CH 369

Chapter 369 – Before Departure

After the arrival of the magic rifle squadron, the prototype magic airship, which had been outfitted and furnished, successfully completed its familiarization flight in the Sorel Mountains, and its degree of completion was enhanced through a series of detailed modifications. For example, when functioning as an aerial carrier for the harpies, it was not convenient to keep the wind magic barrier around the entire perimeter in place, so the barrier was made partially removable, and it was required to wear a lifeline when going out on deck to prevent falling off. The ship was also extensively modified by changing the lifelines from ordinary ones to strong, thin, and lightweight arachne ropes, making all passengers wear bracelet-type magic tools with fall control magic, improving the suspension system to increase the angle of fire of the thunder cannon, and creating an ammunition box holder to safely secure the ammunition box for the magic rifle on the deck.

The list of interior modifications is endless. We made a lot of changes to the interior, such as the placement of doors and other small details. As a result, the interior comfort level has improved considerably.

“The only regret is that the sleeping quarters are hammocks, but other than that, it is more comfortable than the barracks of the original squadron.”

Ted, the first platoon captain, shrugged his shoulders as he said this in the commander’s office of the prototype magic airship. It would certainly be comfortable. The airship has air conditioning, and thanks to the two magic sparkling stone furnaces, there is plenty of magic power. Not only water and hot water but also a purifier that purifies laundry in an instant can be used as much as one wants, and even meals are served warm and delicious by the animal-eared maids.

“It’s uncomfortable up there in the sky, though…”

Ted, the first platoon leader, seems to be fine, but Darko, the second platoon leader, is not so at ease in the sky. Even though she is not afraid of heights, she still has a hard time with it, even after completing her familiarization training.

“But this must be very hard for the enemy to handle. If one like this appeared, there would be nothing anyone could do, would there?”

“Certainly, they won’t be able to touch us, but I suppose we can only harass them with a single ship.”

“If we had the numbers, there would be nothing more frightening.”

One hundred men per seat. The airships are capable of carrying about 300 people in an instant over a very long distance if the airship is used to transport troops for a short period of time and can attack the thin rear bases without regard to the front lines. It is undoubtedly a cheat weapon in this world, where the only means of transportation are horses and similar mounted animals and the vehicles they pull. With airships, it is possible to attack supply depots behind the front lines, supply convoys, and anything in between.

Naturally, not only that, but it can also conduct reconnaissance from the air. Since it can also be used as a base of operations for the harpies, it will be even easier for the harpies to conduct reconnaissance in the future.

“So. Finally, tomorrow, we will depart for the Dragonis Mountain Kingdom.”

“”Yes.””

The two platoon leaders nodded with serious faces.

“The purpose of this visit to the Dragonis Mountain Kingdom is only a goodwill visit. But it is also important to show the majesty of the magic airship and the magic rifle squadron to other countries. Please keep the members of the squadron on their toes. The Dragonis Mountain Kingdom and other nations will look at the magic rifle squadron and evaluate what the soldiers of the Kingdom of Merinard are like. You are, so to speak, the representatives of the entire army of the Kingdom of Merinard…”

“Yes, sir.”

“It’s a big responsibility.”

“Yes, indeed. Tell everyone not only to think of Worg but also of Sir Leonard, General Zamir, and Danan’s face.”

“That will make them feel better, I’m sure.”

Ted gave me a wry smile. The three of them, Sir Leonard, Ms. Zamir, and Danan, are strong people who have been active in the center or spearhead of the army since the time when they were active as the Liberation Army. They are respected and feared by the soldiers of the Merinard Royal Army.

“That’s about all I have to say… Any questions?”

The two shook their heads, so we decided to disband for now. If there’s anything else I need to tell them, we can talk about it again. I don’t have any more immediate work to do today.

After they left the captain’s office, Isla and Driada-san came in to replace them.

“How are you doing?”

“No problem. Everything is ready, supplies are loaded, and personnel has been arranged.”

“We can leave any time now.”

While saying that, Isla sat on my lap quite naturally, and Driada-san, who had turned around behind me, leaned on me from behind. Aside from Isla, Driada-san’s huge breasts hit me on my back, or rather, crushed me, and I felt so heavenly. It was wonderful.

“Ah, ahem, ahem. I’m going to ask you one more time, do you think I should be the commander of the ship?”

“There is no one more qualified than Kosuke.”

“Yes, that’s right. In terms of both status and ability.”

“I see…”

I am the royal consort, a general who actually led a magic rifle squadron to repel invasions from the Kingdom of Tigris and the Duchy of Dihart during the Battle of the North, and also the companion of Grande, whom the Dragonis Mountain Kingdom considers to be of great importance. As the head of the mission, there could not be a more suitable person to head a prototype magic airship that would demonstrate the prestige of the Kingdom of Merinard.

“Or rather, our departure is already tomorrow. It’s impossible to change it now.”

“Right?”

I knew that. However, I’m not comfortable in the position of leader. I’d rather leave it to someone else if I can help it. I guess it’s too late for that; let’s get over it.

“Anyway, it is better to rest while you still can to prepare for tomorrow.”

“Eh? It’s still morning. No, it’s not quite morning, but it’s still mid-morning, isn’t it?”

The sun―well, not the sun, but anyway, the sun hasn’t even reached the mid-sky yet. It’s too early to be resting now in preparation for tomorrow――.

“Now, go ahead. Sylphy and Melty are waiting for you in your room. They’re off from work today.”

“Oh, that kind of… Eh? Seriously?”

“Kosuke-kun, while we’re in the Dragonis Mountain Kingdom, make sure you take care of us so that we don’t get lonely, okay?”

Isla and Driada-san make me get up from my seat and start pushing me back with a giggle. Okay, okay, don’t push me. I’m going.