Published: January 17, 2026
“I’ve already heard from the earlier envoy. You came to see the ship, didn’t you?”
When Rosso said that, I nodded in response.
“Yes. I heard there was a ship that crossed the sea. I definitely want to see it.”
When I said that, looking Rosso in the eyes, he returned a smile. It wasn’t a mocking smile, but more like the gentle smile of an old man watching his grandchild.
Rosso kept that smile and waved one hand as he spoke.
“You’re honest, Viscount Van. So honest, it almost worries me a little.”
At those words, Panamera let out a soft breath and smiled, nodding.
“...Isn’t that so? But it’s precisely because you’re such a rare noble that it’s enjoyable to walk alongside you.”
Panamera said, but I couldn’t tell if it was praise or not. Rosso also gave a wry smile at that.
“Hmm. Normally, I’d think that such nobles either get crushed quickly by stronger ones or are cleverly exploited. Luckily, the viscount is highly favored by His Majesty. There should be no one who openly opposes you.”
When Rosso said this, Panamera nodded deeply.
“There will be many big battles ahead. Your excellency’s abilities will be most effective in large-scale warfare. Viscount Van will still grow even more.”
“...I’m truly envious. My own domain, which only serves as a shield against the Yelinetta Kingdom, will gradually lose its presence.”
Contrasting Panamera’s cheerful tone, Rosso sighed as he spoke. His words seemed to increase the tension in the room.
As I wondered what to do, Rosso curled the corners of his mouth into a powerful smile.
“Of course, the marquis family Rosso has no intention of remaining idle. While fulfilling our role as a shield against the Yelinetta Kingdom, we will dispatch thirty percent of our forces going forward. I intend to show work that won’t lose to Sir Panamera.”
When Rosso said that, Panamera nodded deeply and smiled.
“That’s wonderful. I look forward to the day I can see your excellency’s power. By the way, if you don’t mind, won’t you accompany Viscount Van? I think you might see something interesting.”
“...Hmm. Something interesting, huh? I do like stories like that. But I doubt we can get close to the ship easily.”
“Eh? Can’t get close?”
I couldn’t help but interrupt Rosso, who nodded without any anger.
“That’s right. After all, the ship isn’t docked on land.”
With Rosso and his retinue, we headed to the coast. Naturally, the area wasn’t developed as a port; there were rocky outcrops and stretches of pure white sandy beach. And there, on the vast sea, was a massive ship. It was a large, silver-colored vessel. It seemed to float about a hundred meters from shore, but I wondered if it had dropped anchor. Judging by the shine, it didn’t appear to be wooden, but maybe it was just clad in armor-like plating. It looked metallic but was a sailing ship. It had many white sails, beautiful to behold.
“I was hoping for a steamship since it crossed the open sea...”
A big ship is romantic in its own way. But since cannons have been developed, I’d also hoped for steam power. Thinking realistically, even in Earth’s history, it took time before steam was utilized.
So, even if this is the latest ship in this world, it wouldn’t be surprising.
As I simply admired the ship like a tourist, Panamera looked at me with interest.
“What’s the matter, boy? You’re unusually quiet.”
Panamera said that, and I shook my head.
“No, I’m very excited. But since Marquis Rosso is here beside me, I’m deliberately restraining myself.”
“What’s with that tone?”
I brushed it off, and Panamera snorted with laughter.
Seeing that, Rosso folded his arms and smiled.
“...You two are like siblings. It seems you’ve built a good relationship.”
“Actually, I feel more like the older brother...”
I reflexively tried to deny Rosso’s comment. Panamera, standing on the opposite side, turned his face toward me.
“Did you say something, boy?”
“No, nothing.”
Straightening my back, I replied, and Rosso burst out laughing.