In the history of Earth, the development of ships capable of long-distance sea voyages led to what is known as the Age of Exploration, which drastically changed the world. Yet, this has not occurred in this world. The reason is simple: large magical beasts make it difficult to deal with such voyages on the sea.
Amidst this, the Kingdom of Fiesta has made a technological breakthrough and gained the means for long-distance sea voyages. In fact, it is probably a technology that only the Kingdom of Fiesta possesses exclusively at the moment. This means that the colonial dominance once held by various nations in the Age of Exploration is now only possible for the Kingdom of Fiesta. While the Kingdom is still in the process of investigating what lies beyond the seas, they will eventually realize the usefulness of their nation's shipbuilding technology. Once they do, if nothing is done, there's no doubt that the Kingdom of Fiesta will dominate.
In contrast, even the map of the adjacent continent is perhaps not even fully complete. Information about neighboring continents is only available through the Commercial Guild, with no other means of acquiring it. This means that the Kingdom of Fiesta is highly likely to seize control of global affairs, as it holds the advantage in both access to information and technological advancement.
Considering these factors, I try to form my answer.
"First, the Kingdom of Fiesta's superiority lies in their exclusive long-distance sea voyage technology. With this, the Kingdom of Fiesta can send large numbers of people and supplies farther and faster than any other nation, as long as they are near the sea. Additionally, they can raid and plunder coastal towns and villages with weak defenses. Since it is impossible to protect all coastlines, large armies can escape while the enemy moves, and they can do as they please."
"Guh... I thought the same when I saw that ship, but this is a terrifying prospect."
Nodding in agreement with His Majesty's thoughts, I moved on to discuss the next topic.
"Considering the current situation, it is essential for us to form an alliance with the Kingdom of Fiesta. Moreover, we must urgently solve the mystery of the silver armor needed for long-distance voyages. What we need here is to first determine the material for the silver armor with the help of a top-tier blacksmith. Then, we need to investigate how the silver armor performs underwater—whether it shows any unusual behavior. Such aspects should be researched from underwater. To do this, I should accompany them on a long-distance voyage..."
As I spoke, twisting my fork into the pasta that Till had served me, I suddenly felt a shift in the atmosphere, so I raised my gaze.
Looking around, I could sense the intense stares of everyone around me.
"...As expected, Van, the Viscount, will be needed for the ship research."
His Majesty muttered seriously, and both Panamera and Apelta nodded firmly.
"It seems so."
When Apelta spoke, Panamera shook her head sympathetically.
"...Boy, I cannot protect you this time."
Panamera said something baffling. What on earth is she talking about?
"Wait a minute. Since it’s ship research, I don't think it has to be me. Rather, it would be better if the kingdom's best researchers, shipbuilders, blacksmiths, and court mages join the long-distance voyage..."
I hastily tried to argue, but His Majesty quietly shook his head.
"...In your territory, there is a skilled dwarf blacksmith, isn't there? And, if we are to investigate how the armor behaves underwater, you also have the Apkallu, a supposedly mythical race, among your subjects."
"Ah..."
At His Majesty's words, I couldn't help but nod in understanding. Indeed, there probably isn't another dwarf blacksmith like that anywhere else, and seeing an Apkallu is likely an impossibility. There is no doubt that only the compassionate, genius young Lord Van would have such exceptional candidates within his realm."
However, I must refuse.
I must negotiate so I don't end up going on this long-distance voyage.
"...Well, I can't leave my territory unattended, so going far by ship is... a bit much..."
I tried to offer an excuse, a self-aware wry smile on my face, and Apelta gave me a kind smile and nodded.
"I see. Then, how about staying in the territory of Marquis Rosso and spending two or three days aboard a ship? I think we could wrap things up in about a month."
"A month..."
At Apelta’s suggestion, I involuntarily looked to the sky.
To be honest, I just want to go home and relax. Building ships is fun, but solving the mystery of that silver armor won't be easy. And when it’s not easy, it’s not fun. I’m not really a researcher at heart; I just enjoy tinkering. Long live DIY!
"...Alright. If I’m only responsible for the necessary research, then I’ll handle that part. After that, I’ll leave the further research to the experts..."
If I don't participate in the research, I can return quickly. That's what I was thinking when I said that, and His Majesty happily nodded and spoke.
"Ah, that helps us immensely!"
"If Viscount Van cooperates, there's no doubt about it."
His Majesty and Apelta already seemed to be celebrating as if the ship was already completed.
"No, no, it's just research! Only research, okay?"
I tried to make them aware, but it seemed like they didn’t hear me at all, laughing together, and even clinking their glasses in a toast. These crafty old men. They’re doing this on purpose.
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