Chapter 330: Mysterious Technology

After finishing the various discussions about the future, we returned to the topic of the ship.

“…Even so, I am curious about that silver exterior. How does it protect the ship from large magical beasts?”

At those words muttered by His Majesty, I shook my head with a sigh.

“Regarding that, we are still at the stage of making various conjectures… Honestly, if we could just obtain that silver armor and the navigation techniques to cross the open ocean, this ship could sail immediately. Indeed, we could aim for the Kingdom of Fiesta, or even make contact with the Solstice Empire from our side…”

When I said that, Aperta shrugged his shoulders and let out a short breath.

“In other words, it is not yet at a practical stage. However, researching those technologies from scratch would likely take decades. Ideally, we would want to headhunt experts from the Kingdom of Fiesta to come here.”

Aperta stated his opinion as if easily guessing my thoughts. Aperta, what a frightening child.

Thinking that, I cleared my throat lightly and answered.

“Ahem… well, that is true. In the end, if we research independently, it requires that much budget, personnel, and time. However, if we can hire someone who has studied them from a place that already possesses the desired knowledge and technology, it would be a bargain. However, I think it will be difficult this time.”

When I agreed with Aperta‘s opinion, he nodded back.

“I should think so. Even probing for information on neighboring countries connected by land is difficult enough; making contact with a maritime nation in the vast ocean is nearly impossible. Conversely, that maritime nation can contact us anytime, and furthermore, negotiate alliances or trade from a position of advantage. This relationship is not good. That Captain Tran seems to be a very manageable person, but those managing the core of that country won’t be so easy. If possible, I want to form an equal alliance sooner than the Solstice Empire does.”

“Just because we form an alliance doesn’t mean they will leak their most important secrets. At best, we could hire Fiesta captains like mercenaries and rent ships to operate. However, there is not much benefit in that.”

His Majesty spoke in response to Aperta‘s line with a somewhat suggestive tone. He wasn’t simply agreeing or disagreeing with Aperta; the nuance suggested there was something else he wanted to say. And, if I’m not imagining it, I feel the target of that sentiment is me.

Perhaps feeling the same thing, Aperta glanced at me upon hearing His Majesty‘s words. Feeling a bad premonition, I looked at their faces in turn.

“…Is there something?”

When I asked, the two of them smiled brightly in unison.

“I’m counting on you, Viscount Van.”

“I never thought I would entrust the future of our country to a child around ten years old, Your Majesty.”

“Umu, exactly. Hahahaha.”

Having such a conversation, the two laughed aloud. It was a refreshing passing of the buck. No, no, the Kingdom of Scuderia is supposed to be one of the world’s leading major powers. Surely there are researchers in various fields. Somehow, I caught a glimpse of a vibe like, “If it’s making new things, just leave it to the genius boy Van-kun.”

Thinking that, I looked up at the two with half-lidded eyes.

“Eeeh, it’s impossible even for me, you know. If anything, I’d rather improve the ship and make one faster than the Kingdom of Fiesta‘s. Since ballistae don’t have recoil like cannons, they can be installed facing all directions, and their maneuverability should be far better, so I think we can fight like a truly moving fortress.”

When I briefly shared the concept I had been thinking about in my head, His Majesty pulled back his chin with a serious face.

“…Truly, a terrifying boy. What goes on inside that head?”

When His Majesty said that, Aperta also nodded lightly.

“The Kingdom of Fiesta shouldn’t have obtained the Solstice Empire‘s cannons yet. However, Lord Van has already considered how to install cannons if he were to load them on such a ship. You mean to say you had already thought about such things. After analyzing the pros and cons, you concluded that installing ballistae is more powerful…”

Voicing such impressions, the two looked at each other and began a meeting.

“Certainly, Lord Van excels at creating defensive facilities and armed weapons. In that case, it might be better to leave the research of the silver armor to someone else.”

“Ugh… If only there were two Viscount Vans, but that won’t happen. If we push him too hard and Viscount Van runs away, the country will be destabilized… It’s regrettable, but let’s mobilize all researchers to solve the mystery of the silver armor.”

“Come to think of it, Your Majesty. It seems a new confectionery shop related to the Commerce Guild has opened in the Royal Capital. Since Viscount Van has come all the way to the Royal Capital, why not prepare a reception?”

“Ooh, that is good.”

They seem to be whispering, but I can hear them perfectly. Yes, yes, reward the overworked Van-kun. I’ll let you off with sweets as overtime pay. If possible, fruit cake, please.

Van-kun had completely recovered his good mood by eavesdropping on their conversation, but His Majesty‘s subsequent words left him aghast.

“I have been concerned about Viscount Van‘s short stature for some time. His body is too thin too. Let’s have a luxurious meal prepared.”

Saying that, His Majesty lifted the corner of his mouth. Who is short and puny? Even so, I’m trained by Dee and am lean and muscular. I want you to call it an athlete’s build. I pride myself on not losing to anyone in running speed.