NABC Chapter Vol. 1 Ch. 37
Chapter Vol. 1 Ch. 37
Chapter 37: Gradual Invasion Plan
"Having the equipment over there... it really makes me want to build something even bigger," the Commander mused.
"Yes, ma'am, Commander. However, considering the risks of looting and destruction, it's still too difficult to push any further right now," Ringo replied.
It had been about three months since the defense of Telek Harbor began. The initial wariness was gradually giving way to a more welcoming atmosphere. Confirming this shift, Ringo negotiated with the head of the merchant guild and secured a leased area—a modest plot of land the size of a single warehouse. This provided a relatively safe location for setting up equipment, significantly increasing operational flexibility.
Using imported materials, it took about a week to construct a three-story building. The first and third floors were packed with defensive equipment, while the second floor housed a general-purpose manufacturing machine printer, an atomic disassembler recycler, and a material replenisher. With these in place, a basic level of production was established. Although production speed was slow, it now became possible to replenish ammunition locally. Fortunately, raw materials could be extracted from nearby soil and rocks, ensuring a stable supply for the time being. Once a stockpile was secured, they planned to prototype several automated combat machines. Mass production would be ideal, but rare metals were hard to come by in Telek Harbor, leaving them short on materials.
However, power supply remained a challenge. For now, diesel generators powered the equipment, but the need for fuel resupply necessitated alternative solutions. Solar panels and vertical Magnus wind turbines were installed on the roof, but they fell far short of the required output. Securing additional leased land for an energy plant—or, in the worst-case scenario, connecting to Paraiso’s fleet—was under consideration.
"Fortunately, we’ve established a pathway to acquire some iron..."
"Yes, ma’am, Commander. Transportation is still a bottleneck, limiting the volume we can obtain. However, with the recent transfer of axle and wheel technology, we expect gradual improvement," Ringo assured.
As part of Paraiso's involvement in the defense and administration of Telek Harbor, several technical advancements were introduced to improve transportation efficiency. Among these were methods for reinforcing wooden axles and wheels with metal, as well as the principles of bearings, dampers, and suspension. Structural materials capable of supporting heavy loads were also explained.
Additionally, road maintenance was emphasized. The importance of crushed stone paving and the preparation of passing zones along roads was promoted. While laying down railways would significantly boost transport capacity, Ringo deemed it currently unfeasible. If a new mineral vein were discovered, such plans might be reconsidered.
"Wouldn’t it be faster if we provided the bearings ourselves?"
"Yes, ma’am, Commander. Given the unstable situation, we must secure iron ore as quickly as possible. Let’s include axles and bearings in the next shipment. Supplying components for about 100 carts should significantly improve transportation," Ringo suggested.@@@@
The iron ore had an estimated iron content of about 50%. Considering this, transporting raw ore was only half as efficient as moving processed ingots, making local smelting preferable.
"Hmm... Should we set up an atomic disassembler recycler specialized for smelting? Ideally, we’d place it at the mine, but that makes defending it difficult..."
"Oh? That’s exciting, Olive," the Commander said with a smile.
"Commander Sister, I’ve planned the placements," Ichigo added.
"My, how wonderful! A joint effort between the two of you," the Commander praised, patting the heads of the humanoid androids, Ichigo and Olive. The two wagged their tails happily, clearly delighted.
The other three sisters were assigned separate tasks. Eldest sister Akane researched ways to utilize slag extracted from iron ore. Third sister Utsugi and fourth sister Erika worked together on expanding the atomic disassembler recycler. These assignments aimed to enhance their independence and strengthen their connection to The Tree’s network. Eventually, the goal was for them to take command at bases like Telek Harbor, though that would take years to achieve.
For now, the sisters were tasked with various internal operations within The Tree.
"Everything’s going smoothly. It’s good that Telek Harbor is geographically isolated. Its internal situation deteriorated to the point that trade with the central region was cut off, right?"
"Yes, ma’am, Commander. Aerial reconnaissance shows no groups heading toward Telek Harbor. Significant conflicts in nearby territories likely leave them unable to spare attention," Ringo explained.
Telek Harbor primarily dealt in luxury and specialty goods, catering to the upper class. When war broke out, it initially became a target for looting but was soon abandoned. Without food or weapons, it wasn’t worth the trouble, and its defenses were respectable enough to dissuade most. This was likely due to the skillful leadership of Kulavia Telek.
"For now, it’s a domestic affairs phase. The nearby situation is stable—well, ‘stable’ enough for now. Let’s push forward!"
"Yes, ma’am, Commander. Airship development is also progressing. This could be an excellent opportunity to expand our influence," Ringo suggested.
"Ichigo, Olive, once your turret installations are complete, we’ll set up an energy plant in Telek Harbor. I’m counting on you!"
"Yes, ma’am!"
"Leave it to me, Sis!"
To any observer, it looked like four young girls were playing around together, given their identical appearances. It was a remarkably peaceful scene.
Soon, the transport ship carrying iron ore arrived at The Tree. With 1,000 tons of ore—equivalent to 500 tons of refined iron—the Commander’s ambitions were bolstered. Her triumphant laughter was unstoppable.