Published: January 15, 2026
Inside the newly made luxury carriage, Carinan, I enjoyed the spacious interior and the view of the highway through the windows. The reddish wood grain and the sofa made from demonic beast leather created a comfortable atmosphere. The window frames adorned with beautiful golden decorations and the oil lamps added a touch of luxury to the space.
“No, really, you should stop this already, boy.”
Across from me, Panamera’s face twitched as he muttered those words. For some reason, I found myself being scolded.
“Huh? Didn’t you like the carriage?”
I looked up in surprise, and Panamera narrowed his eyes reproachfully before speaking.
“It’s not about liking or disliking it. A large, lavish carriage like this— even the royal family doesn’t own one. What would people say if a newly risen baron had one?”
He said that with a look of disbelief, and I nodded with a wry smile.
“Of course, I’m not going to monopolize this carriage.”
Then I looked at Til.
“Could you prepare some tea and sweets, please?”
“Yes! I’ll get everything ready right away!”
Til immediately stood up, took out a vacuum double-layered thermos from a shelf built into the wall, and placed teacups on the table, pouring tea into them. Although two hours had passed since departure, steam still gently rose from the cups. Then, Til carefully placed a basket in the middle of the table, filled with baked sweets wrapped in paper made from wood fibers.
Watching this, I smiled and thanked Til.
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome! Oh, by the way, I’d like one too…”
“Sure, go ahead, help yourself.”
We chatted like that, and Til, looking cheerful, was the first to pick up a piece of the paper-wrapped pastry. Smiling wryly, I gestured for Panamera to have some as well. For some reason, Panamera’s expression turned stern as he took a cup and brought it to his lips.
He sipped the tea, savoring its aroma and flavor slowly. This was a side of Panamera very different from usual—so refined. Well, I wouldn’t say it aloud for fear of getting scolded.
“It’s delicious, isn’t it?”
I said something safe instead. Panamera gracefully placed the cup back on its saucer, though furrows immediately appeared again between his brows.
“It’s delicious, yes, but that’s not the point! No, first of all, what is that magical tool-like container? How can you enjoy tea so close to freshly brewed tea after such a long journey!?”
Panamera shouted. Why would he get angry drinking such delicious tea? Well, surely eating sweets would improve his mood. After all, they were delicious.
“...Would you like some sweets too?”
I asked hesitantly. Panamera, still looking displeased, peeled back the paper wrapping on a pastry and took it out. It was about half the size of his palm, but he broke it in half and daintily placed it in his mouth.
“...Hmm, tasty.”
He said that, then took another sip of tea. Huh? He didn’t seem much better in mood.
Not sure what to say, I watched Panamera carefully. He squinted his eyes and glanced my way, then sighed.
“...I understand what you’re trying to say. You’re trying to strengthen your position... isn’t that it?”
He said seriously, folding his arms.
“The incredible weapons and armor you’ve made so far can only be appreciated after seeing them firsthand. That’s why nobles who don’t value military strength weren’t interested. But this luxurious carriage and this mysterious container will surely impress such nobles. After all, even I, an upstart, can sense that this might be profitable.”
With a ‘good grief’ attitude, Panamera said that. I couldn’t help but grin.
Huh? Is it really that profitable? Yay! I’ll get ready for mass production immediately. This carriage is sturdier and more maneuverable than typical ones, so even if enemy forces got a hold of it, it wouldn’t be much of a threat. If that’s the case, I won’t hesitate to sell it for profit.
While thinking that, Panamera tilted his head slightly and snorted.
“Truly terrifying. Can’t believe you’re not even ten years old... Miss Arte, your husband might become the king of a country in the future. When that happens, would it be alright if I became a concubine?”