Chapter 358: The Shadow of the Empire and the Merchant's Scales

Mondeo’s words clearly contained a check against the Kingdom of Scuderia. His intention was likely to advance negotiations to his advantage by dangling a massive backer like the Empire—or perhaps a new trading partner—before us.

Furthermore, the word “fire cannon” concerns me. Is it something like the cannons from my original world? If a weapon using gunpowder has been practicalized, the threat level skyrockets, even in a world of swords and magic. It could easily destroy castle walls.

“……I see. So the Empire possesses wonderful technological and military strength. In that case, does the Kingdom of Fiesta consider an alliance with the Empire to be its top priority?”

When Rosso asked this as a test, Mondeo shook his head without breaking his amiable smile.

“No, no, we are a maritime nation, and a nation of merchants. We believe that trade bringing mutual benefits enriches a country more than domination by force. The Empire is certainly attractive, but their methods are a bit…… forceful.”

He muddied his words, but it isn’t hard to imagine the Empire made unreasonable demands backed by military force. Mondeo’s eyes are smiling, but cold calculation is visible behind them. He evaluates the Empire but doesn’t fully trust them. That is why he came to the Kingdom of Scuderia.

“That brings us to the Kingdom of Scuderia, and by extension, you, Viscount Van. I have received a report from Tran. He says you create very unique things.”

Mondeo’s gaze turned to me again. It was a sticky gaze, like he was appraising a product.

“I don’t know if they are unique, but I do make various things hoping to make the lives of my people even a little easier.”

“No need for humility. The ‘glass products’ and the game called ‘Reversi’ that Tran brought back are highly rated in our home country. Especially the transparency of the glass; even Imperial technicians were astonished by it.”

“That is good to hear. It is all thanks to the hard work of the craftsmen.”

When I answered, Mondeo leaned forward and lowered his voice slightly.

“However, the Empire possesses overwhelming power like the ‘fire cannons.’ What we seek is not merely craft goods. We need the power to protect our country and cross the seas…… or enormous economic benefits sufficient to compensate for that lack. Lord Van, what can you show us?”

It was a clear demand. “Power” to counter the Empire’s cannons, or “Money” to make ignoring them worth it. If I cannot present either, the Kingdom of Fiesta might side with the Empire. If that happens, the Kingdom of Scuderia would not only lose its sea trade route but also be exposed to threats from the south.

The air in the room grew tense. Rosso remained silent, seeming to watch how I would answer. This was likely a trial for me as well.

I took a deep breath once and looked straight back into Mondeo’s eyes.

“……I do not know the extent of the fire cannon’s power, but isn’t the scariest thing for a ship ‘sinking’?”

“Hoh? What do you mean by that?”

“For example, I won’t go so far as to say a ship that never sinks, but if there were a ship that is faster than Imperial ships, has a larger cargo capacity, and is difficult to capsize even in a storm, would that constitute ‘power’?”

At my question, Mondeo opened his eyes slightly wide in surprise for the first time.

“……Faster than Imperial ships and strong against storms, you say. If such a dream-like ship existed, we would certainly want it desperately…… but saying it is easy.”

“Yes, it is. That is why proof is better than argument. I shall show you a part of the blueprints for the new ship being built in my territory, as well as the materials actually being used. Please judge after seeing them.”

I declared this with brimming confidence. It wasn’t a bluff. With the cooperation of the apkallus, knowledge from my past life, and my production magic, I should be able to build a ship that skips several stages of this world’s shipbuilding technology.

Mondeo stared at my face for a few seconds, but eventually, the corners of his mouth lifted into a smirk.

“……Very well. Let us see this ‘proof,’ shall we? If it meets my standards, I shall prioritize dealings with you, even if I have to postpone negotiations with the Empire.”

At the words of Mondeo, who had donned the face of a merchant, I nodded strongly. Here is where the real work begins. Let’s show them the power of Genius Boy Van.