After I heard those words, I took another look around. Everyone was making anxious expressions; what’s going to happen now? Why are they suddenly preparing for war? I heard, amongst other things.
“Preparation for war… with whom are they going to war with? I mean, since the last war against the Empire resulted in a large-scale demon invasion, isn’t war supposed to be a taboo?”
“That very Empire is the opponent.”
“The Empire? Why?”
“Please ask the Empire for the answer to that particular question. It seems that the Empire has publicly started preparing for a large-scale war. Because of the large-scale preparation they have been making, it is unlikely they will go to war against small countries, or so it seems. With that in mind, the most likely target is…”
“A large country, meaning Earlshide Kingdom…”
The Empire is preparing to declare war. Why? For what reason?
No, I know the reason why. If Bluesphere Empire is able to successfully seize the Earlshide Kingdom, their forces will increase tremendously. With that much power, they would be capable of conquering the world. However, why now? I cannot understand the timing.
“Well, it’s not like it has already started. When the war breaks out, there’s a chance the students might also get drafted. However, there’s no point in worrying about it now, especially since Shin will most definitely not get drafted.”
“Why is… ah, you’re talking about the promise of not being used for military purposes.”
“The possibility of demon invasion is a different matter. However, the military’s decision not to involve Shin in the war is correct. That kind of thing should never be done.”
I was looking at Sicily and everyone else. Everyone had anxious expressions on their faces.
“Indeed, the military most likely won’t draft me. However, if a crisis does approach, I will step onto the battlefield, because I think of everyone I’ve met here as irreplaceable friends.”
“Shin-kun…”
“Shin…”
I felt downcast, and despite the fact the war has yet to start, I can’t help but be depressed.
“Alright! Everyone, let’s head to Mark’s house. I was told the prototype weapon would be be completed by today.”
“…You’re right, if I’m not mistaken, it will indeed be completed today. Alright, let’s go everyone.”
“Incidentally, everyone should buy accessories, and I will enhance them with defensive magic. That way, even if the war does break out, you’ll have something to protect yourselves with.”
And so, I opened Gate in the small corner of a back alley with few pedestrians. When we passed through the Gate, Bean’s Workshop was before us.
“It is as convenient as I thought. I want to learn it quickly.”
“…First things first, Rin, you should learn how to control your magic power and stop it from running wild.”
“…I’ll work hard.”
When we entered the workshop, uncle was waiting for us.
“Oh! You’ve finally arrived, Shin! The prototype has been completed!”
“Oh, as expected of a professional, you sure work fast!”
“That is a matter of course! Ah, has Your Highness has also come to observe?”
“Of course. Please let me look at it.”
What uncle brought out was nothing but an ordinary looking sword, however, the hilt was slightly different. The shape of the grip looked like a handgun, so to speak. A slide was attached to the sword guard at the trigger. With this, it became easier to safely remove the blade, and it also reduced the frequency malfunctions that could occur throughout the process.
“Amazing, uncle! Can’t this already be considered a finish product?”
“No, it’s no good if we don’t make any adjustments to it. The spring’s tension needs to be tested, as well as the firmness of the slide… and there’s still the firmness of the springs used in various places.”
“I see, but for you to be able to get to this point…”
“Yeah! Immediately after making some adjustments, it’ll become a finished product.”
Uncle laughed confidently. He looks cool when he’s overflowing with confidence. He truly is a craftsman.
“It really looks amazing. This is the first time I’ve witnessed Bean’s Workshop display a product still in development…”
“What are you talking about, Tony. Isn’t this also your original idea?”
“Oh! So you’re Tony-kun! Because of you, I was able to work on something interesting! Thank you!”
“No… That is…”
Tony was making an overwhelmed expression. It was really surprising.
“Now then, let’s get started with the adjustments. I would also like to look at the swords reserved for the military.”
“Those are also completed.”
It seemed like the swords for the military were ready for delivery. In comparison to Vibration Sword, they look thicker, and don’t look like they’ll break easily. However, it seemed as if the group was improving the durability down to the very last minute.
“These things… can probably withstand more than just practical use. Workshop Master, you’ve done a great job, I’m grateful for this.”
“N-now way! Please stop that, Your Highness! It’s because this is my job!”
Then, after making some adjustments to the spring, the new weapon will finally be complete.
It’s enjoyable to make these kinds of tune-ups. The guy team went full force with all the adjustments. Since the female team had free time, they went to look at the accessories.
Last but not least, with strength obviously in mind, it was customized for personal preference, and it was finally complete.
I named mine ‘Vibration Sword, ‘ but what about the ones used for the military? Because those are swords with replaceable blades…
“Exchange Sword…”
“…That name sounds good. Alright! From now onwards, these swords will be called Exchange Swords! Harold, I’m sorry but, can this order be completed immediately?”
“Of course, Your Highness.”
“Well then, I’ll ask some people from the military to drop by here later. Please discuss the quantity with the person in charge. These will be making a debut in the upcoming war, I’m counting on you.”
“Yes! I will definitely do my best!”
And so, I used enchantment magic on the new Vibration Sword, and I also got a few replacement blades.
“I’m really sorry about this, uncle. In the end, you’ve given them all to me.”
“No, no. This is something His Highness have asked of me to do on behalf of the Kingdom. Shin doesn’t need to worry about it.”
“Gus, sorry about this.”
“What are you saying. These are reassuring weapons to have during the time of war. Or rather, I’m happy that the development fee is only this much.”
I’m worried that they won’t function properly when the time comes for them to make for their debut during the war, but as far as I can see, they seem alright.
And so, as I expected, the accessories were still given as a present.
Everyone was very grateful, but this time the amount was rather large. Uncle just told us not to worry about it while laughing.
As of now, every single member of the Research Society has acquired accessories enhanced with defensive magic.
When it comes to defense, the anxiety had lessened considerably.