Volume 03 Chapter 95: Asgard and the Dwarves

"It's been a while, Lord Edward."

"You seem well as ever, which is a relief. It's good to see Chris doing well too."

Accompanied by Lord Edward, who mentioned wanting to discuss something now that work had reached a temporary pause, I strolled through Asgard. Initially, I thought we might talk in the conference room, but he proposed a walk to see the recent developments in Asgard.

"That's a dwarf, isn't it?... As expected of Lord Grace, I heard that you've accepted refugees from Dwerl, and they seem to be adapting quickly."

"What are they up to?"

Despite Lord Edward's gaze filled with admiration, I couldn't help but raise an incredulous voice. It's understandable. After all, I recognized the dwarves wearing maid uniforms, enticing customers in front of Sarah's cafeteria.

"They're selling fried potatoes! They're delicious! And if you get it with fire liquor, it's a great deal!"

"What are you doing, Ruby?"

"Oh, Lord Grace! Sarah asked me, you know. She said if I'm free, why not work for her! So, wanna try some?"

That's Ruby for you. She's working as a vendor alongside some other dwarves. Well, dwarves are cute, and their ample bosoms certainly attract a certain demographic of men, so there's demand for them... even if she's technically a princess... Well, if she's enjoying herself, I suppose it's fine...?

Female dwarves are rare outside Dwerl, so they're well-suited for attracting customers in the increasingly busy streets of Asgard. Sarah is quite savvy in business.

"Lord Grace... those are unusual dishes. May I try one?"

"Yes, feel free."

Indeed, as a merchant, he couldn't resist trying an unfamiliar dish. If he likes it, selling the recipe might be a good idea.

"Hehe, such lovely dwarves. Could I have one, please?"

"Oh, sure! How about some fire liquor, a speciality of the dwarves?"

"Thank you. I'm interested in the fire liquor too, but since I'm working, I'll save it for another time."

When Lord Edward bought and tasted the fried potatoes from Ruby, his eyes widened.

"Hmm... just freshly cut potatoes, and yet, they're so delicious? Indeed, they go well with alcohol..."

"Oh, we're also working on developing seasonings for these potatoes. Look forward to it."

Based on Galatea's idea, Sarah is currently considering several candidates. The product name is apparently 'Frilly Potato'. Certainly, it seems like it could go well with various seasonings besides just salt.

As we entered the recently established workshop area, we could hear the sounds of clanging and hammering.

"This is a workshop we built for the immigrants from Dwerl. We're conducting experiments on improving ultra-mithril and developing new materials."

"Ah... combining Dwarven technology with relics from Souzy... It's exciting to think about the possibilities."

"Yes, Asgard will continue to develop even further."

While we were talking, I noticed Agni speaking with one of the dwarves. He seemed to have become friends with them while listening to their requests and constructing buildings. And when our eyes met, he had a look on his face as if to say, "Oops..." before running away.

I have a bad feeling about this... He isn't collaborating with the dwarves to create unnecessary things, is he?

And as we finished walking through the workshop district, Lord Edward spoke with a serious expression.

"Lord Grace, Asgard will continue to thrive. But as it does, we'll likely face more adversaries. Please be particularly wary of the 'Commercial Alliance'. They are likely eyeing Asgard's successful replication of Souzy's relics."

"I see... So they're on that side..."

Upon hearing those words, I found myself lost in thought. So, that letter was probably just reconnaissance... But, the ideology of the Commercial Alliance aligns closely with what I envisioned, so I thought we could collaborate...

Well, if they're going to be enemies, then there's no choice but to fight...

"Lord Grace... why are you smiling?"

"Huh...?"

I let out a slightly awkward chuckle at Lord Edward's words. Why did I immediately think of fighting as the first option? Isn't that just like my damn father and brothers?

"Oh, I just remembered something amusing."

"As long as it's nothing serious..."

As I hurriedly brushed it off, Lord Edward hesitantly made a request.

"So, if it's alright, could you arrange a meeting with the Dwarven princess? I'd like to establish a connection since Dwerl's Dwarves' technology is quite appealing to me."

"Huh? But haven't you already met her?"

"Wha...?"

This time, it was Lord Edward who let out a dumbfounded voice.