Published: January 13, 2026
"And what about those Wyverns and Dragons?"
"They're puppet magicians, right? Then, we should target the magicians..."
"As has been mentioned before, the compatibility with the controlled target and mana power are factors, so we probably can't prepare too many of them. Therefore, their numbers are limited."
Before I knew it, the discussion had moved on to the next topic. While everyone understood the threat of the Black Orbs, there was no talk about trying to obtain them. Perhaps their usefulness was still not fully understood.
With gunpowder, not only guns and bombs become possible, but also blasting for mining. Modern traps could be created, and depending on how you think about it, there are various ways to utilize it.
As I listened to the meeting with these thoughts in mind, His Majesty glanced at me briefly.
"...That is how the march route stands. Baron Van, what do you think?"
Saying this, His Majesty looked to me for my opinion. I realized the topic had shifted from the enemy’s forces to the march itself. I cleared my throat and began to speak.
"This battle is essentially a surprise attack. First, as initially planned, we must send the knight order through the mountain road into Yelinetta territory. However, since the mountain path is narrow and long, if the number of troops is large, there is a high risk of being attacked by demonic beasts during the march. Therefore, it is important to set up safe bases halfway along the mountain path. To move quickly and safely, I recommend the armored carriages (War Wagons) sold by the Bell Rango Trading Company. Right now, they are lending out ballistas for free, so we can directly engage in battle with Yelinetta."
I looked around at everyone’s faces after speaking. Then, both His Majesty and Panamera burst out laughing.
"Ha, ha, ha! And to think you turn it into a business too!"
"The boy might succeed even as a merchant."
They laughed, but Daddy—that is, Jarpa—puffed out his cheeks and exhaled. Just as the conversation paused, Venturi spoke up for confirmation.
"There is a fort blocking the mountain road in Yelinetta’s territory, but can we trust the enemy royal family’s information to base our plan on?"
He seemed worried that the information gathered from the Unimog might be false. The other nobles nodded in agreement.
However, His Majesty smiled devilishly and opened his mouth in response to those concerns.
"Rest assured. Though the fool wasn’t bright, we pressed him thoroughly. He cannot lie."
When His Majesty said this, some people’s faces changed, and the rest nodded in understanding. Perhaps His Majesty’s interrogations have a well-earned reputation in many ways.
By the way, Freitliner has been cooperative from the start and now wishes to settle permanently in Seato Village. He is currently receiving civil education from the Espada.
"Then, first, Baron Van will purchase those armored carriages and enter the mountain path to establish bases. Since the distance is quite long, three bases will be set up."
Saying so, His Majesty pointed out the locations of the bases on the map spread out on the round table.
"It seems that when the Yelinetta Army passed through, they marched with Wyverns to keep demonic beasts away. But we cannot use that tactic. Therefore, the bases need to be sturdy and set up at short intervals. For that, the cooperation of adventurers skilled in mountain operations will be essential."
His Majesty said this and pointed at the candidate locations for the bases on the map.
"Next, regarding the bases, I intend to enlist Baron Van’s help. We want bases that can be assembled quickly on-site and that will not be destroyed even if attacked by large demonic beasts."
At these words, all eyes turned to me.
Oh dear, this is strange. Suddenly, I’ve been given a job—one that’s quite an unreasonable demand. But there is a man who can make it possible. Everyone’s idol, Van-kun.
"Understood."
I replied immediately, causing some to look surprised. Heh heh heh. I absolutely must make something astonishing. I will leave everyone speechless.