Easygoing Territory Defense by the Optimistic Lord

“Building the city walls is the same as constructing the defensive barriers, led by Espada. Well, it’s the second time, so we should be able to work without hesitation. Since the scale will be larger, take it slow and avoid injuries. Dee and the others will handle procuring materials. Those strong enough, please lend a hand. Ort and the others, what will you be doing?”

After giving everyone these very rough instructions, I looked over at Ort, who was inexplicably participating in the morning assembly.

Ort watched the villagers lined up in formation with amusement and spoke up.

“Hmm, what an interesting sight… Recently, the villagers have started lining up as neatly as soldiers. Ah, we’re heading out again to hunt demonic beasts. Thanks to the sword we received, it’s become really enjoyable.”

I nodded in understanding at that comment.

“If you come across materials from demonic beasts in poor condition again, bring them to me. The good quality ones are best sold to Bell.”

“Understood.”

With a sharp salute, Ort and his group stood beside the villagers’ line.

Smiling wryly, I surveyed everyone.

“Well then, let’s work safely today without injuries. By the way, today’s Friday. Tonight and tomorrow, we’ll hold a big barbecue using the meat we’ve stockpiled. Let’s give it our all!”

I raised one hand and announced it, and everyone energetically raised both hands, cheering loudly.

“Alright!”

“Let’s do our best!”

“Barbecue!”

The usually quiet villagers suddenly turned into party people.

The villagers, excited, headed to their workstations, led by Espada and Dee.

After everyone had left, Panamera and the others came over. Right behind Panamera was Arte, and further behind, soldiers lined up perfectly.

“…Good morning. That was quite an interesting way to boost morale. Different from war, but the method of raising spirits was impressive.”

“Good morning. Well, this isn’t the military, so this level of looseness is just right. By the way, the top ten people who work the hardest during the week get their alcohol servings doubled. Small cups become large mugs. The drinkers are especially motivated by this.”

A plan to entice them with food and drink.

Panamera laughed heartily at this and nodded.

“Indeed. Then I suppose I’ll work harder than anyone else.”

Saying that with a smile, Arte suddenly came rushing over from the side.

For some reason, she looked angry as she bowed her head.

“G-Good morning, Lord Van. Today, um, the weather is nice, and it looks like it will be a good day, doesn’t it?”

“Hmm? Ah, yes, good morning. Miss Arte seems very lively today. I take it the fatigue from yesterday’s journey has worn off?”

Pressed by her energy, I responded with a greeting and asked. Arte nodded while looking at me.

“Y-Yes. I’m very lively today. So, may I observe your work, Lord Van?”

“Sure, go right ahead. Today, we’ll be reinforcing the waterworks.”

Saying that with a smile, I turned around. Til and Kamushin, who were standing behind me, looked over with gloomy expressions.

“Don’t tell me it’s the sewage work again…?”

Til and Kamushin asked anxiously, and I smiled wordlessly, nodding.

Immediately, both of them hung their heads.

Chuckling at their reaction, I spoke.

“Someone has to do the dirty work. If you don’t want to, I can do it alone.”

Upon hearing that, both quickly straightened their backs and shook their heads.

“N-No, it’s fine!”

“We won’t let Lord Van do it alone… In fact, I’ll do it by myself!”

“Kamushin’s magical aptitude isn’t suited for this kind of work.”

I laughed and headed towards the site behind the defensive wall near the village entrance. Panamera and Arte followed behind, accompanied by soldiers.

There’s nothing to be embarrassed about, but it is dirty work.

Well, this should eliminate the concerns Espada had about the impact of marriage on work.

With a self-deprecating smile, I passed through the gate and walked toward the moat. Between the moat and the city wall was a makeshift bridge made of planks. Til, Kamushin, and I crossed it.