Published: January 15, 2026
The name of one of Panamera’s subordinates had to be changed because it overlapped with the Third Prince of the Yelinetta Kingdom, a name that was suddenly decided in the comic adaptation...
Sorry, Raizon...
When we reached the castle gate, it opened on its own without a word. Then, from atop the castle walls, a familiar heroic female voice descended.
“Oh! Boy! You’ve finally arrived!”
Looking up, I saw Panamera’s face peeking out from the wall directly ahead. Beside her were about a dozen unfamiliar men. As I waved to Panamera and passed through the gate into the fortress city, Panamera and the others soon followed.
“You’re late!”
“What!? We left Seato Village right on schedule!”
I argued against Panamera’s outrageous complaint, and she laughed while shaking her shoulders.
“Well, I suppose I’ll forgive you. Now then, let me introduce the new administrators of our town who have become my subordinates!”
“Huh?”
I tilted my head at the unexpected words, and Panamera stepped aside, looking at the men lined up behind her. Men ranging from their thirties to fifties stepped forward with solemn expressions.
“I’m Westa. I manage the residents of the fortress city Cayenne.”
“My name is Barat. I oversee the budget and taxes of fortress city Cayenne.”
“I’m Thomas. I manage the various facilities in fortress city Cayenne.”
“I’m Bilt. I serve as the chairman of the council in fortress city Cayenne.”
“My name is Bellville. I have been appointed Vice Knight Commander of the Panamera Knight Order. I vow to fight for Lord Panamera, even with my life.”
One after another, these town dignitaries introduced themselves. They seemed to be in charge of the people, taxes and budget, facilities, the council, and the knight order plus its assistants. After their introductions, a tall, slender man with gray hair spoke.
“Lastly, I am Zetros. I have been appointed magistrate of fortress city Cayenne. I look forward to working with you.”
With that final greeting, he finished.
“Oh, I live in the neighboring territory! I’m van nei fertio! Nice to meet you!”
Thinking it important to make a good first impression, I introduced myself brightly and cheerfully. The men exchanged glances.
“...Sir Van, I had heard rumors you were under ten years old, but to think you really are...”
“He really is just a child...”
“We look forward to working with you.”
As the men murmured among themselves, Zetros responded on their behalf.
After looking over all of them in turn, I returned my gaze to Panamera.
“Huh? By the way, isn’t someone from Panamera’s knight order acting as magistrate?”
When I asked, Panamera smiled faintly and nodded.
“It was less than three weeks, but I intended to train them thoroughly. If anyone commits fraud or plots rebellion now, I will take it as a sign I have failed and will thoroughly reform the system. Of course, those who cause such trouble will face a hell harsher than death...”
At Panamera’s words, the dignitaries who had managed the town so far all looked down. Their faces seemed a bit pale—perhaps just my imagination.
“...Then I suppose it’s probably fine. By the way, it’s my first time here, but it’s a nice town.”
I replied with a wry smile, taking another look around. The town had an old, sturdy atmosphere but felt steeped in history. The streets were clean, and the buildings were well maintained. Though old, it was clear the town had been carefully managed.
Still, Panamera folded her arms and furrowed her brow.
“It’s still far from enough. This is a fortress city bearing my name. I want it to be a town everyone envies.”
“...I have a bad feeling about this, but I’ll ask anyway—what kind of plan do you have?”
Feeling uneasy, I asked. Panamera smiled like a carnivore and began.
“That’s what we’re about to discuss! Come, Chairman Bilt! Let’s hold a council meeting!”
“Yes, sir. I’ll prepare immediately.”
Bilt, probably in his mid-fifties and exuding authority, straightened his back like a soldier and answered.