Published: January 17, 2026
The meeting proceeded smoothly, and we managed to gather a fair amount of information.
It seems the Solstice Empire is currently interested in the western part of the Grant Continent—that is, the land where the Kingdom of Scuderia is located. Judging from the movements of King Yelinetta, it doesn’t look very favorable for our country.
Meanwhile, the Fiesta Kingdom has established contact with three nations: the Solstice Empire, the Kingdom of Scuderia, and, unexpectedly, the Hesel Federation located at the northern edge of the continent. As for the fleet that headed south, it encountered only small uninhabited islands and couldn’t interact with any countries.
As a result, the Fiesta Kingdom succeeded in viewing parts of maps from various countries and independently created a fairly accurate map. I really want it. It’s classified information that I can’t just ask for, but I really want it.
That alone is a good reason to form an alliance with the Fiesta Kingdom, but more than anything, it’s about the ships. We need to obtain the secret of those ships, but somehow, this man Mondeo Orcus is not trustworthy.
One reason is the probing Mondeo is currently conducting. There’s a sense that he hasn’t spoken his true intentions, but what worries me most is the content of his questions.
“...If we form an alliance with the Kingdom of Scuderia, the top nation among the current three, it seems our country could build ports not only along Scuderia’s coasts but also on the shores of the Yelinetta Kingdom. In such a case, would it be possible for our people to become lords in some of those territories?”
In moments like this, Mondeo seemed to desire status and standing in other countries. I hope it’s for the benefit of the Fiesta Kingdom, but the impression I get is that he’s seeking personal gain.
The meeting lasted about two hours. We discussed many things and obtained a lot of information. However, we never fully let our guard down around Mondeo.
“Well then, Lord Rosso, Lord Van, I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.”
“Indeed.”
“Thank you! I’m looking forward to tomorrow as well!”
After exchanging those greetings, Mondeo was escorted out of the manor by Rosso’s knights. Watching him depart by carriage through the town from the window, Rosso quietly spoke.
“...What do you think of that messenger?”
Sensing the intent behind the question, I shook my head from side to side.
“I prefer Mr. Tran.”
I answered clearly, and Rosso shook his shoulders and laughed.
“Hahaha! Lord Van, you’re refreshingly straightforward. I imagine His Majesty and Sir Panamera would agree if they’d attended the meeting.”
Having said that, Rosso stepped away from the window and sat back down in his chair. I moved to the seat opposite him and sat. After confirming I was seated, Rosso rested his hand on the map lying on the table.
“...There are a few reasons why Lord Van didn’t think highly of Lord Mondeo. First, there were hints of ambition from Mondeo. Not so much ambition to strengthen the Fiesta Kingdom, but it seemed like he was trying to benefit only himself.”
“That’s exactly it.”
I nodded firmly in agreement with Rosso’s assessment. Then Rosso opened his eyes a little wider, looking surprised. He squinted and nodded slightly.
“...Lord Van, you’re truly wise. It seems best not to underestimate him as just a child.”
“Eh!? Even Lord Rosso says that! His Majesty jokingly said I must actually be fifty years old!”
I loudly protested Rosso’s words. Rosso burst out laughing.
“Wahaha! Looks like I said the same thing as His Majesty! This will make a fine story to bring back.”
“That story will only cause me to be teased by His Majesty later!”
Apparently, Rosso found it hilarious. He continued joking and laughing cheerfully. It’s fine if he’s having fun, but I disagree with the content. I can almost see His Majesty’s smirk behind Rosso.
As I thought that, Rosso sighed deeply and spoke.
“...Now, on a serious note, tomorrow we’re scheduled to inspect Lord Mondeo’s ship. If it were Lord Tran’s ship, I would want everyone to study it together, but with Lord Mondeo’s ship, would it be better to refrain?”