I'll Think About It
After the White Dragon finished talking about the new town, the Westland family left the room.
“So they’re building a new town with the proceeds from the dragon’s sale… And it’s going to be a tourist spot, huh?”
“Using the money earned from dragon scales to fund a new town development — clever. Wealth has been too concentrated in Westland, so this might reduce criticism, even if some people grumble.”
“A hot spring that heals fatigue and improves skin complexion.”
“It’ll definitely be a popular topic when it’s finished. I hear Lord Ignart will oversee the development of the new town. And apparently, Lord Ignart and his wife have also obtained familiars.”
“You’re quick with information as always, Duke. If it’s Lord Ignart, he’ll know how to deal with nobles trying to muscle in on the new town.”
“Do we know what kind of familiars they got this time?”
“A Tonitrus and a Fire Fairy. Though even the Westland family doesn’t seem to understand why they’re able to form familiar contracts.”
“Your Majesty, isn’t young Reinhardt somehow involved in that?”
“Most likely. But they won’t admit it. If they did, other nobles would start demanding the same. The fact that even royal and noble children haven’t been able to get familiars from the forest gives the Margrave a solid reason to refuse.”
“Still, the White Dragon clearly pressured us without the Westland family noticing. Even if small, a dragon is still a dragon.”
“It was only for a short time, but it was tough pretending everything was normal.”
“It just shows how much the White Dragon likes Reinhardt. It’s also a warning — don’t mess with Westland.”
“Indeed. Judging by how it clings to Reinhardt, it’ll be staying in Westland for a while. But the mana pool… the White Dragon didn’t give us any real details about that.”
“If it posed a direct threat to the kingdom, I imagine they would’ve shared it. Besides, the Westland family seems concerned about it too.”
“You’re right. Keep the pressure off Westland for now. We can’t risk angering dragons and Fenrirs.”
Later, Raphael visited, bringing three dozen packs of curry powder.
“Raphael, sorry for always making you do this. I’ll pay you properly.”
“No need. It’s a gift. Same thing every time, but I know it makes people happy.”
“You’re a lifesaver, thanks.”
“So, they like sweets, huh?” Raphael commented, watching the White Dragon munch on cookies at the table.
“Not just sweets — all food. And thanks to you, Raphael, we’ve got the special ingredients for curry, which the White Dragon has never tasted before. It’s all for you, so say thank you.”
“Oh, the famous delicious curry? Well done, you have my gratitude,” the White Dragon said, going right back to munching cookies.
Raphael chuckled, handing over a plate of cookies from in front of him.
“You’ve got good instincts. As expected of Reinhardt’s friend.”
“You’re shameless. And eating way too much. Your belly’s already poking out.”
“It’s fine. Soon I’ll play with Atre and the others, so I’m storing up energy.”
Once the White Dragon finished all the food, he declared he was off to play and trotted out.
“He’s easygoing, but… kinda friendly too? This is completely shattering my image of dragons.”
“I think it’s just this White Dragon. Well, our house is full of familiars like Fenrir and the rest. Maybe it’s fun for him.”
“Speaking of familiars, I heard new ones joined. Are they here today?”
“They’re my grandparents’ familiars, so they aren’t with me.”
“Too bad. I want to visit Westland again, but the curry business keeps me busy. Plus, I’ve got to select rice farmers.”
“The Duke isn’t helping?”
“Seems like the royal palace has him swamped lately. He’s been coming home late.”
I thought maybe he was just dumping work on Raphael, but apparently, he’s properly working.
“Raphael, you need to find capable staff so you can have free time. Overworking will wear you down. Even when busy, breaks actually make you more efficient.”
“Is that why you gave your employees five consecutive vacation days?”
“Exactly. And their work speed actually improved after that. Our company’s small, so we had to bring in temporary help while employees took turns on vacation.”
“Ah, that’s why you suggested those St. Arthur Academy students.”
“Yeah, I was thinking they could help at the capital branch of our company. It just happened to line up with giving the employees time off. The Clondale Duchy is close to the capital, so two or three days off should be enough. Raphael, you’re the next duke. Your workload’s only going to increase. You should start gathering trusted aides now.”
“I’ll… think about it,” Raphael replied as he left.
What do you think about this chapter?
