This was because the rugged terrain made for an excellent fortress wall.

But it also had difficulties in expansion.

This was because there were many monsters like the Rock Thieves around.

But now, they could absorb as much land as they wanted.

'Of course, it shouldn't go beyond this guy's sphere of influence.'

But where was this?

Even if Abel didn't bother, the business of the Dapan Group would go well.

In addition to the spirit tree production sector and processing plants, other facilities would also be safe.

It would become a springboard for the growth of the Duchy of Crawford itself.

Abel's role here was slowly coming to an end.

"I have to finish up and go back."

---

Duke Crawford had a pitiful expression on his face.

The reason was that Abel told him he was leaving.

"Huh! The country is finally back on track, and now it's going back down. What a shame."

"From now on, His Majesty the King will be able to rule directly."

Abel explained about the Dapan Group's business premises and the newly built school.

There was nothing much to say about the spirit tree production plant.

Because the employees of the Dapan Group would produce it and export it to the Empire.

Since they could collect a lot of tariffs, the country's finances would become more and more abundant.

Abel had given orders to the Rock Mountain Keeper so he could also establish royal prestige.

There was only a bright future ahead for the Duchy of Crawford.

"Thank you so much. You changed everything."

It was only a few years ago that Paley III was eating Cordyceps sinensis pills and feeling energetic.

But Paley III was now well into his old age.

No matter how many stimulants he took, his vitality just dwindled day by day.

He would probably pass the title on to Princess Justia soon.

Then, when a grandson was born, that boy would become the new king.

It was a hereditary method often used in royal families without sons.

"But, what will the new school they're building be used for?"

Paley III was also a figure who had ruled the country for a long time.

He was well aware that the existence of the school was a threat to the nobility.

Because a revolution always started with the smart lower classes.

But there was no need to be afraid either.

"Schools are for the lower class. The educational programs provided by the Dapan Group can produce excellent bureaucrats."

"Oh? I see."

"If we strictly educate them to be loyal to the royal family, there will be no precedents like the Marquis of Soltri."

The existence of political parties had both advantages and disadvantages.

It was good to hear various positions and opinions, but on the other hand, there was also the possibility that they would become powerful.

It didn't matter if there was a powerful force like an empire, but the Duchy of Crawford was in danger of losing its country.

Because the influence of the aristocracy had grown greater than that of the royal family.

But if the bureaucratic academy had been functioning properly, that wouldn't have happened.

"I will do my best for the remaining schedule."

"Thank you so much."

Paley III held Abel's hand tightly and shed hot tears.

It wasn't his original image, but he seemed quite moved.

"I was actually worried that the interim prime minister might not do his job properly or might have other dreams."

"No way. How deep is your friendship with His Majesty that you would do something like that?"

"That's why I specifically chose you. As the Emperor's cousin, I didn't think you would covet power in a small country like this."

"It was an excellent choice."

At first, it was an unpleasant order.

But there was nothing to be gained here.

No, actually, Abel ended up making a huge discovery.

Because the production of spirit wood through Mothra was the starting point of a major fuel revolution.

From now on, people would not have to light a fire in the fireplace or stove.

They wouldn't have to worry about environmental pollution. Just one spirit tree cube would keep them going for a week.

It only burned for a day, so why did it last so long?

'You don't always leave the lights on.'

If used sparingly, one Spirit Tree Cube could last for almost two weeks.

Since fire control was easy, many things would change in the future.

There was going to be a real revolution in the kitchen.

"It has been an honor to serve you in the Duchy of Crawford. Stay healthy, Your Highness."

As Abel was about to stand up after saying his closing remarks, Paley III grabbed him.

"Can you wait a moment?"

"Yes?"

"I'm saying this because I feel so sorry. I feel like if it weren't for now, we wouldn't be able to form a stronger bond."

Abel didn't understand for a moment.

'This man's only grown child is Princess Justia?'

She was already married to Izukaya.

But what kind of strong relationship was this?

As Abel looked at him with puzzled eyes, Paley III spoke with a meaningful smile.

"I have a few more children. Do you plan on getting married?"

"I don't quite understand."

"Thanks to the Cordyceps sinensis extract, the results were really good. Even though she's young, she's very cute."

"Yes? Well, then?"

"You guessed right. These are the children my other wife gave birth to. The older one is about six years old."

"...."

There was a custom of early marriage among high-ranking nobles.

It was a political choice to form an alliance in advance.

Even so, she was a six years old girl.

Abel ended up making a dumbfounded expression.

But Paley III seemed sincere.

Abel felt like he definitely had to refuse.

"No."

"No, I told you she's really pretty. Just wait 10 years.Alice will grow up to be as pretty as you."

Wait a minute, what the hell was this old man talking about?

Abel hurried out of the palace, leaving the sticky Paley III behind.