An active hunter from Hokkaido was thrown into another world

Volume 3 Modern knowledge that is not very useful

Chapter 49 The world should change slowly

“There’s something interesting here. Take a look.”

Guided by Bal-san, we arrived at the workshop district.

“Take a look at this report you wrote; the lord seems quite interested in it. We’re now working on something like this.”

Wow, it’s huge!

This is… a large crossbow, right? It’s about the size of a sedan. So, they do have these kinds of things in this world too!

“In ancient times, they used this during wars between nations. It was used to destroy castles and fortifications. It’s called a ballista. We may not need it in times of peace, but getting complacent in times of peace is not wise. It’s good to be prepared. After all, there might be another incident like the Lyle Slime incident the other day.”

(It looks just like what Shin was making, but bigger). Saran whispers softly.

Thinking about it, things are similar no matter which world you’re in.

“Speaking of archery experts, they have to be Elves, right? I’d love to hear their opinions on various matters.”

“How do you attach the string to this bow?”

“Currently, we have about five people pulling it together.”

“I think it would be better to use a winding mechanism.”

“What do you have in mind?”

“We turn a handle attached to a reel to wind and draw the string. By securing it with gears, it becomes safer.”

“Ah, that sounds good. Alright, let’s adopt that!”

“The moment when the arrow is released is when the string is most prone to breaking. It would be great to have something that slightly slackens the string, and in return, the bow should be bent with something in advance to hold it or absorb the shock. It’s also good to make the bow and string the same length. Although it requires more effort to pull, it’s worth adopting.”

“Okay, that’s also a good idea!”

“Aiming with this seems challenging. We’ll need some kind of sighting device.”

“I’m thinking of using a tube for that.”

“Using a tube might narrow the field of view. Irregularities are fine. Arrows travel in a parabolic arc. If we understand the trajectory, we can know in advance how much the arrow will drop at a certain distance. So, let’s design a sighting device that allows us to adjust the angle and can be changed based on the distance.”

“Projectiles, like bullets, follow a precise parabolic path when fired, although they experience some air resistance. However, arrows are more complex in shape and won’t fly as predictably. We’ll have to fine-tune them through actual shooting.”

“You’re amazing! That’s a great idea too! But how do we measure the distance to the enemy?”

“It would be ideal to have a rangefinder. We can set it up to determine the angles from two distant points, and by marking where they intersect on a finely calibrated scale, we can estimate the distance. We’ll also keep a record of test shots to note the distance and angle.”

“Do you have paper and a pen?”

“I’ll get them!”

… After Bal-san ran off, I reconsidered for a moment.

Showing off knowledge like this and needlessly advancing weapons development feels somewhat dangerous. Perhaps it’s better to let them think for themselves. Should I stop meddling in various weapons?

With that in mind, I sketched only the winding mechanism, sighting device, and rangefinder that I had blurted out.

“I think that’s all I can come up with,” I said, trying to hide my true intentions.

But if these designs can help protect the city, then it’s fine.

Even if I don’t say it out loud, this world will continue to progress on its own.

If there are ballistas, there must have been crossbows in the past, no doubt about it.

However, that doesn’t mean I should actively lend a hand to accelerate this development. It’s better not to meddle in such matters.

“Hey there!”

As I walked through the city, a merchant called out to me.

“You’re the raccoon-head, right?”

“Yes.”

Once in a while, you see people wearing hats made of raccoon or fox fur in the city!

They seem to be popular! It makes me happy!

But it’s surprising that they recognized us.

“Oh, I thought of the Tanuki-head duo with the tall woman and the young boy, and that’s you guys.”

… They still see me as a boy. I’m already twenty-two years old, you know.

“You guys wanted to meet Muraku-san, right?”

“Oh, yes! Is he here now?”

Saran knows him too, he’s a merchant who frequently visits the Elf village.

He travels around a lot, so it’s fortunate to meet him here!

“Try going to the Merchant’s Guild. He should be there.”

“Yes, thank you very much!”

When we went there, we found a bearded man with a bandana wrapped around his head.

“Muraku-san!”

