A Festival in Wales
Aglovale and (Captain) are making their way around a festival in Wales. A few days prior, Aglovale had summoned Percival and Tor to the castle, requesting their help in gauging the reactions of local merchants to some newly implemented policies. After selecting (Captain) to be his companion for the day, Aglovale visits the festival stalls himself to talk with their owners.
Aglovale: Good... Relax your shoulders.
Aglovale: I will support your arm.
Aglovale: Aim a little higher. Unlike a real pistol, these bullets do not fly quite as far.
Aglovale: Excellent. Now you can pull the trigger.
Aglovale: Well done, (Captain). As you can see, target practice is not as easy as it seems.
Triumphant, (Captain) receives a prize from the stall owner for successfully knocking down a target at a shooting gallery.
Aglovale: Haha! You certainly look proud of yourself. It seems teaching you personally was a wise choice after all.
A festival is being held in the castle town of Wales, a kingdom under Aglovale's rule. Numerous stalls line the busy streets.
Aglovale and (Captain) have come to the festival by themselves due to a decision made a mere few days prior.
Percival: Aglovale. I have returned.
Tor: As have I, my lord.
Aglovale: Very well. Now that we've assembled, let us begin our discussion.
Percival and Tor have been summoned by Aglovale to Wales Castle.
Aglovale: Firstly, Percival. Since leaving you with overseeing the east district, I've noticed that the expressions of the citizens have become somewhat brighter.
Aglovale: This can be attributed to your hard work. There are minor aspects that can be improved, of course, but the results have been beyond my expectations.
Percival: Thank you. The positive changes are thanks to the cooperation of everyone in the east district. We shall continue tackling the issues at hand together.
Aglovale: Heh, I like the look on your face. The governing of the east district will remain in your hands then, Percival.
Percival: Understood. I will do my utmost so that I may be worthy of overseeing other districts as well in the future.
Aglovale: Now, let's discuss the matter I have called on the both of you for.
Aglovale: Recently, I've implemented new provisional measures to encourage free trade and stimulate activity for the marketplace.
Aglovale: I would like to verify the efficacy of these measures. In order to do that, I believe there is need to listen to the voices of the people firsthand.
Percival: So you've called on us to assist with the inspection of these new measures.
Aglovale: Indeed. I wish to gather the opinions of the people on-site.
Aglovale: However, that is not the only reason I've summoned you here today.
Percival: You wish to make this into an opportunity for future endeavors.
Aglovale: As always, your quick understanding is impeccable.
Will the two of you take on this task?
Percival: Of course.
Tor: I humbly accept.
Aglovale: As the new policies are quite drastic, we must hear what our people have to say.
Aglovale: A festival to commemorate the founding of Wales is to be held soon, correct?
Tor: Yes. Every year, many merchants take the festival as a major business opportunity and set up stalls around the town.
Aglovale: It should be easier to hear their honest opinions at an occasion that does not necessarily adhere to the usual formalities.
Percival: So the plan is to make a visit to the festival and talk to the merchants there.
Aglovale: Exactly. As the festival will be taking place over the course of several days, making daily visits should bear us the fruit we seek.
Aglovale: I'd like the two of you to gauge the people's reactions—Tor from a merchant's point of a view, and Percival from a governing perspective.
Percival: Understood. Leave it to me.
Tor: I will gladly devote myself to the task.
Eventually, the first day of the festival arrives. Percival and Tor head into town to assess the views of the people.
Aglovale: ...
Percival: Aglovale. Tor and I have finished with the preparations and are ready to head into town.
Tor: You have been rather occupied as of late, Lord Aglovale. Perhaps it would be in your best interest to take a short rest.
Aglovale: Ah... Is it time already?
Wait here for a moment.
Percival: ...?
Aglovale: I am ready.
Percival: ...
Tor: A yukata... I was not aware that you had something like this prepared.
Aglovale: Heh. I had an up-and-coming tailor in Wales make one that accommodated my tastes, along with this folding fan.
Aglovale: Surely this guise will allow me to enjoy the festival's atmosphere to the fullest.
Aglovale: Well then. Let us get on with our investigation.
Percival: You intend to join us for the assessment?
Aglovale: What do you mean, Percival? There is no reason to let such an intriguing opportunity escape me.
Percival: So this is what you've been planning all along...
Aglovale: One must look the part first, after all. Interviewing the citizens will remain the main objective.
Aglovale: Still, we may stand out from the crowd if all three of us were to walk together...
Tor: That is true. I worry you and Lord Percival will not be able to proceed through the throng of citizens, who will no doubt be enamored by both of your presence.
Aglovale: I would hate to interrupt the festivities.
Aglovale: Let us split up. The two of you can go together—I'll be fine alone.
Percival: Would it not be best if at least one other person accompanied you for the day?
