Chapter 131

Making Various Preparations
I successfully diverted my father's and brother's scolding with an unexpected invention and strolled through the castle in high spirits. My destination was the underground area, as the engineers' morale seemed to be dropping lately.

Apparently, my use of clones for slave-like construction was the issue. These clones work tirelessly until they disappear, without rest, sleep, or food. Since they're created by magic, they don't require sustenance. While their eventual dissipation might seem harsh, it’s not as if they’re living beings sentenced to years underground. I see no issue with their usage.

Moreover, the secret of the underground dock had recently been exposed to the castle staff, including the nobility. Given the rapid construction facilitated by the clones, it was only a matter of time. Naturally, many people wanted to take a look. However, the ongoing construction using clones posed ethical dilemmas.

Thus, measures were necessary, such as balancing the visibility of the dock or redirecting visitors to the adjacent dock meant for the magical warships. That said, the magic warships themselves were still in the design phase since their dedicated magic reactors weren’t complete yet. On the other hand, the armed airships were already in the construction phase, with the designs finalized. Both projects, however, were classified, and thus, visits were strictly prohibited.

My actions had also led to increased pressure on Father and Big brother, as noble factions sought to approach me. I rarely made public appearances, almost akin to a recluse—though I did venture outside on occasion. Furthermore, I constantly moved between various locations, making it hard for anyone to meet me even if they wanted to.

“A~lice, my dear!”

“Gah! Mother, don’t startle me like that.”

Out of nowhere, I was hugged from behind, startling me. Recognizing my mother's voice, I immediately relaxed, but I still wished she wouldn’t sneak up like that.

Freeing myself from her embrace, I turned to face her. Her belly had grown noticeably larger; she was far along in her pregnancy. She could no longer use magic, as female magic users often lose their ability depending on their physical condition, particularly during pregnancy. While she could use magic when she carried me, she had been unable to do so during my brother's pregnancy and now with this one.

“You’re the one causing worry, Alice. You should be more mindful of your position.”

“I see the bigger picture, so there’s no issue. I’ll ensure the kingdom reaps the benefits.”

This time, my actions aimed to address issues in the slums. Naturally, I intended for the kingdom to benefit as well. Ensuring a comfortable life for myself meant offloading bothersome noble affairs onto my father, brother, and the government. To make that palatable, providing tangible benefits was essential. While my father and brother wouldn’t mind, the ministers might grow resentful. It's better to keep them content as they act as shields for me.

“Honestly… This time, the entire capital was in chaos. You should choose your methods more carefully. You’re always so forceful. If you used a bit more finesse, things would go more smoothly.”

Oh my? That’s rare. Giving advice instead of a scolding?

“How unusual.”

“I’ve simply come to understand that you’re incapable of living any way other than freely and as you please. I won’t try to stop you anymore, but at least think about your own safety.”

I see, so she’d given up on me.

“Got it. And Mother, make sure you have guards with you, even in the castle. It’s been dangerous lately.”

“Of course. I have my ‘cat’ with me today, so I’m fine.”

The “cat” was actually a magic beast and my pet. Mother preferred cats, unlike me, who favored dogs. Though I found cats cute, I valued the loyalty and obedience of dogs more. Pets should exhibit absolute devotion—like the original Momoniku.

“I’ll be busy with many things from now on. I’ll be operating through the Viceroy family.”

“Poor Draco will probably be devastated. He really only granted nominal independence.”

“I won’t be fully independent; it would make Father and the others cry. Still, they need to understand that putting restraints on me is impossible.”

“Yes, full independence would be too early. Do as you like, but make sure you rest properly. Alicia was in tears, saying you haven’t been sleeping.”

Ugh, she had a point. My sleep schedule had worsened—waking up after three or four hours and generally sleeping less. I needed to address it. This was likely a lingering issue from my previous life, where I sometimes went weeks with minimal rest. I could feel myself being pulled toward that mindset again.

“I’ll try my best to improve. Anyway, I’m off now.”

“Alright.”

After that, I headed underground, listening to the engineers’ requests and assigning the clones to work one floor below to keep them out of sight.

Next, I went to see Boss Lawrence. Although he despised nobles, he treated me normally. At first, he yelled at me so fiercely I ended up in tears, but we’d since reached an understanding.

“I’ve drawn up the plans, so build accordingly.”

“Hm… Princess, ever consider becoming a carpenter? How is it that you can draw blueprints better than ours? These are easier to read than the ones we use. I’ll follow them, but can I keep these plans?”

“Sure, go ahead.”

“But this design… It’ll be freezing in winter. You’re cutting too many corners.”

The workshop was a simple arch-shaped structure, easy to assemble but not ideal for harsh winters like those in Arland.

“Magic tools can handle the heating. Besides, this is a temporary workshop, designed to be quickly dismantled.”

Redeveloping the slums was part of the plan. Providing both jobs and housing should resolve the situation.

“You are living large.”

“The slums are slated for redevelopment. Moving is unavoidable. Still, I want the children from the orphanage to have jobs.”

“Well, my job’s to follow the order. I’ll get started right away.”

“Thanks. Also, as always, make this a rush job—I’ve got more plans after this.”

“You’re aiming high, Princess. Bring it on! I’ll make sure it’s top-notch!”

Lawrence exclaimed, skipping off with enthusiasm. He truly loved his work.