“Oh… wha-what?! Saran-chan? Why are you here?”

Muraku-san is surprised.

“Muraku-san, look, this is my husband!”

“Your husband… Saran-chan, you got married?!”

“Nice to meet you, I’m Shin.”

“Eh… You’re… still so young… He doesn’t look like an Elf.”

It’s none of their business to comment on that.

“Shin is a human.”

Saran lifts my hat, revealing my ears.

“Surprising, isn’t it?”

Afterward, Saran and I helped Muraku-san with his cargo, finishing quickly and deciding to have a meal together at a restaurant.

“I see…,” I honestly shared that I had stayed in the Elf village, occasionally came to the city by canoe, earned some money through seasonal work, and occasionally sold fur. However, I kept quiet about anything related to firearms.

“So, Shin-kun, does that make you my rival?” he said, laughing.

“Oh, no, not at all. The amount I can transport with the canoe is quite limited. I can’t compete with specialized merchants in the trading business.”

My magic bag does a pretty good job, but of course, that’s a secret.

“Well, Saran-chan has fallen for you. I know you’re not the kind of guy who resorts to shady tactics. If you two have a cash income, I can sell you goods in gold coins. Having a bit more variety in trade than the usual bartering would be beneficial. If the Elf village can produce special products and lead a more prosperous life with some surplus, it won’t be a loss for me either.”

“Thank you very much.”

It’s good to talk with someone who understands the situation. There was a possibility of being viewed as a rival or an enemy due to the competitive nature of business. While I do pride myself on being clever when needed, I’ll keep that to myself.

“Um, I have a favor to ask.”

“What is it?”

“I’d like you to transport two paired lambs to Kopori village.”

“Lambs, huh…”

Muraku-san ponders.

“Yes, currently, making futons with wool is becoming popular in the village. I thought it would be nice if we could raise the sheep in the village itself, and use their wool to make clothes and other things.”

“Making it a specialty of the new village? I don’t think you can set up a large ranch in Kopori village, though.”

“I haven’t thought that far ahead. Just enough to be self-sufficient within the village. Having a dozen or so would be enough, so let’s start with a pair for now.”

“Hmm, that’s interesting. It might be a good opportunity for the village to start a new business. I’ll arrange for it when I visit next.”

“Thank you. I’ve already talked to Natral from Shiratser’s ranch, and it’s been decided that we’ll get the lambs from there.”

“Oh, I know them. They are a customer of those dealing with wool. I’ll talk to them.”

“Muraku-san, when will you come to the village next?”

“Hmm, how about in about a month? Is that alright, Saran-chan?”

“Yes.”

“If you need anything, just let me know. Well, I guess you can already afford to buy things on your own, coming this far.”

“I’m sorry about that.”

“No, no. Saran-chan, you’ve got yourself a great husband. Just from our brief conversation, he seems intelligent. I’m sure he’ll do wonders for the village. I wish you all the best.”

“Thank you, Muraku-san.”

“Thank you for everything.”

“I’ve stayed at the village chief’s house before, and that bed was really uncomfortable. I’m looking forward to the woolen futons,” I said, and Muraku-san burst into laughter.

He’s someone I want to cherish as a trading partner in the future.

“If you’re going to shear wool, I have clippers. I’ll bring them along.”

… As expected, Muraku-san is always on top of things.

He’s one step ahead.

Since I’m already at the Merchant’s Guild, I’ll take a look at today’s list of items for trade.

Unfortunately, there were no rubber for pachinko or vital fish cartilage. Too bad. Rubber comes from rubber trees, right?

Such tropical goods probably don’t circulate here.

I guess I’ll give up on pachinko for now…

We headed to the weapon shop that Bal-san had recommended in advance. It was the first time for Saran to visit a weapons store, and she was full of curiosity.

As for the bows… Saran’s own bow is much better.

The selection of swords varied widely, from ornate ones to rapier-like fencing swords and sabers. There were even sturdy combat swords worn by the local soldiers.

“I don’t care about appearances; just give me a durable sword that won’t break,” I said, and they brought one out. Wow, it’s impressive. It’s thick and… not sharpened.

