Chapter 313: Family Meeting
“Ma’am, the wired sensor network is operating smoothly!”
“Indeed. We’ve accumulated operational data from North End City, and it seems that the Prava Divine Nation is functioning properly as well.”
Since it was discovered that some of the monsters inhabiting the Demon Forest are highly sensitive to electromagnetic waves, The Tree has been continuously searching for solutions.
For the time being, it has been decided to use highly directional electromagnetic waves or to establish wired connections, utilizing shielded cables that minimize electromagnetic leakage, or even fiber optics.
“Commander. Through the integrated analysis of sensor data, we have confirmed large-scale movements of biological groups within the Demon Forest. Caution is advised.”
“…Hmm, a mass migration. It’s not quite on the level of the Stampede we experienced before, is it?”
“That’s correct! Rather, it seems to be a territorial shift! There are reports of clashes between animals and monsters occurring all over!”
Accurate information has been gathered from the sensors deployed in various locations. By analyzing this data, the distribution of monsters and animals living in the forest has become clearer.
In particular, the real-time analysis of sound waves has made it possible to track individual entities, which is a significant development.
Small, disposable outposts have been constructed within the forest. By reinforcing them with wire fencing and supplying power through wired connections, we are operating computational devices for analysis on-site.
By resolving the issue of data transfer delays, the accuracy of the information that ultimately comes through has dramatically improved.
“It seems that the presence of large monsters leads to significant equipment wear and tear…”
“Indeed! For now, we are working on expanding the surveillance network to gather information on such threats, so we should be fine! We’re also collecting metallic responses, so I believe we’ll discover promising ore veins soon! That way, we’ll acquire resources that will more than compensate for any losses!”
As large monsters like boars, bears, and aggressive deer shift their territories, issues have arisen where established sensor networks have been destroyed or computational outposts have been compromised.
However, the observation of these destructions can also be processed as valuable information.
After all, if something is destroyed, we can simply rebuild it.
Compared to the previous state of being starved for resources, The Tree’s current situation has significantly improved.
“All in all, things are going well. It’s slower than expected, but we’re not at a standstill. That’s a good sign, isn’t it?”
“I am honored, Ma’am.”
Initially, the plan was to deploy automated machines to clear the way rapidly.
However, it was anticipated that this could provoke Threat Creatures from deeper within the Demon Forest, so the strategy was changed to steadily develop from the outer edges.
“I’m glad we received information from the Chimiya family. If we hadn’t, we might have sent a land battleship charging in…”
The information relayed from the Chimiya family included past instances where forward outposts were ravaged by gigantic monsters. It was said that once a certain level of military strength was achieved, monsters would surge forth as if they were targeting them.
While it’s merely speculation, it is believed that the gathering of the Chimiya family at a certain location might trigger some reaction—what Asahi would call a magical response—becoming too pronounced and provoking something.
“Our machines have no connection to magic, but they do emit electromagnetic waves quite vigorously. So, there is a possibility that similar reactions could occur!”
In fact, flying machines sent into the air were attacked by swarms of monsters. It was easy to predict that the same situation would occur on the ground.
“Our automated machines have switched to a charging type, so their operational time is quite limited.”
“We need to equip them with shielded types to counter electromagnetic leakage, so things are a bit different now.”
All the automated machines deployed on-site are new models equipped to counter electromagnetic leakage. With the need to construct charging facilities alongside the development, the progress has slowed considerably compared to when we were using microwave power supply.
“Operational results are accumulating. We will optimize it eventually.”
“Since we are using wired connections, we can gather denser information and provide support similarly. It’s a double-edged sword, I suppose.”
Eve nodded at the reports from her sisters.
While they may have lost speed, the quality of their efforts has undoubtedly improved.
“Still, it’s been a great help to work alongside the Chimiya family. If it were just us, it might have taken much longer.”
“Yes, Ma’am. I agree. Until we can develop effective means of attack, we might have had to halt the development of the Demon Forest.”
“Those folks are truly strong!”
Moreover, in terms of defensive capabilities, the contributions of the Chimiya family on the front lines have been particularly remarkable.
They work alongside the automated machines, repelling the attacking monsters. For them, the automated machines providing perfect rear support must be reliable allies.
“I really want to incorporate them somehow…”
“Indeed!”
Eve murmured thoughtfully.
Of course, this doesn’t mean she wishes to welcome the Chimiya family as members of The Tree.
What she truly desires is to replicate their magical techniques within The Tree.
“…Lord Noin. Once again, I thank you for your cooperation.”
At the beginning of the regular meeting, the Grand Archbishop of the Chimiya family, Turanta, bowed his head.
“What brings you here again, Lord Turanta?”
Responding was Noin, the representative from Paraiso, who acts as the liaison with the Chimiya family, a Communicator Android.
“Thanks to you, we have found a path to achieve our long-cherished wish. The Pope and the Archbishop sought power from outside our nation, but to be honest, I didn’t have much hope… In the end, we gained a friend in you, Paraiso.”
“Hmm. Well… that’s true. We too have an interest in the Holy Land you seek. It was fortunate that our goals aligned.”
Fortunately, the objectives of Paraiso and the Chimiya family coincided. The Prava Divine Nation, which yearns to reach the Holy Land, and Paraiso, which aims to investigate the ruins of the Trout Nursery located there.
Furthermore, regarding what happens after they arrive, there is no mention in the holy texts, nor any directives from the Law God, so the Chimiya family’s perspective is that they will be liberated afterward.
After achieving their long-cherished wish of reaching the Holy Land, they will simply return to being ordinary people. It seems to be part of their doctrine.
Thus, they will not obstruct Paraiso’s goal of investigating the Trout Nursery. The Chimiya family and Paraiso have been able to establish a cooperative relationship without conflict.
“That said, it will still take time. While I don’t intend to take years, it won’t be something we can achieve in just a few months.”
“I understand. For us, even so, it is a remarkable pace of development.”
In response to Noin’s reply, Grand Archbishop Turanta nodded deeply.
Though slow, they are making steady progress. There is a tangible sense of advancement, distinctly different from the days of merely going back and forth.
“However, if we intend to continue developing at this pace, I would like you to hear our words first.”
“…Understood. I will listen.”
Is there something concerning in that situation? Turanta straightened his posture and began to speak.
“While the selection of the location will be left to you, it would be wise to construct a defensive outpost. If you venture too deep, we have received information indicating that you will be attacked by many monsters. This has been confirmed by our scout teams multiple times.”
According to Turanta, the monsters appearing in the deeper parts of the Demon Forest grow increasingly powerful. Their numbers also increase. If these signs are ignored, one will eventually be overwhelmed by a horde of monsters.
“It is likely that we must halt our advance before reaching a critical situation and prepare our defenses. Ideally, that outpost should be equipped with barriers similar to those in the Holy Capital.”
Building paths, erecting power poles, and laying down power lines. More accurately, they are laser turrets.
While that wasn’t the intention, it has turned into a full-blown tower defense scenario.