Chapter 154: The Celebration of the Alliance and Engagements

Shortly after the Imperial mission returned home, a formal Anti-Monster Alliance treaty was signed between the Albion Kingdom and the Vandle Empire. While deciding which country should host a signing ceremony often involves tedious negotiations, this time it was held in the Royal Capital, Wincester, at the Empire’s request. It was perceived as a sign of the Empire’s gratitude toward the Kingdom.

Prince Ernst visited again for the ceremony. Although such a task could have been left to a Foreign Minister, the Prince coming in person was seen as a testament to the Empire’s sincerity. Consequently, the Kingdom was represented not by a minister, but by Her Highness Princess Flora.

In the Grand Hall of Linkstar Castle, the Prince and Princess signed the treaty. When the two held up the signed documents with smiles, cheers erupted from the gathered Kingdom nobles and officials.

“A historic alliance!” “Long live the Kingdom! Long live the Empire!” “With this, we shall not lose to the monsters!”

The Anti-Monster Alliance treaty stipulated that, in addition to cooperation in battle, the Kingdom would supply wheat and tuberculosis medicine to the Empire at fair prices, while the Empire would supply iron to the Kingdom, also at fair prices.

In return for receiving food and medicine, the Empire agreed to supply iron manufactured in the Empire at their own domestic prices. While they were unable to provide the actual iron-refining methods to the Kingdom, this was still accepted by the Kingdom as a clear manifestation of the Empire’s goodwill.

On the Kingdom’s side, the domestic administration reforms led by Her Highness Flora—utilizing her Merchant Skill—had made it possible to grasp the exact production, consumption, and stock levels of wheat within the country. Thus, we were able to immediately inform the Empire of the specific quantity of wheat available for export.

Until now, no one had grasped the overall state of wheat in the entire Kingdom, so a wave of astonishment spread among the nobles. I hope this serves as the catalyst for Merchant Skills to be truly valued in the Kingdom.

Through this treaty, the Empire no longer fears famine and expects to suppress the terrifying epidemic of tuberculosis. Meanwhile, the Kingdom is expected to reduce casualties in the fight against monsters by purchasing large quantities of iron and upgrading the soldiers’ armor from leather to iron.

I am glad an alliance beneficial to both nations has been realized. This is all thanks to Her Highness Flora‘s persuasion of Prince Ernst. Her reputation within the Kingdom is soaring. No one whispers about a “Doll Princess” anymore.

In the Grand Hall of Linkstar Castle, a celebration banquet was held for the conclusion of the alliance. Reluctantly, I had to sit in the seat of the guest of honor. My stomach feels like it might twist into a knot from the nerves.

“We meet again, Lord William.” “It is an honor to look upon your face once more, Your Highness Prince Ernst.” “You are too stiff. Since you are to wed the Princess, will you not speak more familiarly with me?”

“Even if you say that, I am just a local noble who has lived leisurely in the frontier. It seems difficult to suddenly shift my mindset to being a relative of the Royal Family.” The Prince laughed. “You truly seem troubled. It appears even an formidable genius like you has things he is poor at.” It’s no laughing matter to me. I have even more reason to be nervous after this.

After a while, His Majesty Edgar II stood up. “Everyone! Today is a joyous day, marking our alliance with the Empire. In truth, I have even more good news to report.” As instructed beforehand, I moved to His Majesty’s side along with Princess Flora. Letty, who was at the venue, also moved closer.

“This alliance was sparked by the Empire’s interest in the magnificent things created by William Fairchild’s Production Skill. I believe you all now well understand the merits of the Production Skill.” The gathered nobles of the Kingdom nodded. Ah, it seems the mindset of the people who previously only valued swords and magic has finally changed.

“Furthermore, he has recently developed cold-resistant wheat. In light of these achievements, William shall be ennobled as an Earl upon reaching adulthood.” The Kingdom nobles, including the conservatives, broke into applause. No voices rose to criticize me for being “overly favored” anymore.

“Furthermore, I announce that William and my daughter, Flora, are engaged.” This announcement caused a stir among the nobles. “On behalf of the Vandle Empire, I congratulate the engagement of Princess Flora and Lord William!” Prince Ernst’s blessing caused the surprise to spread even further.

However, once one noble stood up and began to clap, eventually everyone in the Grand Hall stood and joined in. Shouts of “Congratulations!” rose from all sides. Her Highness Flora leaned against me with a beaming smile.

Looking back, having been reincarnated as a producer in a world of swords and magic, I was initially filled with nothing but anxiety. But by crafting things while supported by my family and those around me, I was recognized by His Majesty.

Today, here, the nobles of the Kingdom have finally come to value the Production Skill. Thinking of that, I am deeply moved. With the forces of Darkness growing, I still cannot rest easy regarding whether I can fulfill the role of the Savior. However, I vowed then that I would continue to do my best in my crafting.

“Furthermore, William shall also be engaged to Scarlett of the Cardiff Margrave family. Scarlett is an excellent warrior who possesses the special skill, ‘Magic Sword‘.” Letty leaned against me with a proud expression.

Upon hearing His Majesty’s announcement, not a few nobles wore frustrated faces. It seems there really were nobles thinking of sending their daughters to me as concubines.

“William’s exceptional Production Skill is not only vital for our Albion Kingdom, but it will also serve to repel the monster offensive and open the future for all of humanity.” Prince Ernst nodded at His Majesty’s words.

“From now on, Flora will support William with her Merchant Skill, and Scarlett with her Swordsmanship Skill. Everyone, let us bless these young people!” The loudest applause yet erupted from the nobles and officials gathered in the Grand Hall of the Royal Castle.