target enemies on the distant deck with this."
Before I knew it, His Excellency Duke Hoffman had appeared beside me, eyeing the 'Alchemic long Rifle' I carried with keen interest.
It's one of only 7 in existence, a most valuable weapon.
I had been explaining the various features of the weapon when suddenly, a deep sigh escaped His Excellency's lips.
"Good grief... You've crafted another troublesome thing, haven't you? Guarding it will be a nightmare."
"Ah, yeah."
A weapon that can target enemies from afar instills immense trust when wielded by an ally, but becomes an unparalleled threat when it falls into enemy hands.
Especially since this weapon boosts its accuracy with magic power, making it far more fearsome than a mere bow.
"I've made sure it can't be resealed with a simple imprint magic, and it's designed to piercing through the Great Absolute Magic Stone's barrier... but well, it would be troublesome if someone managed to create one without such safeguards."
"No matter how reliable a craftsman may be, there's always the possibility that they could be swayed by coercion. Perhaps from now on, the nation should do everything in its power to protect craftsmen like you."
"That's... to be honest, it might just be necessary."
I nodded in agreement with His Excellency's words.
Aine had ended up bringing the coal technology to our country after leaping out from Goldmont's protection.
An unguarded, runaway technology could eventually lead to destruction──I felt it in my bones.
Afterward, His Excellency issued an order to his subordinates to inform Mr. Galdun, the creator of this weapon, that he was not to create any more without permission.
It must be tough for those in charge of the military as well....
* * *
"The ships on the horizon are definitely from Goldmont's fleet. There's no mistake. The enemy is sending at least 15 ships our way."
"Quite a number."
I was allowed to join the war council meeting, where His Excellency's brow furrowed as he received a report from the scouts.
As expected of a great maritime nation, they're certainly a powerful country, and they're not going to be swayed by just numbers.
Even so, it's clear they intend to occupy Sartzstadt and sit tight, counting on its abundant resources.
I doubt they give a thought to the lives of those currently residing there.
"The weapon in question had 7 barrels, right?"
"Indeed, with the Great Magic Stone of Diamond, we should be safe even if targeted during reloading..."
I nodded, understanding His Excellency's unspoken concerns.
If the enemy doesn't possess similar weaponry, the Great Magic Stone of Diamond should suffice for our defense.
On the other hand, if they do have it... well, there's no point in worrying about what can't be helped.
"Still, we must consider the worst-case scenario. If only they'd pass through Sartzstadt without stopping..."
His Excellency grumbled, but it seemed highly unlikely.
The enemy's target is clearly Sartzstadt.
"...Or perhaps, passing through? Would it be better if Sartzstadt were farther away?"
"What's with all the mumbling, Ryuuji...?"
Oh dear, now I've got everyone, including His Excellency, giving me odd looks.
But I'm certain that with that magic stone, it could be done.
We'll make them aim for a Sartzstadt located even farther south.
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