Published: January 13, 2026
A week later, the decision was made to proceed with building the fortress city, and it was rushed to completion. Although the expansion toward the Wolfsburg Mountains side was not yet finished, it was acceptable to consider the project complete for the time being.
The castle in the center was grand and well-built. After restoring the existing walls, the upper sections were remodeled in a Japanese style. Inside the walls, ten turrets and four small castles were constructed. They were all connected by covered walkways, allowing for quick movement across the expansive grounds. Additionally, even if intruders managed to enter, an independent castle stood at the center, and the four-story-tall turrets and small castles could isolate the walkways to delay the invaders’ progress.
In preparation for a frontal breach at the castle gate, the design allowed for sniping from mechanical bows positioned diagonally above. The stone walls also ensured that arrows would rain down from the small castles and turrets, as intruders would be forced to pass through them.
It was truly an ironclad defense.
After a final inspection of the completed walls, I stood in front of the castle gate, looking up at the outworks, turrets, and the imposing pavilions perched atop the stone walls. Though I was praising my own work, I couldn’t help but feel moved by the powerful sight.
I wanted to gaze at it forever, but there was no time to linger.
In front of the gate, Dee and the Seato village knight order members stood alongside the nobles who had helped build the fortress city, as well as the knight commanders from various orders.
Looking at their faces, I began to speak.
“Thanks to everyone, the base was completed much earlier than planned! When His Majesty visits this land again, I am sure he will look up at that magnificent castle and feel even more appreciation for all of your efforts! Of course, I will also report your outstanding work myself! Thank you all very much!”
After expressing my gratitude, I bowed deeply. When I raised my face, those previously arrogant nobles quietly lowered their heads in return.
What’s going on? Collective stomach aches?
That absurd thought came to mind because the sight was so unexpected. As I watched, surprised, they gradually raised their heads and looked at me seriously.
“... We have had a rare experience.”
“We too would like to express our gratitude.”
“This land will surely become one of our country’s most important bases.”
Each offered words filled with appreciation. Finally, Pinin nodded, his double chin jiggling, stepped forward, and spoke.
“... Until now, we have not achieved much in the war. However, being part of this fortress construction is a great achievement that will be remembered by future generations, and it is truly our pride. I would like to express my gratitude once again for letting us be involved in such a significant project.”
Pinin spoke with great formality. What’s gotten into you, Pinin? Did you eat something strange?
I was so surprised that I doubted his sanity. Perhaps it showed on my face, because Pinin burst out laughing, hands on his hips, chest puffed out.
“Did you think this was out of character? Honestly, as a baron, especially one taking orders from a child, I felt humiliated... But after seeing Lord Van’s magic and the completed castle, my feelings have completely changed. If possible, we would also like to form an alliance like Viscount Panamera.”
He smiled, baring his teeth. So he acknowledged us as equals and even proposed an alliance.
For a baron entrusted with a tiny frontier territory, this was an incredibly favorable offer.
Naturally, I nodded happily.
“Thank you! However, I must confirm with Viscount Panamera first, so we cannot just form an alliance on our own...”
I answered, and Pinin laughed in response.
“Ha ha ha! That’s a response you wouldn’t expect from a child! Certainly, we cannot ignore Lord Panamera, who has formed an alliance on equal terms. We cannot neglect our own lands either. We will send a messenger again later.”