“It’s a practice sword. It’s slightly heavier than a real one and designed for training, so it doesn’t have a sharp edge and is harder to break. It’s sturdier than a real sword. This one is also used in martial arts competitions. It’s not too expensive, and if you want a sword that won’t break, this is the most resilient option in our store. Is this one alright for you?”

“Yes, this is perfect. As long as it’s durable and won’t break, I’m happy with anything.”

So, I bought it for three gold coins.

After finishing most of our shopping list, we decided to head back to the village.

“Before we go back, can you do this job for me?” Bal insisted.

“No, thank you.”

“It’s a request from the lord.”

“I absolutely refuse.”

Bal-san can be so persistent.

What is this ‘hunting decoy’ thing…? It’s not like we’re the only ones who can do it…

“Well, you see, if the lord goes hunting and returns with no prey, it’s not a good look. That’s why skillful hunters secretly accompany him.”

“That’s exactly why I refuse. If they see the firearms, it’ll just cause trouble.”

“…You have a point. I understand. Come back again, then.”

“Of course.”

“You two can be quite a handful. You’re skilled but unable to be used.”

“We apologize for the inconvenience.”

Ahahaha.

“Well, whatever. Just make sure to come once a month. That alone would be a huge help.”

“Once every two months…”

“That’s fine too. I’m begging you.”

“Alright, alright.”

Such peaceful and ordinary days, I cherish them dearly.

“Okay, let’s go!”

“Yay!”

The river dolphin smoothly pulls the canoe into the water.

This time, nothing eventful happened.

Thank goodness.

“Shin! Shin! Look, look!”

“What is it?”

I’m startled by Saran’s sudden voice.

“Vital fish!!”

Oh no, oh no, oh no!

Bang! Reflexively, I moved the forend of my M870 back and forth.

“Where are they?”

“Over there, over there!!” Saran points.

“Turn to the side!”

Already on it, Saran.

I maneuver the reins of the river dolphin, taking sharp turns to the right.

Boom! Jabaaaam!

A triple backshot into something squirming underwater!

“Ahh! Stop it, stop it!”

Saran covers her ears and yells.

Squeak, squeak, squeak!!!

The river dolphin also pops its head out of the water, expressing its strong disapproval.

… I’m sorry.

A triple shot at point-blank range without ear protection can be tough, huh.

When firing bullets into the water, they veer off in unexpected directions and lose their power within a few meters. If the angle is shallow, they might even skip like skipping stones on the surface. Underwater, the range is even shorter. (※1)

Swaying, swaying, swaying…

Something sinks into the water!

I wedged my M870 into the canoe’s seat and jumped into the water.

I won’t let you escape!

Grip.

I caught it!

Slippery… Ugh!

It’s so gross!

I lift it up and flap my legs to the water’s surface!

“I caught it!”

I toss it into the canoe!

“Ugh…”

Saran looks taken aback.

The Vital fish near my head covered in blood, motionless.

It’s long, somewhat resembling a deep-sea fish, like a Gulper eel.

“Is this tasty?”

“It’s watery and unpleasant.”

I’m Disappointed.

――――Author’s Note――――

※1. Most firearms can be fired underwater. Although the muzzle of the gun is blocked by water, the water pressure only amounts to one atmosphere even at a depth of 10 meters. The chamber and barrel of the firearm, which can withstand pressures of over 1000 atmospheres during firing, are unlikely to be affected by the water pressure.

The bullet only needs to travel about 2 to 3 meters. In other words, the “sniper shot from underwater” often depicted in movies and manga is a myth. On the other hand, scenes of diving underwater to escape enemy bullets can actually be effective even at a depth of a few meters.

One might think that firing a gun underwater would create a shockwave that could incapacitate a person, similar to using dynamite to catch fish. However, firearms use only a spoonful of gunpowder compared to the amount used in dynamite, so firing a gun underwater, even if someone is shot, does not produce enough impact to cause them to lose consciousness. In overseas videos demonstrating underwater gun firing experiments, there have been no instances of people being propelled upwards after firing.