Published: January 13, 2026
There’s no point in whining about it. I switched my mindset and placed orders with the Bell Rango Trading Company and the commerce guild.
The supplies included durable portable food, seasonings, clothing, armor and weapons, and medical supplies. As for bows, arrows, and magical tools, I figured each knight order would have enough prepared, so there was no need to arrange additional stock.
Next, I needed to consult with Espada and Dee to decide on the lodging facilities and the medical station for the soldiers.
With that in mind, I called them both over. After hearing the situation, they each showed their reactions. Espada silently lifted the corner of his mouth, while Dee patted his chest and spoke up.
“That sounds excellent! Let’s show everyone just how much Lord Van has developed the territory!”
“Don’t say things like that, Dee... If we completely turn the marquis family against us, that would be nothing but a huge nuisance, right?”
I warned him, and Espada raised an eyebrow, looking a bit surprised.
“...From how Lord Van puts it, it seems less like you fear conflict with the head of the family and more like you find it bothersome.”
“Hm? Well, that’s true. Honestly, I’m confident I can win even if we become enemies. I saw magic being used last time we fought, so I’ve already thought of countermeasures. Probably, as long as they come head-on, we won’t lose.”
When I answered Espada’s question honestly, both he and Dee looked momentarily stunned before bursting into laughter.
Even Espada actually laughed out loud—quite rare.
“What’s so funny?” I asked.
Dee shrugged and shook his head.
“Apologies. Both Espada and I have always felt that Lord Van lacked confidence. Not that you said it outright, but it seemed like you felt somewhat inferior to your father and brothers, that kind of impression.”
At that, Espada lightly pulled his chin.
“Lord Van is the one we’ve accepted as our new master. We’ve wanted you to have the confidence that you’re not inferior even to your father. Hearing your spirit now makes us very happy.”
For once, Espada spoke cheerfully about his feelings. Apparently, he hoped I’d become a confident leader who could say, “Follow me with full confidence.”
Well, leave it to me. Personally aside, this Seato village is the strongest.
Thinking this to myself, I shrugged and got down to business.
“For now, I’m thinking of building lodging facilities along the highway a little away from the adventurers’ town. If it’s for knights with rank or higher, I think it should accommodate around 300 people. What do you think?”
Dee nodded in agreement.
“If limited to generals and above, 100 to 200 would suffice.”
After Dee’s comment, Espada stroked his chin thoughtfully.
“No matter which town is chosen as a base, inns usually accommodate between 100 and 300 guests. The rest can camp. However, about twenty rooms should be a bit more luxurious than the others.”
“For high-ranking nobility, then. Alright, I’ll prepare for around 200. Next is the medical station. It should accommodate at least 100 people, right?”
Dee responded.
“This could even handle a thousand, but in harsh battlefields, having just a roof over your head is often considered good enough. A simple warehouse-type building will do. However...”
As he spoke, Dee showed a thoughtful expression.
“If we’re going to do this, let’s make sure your father sees what you’re capable of.”
When Dee said that, Espada nodded.
“Indeed. Lord Van’s strength is probably already known among the other nobles. So it would be wise to create something a bit elaborate to show that opposing you is not a good idea.”
“Eh? But we only have a week! We were just building a furnace yesterday; I wanted to take it easy for a bit.”
I pouted, and Dee crossed his arms, frowning.
“Hmm, but still...”
While Dee looked troubled, Espada let out a short sigh.
“If you don’t mind, we can add a public bathhouse. Making that the main feature with a resting area would be sufficient.”