Steel, Guns, and the Industrial Party in Another World

Chapter 9: Observations in Lakeheart Town

Chapter 9: Observations in Lakeheart Town

TL: Etude

Baron Hansel Abbott sat gloomily in the carriage, a mood that had persisted for two weeks.

Just over half a month ago, he had joyfully received a royal commission, only to be dumbfounded upon opening it. He was assigned as a permanent representative to a place he had never even heard of before, the Count Grayman's territory in the Northwest Bay, a seemingly forsaken place.

Later, at the military camp, he unexpectedly met the old man he had encountered during his escape. Remembering that the Count Grayman's territory was the old man's home, Hansel was at least relieved to have company for the journey.

The image of his old classmate, Matthew, came to mind. That lucky fellow had stayed under the princess's command, offering flippant remarks like, "Although our positions differ in prestige, we both serve His Majesty the King!" Hansel sneered at the thought. Matthew, who barely managed to offer advice or keep accounts for the princess, was too self-satisfied.

With a feeling of resentment, Hansel thought about his own circumstances. If only he wasn't born illegitimately, if his mother had a better background... but then he dismissed these thoughts. Some things, after all, cannot be changed.

His mission now was to do well in his current role and strive to return to the side of the King and the Princess. His efforts would eventually be recognized, he reassured himself.

Meanwhile, Ford, the steward in the same carriage, was excitedly pointing out the window: "Look, Sir Abbott, that's Lake Al ahead. Actually, the formal name of this land is the Alda Territory, named after this lake. We're approaching Lakeheart Town."

As the trees along the road thinned, a vast lake came into view, with a large island dotted with buildings, including a castle at its center. To Hansel, it looked like nothing more than a slightly larger town.

"This 'town' is the capital of a countdom? It's not even comparable to a rural area near the capital," Hansel scoffed inwardly.

But his lack of experience was to blame. In this era, many lords built their castles in easily defensible locations, whether on cliffs or surrounded by water, as protection against bandits, rebellions, and the covetous eyes of neighboring lords.

Hansel, a young noble from the capital, had little experience outside the immediate vicinity of Crystal Shine Fortress. Even his rare journeys were along bustling trade routes, so he had never seen such a scene before.

Approaching the lake, they discovered a massive floating bridge constructed from specially designed boats linked together. It seemed that in case of an enemy attack, the bridge could be quickly dismantled to prevent crossing.

"Should we disembark and walk to the island?" Hansel worried whether the floating bridge could support the carriage. Ford, sensing his concern, laughed and reassured him, "Please be at ease, Sir Abbott. This floating bridge is very sturdy. A mere carriage is no problem for it."

With such assurances from a local, Hansel relaxed slightly but remained apprehensive as the carriage crossed the bridge. Only upon reaching the island did he fully calm down.

"Now, Sir Abbott, I must first report to the lord. Please rest in the castle guest room with my servant. I will arrange a meeting with the lord for you shortly."

"Alright, Steward Ford."

As the carriage entered the castle gates, they saw the butler, Philip, approaching.

"Steward Ford, you're back at last."

"Philip, good timing. Take me to the count, please."

"Oh dear, I was just about to mention the count to you."