Tor: My lord, I doubt danger will befall you as your strength is more than enough... but Lord Percival makes a good point.
Aglovale: Hahaha! Yes, I suppose leaving the lord of this kingdom on his own would wound your reputations.
Aglovale: Do we have anyone suitable for accompanying me?
Tor: As this person will be by your side while you gather the people's opinions, it will need to be someone in a position that is appropriate for the role.
Tor: However, it would not be in our interest to choose someone who may appear intimidating to the average citizen. In that case, rather than a guard...
Percival: ...
Aglovale: It seems you have someone in mind, Percival.
Percival: Yes. One name came to me immediately.
Aglovale: Heh. The same idea crossed my mind as well.
Aglovale: Tor. Care to speculate on whom Percival and I speak of?
Tor: Very well... This is merely by intuition, but if I were to make a guess...
Tor: Would it be (Captain)?
Aglovale: Correct. Seems it was too easy of a question for you.
You thought the same, did you not, Percival?
Percival: Yes. (Captain) immediately came to mind.
Aglovale: Wales owes its peace to (Captain). The captain would be more than suitable for the job.
Tor: Then I shall send a request to (Captain) immediately. Hopefully the festival will not have ended before the captain's arrival.
Tor: As for today... may I suggest one of our civil officials to escort you for the day?
Aglovale: Very well. I'll leave the arrangements to you, Tor.
Finally, the last day of the festival comes around.
(Captain) has arrived at Wales to accompany Aglovale to the festival.
Aglovale: Thank you for coming, (Captain). I see you are dressed in a yukata as well.
Aglovale: Today marks the day the House of Wales first swung its axe to cut through the thick trees that once concealed this land.
Aglovale: Though the date is not exact, as there are no official records of the moment. Regardless, the people of Wales have come to celebrate it and that is how this festival came to be.
Aglovale: Today is the final day of festivities. Come, follow me.
When Aglovale turns his back, Tor leans forward to whisper into (Captain)'s ear.
Tor: Recently, Lord Aglovale's days have been immensely occupied with implementing a number of new measures.
Tor: I was thinking that perhaps walking around the festival stalls with you will help Lord Aglovale relax.
(Captain) gives Tor a reassuring nod.
Tor: Thank you, (Captain). You are as dependable as always.
Aglovale: What are you doing, (Captain)? Make haste.
Aglovale and (Captain) step foot onto the main street of the castle town, where countless stalls line the sides.
The captain leads Aglovale around the festival, allowing him to soak in the celebrations and separate himself from his responsibilities for a short while.
Aglovale: Heh, I did not expect to enjoy myself so much at the stalls.
Aglovale: Experiencing how the people of Wales make merry can help me understand them and do better in governing this land.
Aglovale: Come, (Captain). On to the next stall!
The two continue down the bustling street, the clip-clop of their clogs echoing merrily.
The Ruler's Orders
Donning yukatas, Aglovale and the captain spend some time having candied strawberries and scooping goldfish, all the while talking with the merchants at the stalls. Aglovale is happy that he is able to hear the thoughts of his citizens firsthand. The pair meet a young merchant selling cotton candy and enjoy a conversation together when the merchant's younger brother comes running in a panic.
Dressed in yukata, Aglovale and (Captain) take their time exploring the stalls at the town festival.
Aglovale makes his way down the streets, talking to different people and hearing their thoughts on the newly implemented policies.
Aglovale: Yakisoba, briny-bites, bouncy-ball scooping, festive masks... The merchants are truly working their hardest.
Though the passersby recognize Aglovale, they realize he is supposed to be undercover and politely let him be, knowing smiles on their faces.
Meanwhile, merchants are busy calling out to the crowd, inviting people to come to their stalls.
Fruit Merchant: Get your candied strawberries here! Sweet and locally grown here in Wales! Come and try one!
Their interest piqued, Aglovale and (Captain) approach the stall and buy two sticks of candied strawberries to try.
Aglovale: Mm. These are delicious.
Fruit Merchant: Thank you. Strawberries from Wales never disappoint!
Aglovale: Heh, indeed. I do enjoy our strawberries here.
Aglovale: Speaking of which, I'd very much like to increase trade activity in Wales. Do you think the new policies have been of any assistance so far?
Fruit Merchant: To have Lord Aglovale ask me this himself... 'Tis an honor. I do think that the new measures have been making trade easier.
Aglovale: Excellent. I'm glad to hear they've been of help to merchants. Are there perhaps any new concerns that have arisen as a result of the change in policies?
Fruit Merchant: Hmm. The new policies apply to some products and not others, so there are times when I'm unsure whether a certain product's applicable.
Aglovale: I see. Would having a more detailed and concrete list of examples for each product category be helpful?
Fruit Merchant: Oh, yes! Having examples would be a huge help!
Aglovale: Very well. I promise I will have that drafted immediately and made available for merchants in the industry.
