To establish a realm where humans and monsters could genuinely prosper together—that was my goal. Monsters came in countless forms, many closer to demi-humans than pure beasts, yet that distinction was trivial compared to the vision I sought. The phrase common prosperity encapsulated exactly what I intended for Eterna and its surrounding lands.
At the center was Eterna, our dominion. To the east lay Dwargon, to the west Blumund, and to the south, the vast monster territories under Milim's leadership. Beyond Blumund stretched large human settlements, connecting northward to Farmenas and southward to the Sorcerer's Dynasty of Sarion.
Blumund served as the gateway to the Western Nations. If these regions cooperated under a shared vision, the concept of human-monster prosperity would extend across the continent, and the circle of influence would finally take form.
"Thank you for your answer," Myuran spoke with composure. "Then my question is this: our kingdom will do all it can to aid Your Majesty Atem in realizing this goal. Fortunately, our nobles—persuaded by Diablo's guidance—have grown cooperative. Their obedience aligns with your vision. As a first step, we plan to launch national enterprises under your directive. With these considerations…"
"What sort of enterprise should we establish?" she asked, voice steady.
"Start as we discussed—agriculture," I commanded, voice resonant, leaving no room for doubt.
"It should be manageable. Orders have been given to manage specific crops," she replied.
"And what about—" I began, only to realize she had already anticipated every question, every possibility. Diablo had undoubtedly tamed the nobles behind the scenes, and Youm's influence secured civilian compliance. Militarily, internal factions had achieved consensus.
The old Farmus had fallen, replaced by Farmenas, a nation stabilized and ready to grow. The first step—ending unrest—was complete. Citizens were being comforted, and industrial focus shifted toward sustainable agriculture. Myuran's execution of long-term plans was precise; Diablo's guidance was invisible but present.
"Then gather the unemployed for labor," I ordered, authority unwavering.
"As Your Majesty commands," Myuran acknowledged. "We planned to employ our own workforce to lay railway tracks. As a transportation method for our agricultural products, this network will become a vital lifeline."
"Indeed. Surplus crops must reach other nations efficiently; perishables demand timely transport. This industry will define your nation's future."
Previously, Farmus merely resold imported goods from Dwargon—handcrafts, equipment, items that did not spoil. Merchants handled the logistics, while the nation profited via tariffs. That model would end. Now, the nation itself must ensure the integrity and reliability of goods. The era of passive oversight had passed; accountability and efficiency were required.
"I anticipate the day the magitrain traverses our plains. Trade practices will evolve with it. Nations must adapt to remain relevant," I declared, letting the vision resonate.
"It will surpass horse-drawn carriages. What previously took a week, will take three hours. Storage requirements will multiply exponentially!"
"W-what?!" The room erupted in stunned disbelief. Gazel and Elmesia expected this, their expressions calm, but the others froze, overwhelmed by the reality of rapid transformation. Yuuki, Hinata, and Masayuki
merely offered reserved smiles, recognizing the gravity without outward shock.
"Land acquisition for tracks must proceed immediately," I continued. "Surveying will determine optimal routes. Geld's men, along with our town's beastmen trainees, will perform initial work. I will personally confirm the final plans. Myuran, secure labor to lead them, appoint literate coordinators, and divide them into efficient platoons."
"Understood, Your Majesty. I am eager to begin," Myuran said, resolve clear in her eyes. The plan was accepted, aid offered voluntarily, and the foundation for progress laid.
Fuze raised a hesitant hand next. "With so many figures present, I waited for the proper moment," he said, wry smile betraying nervousness.
He had been present since the pre-festival night but had not dared speak amidst powerful company. I had noticed his restraint and intended to greet him later, though the opportunity slipped my mind.
"Ah, forgive me. I intended to greet you before," I said, acknowledging him.
"It was not necessary, Your Majesty. My friend wished to speak as well, and the timing is perfect. His matter aligns with current discussions," Fuze explained.
He introduced Baron Veryard, whom I knew well—a man of experience and intelligence, not to be underestimated.
"I am Veryard. I apologize for intruding upon this assembly. Your Majesty Atem, it is an honor. To all present, greetings," he said with poised elegance, bowing deeply. Unlike minor nobles, his presence carried authority.
"Allow me to speak for King Dolam of Blumund," he continued, glancing at the seated royal couple. Their presence was unexpected but welcome.
I had intended to hold a formal conference afterward, but this would serve the same purpose—strategic negotiation in real-time.
"King Dolam foresaw Blumund becoming a key hub for continental trade. After hearing Your Majesty, I realize your plan is to transform our nation into a central node for exports. Once the magitrain operates, logistics will be forever altered. Goods from across the continent will converge here. We will require personnel to manage them and organize supply and demand across nations. Your Majesty, is this the role you envision for our kingdom?" Veryard asked, precise and thorough.
Indeed, it was the role. I measured my response carefully. "Precisely. Will you accept it? Naturally, we will compensate for land usage, paying tariffs annually for the space provided."
"Surely, Your Majesty, you do not underestimate our resolve. Our people will not remain idle, content with simple profit. We shall train and prepare them for the demands ahead," Veryard replied, sharp and insightful.
Impressive. Even without Solarys, Sovereign of Wisdom, this human had grasped the complexity of my strategy. Blumund would undergo a fundamental transformation, a national paradigm shift. Veryard anticipated the necessary reforms and acted preemptively. A rare intellect, aligned with my vision.