Next, I headed to see my master. He had retired from all official positions other than being my subordinate and spent his days crafting alongside me in his workshop, which was adjacent to mine—though mine was a more recent addition. When I arrived, I found him disassembling the spider automaton, carefully examining its components.

“Master, it’s time for work.”

“Huh? If it’s a bothersome task, I’ll kill you.”

My Master turned only his head toward me, glaring with half-closed eyes. If I showed fear here, I’d get yelled at.

“Please make a full set of plate armor, along with swords and spears. The material is mithril.”

“That’s equipment fancier than what the royal knights wear. Are you planning to outfit your Knights Order?”

“They rarely wear armor, you know? They’re definitely not people who did public work in the past. What I mean is, this is for forming a new guard unit for the Viceroy Household.”

Personal bodyguards are already provided by the royal guard, so there’s no need for additional security. That expense is covered by the kingdom. Regarding their equipment, it’s not something I should interfere with.

The new guard unit will handle the security of my workshops and facilities. In the future, they will likely evolve into a territorial army when I receive land.

“That’s extravagant. Well, fine. I’ll make it, but give me some spare parts. For some reason, this part bends a lot.”

Hmm? Oh, that’s the one made with the steel I slapped together. Naturally, admitting to such carelessness would earn me a scolding, so I said nothing.

When Master gets angry, he’s terrifying. As his apprentice, I chose to stay silent.

“I’ll review the materials later. Even with the same material, it’s likely to bend again.”

“Is that so... You cut corners, didn’t you?”

“Strategy is the key to success!”

Having been immediately found out, I fled the workshop. On my way out, I sealed the door with earth magic, ensuring Master couldn’t pursue me for a while. Master is truly fearsome. I decided to leave before the seal could be broken.

Now then... Was there anything else I needed to do? Oh, right, the magic cards still needed to be prepared.

The Magic Range is a magic tool used for enchantment. However, the magic to be enchanted must first be inscribed onto cards. I set about creating several of them.

First was spatial storage magic, which creates a pocket dimension for convenient item storage. Naturally, magic users can often use it themselves.

Next were enchantments to enhance physical abilities and healing magic to restore fatigue. These would likely be crafted as accessory types.

“This went quicker than expected.”

By making everything simultaneously, I finished the required amount in ten minutes.

“That’s why, Alicia, we’re going to the slums.”

“You’ll go even if I say no, won’t you... I’ll gather the royal guards.”

This time, I took the ever-responsible Alicia and five royal guards to the slums. Our destination was near the main street of the slums. This area housed people who could still maintain a somewhat decent standard of living.

It was mostly occupied by day laborers and seamstresses, people with low but steady incomes.

Our target was the seamstresses. Their skills weren’t bad. If they could meet the requirements, I intended to give them work. I asked one of the guards to gather the seamstresses in the slum street.

“So... What business do you have with us? We’ve done nothing wrong.”

“I’m not here to punish anyone. I want to know if you can make these bags and backpacks. Materials will be provided.”

“If it’s you, don’t you have craftsmen outside of this place?”

The gathered people seemed anxious.

“I do, but this is for business purposes. Using craftsmen tied to the Merchants’ Guild is costly.

That’s why I’d prefer if you could make them here. I’d like to order about 5,000 pieces.”

“R-really? We’ll do it! We’ll work hard!”

“Then can I ask for this rate? It should be the standard market price.”

“This is about what the guild charges.”

I glanced at Alicia, who confirmed that the rate was appropriate.

For the individuals here, though, it seemed like a generous amount, and they quickly agreed. Later, I learned that guild rates include their own profit, meaning the craftsmen themselves don’t receive the full amount. By hiring directly, the seamstresses earned more than usual.

The employment bypassing the guild would later cause trouble when the Craftsmen’s Guild came begging. They hadn’t realized they were missing out on profits.

After that, I headed to the Ponpoko Company with the enchanted tools I had produced and a catalog featuring photos of the products.

First, I needed to partner with the Ponpoko Company to gain the Merchants’ Guild membership. The Merchants’ Guild was a hassle; you couldn’t conduct business without joining, and membership required a recommendation. It was exceedingly inconvenient.

The guild had four ranks—copper, iron, silver, and gold. With Ponpoko, a gold-ranked merchant, one recommendation was sufficient. Recommendations from silver or lower merchants required multiple supporters.

“I’ll make lots of money and stockpile sweets.”

“Your Highness, you have great ambitions, but it always seems to circle back to that.”

“I just want to create a prosperous life for the people and, in return, encourage the development of delicious food. Cooking isn’t my domain.”

Creating a thriving economy would increase the demand for sweets. Then competition would further enhance the development of better sweets. I aimed to channel profits to Ponpoko Company since they heavily invested in the kingdom’s largest sugar production area. It was surprising to learn they were cultivating sugarcane in a cold region. When I first heard about it, I was astonished. Growing sugarcane in snow-covered Arland seemed impossible. However, before Ponpoko became the chairman, the villagers had only cultivated it as a pastime and had no plans for large-scale production.

Ponpoko persuaded them to increase production. Now, there’s a village dedicated entirely to sugar production, with everything beyond their own consumption devoted to sugar.

As for the royal family’s direct involvement, that wasn’t within my jurisdiction. My focus was sweets.

“What... is this?”

Full of expectations, I arrived at the Ponpoko Company, only to find their headquarters in shambles, and Chairman Ponpoko collapsed on the ground.

A sign outside read, “Closing at the end of this month.”