Chapter 194.5: Interlude: Winter Market

(Note: This story takes place between the creation of the heating system and the communication device.)

Winter in the Albion Kingdom is long. Because of the high latitude, days are short in winter; moreover, it is often cloudy, and sunny days are rare.

When winter sets in in earnest, Winter Markets are held in various places throughout the Albion Kingdom. I think it is wisdom for spending the long winter happily.

Amidst the dim and cold daytime, the Winter Market feels like a bright and warm place. Many people gather as if seeking that warmth.

I also came to the Winter Market in Northernford with my fiancées Letty and Flora, and my sister Sophie.

Since Flora is busy with official duties and we rarely get to meet, I invited her to the Winter Market. Since she is coming incognito, there is no need for a long journey by carriage.

When I went to pick her up at the Royal Castle using Teleportation Magic, Cecilia-san whispered to me, “Thank you for keeping your word, William-sama. The Princess is delighted.”

I’m glad if Flora is happy. I am grateful that Cecilia-san follows up on my lack of attentiveness.

The Northernford Winter Market is a success every year, but this year it is even more bustling. According to the steward Smith, thanks to the good economy, the record for the number of stalls has been broken.

Northernford‘s large square was filled with many stalls. Handicrafts like woodwork, handmade jams, and sweets were being sold, illuminated by many lamps.

“Wow, there are more shops than usual.” “That’s true, Sophie. The Northernford Winter Market is originally the largest in the West, but this year it is exceptionally amazing.”

“It is as bustling as the Royal Capital’s Winter Market.” “I think that’s too much praise, but thank you for the compliment, Flora.” Since we are incognito, it is Flora‘s wish that I do not call her “Your Highness” and speak normally.

The staple drink of the Winter Market is Mulled Wine. It is wine heated with spices like cloves and cinnamon. Sometimes sliced oranges or lemons are added.

We also bought Mulled Wine at a stall and walked while blowing on it to cool it down.

Foods that can be eaten while walking are also sold at the stalls. The real thrill of the Winter Market is walking around the stalls with piping hot Mulled Wine and eating warm food.

“I think I’ll have a Bratwurst (grilled sausage).” “Will, you’ve liked that since you were a child.” “Yeah, I think this is the most delicious way to eat Wurst.”

Wurst is the word for sausage in the Northern Empire. The Empire’s Wurst has an exquisite balance of herbs and saltiness. Because it is delicious, it has spread to the Albion Kingdom as well.

Receiving a Bratwurst sandwiched in a small round bread from the stall lady, I bit into it. Such bad manners are forgiven at the Winter Market. Letty also ordered a Bratwurst and stood next to me.

“I will have a Schneeball!” Sophie ordered a sweet sold at a stall. Schneeball, as expected, means “snowball” in the Imperial language.

Strips of cookie dough are woven into a ball shape and then deep-fried. It seems it is called Schneeball because the dusted powdered sugar looks like powder snow.

“I will have the same thing.” Flora also ordered a Schneeball, and the two began to eat deliciously.

Although interaction between the Kingdom and the Empire at the state level was scarce, merchants travel back and forth quite actively. Conversely, things like Albion Kingdom tea seem to have spread to the Northern Empire, and we are influencing each other regarding culture and lifestyle.

As the four of us looked around the stalls, I recalled that many things happened last year. I was surprised when the goodwill delegation from the Empire asked for me to be the Imperial Princess’s groom. At that time, Flora awakened and negotiated skillfully, which saved me.

In Woodpole, I learned the terror of a massive monster horde. At one point I was prepared to retreat, but thanks to Letty awakening and leading the Golems, we were able to hold our ground.

My sister Sophie also demonstrated the power of Trimagia and was active on the battlefield. Thinking back, I was able to overcome it somehow because everyone supported me. Theo is my partner in creation, and Oliver supports me with the Akashic Records and merchant power.

I realized once again that I must be grateful. While I was thinking about that, the three girls were getting excited in front of a stall before I knew it.

“Wow, this looks warm and nice.” “It feels like the maker’s feelings are put into it.” It seems to be a shop selling handmade wool cold-weather gear.

The three bought woolen scarves and hats in different colors. “Ehehe, we’re matching.” Letty and Flora smiled at the happy-looking Sophie.

Thinking the three of them looked just like sisters, I realized that they would indeed become sisters-in-law before long, and I felt somewhat embarrassed.

After that, the four of us continued to go around the stalls, and it became a very fun day. I thought that I definitely want to hold a Winter Market in the undeveloped lands that will eventually become my territory.