Fruit Merchant: I'd appreciate that very much!
Fruit Merchant: Never would I have expected you to personally ask me my thoughts on the matter, Lord Aglovale.
Aglovale: Are you not aware of the regular public hearings? They exist for the people of Wales to bring up their concerns. You are more than welcome to come talk to me there.
Fruit Merchant: Well... There're usually so many people lining up, I never thought to take up your precious time with such trivial things...
Aglovale: The opinions of our people are most valuable. I'm grateful you decided to tell me your thoughts so honestly.
Fruit Merchant: Oh, no, my lord! The pleasure is mine!
The stall owner gives Aglovale and the captain a few more candied strawberries to take with them before the two go on their way once more.
Aglovale: We certainly took a lot from that.
Aglovale: I hardly mean the strawberries we received, of course. I'm simply happy to have heard the merchant's thoughts firsthand.
Aglovale: I've been going around the festival with one of my officials these past few days. Many people have been keeping up appearances rather than telling me what they truly think.
Aglovale: Heh. But somehow, the atmosphere becomes more relaxed with you here, (Captain). The people find it easier to talk.
Aglovale: Now, which stall shall we visit next?
(Captain) turns to a rather eye-catching stall.
Aglovale: A goldfish-scooping stall, hm?
(Captain)—what do you say to a contest between us?
Goldfish Merchant: Welcome! Scoop as much as you want!
The two each receive a paper scoop and turn to the targets before them.
Aglovale: I care not for how many you manage to scoop, (Captain). What I aim for is the large one.
Aglovale: Hah!
Aglovale: Hahaha! What say you? I've taken the biggest one in the pool.
- You are mighty indeed, Lord Aglovale.
- I'm not gonna lose!
Choose: You are mighty indeed, Lord Aglovale.Aglovale: You speak as if you were one of my vassals.
Aglovale: Could it be that you wish to become one of my vassals officially?
Aglovale: Hahaha! Fear not—I merely jest.
Aglovale: I have no doubt Percival would react the same if he heard me ask the question. A shame that he is not here.
Choose: I'm not gonna lose!Aglovale: Oho. A sharp response. It has been some time since someone was brave enough to join me in a contest.
Aglovale: Heh. I cannot help but understand why Percival decided to make you his vassal.
Aglovale: You are truly an amusement. Prepare yourself, (Captain)!
Continue 1The two compete to collect goldfish until the paper on their scoops is in shreds.
Goldfish Merchant: All right, let's stop there!
Aglovale: Hm. It appears you have more fish than me, (Captain)...
Aglovale: However, behold the fish I have collected! Not only do they excel in size, but in the beautiful patterns of their scales as well!
Satisfied with his accomplishments in scooping goldfish, Aglovale moves onto asking the stall owner about the new policies.
Aglovale: I see... You'd like more incentives for those who have higher sales and are paying more taxes.
Aglovale: While I cannot promise that your suggestions will be adopted, I assure you they will be publicized and properly discussed within the castle.
Goldfish Merchant: Do you mean it? Thank you, my lord!
Just then, a young merchant from the stall across calls out to Aglovale and the captain.
Young Merchant: You there, with the blonde hair! And your charming friend! How'd you like some good old cotton candy?
Aglovale: Cotton candy, hm? I've never had the chance to try it up until now. This would be a good time.
The merchant shoots a friendly smile at the pair.
Young Merchant: Welcome, my friends!
The merchant and Aglovale make eye contact.
Young Merchant: (This person's got a bit of an aura... Is he some kind of high-ranking noble?)
Aglovale: (It seems he does not know who I am despite his stall being on the main road.)
Aglovale: (I've been doing my best to show myself to the people during this policy assessment, but it seems my efforts are not enough.)
Putting his thoughts aside, Aglovale makes an order in his usual demeanor.
Aglovale: I'd like two sticks of cotton candy.
Young Merchant: You got it! Here's one!
Aglovale reaches out to take the cotton candy. But the merchant spins the stick around his wrist so it slips out of Aglovale's grasp.
Young Merchant: Oops, my bad! Here, try again!
No matter how many times Aglovale tries to take the cotton candy, the merchant continues to spin it playfully with his fingers, making it just out of reach.
Aglovale: Oho...
Young Merchant: All right, all right! Here, I'll give it to you for real this time!
Sure enough, the merchant hands over the cotton candy to Aglovale, whose lips curl into a smile.
Aglovale: Hahaha! I certainly did not expect to be toyed with like that.
Young Merchant: Honestly, I practiced a lot with tree branches! Well, I hope you enjoy the cotton candy!
Aglovale: Hm, it truly looks like a cloud plucked from the sky, or perhaps a small animal. Now for the taste...
Aglovale: Mrg... What is this? My fingers have gotten all sticky!
