Tea Party
"Well, since there's no lord, it's a Royal domain. If that's the petroleum, I'll make it your personal territory. No one else besides you would know how to use it anyway."
In Arland, all land without a lord belongs to the Royal family, and any development requires permission from the Crown. Basically, as long as there are no territorial issues, permission is granted upon application.
For example, if there is a potential for mineral deposits, the Kingdom's policy is that anyone can govern it unless there's a necessity.
"What are you talking about?"
"Is it okay for us to listen? It sounds like you are discussing something amazing."
"It's probably fine. Even if someone hears, neither I nor the Kingdom will be troubled."
Even if someone hears or starts drilling for oil, it won't be a problem in this world where its utility hasn't been discovered. Additionally, even if the people from the Empire know that rubber can be made from petroleum, how many actually know the detailed process? Moreover, even if they do, to create tools from scratch, they would either have to use special magic like mine to freely produce equipment or raise the surrounding technological level to get it made. Either way, our side will be faster.
"Munch, munch, munch."
"Couldn't eat anything decent on Earth or here. I'll stock up on food here."
"Let's eat a lifetime's worth."
"You all are eating too much."
The maids had been eating cake with undivided attention from the beginning. They must have been craving sweets badly. Given that they weren't treated well there or here, it's understandable. Their eating voraciously left us slightly amazed. But Anon was influenced.
"I haven't eaten anything like this either!"
"There's more than enough, so no need to compete. Besides, the three of you will get fat, you know? There will be plenty of opportunities to eat in the future, so take it easy, okay?"
"... Alright, let's have a mock battle tonight, both of you. Burn off what we've eaten."
"”No objections! Munch, munch."”
It seems pointless. Anon and the three of them continued eating the cakes on the table. As for the oil, it seems there's a plan to send out a survey team soon. Apparently, the exact location is partially lost, so they'll have to start from there.
"This is delicious! It's really delicious!"
"It's been a while for me too, but it might be better than the shop I know."
"I want to hire the pastry chef."
Heh. This is one of the top shops in the Capital of Arland. There's always a line. Most of the customers are high-ranking female adventurers. Quite a few nobles come too, but they aren't very commoners-friendly. Maybe I should try making a commercial refrigerator and a refrigerated display case next? No, improving logistics to lower prices is more urgent. That way, more of our citizens can enjoy it. Better logistics would also boost the economy. Depending on the results of the airship project, we could proceed with the railway plan. Not sure how many years it will take, but... before my younger brother or sister is born... ah.
"That's right. I'm going to be a big sister!!"
"Seriously? That's awesome! I'm an only child, so I really envy you."
"As for me... my older sister is a bit scary... especially lately."
"I'm pretty close with my sister. We take baths together and raise flowers together in the garden."
Everyone seems to have different feelings and anticipations. I wonder what Keena is afraid of?
"So when I said I wanted to build a huge temple in the sky, everyone opposed it. I just want people to say this big sister is amazing in the future..."
I haven't given up yet. With advancements in magic technology, it's possible to make an island float. If I achieve that, I think I'd be a sister to be proud of. However, the budget and the Kingdom's approval aren't forthcoming. I can't build it without them. They also said I wouldn't have the time for it. Well, that's something I'll deal with soon. Currently, my teacher and I are preparing the necessary equipment for the endeavor.
"A temple... really... right? Alice might float one with ease, but still..."
"If my sister floated a temple, I'd think she’s amazing. Whether it's necessary is another matter. But reviving the airship was impressive enough, wasn't it? That strange vehicle was incredibly fast, too."
"I think that's something to be proud of."
"Hmph, I'm not satisfied with just the airship. I'm creating many other things. But it's not enough; I want to do more for that child."
A new family member. It's so exciting. Celebrations are grand in Arland.
"Well, I think it's good to take things one step at a time. I believe you'll be a sister to be proud of. Though you might be seen as a rather unusual big sister."
Anon, that's harsh. But I won't deny being eccentric. I'm really looking forward to it. Although my Mother's belly isn't showing yet, and it's still a long way until the birth, I'm very excited.
Of course, I want to deal with external threats by then. My current visit here is to acquire the quickest means to do so. I intend to conquer that underground dungeon and claim the magic of the ancient Great Mage. Though I'm only permitted to observe and not take anything out.
"Oh, Alice, it has also been decided that you will be going to the underground dungeon on behalf of Ostland, right? It would be troublesome for you to team up with strangers, right? So I was chosen because I have some skills.
Don't worry, I won't reveal any of your magic to anyone. Seriously, the nobles who use kids like me for reconnaissance are the worst. I couldn't help but snitch to the King and your Father."
With a face covered in cream, Anon smiled, having inadvertently ruined the plans of some scheming nobles.
What do you think about this chapter?
