Chapter 402 - A Historic Incident Beyond Expectation
There seems to be a secret undead research facility in Belriza, likely sponsored by one of the church’s factions.
A problem like this, with such ominous and powerful backing, calls for a fitting reward if we’re to resolve it.
Since I started working with the Intelligence Department, I’ve thought a lot about the compensation. Considering the current situation, I decided to state my demands.
"The first condition. If we end up opposing the Holy City, not just some rogue faction but the main authority of the Holy City, Belriza must not involve itself in any crackdown on us, the Kikyo Society. This is a practical matter, not just a front."
The aim is to keep the undead research under wraps and eliminate it secretly. Both the undead and the church are touchy subjects; if they come to light, things could get very messy. It has to be a covert operation.
The operation must remain completely under the radar. Ideally, everything will go smoothly, but the worst-case scenario is that all the blame for any wrongdoing, including the undead, falls on me.
I understand why Belriza wouldn’t want to oppose the Holy City, and I don’t want to end up in a chaotic situation either. However, from a national perspective, it might be easier to label a private organization like the Kikyo Society as the villain and dismantle it.
In reality, I’d prefer Belriza to have our back in a pinch, but the state can’t realistically protect an outsider organization from being labeled as a criminal entity. It’s a tough call, but it’s precisely because we might be abandoned in a crisis that they’ve come to us.
Even if the worst-case scenario unfolds, we need to have some insurance in place. This is a non-negotiable point. Without it, I can’t accept the job.
If it comes to that, we could agree to be verbally vilified but not actually targeted by the authorities. I’d be willing to accept the bad reputation if it means staying alive.
That said, it’s a contingency plan. I want to have this minimal insurance.
"...Understood. As the head of the Intelligence Department, I have no objections, but I’ll need to confirm with the higher-ups. What’s the second condition?"
"The second condition. Given that this involves an undead stronghold, we’ll likely face combat with the undead. Fighting unknown creatures is a tall order, and we need appropriate equipment to handle it."
While we know how to handle zombies and skeletons, certain types of liches require special tools or abilities. We aren’t sure if such creatures exist here, but it’s best to be prepared.
In the world, it’s generally assumed there’s no combat experience against the undead. Demanding weapons and tools for such a fight is a reasonable request.
"We’ll need holy relics or artifacts effective against the undead. If the undead do exist, these will be necessary. Your request is fair, and we can arrange for them."
"We need to be able to destroy them without complaint. Borrowing won’t do; we should receive them outright. The tools won’t come cheap, but given that we’re dealing with legendary undead, it’s a small price to pay, right? After all, we’re talking about mythical creatures."
Objectively, we’ll be taking on an incalculable risk. The surveillance officials from the Intelligence Department will observe from a distance, and Belriza can use the data we gather.
"If we do end up fighting, we’ll need these tools. While it’s a possibility, the importance of having combat-ready equipment and the transfer of these items can be justified."
"Regarding weapons, fifty would be ideal. Swords, lances, anything, but at least thirty. If possible, let us choose and equip multiple weapons, so I’d appreciate having a reserve supply of around fifty."
While the number seems reasonable, holy relics and artifacts are high-end items. However, considering they are designed specifically for fighting the undead, they aren’t in high demand and won’t be excessively expensive.
To avoid any penny-pinching from the uninformed, I’ll count on Moore to persuade the higher-ups.
With the state’s resources, it should be easy to gather these items. Given Moore’s tone, they likely already have them.
Having these tools will be a huge help when exploring the Forest of the Underworld. Receiving fifty of them could be considered an unprecedented reward.
"Continuing, condition three. Don’t tell me you’re already tired of this?"
"I’m not. Even just the equipment isn’t cheap, but if it can prevent a major issue with the Holy City, your conditions are reasonable. I don’t expect any unreasonable demands."
"I’ve already made it clear we don’t intend to provoke the country. If you provoke us, that’s different, but for now, it’s not the case. We can cooperate based on your terms. Condition three involves land and a building. We plan to set up shop in Beltoria, so we need a suitable base of operations. Nothing shabby, mind you."
Initially, I intended to find a place on my own, but if they can provide it, it will save us both money and effort.
Conditions one and two are essential insurance and necessary expenses. From here on, we can consider this part of the reward.
"If you want an office, I can arrange a suitable location. Is that all?"
