I’m the fifth son of a count’s family, but I became the head of a duke’s house.
Upon returning to the marquisate’s capital, I found myself confined to my office.
“Hey… Erich. Haven’t we seen this before?”
Faced with the towering mountain of paperwork before me, I couldn’t help but let out a dry chuckle.
Strange. It’s almost winter, so I didn’t expect this much administrative paperwork to pile up…
I glance through the gaps in the stacks of documents to check on Erich. He, too, is clinging to his desk, but without meeting my gaze, he replies languidly.
“What a coincidence. I also recall the Duke moving his mouth more than his hands.”
So, basically, stop whining like last time and get to work…
It’s just hard to get started. I mean, I know that if I don’t begin, I’ll never finish, but… you know that feeling? Like when you know you have to do your summer homework, but the sheer weight of accumulated despair makes you want to run away? Just me?
Seeing my reluctance, Erich lets out a deep sigh.
“The documents include tax revenue reports, the latest report from the workshop on the hot springs, and numerous letters from the noble families within the encirclement.”
Ah. The hot springs were my idea, and the letters from the nobles are the result of all the chaos I stirred up.
Yeah… This is definitely my fault.
Alright! Time to get to work like a responsible adult.
First, the tax revenues… I thought our finances were looking good, but it’s tighter than expected. We’re barely in the black. It’s mainly due to the increase in soldiers, the costs of developing prosthetic arms and legs, and—above all—the support for runaway farmers. Providing them with housing, seeds, and food aid has been a heavier burden than expected… There was no wheat harvest this year, but things should improve next year.
Next, the hot springs.
After consulting with the architects, construction has already begun. According to the reports, the progress is much faster than anticipated. It seems that the prosthetics are proving to be more useful than expected.
Well, those who received prosthetic limbs probably feel more motivated now, which might be boosting productivity.
And finally, the biggest issue…
I turn to the largest stack of letters.
All of these are from the noble families forming the encirclement to the east of our territory. There are barons, viscounts, and even knights serving some noble houses who have sent personal letters.
Though written in formal and complex language, the contents can be categorized into three types:
The first group consists of nobles who have sworn loyalty to the royal family and are now seeking our help after the confrontation with Count Kastaren.
The second group includes small border nobles who, while not originally loyal to the royal family, feel uneasy about Count Kastaren’s actions and have offered their surrender. Unlike the first group, they’re willing to become our vassals. The difference is subtle but significant—the first group seeks an alliance as equals, whereas the second is pledging direct subordination.
And the third group—this one is the most common.
They don’t like Count Kastaren, but they don’t like us either. So, they’re taking a neutral stance. Seriously? After participating in the encirclement, they suddenly want to act impartial?
It’s a clear display of noble pride, refusing to submit too easily.
Now then… What to do?
I fold my arms and ponder.