Published: January 15, 2026
What a surprise!
Thanks to everyone, volume 4 of Carefree Lord will be released in March!
Furthermore, volume 3 of the comic adaptation will also be released in February!
Thank you all so much! ・:+.\(( °ω° ))/.:+
[Panamera]
It has been less than a month since His Majesty returned to the capital city. In that short time, the knight order has been reorganized, and a report came in that His Majesty has departed. The fast riders have been changing horses day and night to bring reports, so there should be enough time.
“How are preparations on your end?”
When I asked the knight commander, he returned a confident smile.
“Yes! Including the newly reinforced members, 500 are ready! Logistics are also in place!”
“Hmm. It will take two weeks to move. We can stop by Seato Village along the way to resupply.”
I nodded as I listened. Ever since purchasing ballistae and mechanical bows from Baron Van, we’ve been able to wipe out bandits and hunt large demonic beasts far more easily than before. As a result, we’ve acquired various treasures and rare materials without major losses, earning enough to easily cover the cost of expensive Van’s arrows.
“All right. They’ve been asking about rewards. It should be fine to start requesting territory soon.”
Muttering that, the knight commander tightened his expression. He still seemed cautious.
Nobles can be unexpectedly troublesome, with many entanglements. The main issue is factional disputes among the high-ranking nobles. The number of upper nobles hasn’t changed in over a decade. Excluding royal family members who have given up succession rights, there are four marquises and counts in the capital city, and two or three in each region. Each lord holds territory on behalf of the king, protecting the kingdom’s lands. Among them, marquises and counts who have achieved many military achievements govern wide territories and are granted corresponding authority in emergencies.
In other words, if something happens, high-ranking nobles can move surrounding lower nobles on their own judgment. In such cases, nobles with land have some sway, but those without, like me, effectively have no voice.
Especially when war is involved, ignoring orders from high-ranking nobles risks charges of treason against the state.
For this reason, lower nobles constantly watch the mood of high nobles and try to replace them whenever possible. Lord Panamera is no exception.
“I refuse to risk my life under the orders of fat, middle-aged men.”
I muttered softly, looking down at my palm. Though a noble, my hands have become quite rough from wielding a sword. I clenched my hand into a fist and raised it before my face.
“I will rise by my own strength. I won’t be a disposable pawn.”
Saying this with a slight smile, the knight commander let out a small laugh.
“That spirit is admirable. However, even if you acquire territory, Lord Feltio is likely nearby. It won’t be easy.”
If I hold land, I will stand out, and as a member of the House of Count Ferdinand faction, the marquis will likely come down hard on me.
In some cases, I might be thrown into the front line in difficult situations in this upcoming battle. It’s common sense among nobles to nail down those who stick out. The knight commander’s concern is probably about that.
Understanding this, I snorted and answered.
“I’ll make them serve me one day. Trust me.”
I smiled, and the knight commander blinked momentarily before bursting out laughing.
“Hahaha! Well then... We have sworn loyalty to Lord Panamera. Please use us up to achieve your ambitions.”
“Well said.”
I deepened my smile at the knight commander’s witty reply and nodded.
Now, the battle is upon us. This fight will decide how far I can rise.
[Count Ferdinand]
“…His Majesty has departed.”
Upon hearing the report, I stood up.
“…The next battle will be a significant one, right? Will it be okay?”
My wife said, and I lowered my chin, exhaling.
“The next battle will be a clear invasion into enemy territory, the first in over a decade. They will have fortified defenses and traps. Our House of Count Ferdinand suffered the greatest losses in the previous battle. We have no reserves left to prepare... but for the survival of our house, we must participate. And the results, too.”