The Intelligence Department likely has many hidden bases, and they can requisition more as needed. However, Beltoria is the continent’s premier city. A suitable location there, complete with land and a building, would cost millions. The value system of the Intelligence Department’s high-ranking officials is worlds apart from the average person’s.
"That’s fine. There’s the matter of territory, so I’ll specify the location. Within that area, it’s up to you. Condition four. This is the main one."
"The main one? Go on."
"Give us a slice of two or three lucrative ventures."
With the Magic Doll Federation as a starting point, we’ve already established a profitable setup in Belriza involving the import and export of magic minerals. Adding multiple lucrative ventures would eliminate any financial instability as a rising power.
This also aims to forge deep ties with Belriza’s elite and wealthy, making it harder for us to be abandoned in a crisis. By sharing in the profits, we can expand our network. Gaining a foothold in even one venture makes it easier to expand from there.
Ideally, securing a port in Belriza would be beneficial. It would clear the way for easier trade with Rigaheim. While this might be a stretch, it’s worth asking.
"...Profit-sharing, huh. I can’t decide this alone, but if you’re involved, it could be advantageous for us. I can’t promise anything, but I’ll discuss it with the higher-ups."
"Make it happen. After all, we might be opposing the church and fighting legendary undead. This isn’t just a win for us; it’s a win for you, too. If possible, I’d like a share in a port’s profits."
I’ll sell my services at the highest possible price. To the public, the undead are mythical and exceptionally evil. Overplaying the risk is entirely justifiable. Personally, I’ve faced countless undead in the Forest of the Underworld, so they don’t scare me, but objectively, this is a massive undertaking.
"And, of course, a success fee upon completion. It’s only right to be ambitious."
"That depends on the situation and your performance."
I’ll take what I can get. No need to be modest.
Besides, a crisis is an opportunity. This is our chance to make the Kikyo Society’s name known in Belriza. While we can’t publicize the operation, a good reputation can be a double-edged sword for an organization like ours. Successfully completing a challenging task and maintaining secrecy will earn us respect among Belriza’s upper echelons, potentially leading to future opportunities and leniency in minor issues.
Normally, the Anastasia Union would handle such tasks, but they’re dealing with internal conflicts and can’t handle spontaneous crises. Thus, the Intelligence Department has come to us. This is a stroke of luck, as new arrivals rarely get such major assignments.
"Alright, I’ll wait for the information and equipment. I’ll need them as soon as possible, as I’d like to wrap things up quickly."
"We also want to resolve this quickly, but we need time to prepare the cover-up. The information and equipment will be delivered soon, but don’t take any unauthorized actions. We’ll set the date for the assault."
"I understand. We’ll fulfill our end of the deal. You, too, make sure our conditions are met. We’re trying to avoid unnecessary negotiations by setting reasonable terms from the outset."
"The higher-ups are prepared to discuss the reward. I’ll make a strong case. It shouldn’t be an issue."
I’ve set out various conditions, but I don’t think they’ll see it as excessive. For me, as long as the equipment is prepared, legendary undead are no big deal. This is a difference in perspective and experience.
Even if a dragon were to appear to make things more challenging, we have allies who have mastered Combat Body Transformation Magic and thoroughly prepared equipment, so we should be able to handle it.
"...Facing the undead, huh. With the grudge in my left eye, I’m ready for this."
"Not many would be excited about fighting the undead. We’re counting on you."
It’s a common job for bad guys to resolve troublesome issues for the rich and powerful.
Let’s work together and make the most of it, each getting what we need.
"Needless to say, everything you’ve seen here must remain confidential. You can tell your team only what’s necessary for the job, but nothing more."
"Of course. Any other business?"
"Yes, I’ll have you driven back to the Academy."
Outside the building, a different driver was waiting to take me back.
To avoid wasting time, I decided to catch some sleep in the car.
Two days later, in the dead of night, a large shipment arrived at the hotel where Gradena and the others were staying, near the base of the hill where the Academy is located.
I thought the shipment would go to the Academy, but it ended up at the hotel. Of course, this is a secret operation. The Anastasia Union checks all incoming and outgoing traffic at the Academy, so transporting a large number of weapons there would immediately raise suspicions.
I wondered if the hotel was a better spot, but the Count of Cleados has connections there. The count, whose hidden base was attacked by Badoo Lot’s associates, seems to be a trusted insider, possibly involved with the Intelligence Department from the start.
