Kays Translations

Chapter 14: Strategist of the Nation's Chosen Party

The request from Saran was detailed information gathering on ten points on the map and reconnaissance of three points we haven't set foot in yet.

Rolo warned it was dangerous, but the strategist confidently claimed, "Jurg-san can handle it. This is still a proposal with plenty of room for maneuver," so I accepted it.

After all, that annoying strategist is not the type to assign tasks that can't be done by the person. If he says it can be done, then it can. Despite being an unpleasant glasses-wearing guy, I trust and rely on him.

"These points are good. We've also got a rough idea of the distribution of monsters."

Looking through the forest from the treetops, I was told by Saran that very few people could do this. He mentioned it was due to the unique perspective of someone who grew up playing in the forest, like me. In other words, I am suitable for scouting the unexplored areas.

"Now, let's go...!"

The only thing left is the reconnaissance of areas we haven't ventured into yet. From here on, I have to be even more vigilant.

The "Scarred Beast" is terrifying, but the threat of the unexplored area is not limited to that. The deeper you go, the more difficult it becomes to return. There are direct dangers from monsters, and there is also something that distorts the senses. But... having dived into many dungeons, I should be able to handle it. Saran must have chosen me with that in mind.

I moved through the gaps in the trees like a monkey. Today, I'm lightly equipped for reconnaissance. I can't do anything about the weight of my body, but surprisingly, trees are sturdy, and they won't break from me stepping on them or hanging from them.

"The first point is around here... hey, wait a minute."

Saran pointed to the depths of the unexplored area. I wondered why he chose such a place, but it doesn't seem like he made a random decision.

"It's a settlement, or rather a ...... 'nest', of Borgur the Ape Man. Not only the High Borgur, but even the Elder Borgur.”

Borgur is a hairy, monkey-like monster about the height of a child. They are everywhere, and even beginner adventurers may receive subjugation requests for them. They use simple tools and weapons and have a cunning nature. Especially when forming a nest like this, caution is necessary. This number is at a level of 'danger' where even I, who usually wears heavy armor, hesitate to charge in.

"...Indeed, I want to say 'good job' to Saran, but this is no laughing matter."

Muttering to myself, I quietly left that place. It's probably better to check the other two locations soon. I don't know what kind of picture Saran is drawing, what he sees, but with the information I bring back, he should be able to provide a more accurate plan.

"Second location, here we go...!"

With a little more determination, I swiftly ran through the forest.

◆

"I see. Good work, Yurg."

"Well? What can you see, Saran?"

Having delivered the report just before the sun sets, Saran, who made a pretense of being tired, is studying the map. Ignoring my question, he moves his unhealthy-looking fingers back and forth on the map and lets out a small sigh.

Surrounded by former 'Silhasta' members, the village chief is nervously watching Saran.

"Let me say it straight. It will take time."

"How much?"

"If I were to be greedy, I'd say half a year, but if possible, three months. At least one month."

Taking his gaze away from the map, Saran looks at me with a cold stare. Despite lacking human warmth, when he earnestly considers a solution without giving up, there is a semblance of humanity compared to the noble folks.

“Would you like to hear the plan?”

Saran gives a small smile as I sit down heavily in the chair. When he shows this gesture, it means he's thinking about something troublesome.

"Before discussing the plan, let me ask the residents of this village... Village chief, Rolo, and Jurg. Do you have any intention of abandoning this village?"

"What do you mean...?"

Seemingly frightened, the village chief asks. Even I couldn't grasp the intention and exchanged glances with Rolo.

"Literal meaning. I'll make it clear, but if things continue as they are, Malhas will perish soon. It's already very close. According to the analysis of the information Jurg brought back, the fact that this place is existing as a human territory itself is like a miracle."

Pointing at the map, Saran declares.

"Three types of monsters, generally considered a 'crisis of extinction.' Two situations. In addition, the Scarred Beast that may induce a major rampage. If you're unlucky, this village could disappear from the map tonight."

Saran's speech annoyed me, but if he says so confidently, then it must be true. I, too, have seen the evidence with my own eyes, so there's no room for complaints. However, being thrown into this situation is undoubtedly frustrating.

"I hope you can do something about it!"

"Yes, I'm saying I will do something about it. However, for that, we need to change this idyllic village."

"Huh?"

"I asked Fimia, and it seems there are five essential barriers set up here."

In response to Saran's words, Fimia, who had been silent, nodded slightly.

"These facilities are not suitable for this village. Moreover, even if the barriers are broken, they were able to live relatively safely. It means there was some vigilance against the monsters in the forest."

"Why beat around the bush?"

"Jurg, it's better not to pretend to be stupid. You understand what I mean, right?"

I understand, but whether the villagers can accept it is another issue. However, if I vaguely thought about it, he could take it to a point where it's achievable.

"Sorry, I don't get it. Saran, how can we protect the village?"

"We'll turn this into a pioneer city."

Saran's words made Rolo and the village chief open their mouths wide in surprise. Facing them, Saran smoothly explained his plan.

"There are abundant forest resources, a large number of monsters, and Jurg has found something like a dungeon. Since there's a dairy farming city nearby, we can also solve the food problem. With these facts, my countermeasure plan is to report to the royal council and redevelop this place as a base city for exploring the unexplored areas."

With an assertive tone, Saran laid out his plan while the village chief remained frozen. Instead, Rolo voiced the obvious question.

"But, is that even possible?"

"Of course. I am a member of the Zolark Count family and the strategist of the nation's chosen party 'Silhasta.'"

Saran, smirking confidently, informed us.

"Understand? This is how you use power. The rest... depends on whether the people of Malhas can accept it."

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