Normally, when traveling from the Scuderia Kingdom to the Yellenetta Kingdom, one must always pass through Tribute. Apparently, this is a common route among merchants.
Well, it’s certainly true that the influence of the Wolfsburg Mountains is significant, but one reason is also that every accessible mountain pass has important strongholds for both countries. Now that all these important strongholds are under the control of the Scuderia Kingdom, many traveling merchants will likely pass through this route in the future.
In other words, not only Ceat Village but also the fortress cities of Murcia and Cayyenne will become incredibly busy. They will flourish not just as defense posts but also as crucial trading cities between the two great nations.
On the other hand, it’s possible that several towns along the coastline will gradually decline. The main trade route has changed, so it can’t be helped, but for the lords who govern those lands, it’s not something they can easily accept. It would be ideal if the industries were well-developed, but if they were relying on trade from travelers, economic hardship was an obvious outcome. If things go wrong, bankruptcy might follow.
Espada was also concerned about this.
“I hope it’s just an unfounded worry…”
He started, speaking about the lord in question.
“The Marquess of Porto Vin Rosso governs the coastline, including Tribute. Among the central nobles who hold land around the royal capital, Marquess Rosso is known as a great lord or a border lord, and he has built an absolute defense line against the Yellenetta Kingdom. He’s been entrusted with his land for nearly two hundred years, and his defenses have never been breached.”
As if to continue Espada’s words, Panamera shrugged and smiled sarcastically.
“Well, to put it bluntly, the reason Yellenetta Kingdom chose to attack Scudetto in this battle, apart from the surprise attack aspect, is because they wanted to avoid Marquess Rosso’s land. Unlike Marquess Fertio, who has just been elevated, Rosso is a true upper noble. He is among the highest-ranking nobles, excluding the royal family and dukes.”
Panamera lightly explained about the historically significant noble, and upon hearing that, Espada nodded deeply and continued.
“That’s right. We mustn’t anger such a noble. If possible, we should try to establish a cooperative relationship.”
He shared his thoughts.
“Ugh, this is such a hassle.”
After hearing their explanation, those words slipped out of my mouth without thinking.
“This isn’t even something His Majesty ordered, you know… It’s inevitable that we must go for a greeting, but thinking about the economic situation of other nobles’ lands, I can’t consider that much.”
I muttered that and suddenly had a thought.
“Oh, how about offering ballistae or something?”
“Hmm.”
Since it was a defense post, providing the latest weapons would likely be appreciated. I spoke with that in mind, but Panamera gave a vague smile.
“…Well, I wonder about that.”
Panamera’s response was unusually uncertain. Just as I was about to ask again, Dee’s voice came from outside the carriage.
“Van-sama! We have arrived at the castle!”
“Oh, okay!”
I replied, and the conversation with Espada and Panamera was interrupted. I realized I had missed some things, but I focused on preparing for the meeting with Marquess Rosso.
“Van-sama, let’s explore the town later!”
“I’d like to try going into the sea.”
“Ah, yes! Me too!”
Till, Kamshin, and Arte were chatting happily. As I envied their conversation, Panamera and I stepped down from the carriage.
I looked up at the towering stone castle in front of me and sighed. Normally, I’d want to explore such a grand historical castle, but I didn’t feel like it. Espada had already gotten out and was speaking with the gatekeeper.
“Van-sama, Marquess Rosso has agreed to meet with you.”
“Eh, already?”
I wondered how the meeting was already arranged just from talking to the gatekeeper. Is this Espada’s magic?
As I was surprised by this, Panamera let out a small chuckle.
“Espada-dono sent a messenger the day before. It’s likely that the arrangements were made this morning.”
“Oh, as expected of Espada. Thank you.”
I thanked Espada after hearing Panamera’s words. Espada silently bowed in response. Nice middle-aged man. I’ll have to learn from him.
“...Espada-dono is indeed excellent, but boy, you should learn these things too. Smart men are popular, you know.”
Panamera said, tilting her head.
“Huh? But, I might marry Arte…”
I reflexively answered, and Panamera’s face immediately lit up with a very pleased expression.
“Oh? So, you really like Lady Arte that much? No, no, it’s clear that you two are in mutual love. This is interesting… no, it’s a wonderful thing!”
Panamera teased me with a grin, and when I turned around, I saw Arte blushing and looking down shyly.
“Well, well. Since Marquess Rosso is meeting us, let’s go now!”
Before the situation worsened, I chose to retreat from the battlefield.
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