"I request your continued support. Investigate export items, establish a distribution system, and ensure supplies reach where they are needed. Your kingdom's intelligence network will be invaluable," I commanded.
"Understood, Your Majesty. I will consider the matter in detail upon returning," he replied, eyes steady and determined.
I nodded, satisfaction tempered by caution. What had begun as a routine reflection meeting had evolved into a pivotal negotiation. The Kingdom of Blumund was now fully invested in the broader vision. With Veryard's cooperation, the foundation for human-monster prosperity across the continent was taking shape.
I allowed myself a moment to consider the next steps. The groundwork was laid, alliances secured, yet the weight of responsibility remained. How to proceed with Veryard—and the extensive coordination his role entailed—would require careful planning.
The meeting had begun as a formality but had become a turning point. The path forward was clear: strategy, authority, and vision would shape the continent under my guidance.
Now that the difficult matters of governance had been addressed, it was time to proceed with the reflection meeting. I shifted my demeanor, letting the weight of authority settle over the assembly, prepared to hear candid opinions.
"Next—does anyone have anything to say?" I asked, voice commanding attention.
At my words, someone rose anxiously. I could sense trouble before even seeing the person. It was Veldora. My instincts warned me, yet I chose to observe quietly.
"Atem… what was that?"
His tone demanded an answer, but he hardly seemed prepared for one.
"What do you mean?" I asked evenly.
"The labyrinth! I had high expectations, yet in the end, no one reached the hundredth floor!"
I clenched my jaw briefly. Did my previous scolding count for nothing? Had he ignored it entirely? And yet, responding impulsively would only provoke chaos. I held myself in check.
"Personally," I began, voice firm and resonant, "I am not entirely satisfied with the results either."
"Right? You are reliable as always. How do you intend to adjust things going forward?" Veldora pressed, eyes blazing with frustration.
Immediate results would not appear; not until adventurers capable of reaching the upper floors emerged. "Based on what has transpired, we cannot advance yet. The adventurers were mostly average or only moderately experienced. They are competent, yes, but not ready for the upper challenges."
"Competent…?" His words carried disbelief.
"That may sound blunt, yet it is the truth," I replied, unwavering.
The Kabal trio appeared disheartened, though they had spent their time treasure-hunting rather than preparation. Masayuki attempted to console them. "All I did was walk through, and somehow we ended up at level ten. By the time I realized, my companions had defeated the Floor Boss…" His tone carried a subtle edge, bordering on ridicule, though he tried to soften it.
Elen, however, remained calm, seemingly unfazed. Perhaps to the trio, the situation was not as dire. Their composure suggested it was best to let them be.
"—In other words, your moment has not yet arrived," I said, imposing my judgment.
"WHAT! Then Milim, Ramiris, and my efforts were all wasted?!" Veldora roared. His indignation was loud, yet I restrained myself from indulging in prolonged debate. This was not a matter for quarrels.
"Do not fret," I continued, my tone both commanding and reassuring. "The labyrinth demonstration achieved a remarkable promotional effect for the nations observing us."
"Huh?" Veldora blinked, taken aback.
"Myourmiles, come forward and explain." I commanded.
Myourmiles rose with measured confidence. "Due to the public display of labyrinth footage, the nations became intensely curious. The chance to obtain rare-grade items from random treasure chests heightened this effect significantly."
"And all thanks to me…" Veldora muttered, though I remained silent, letting the recognition linger.
"All noblemen observing will want to send adventurers there," Myourmiles continued. "Those who hire powerful mercenaries or adventurers as guards will view this as an opportunity. The promise of treasure ensures repeated attempts and growing competition. Even unemployed adventurers will be drawn by the potential rewards."
I noted his underlying scheme, though outwardly it remained hidden. Myourmiles intended more than just spectacle; he was orchestrating a lottery system. By allowing observers to witness others obtaining rare rewards, he stoked ambition, greed, and rivalry—a controlled frenzy to ensnare both adventurers and nobles. The labyrinth would become a trap of profit and influence.
"In addition, I propose a prize system," Myourmiles said, eyes gleaming. "Those who reach level 100, conquering the labyrinth, shall receive substantial rewards. Naturally, nobles will sponsor adventurers, providing the finest gear and resources. Their adventurers' glory becomes theirs, creating an incentive to invest heavily."
The logic was sound. Even the most cautious noble would find the labyrinth irresistible. The sponsors themselves would gain prestige, while financial gain flowed through controlled channels. Moreover, by maintaining noble presence within our nation, we ensure additional economic and social activity.
Using live footage of labyrinth exploration as entertainment, we could attract further attention and participation. Supplementary projects would only enhance the effect.
I studied Myourmiles, impressed despite his reputation as a troublemaker. His foresight was exceptional. Every angle of profit, influence, and engagement had been anticipated. The labyrinth would serve as both spectacle and instrument of control, a proving ground for adventurers and a source of wealth and leverage for our nation.
Indeed, the nobles would find it irresistible if their challengers achieved notable success. Everything had been calculated. Myourmiles had anticipated it all.
I allowed the assembly to absorb the weight of his explanation. My authority remained unchallenged, yet I acknowledged the brilliance in strategy and foresight. The labyrinth was not merely a test—it was a tool to shape the future.