When Gradena called me to the hotel, I was directed to the count’s hidden base, which I had visited before.
"The count sent a letter with the shipment. Feel free to use this hideout."
A compromised hideout has no value, so the count has abandoned it and given it to us.
"We’ll be staying in this mansion?"
"It’s more spacious and comfortable than our current rooms. Plus, no rent means more money for food and drinks."
The fifty weapons, specially prepared by the Intelligence Department for fighting the undead, were being unloaded from a large truck by the hotel team.
Given their high value, each weapon is encased, taking up a lot of space. Fortunately, the mansion has a spacious weapon storage area, allowing us to unpack and store half of them.
"This could be a useful hideout. Let’s take a look at the weapons designed for the undead."
"Sure, but first, let’s look at this. The Intelligence Department sent some documents, but only Yukari can open them."
Gradena produced a briefcase-like box secured by a magic authentication system. It has likely been registered with my magic pattern at the closed city. While I was slightly annoyed by the unauthorized use of my pattern, it’s expected from a government agency, and complaining would be pointless.
"Fine, let’s open it."
I channeled my magic, and the seal released. I opened the box and began to read the documents, then handed them to Gradena.
"Seven days from now? They’re taking their time. I thought we’d act quickly since the weapons arrived sooner than expected."
"They seem to prioritize stealth. We’ll just have to wait."
"Bored, are we? Well, if we can practice with the new weapons, it’s not too bad."
By the time we finished talking, all the items had been unloaded. The team was excitedly examining the weapons for fighting the undead.
The document included an inventory: twenty swords, twenty spears, and ten other weapons.
"Are Yukari and Valeria the only ones with experience fighting the undead?"
From the group that ventured into the Forest of the Underworld, only the leaders of the Third, Sixth, Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Combat Units, along with a couple of younger members of the Combat Support Unit, remain in Belriza.
"That’s right. I’ll brief everyone on what to expect in an undead battle."
"I hope these weapons are effective. It’s scary if they aren’t."
True. Without a chance to test them, we can’t be certain. While it’s unlikely the Intelligence Department would provide fakes, weapons are crucial, and we shouldn’t rely on untested tools.
"We still have time. Let’s try to gather a few more items on our own. If these weapons aren’t enough, so be it."
"Alright, I’ll head to the Commerce Guild in the morning. They’ll introduce us to a good store if we ask nicely."
"I’ll take care of that. Now, let’s inspect the weaponry."
With fifty weapons to choose from, there should be something for everyone.
The hotel team will be the main force in the undead battle, so we can sort out the others later. Everyone eagerly began to evaluate the weapons.
As we went over the weapons, discussed the undead, and practiced, the night turned into morning.
By the time the sun rose, an early morning call came in on the tablet-like communication device.
Only Thompson or Moore would use this device to contact us. One of them was calling.
"What could it be at this hour?"
"It must be urgent. Probably not good news."
Just as I was about to relax and sleep, this happened.
"This is Evilbanshee."
"It’s Moore. Have you seen this morning’s newspaper?"
"What’s the point of asking? I haven’t seen it."
The casual tone felt out of place, and I felt a sense of tension.
"A major announcement was made via the Newspaper Guild from the Holy City."
Oh, from the headquarters of the church.
"What’s the news?"
"Brace yourself... The undead have returned. The Holy City has officially declared the return of the undead and the start of a holy war."
I was speechless. A holy war against the undead?
Given what I know about experimenting with undead through magic potions, I can’t take this at face value. It feels more like a ploy.
"...Return, huh? Are they trying to claim their secret experiments are a return?"
It feels like they’re staging a comeback to reclaim their former glory.
"It’s not on that scale. According to the Holy City, thousands or tens of thousands of undead have appeared across the continent. Whether it’s true or not, it seems reliable. Our country has also reported undead sightings, and we are urgently investigating. The matter with the job is temporarily on hold. Do not act on your own."
The line went dead after his one-sided announcement.
What’s going on? Did the church create artificial undead as a response to signs of a resurgence?
According to legend, the church eradicated the undead long ago. So what does this "return" mean?
While it’s true that undead have existed in places like the Forest of the Underworld, this could be the moment they come to light.
If true, this sudden appearance of numerous undead across the continent could be a monumental event.
Surely, things will only get more chaotic from here. Well, it’s bound to be interesting, isn’t it?