The harvest of coffee beans and cacao beans, the largest sources of income for the Landmark family, had been successfully completed, and the processing facilities for ‘coffee’ and ‘chocolate’ had become busy.
Additionally, the production of ‘Carriage No. 1,’ ‘Rickshaws’, and ‘Handcarts’ continued to be busy throughout the year.
Also, the pasta, udon, and okonomiyaki-like foods produced within the territory, which had become staple foods, were gradually becoming known in other territories. Notably, the creation of a large-scale noodle factory in Marquis Sugoella’s territory ignited their popularity.
Although it took several years, once they started marketing with the slogan “the taste enjoyed in the Landmark territory,” they quickly began to sell surprisingly well.
Ryu keenly felt that the name of Landmark had spread and gained credibility in the southeastern region, becoming a trend.
With this momentum, Ryu began to think about his next move: a nationwide expansion.
The Landmark territory was located at the southeastern edge of the country, and because it was literally sending goods from the frontier, it was inconvenient for merchants to come from the distant royal capital to procure goods.
Until now, the production bases had been concentrated in the Landmark territory, Marquis Sugoella’s territory, and Count Bridge’s territory.
Therefore, going to the royal capital for the entrance exams was a chance. Ryu thought that even if he failed the exams, it would still be worthwhile if he could establish a base in the royal capital.
Ryu decided to consult with Farza about this.
Ryu immediately went to the study and proposed his idea to his father, Farza, who was looking over some documents.
“Establish a base in the royal capital?”
Farza raised his eyes from the documents in surprise at Ryu’s proposal.
“Yes! Because of the physical distance, we’ve only been trading through merchants until now, but if we consider the future, I think it would be easier to expand nationwide if we establish manufacturing bases for ‘Passenger Carriage No. 1,’ ‘Rickshaws,’ and the noodle factory over there as well.”
“That’s true, but… managing it would be difficult, wouldn’t it?”
“We’ll be fine because I have my ‘Dimension Corridor’ skill! Besides, didn’t the merchants from the royal capital complain about how far it is?”
“Well, that’s true…”
Farza smiled wryly.
“Little by little, ‘coffee’ and ‘chocolate’ are making the Landmark name known in the royal capital, so this is a crucial moment, Father.”
Although Farza was worried.
“Alright, we’ll make this the main topic for discussion during this year’s budget meeting. Let’s discuss it with everyone and come to a decision.”
He cautiously avoided making a direct decision.
“And so, Ryu has proposed that we establish a base in the royal capital…”
Farza sought opinions from grandfather Kamiza, the butler Sebastian, Captain Sugo, Tauro, who was back during vacation, Jiro, Sima, and Leanne.
“Isn’t it a good idea? This territory has become prosperous, and we have some leeway. It’s gratifying that our products are being recognized elsewhere. I think it’s worth taking the risk.”
Grandfather Kamiza agreed.
“I also agree with Master Ryu’s proposal.”
Said Sebastian.
“I think it’s a good idea. Orders from the royal capital have been increasing little by little. Considering it takes at least three weeks to deliver, being able to supply them immediately from a nearby base would be beneficial.”
Captain Sugo casually made a good point.
“I agree too, Father. Fortunately, Ryu has the ‘Dimension Corridor’ skill, so if he sets up a portal over there, he can travel back and forth quickly. We can communicate closely through Ryu, so I don’t think it would be a problem.”
His eldest son, Tauro, agreed.
“I agree too. Competing in the royal capital isn’t something to be taken lightly, but with the current recognition of the Landmark family name, I think it’s worth the challenge.”
Jiro, who had felt the popularity of the Landmark name in Marquis Sugoella’s territory, expressed his confidence.
“I agree as well! If the Landmark name and crest become famous in the royal capital, we should definitely go for it!”
Sima, like Jiro, felt proud of the Landmark name.
“Everyone agrees! If that’s the case, we should go for it! Leave Ryu’s protection over there to me!”
Leanne raised her hand, thinking she represented everyone, but her words made everyone uneasy.
“…Should we have one more person accompany them to the royal capital?”
Farza suggested.
“If that’s the case, I’m willing to go. The territorial soldiers have grown quite capable, and we can trust Kamiza-san with things here. Either way, it’s a three-week journey one way, and someone needs to lead the soldiers back on the return trip.”
Captain Sugo volunteered.
“Ah, if it’s Sugo, I feel reassured. Then, when Ryu and the others go, I’ll rely on you.”
Farza said, unexpectedly placing strong trust in the boisterous captain.
“Count on me!”
Sugo thumped his chest and laughed heartily.
“Lastly, there’s one important condition for expanding in the royal capital.”
Farza prefaced with a serious expression.
“””Condition?”””
Everyone focused their attention.
“It won’t mean anything if Ryu and Leanne don’t pass their exams.”
“””Ah.”””
Everyone realized they had forgotten the most crucial aspect for the Landmark family.
