Published: January 13, 2026
At Arte’s single remark, I corrected my course and decided to talk about the future once again.
“Ah, this conversation must only be shared among the people in this room and with Dee, Arb, and Brother Murcia, okay? Who can promise to keep that secret?”
“Y-Yes!”
“…I will keep it.”
The five of them promised together to keep the secret. There seemed to be no hint of deceit in their eyes. After confirming that, I nodded and began to speak.
“Then, I will announce it. First, we will increase the population of Seato Village soon. Once the population grows, we will select ten people who seem suitable to become magistrates and ten who can become knight commanders. While fostering their growth, after some time, we will launch an invasion into the territory of the Yelinetta Kingdom.”
Upon saying this, the five’s eyes widened, then quickly hardened.
“I-In Yelinetta...”
“Since we are at war, this is something we must be prepared for.”
Each responded separately. However, no negative opinions seemed to arise. Looking back at their expressions, I nodded with satisfaction.
“...We will advance towards the coastline within the Yelinetta Kingdom and capture at least four large towns or fortress cities, finally toppling the capital city. I expect some of those towns to become mine. Ultimately, I plan to entrust the management of these new towns to all of you.”
Watching their reactions, I carefully explained everything. The plan might seem outrageous, but I spoke with unexpected confidence.
By the way, the five’s expressions gradually grew more serious.
“Oh, just to clarify, I haven’t gone crazy or anything like that, okay?”
I said that because I sensed some unease, but the five shook their heads and hands vigorously, more than I expected.
“Th-That’s not the case…”
They denied it with an air like criminals before punishment. Hearing their denials, I gave a light laugh and shrugged.
“Well, it might seem like a newcomer baron trying to take on a great nation. But I have a passion that won’t lose to anyone. Yes, until I eat curry rice, I won’t lose to anyone.”
Since I muttered the last part quietly, the five looked blankly at me. Ignoring their expressions, I continued.
“...So, from now on, we will carry out activities to increase Seato Village’s population. Among them, if there are people who can become magistrates or knight commanders, regardless of birthplace or race, we will appoint them. Well, the most important thing is personality. Being sincere and serious is the first condition for selection. So, you all must also work hard so you won’t be surpassed by your juniors.”
After saying this, the five straightened their faces and sat up straight.
[Emira]
I was able to speak directly with Lord Van again after a long time. It was since the first time I arrived at Seato Village and greeted everyone one by one.
When I became a slave, I felt despair as if my future was lost because my father had died, the Koumi family had fallen, and I was sold for my family’s sake. Being put in a cage and given food like livestock might have also affected me.
Other slaves in cages told me that I was favored because I was sold as a prize slave at the Slave Market, but I couldn’t believe that at all. On the way to Seato Village, after hearing talks from other slaves, my perception changed greatly. But at that time, I lamented that I was undoubtedly the most miserable being.
Being a slave meant having one’s worth cruelly and clearly shown. As a result, my price was four gold coins. That seemed expensive for a slave, but it still deeply hurt me.
When I was bought by the Bell Rango Trading Company, it was almost like a bulk purchase. I was bought as if buying extra bread for a meal. I thought my self-esteem had shattered completely, but apparently, a small fragment remained. I remember how hard it was to hold back tears.
How grave a sin had I committed? How miserable must I become to be forgiven?
While such thoughts swirled endlessly, before I knew it, we had arrived at Seato Village and I was face to face with Lord Van.