Otome Game Mob Villain

Chapter 652

"The paper made in Astoria and Toga is primarily wood-based, right? Baldia's paper is made from bamboo sourced from Renarute."

"Bamboo paper is higher quality than wood-based paper, but it requires a bit more effort to produce. However, by incorporating magic into the manufacturing process, we've successfully streamlined it. Besides imports, bamboo is also cultivated within Baldia's territory, so we don’t have to worry about raw material shortages."

"The bamboo paper made for the typewriter—or 'Letter-Pressing Machine'—is high-quality and adheres to a fixed standard size. We’ve produced it in the familiar A4 size. In this world, there’s no international standard for paper sizes yet. Mass-produced paper is somewhat uniform, but sizes vary by country, such as in Astoria, Toga, and Renarute’s bamboo paper."

"Once the Letter-Pressing Machine becomes widespread, paper that doesn’t meet the standard will only be usable for handwritten documents. Naturally, paper sizes will gradually unify. Of course, by then, Baldia’s paper—the first to set the standard—will be the top seller in every country. That’s the advantage of being the first mover."

"'I see, bamboo paper. In that case, we can justify it to our homeland and other nations, Lady Chris.'"

"'Yes, exactly. Besides, if the paper’s size and quality aren’t an issue, the Letter-Pressing Machine should work with Astoria’s paper too, right?'"

"At Chris’s sharp question, I narrowed my eyes."

"'That’s right. So, once the Letter-Pressing Machine gains traction, I plan to place an order with Astoria for specialized paper. As long as the quality meets our standards, Baldia can endorse it as ‘official supplies.’'"

"'Supplying the one-of-a-kind consumables needed for a world-first product… I like it.'"

"As Chris and Emma took on their merchant personas, I shifted the topic. 'Well then… There’s more to cover today. Let’s move on to the next introductions.'"

"'More, you say?'"

"With Chris and Emma blinking in surprise, I proceeded to unveil the next wave of new products alongside Ellen and the others."

"These were a series of white magical appliances, primarily vacuum cleaners, washing machines, rice cookers, and heating cookers, developed using rechargeable magic stones and electric motors. With the progress in securing power sources like thermal and hydroelectric generation within Baldia, these appliances have rapidly become practical."

"Though they’re only usable in the new mansion for now, the maids—led by Danae, who was asked to test them—were overjoyed, calling it a 'housework revolution.'"

"With power sources and electric motors secured, I’ve also been drafting plans for a wastewater treatment facility that aerates and purifies sewage. It’s not feasible immediately, but in the near future, constructing a proper sewage system in Baldia will be possible."

"'Within a few years, I want electricity to spread throughout the territory, making appliances accessible to all and raising living standards. At the same time, I’d like Baldia’s urban development to serve as a model. If we can then bring this plan to the imperial capital and secure contracts, Baldia’s influence and financial power will grow exponentially.'"

"If we could monopolize large-scale public works across the entire imperial capital in the future, the revenue would be astronomical."

"'…Magnificent. Truly magnificent, Lord Lidd!'"

"Chris trembled with excitement and leaned forward. 'The Letter-Pressing Machine alone is an incredible product, but vacuum cleaners, washing machines, rice cookers, heating cookers—and even urban development plans with future public works in mind… The Christy Trading Company will continue to support you with all its might, now and always.'"

"'Ah, haha, thank you. Your words are a great reassurance.'"

"As I scratched my cheek and smiled wryly at her enthusiasm, Emma smoothly stepped beside Chris."

"'Lady Chris, if Lord Lidd intends to pursue public works, perhaps our company should consider establishing a construction division.'"

"'You’re right. If Baldia’s urban development advances, we should gather the necessary personnel. Lord Lidd, let’s discuss our next steps in detail later.'"

"'Y-yes. Understood.'"

"After that, Ellen and I were bombarded with questions from Chris and Emma about the products and Baldia’s development plans."

"Though the meeting with Chris concluded smoothly, the hectic days in Baldia continued."

"Coordinating with Amon, reviewing reports from the Second Knight Order in Baldia’s absence, and training for the Beast King Battle—all kept me busy."

"As the day of my departure for the Foxkin territory approached, Father left ahead of me for the imperial capital to report on the events in Zveera to the Emperor and Empress."

"For Renarute, we sent a joint letter—signed by Father and me—delivered by Asuna’s brothers, Raymond and Stein, upon their return home. I was secretly anxious about how King Elias and Queen Eltia would respond."

"'Do not act recklessly or push yourself. Consult me via communication magic before doing anything. Absolutely.'"

"Just before departing for the capital, Father sternly left those words with me. But honestly, I’m not the one being reckless—I’m more like the one being dragged into things."

"In Father’s absence, the butler Galun took over Baldia’s administrative duties. For simpler documents, Mother also helped review them as a way to relax."

"Passing by the office Father and Galun used in the new mansion, I could hear the rapid clacking of the Letter-Pressing Machine in use. When I first gave it to Galun, I think I saw him smile fully for the first time. Though it was only recently, he’s already mastered touch typing. As expected of a capable butler—he’s impressive."

"During my free time, I also checked in on the First Knight Order. As they say, 'position shapes the person,' and Rubens had grown remarkably more composed and authoritative as vice-captain. With Diana pregnant, it was only natural."

"As the vice-captain of the Baldia Knight Order, his salary was quite good. Since I started implementing various changes, the already well-regarded benefits had improved further. Of course, the expectations were higher too."

"My visit to the First Knight Order wasn’t just about Rubens—there was another reason. It concerned Sley Rezner, the former Foxkin warrior I’d written a letter of introduction for."

"Father seemed to know of him, and his hiring was quickly decided. Sley had expressed a desire to become Father’s personal guard, but Father advised him, 'I appreciate the offer, but first, I’d like you to learn Baldia’s customs. Your presence will be a good influence on the First Knight Order.'"

"Sley was once the leader of the Foxkin chieftain’s elite guard, the Bashu Unit. I was worried about conflicts within the knight order, but by the time I visited, the issue had already been resolved."

"Apparently, on the day of his assignment, Rubens and Sley had a full-on sparring match. The result was a narrow victory for Rubens. But this duel quickly established Sley’s reputation as a trustworthy warrior, not just within the First Knight Order but across Baldia."

"When I casually asked Rubens about Sley’s personality or any amusing incidents, he replied, 'Sley? He’s a man of few words. Oh, but he did mutter that Baldia has many tall, well-built beauties.'"

"Turns out, while Sley was indeed a warrior, he was also a 'silent pervert.'"

"One of the more surprising changes during my time in Baldia was Mother’s daily routine. Before the Foxkin territory visit, she often stayed in her room or used a wheelchair outside of rehab. Now, she dressed properly and walked around the mansion and gardens with Diana, Sandra, and the maids."

"According to Sandra, 'This is also proper rehabilitation.' Seeing it with my own eyes, I secretly shed tears of joy."

"Sandra also confided, 'Lady Nanali is secretly training to surprise Lord Lidd and Lord Liner once she fully recovers. Keep it to yourself.' Maybe she told me because she was worried about my trip to the Foxkin territory."

"It’d be tactless to mention knowing about Mother’s efforts, so I’ve kept it to myself."

"Amid the busy days, spending time with Fara, Mel, Kiel, and everyone in Baldia has been truly enjoyable."

"And at last, the day came for me to depart once again for the Foxkin territory."