Following the analysis on Hourai Island, the general nature of the bomb became clear.
"Hmm. Causing an actual 'explosion' is an impressive piece of technology, honestly."
Jin gave them credit for that much at least.
An explosion is a phenomenon in which positive pressure generated by rapid combustion or similar causes propagates at supersonic speed, producing physical shock alongside heat, light, and sound.
Pumping continuous air into a balloon until it finally cannot hold out any longer is a 'rupture,' not an 'explosion.'
Leaked gas catching fire from a spark—that is an explosion.
When air expands rapidly due to an extreme rise in temperature, if that expansion exceeds the speed of sound, it can rightly be termed an 'explosion.'
"There weren't any spells designed specifically to trigger an explosion, were there?"
'Mana Explosion' was excluded from consideration, being a legendary-tier spell.
"Indeed, My Lord. Spells like Flame Buster or Thunder Javelin can result in an explosion, but that is merely an aftermath, not the intended purpose of the spell itself."
"True enough."
Laojun then proceeded to explain the analysis findings.
"As for the details, this explosive section contained water sealed within an airtight vessel, designed to induce a steam explosion through flash-heating via fire-attribute magic."
"Must make a hell of a racket."
"Yes, precisely."
Jin gathered that, compared to the sheer noise, its actual destructive force on the surroundings was likely minimal.
"...And what about the substance meant to produce smoke?"
"Yes, My Lord. It merely scatters powdered graphite."
"Hmm..."
"Given that charcoal dust was mixed into it as well, there remains the risk of a secondary dust explosion."
"Makes sense."
"Lastly, regarding the specific mana required to trigger it—that mana most likely originates from the bloodline of the Duke of Jagus."
"Which makes it plain as day that the Jagus Principality planted it."
Even so, it was not decisive evidence.
If they pushed back and claimed someone had framed the Jagus Principality, there would be no way to disprove it.
"Either way, an ordinary craftsman wouldn't be capable of this..."
Which meant the ones behind its development were almost certainly the Progressers, Jin deduced.
"Yes. That is highly probable."
Viewed from this angle, the Progressers were clearly making substantial contributions to the Jagus Principality's military technology.
"In that case, dealing with the Progressers might have to be on the table."
"Indeed. However, My Lord... would you truly be able to bring yourself to do so?"
"Urgh..."
Aware that there was some trace of blood kinship involved, Laojun was asking whether Jin could bear to harm them.
"I wonder... It might be tough..."
"If that is the case, I recommend delegating the matter to the World Security Guard."
To Laojun, Jin's peace of mind took precedence above all else.
"I'll think it over."
For the moment, that was the only answer Jin could give.
Meanwhile, in Avalon, preparations were underway for the Nameless Peak Investigation Operation.
"In addition to the Universal Golems, we should bring combat golems along for security."
Tomax Bartman coordinated the preparations in consultation with his adjutant, Illumina Ratkin.
"As for the technician to accompany the team..."
"Regarding that..."
"Hmm? Do you have someone suitable in mind?"
"Yes. Groma Tray, originally from the Melkana Autonomous Region."
"Ah, I see."
Groma Tray had previously conducted golem research in the Melkana Autonomous Region.
During that period, he had once been dispatched to the Jagus Principality, only to be sent back after being deemed an ill fit.
"He ought to be reasonably familiar with local affairs, and he is a skilled technician."
Tomax Bartman nodded in agreement with Illumina Ratkin's reasoning.
"Very well. He will do for one of them. And the other... will be you?"
Illumina Ratkin was Marikka's disciple, an exceptional talent who had mastered magi-craft. Having trained in martial arts as well, she was more than capable of self-defense.
Tomax Bartman had recommended her to take command of the Avalon contingent.
"Wouldn't Revelard Dartes, captain of the land combat unit, be suitable for the final spot?"
"Yes, let us proceed with that."
With that, the personnel for Avalon were settled.
Captain: Illumina Ratkin.
Vice-Captain: Revelard Dartes.
Technician: Groma Tray.
Additionally, three Universal Golems were assigned to serve as personal guards and assistants to each member, with one combat golem providing overall escort duties.
Among the three principalities, the town closest to Nameless Peak was Tsutatare in the Mimaka Principality.
The established plan was to travel from Avalon to Rekode in the Mimaka Principality via a magic circle, then transfer to a local airship to reach Tsutatare.
The time difference was just under eight hours. To prevent jet lag, the team departed for Rekode at 8:00 PM on July 19th, the very evening the decision was finalized.
In Rekode, it was roughly noon.
The party intended to spend the 19th at the local base before departing for Tsutatare on the 20th.
"You've made good time."
When the Avalon contingent arrived at the World Security Guard base in Rekode, Deus Ex Machina was there to receive them.
"Aren't you the one who arrived even earlier, Maquina-dono?" Revelard Dartes remarked.
"Haha, fair point."
The Avalon group accompanied Deus Ex Machina aboard the Aristotle.
The purpose was to hold a brief strategy session.
Given the Jagus Principality's penchant for underhanded tactics, they had determined that even the base in Rekode could not be considered entirely secure.
Deus Ex Machina briefed the group on the diversionary noise bombs that Jin D had uncovered in Norha Principality.
"What did you say? Has the Jagus Principality truly infiltrated that deeply...?" Illumina Ratkin gasped in astonishment.
"They have. That is why we must proceed with absolute vigilance during this operation."
"Hmm..." Revelard Dartes fell deep into thought at Deus Ex Machina's warning.
"Then, Maquina-dono, do you expect interference from the Jagus Principality during our mission?"
To Groma Tray's question, Deus Ex Machina replied, "It is far better to proceed under the assumption that they will interfere. If nothing happens, so much the better."
He then added that once trouble started, it would already be too late.
"..."
Seeing Groma Tray's uneasy expression, Deus Ex Machina offered further reassurance.
"My Squire Rei and the Space units assigned to escort us will neutralize any such threats, so there is no need to worry overly much."
"Yes... Hearing you say that puts my mind at ease."
Groma Tray managed a smile.
And so, amidst these final briefings, the day drew to a close.