Young Merchant: Could this be your first time having cotton candy?
Aglovale: It is. I've never had the opportunity to try, so this would be my first time touching and tasting it.
Young Merchant: Wow. You know, to be able to enjoy cotton candy for the first time as an adult is a very lucky thing!
Aglovale: Is it now? You're a rather positive one.
Young Merchant: Haha, remembering how it feels to be a child is important! Why not take today to relax and be a child again?
Aglovale: Hahaha! That may not be a bad idea at all.
Aglovale: (This man has an outstanding sense for customer service. I would not be able to experience this if he knew who I was... It's the perfect chance to ask about the new measures.)
Aglovale: By the way, I take it you are aware of the recently implemented trade policies. I'm curious to know what you think about them from a merchant's point of view.
Young Merchant: Oh yeah, those policies. I've actually just immigrated here to Wales, you see.
Young Merchant: So I'm not too familiar with the system here... but from what I do know, the policies don't seem to be putting small merchants into consideration.
Aglovale: Hrm...
Young Merchant: (Crap. Did I say something bad?)
Merchant's Brother: Big Bro!
Young Merchant: Whoa! Hey, I'm in the middle of work right now!
Merchant's Brother: It's Big Sis... You've gotta come home! Her symptoms are acting up again!
Young Merchant: What!
Aglovale: ...
Overhearing the situation, Aglovale and (Captain) exchange glances.
The Ruler's Orders: Scene 2
Worried, the captain and Aglovale make their way to the merchant's house. There, they learn that the merchant has been struggling with poverty, all the while doing his best to take care of his younger siblings. The merchant explains that he and his family have only recently moved to Wales. Aglovale returns to the castle to hear Percival and Tor's reports, keeping the merchant's circumstances in mind.
Merchant's Brother: Big Bro, you've gotta come home! Big Sis's symptoms are acting up!
Young Merchant: But... the stall...
Aglovale: What are you hesitating for? There is no time to waver—time is of the essence.
Young Merchant: I-it's just that...
Aglovale: Only fools fear regret and lose sight of the present.
Young Merchant: ...!
Y-you're right!
Young Merchant: I apologize, but I won't be able to make that second cotton candy for you. I've got to get home!
Merchant's Brother: Yeah. Come on!
The young merchant leaves his stall behind, running back home with his brother as fast as he can.
Aglovale: ...
- We need to go too!
- We can't leave the siblings alone.
Choose: We need to go too!
Choose: We can't leave the siblings alone.Aglovale: I dare say you are softer than this cotton candy, (Captain). Let us go after them.
Aglovale and (Captain) chase after the two brothers.
Young Merchant: Wha! You two came all this way for us?
Aglovale: My companion here was unable to leave you to your business, it seems. I am merely following along.
Young Merchant: You're too kind... Thank you.
Young Merchant: Hey, you okay?
Merchant's Sister: Big Bro! Sorry for making you worry... but I'm all better now! See?
The merchant's sister sits up in her bed and puts on a brave front. However, it is clear that her condition is far from healthy.
Aglovale: ...
Merchant's Sister: Oh, and who are our guests?
Young Merchant: They're customers who were buying cotton candy at my stall. They heard about your situation and came to help.
Merchant's Sister: Oh dear, I do apologize for getting the both of you roped in as well.
Aglovale: Never mind that. From what I gather, it appears a chronic condition has been ailing you. Is there no medicine available?
Young Merchant: The thing is... we don't have the money to buy medicine...
Merchant's Sister: It's all right, Big Bro. Medicine's expensive.
Merchant's Sister: Your business is gonna take off sooner or later! You'll be a successful merchant and achieve every Wales citizen's dream!
Aglovale: Every Wales citizen's dream?
Young Merchant: I've heard some merchants say that it doesn't matter what your social standing is in Wales. You can turn the tables as long as you've got the skill.
Aglovale: It's true. One's skill is much more important than social status in Wales.
Young Merchant: Yes, I can see that. Where we lived previously, influential merchants controlled the market and it was practically impossible for me to make any sort of negotiation.
Young Merchant: But ever since Wales was reformed by its current lord, I hear people are a lot more free to do business here now.
Young Merchant: I was able to set up a stall on the main road for the festival this time thanks to some negotiations with other merchants.
Aglovale: Yes. Doors should be open to businesses of any scale in Wales.
Young Merchant: They are. You know quite a lot, sir!
Aglovale: ...
Young Merchant: But some difficulties can also arise from this freedom. Just the other day, I noticed another merchant was selling the same products as me for a much lower price...
Aglovale: In other words, your clients were being taken away.
Young Merchant: Exactly... It's hard to compete with major businesses that have countless methods to procure materials.
Young Merchant: I was never schooled, but I'd really like for at least my younger brother to be able to get a proper education. We just don't have the money...
Merchant's Brother: Big Bro...
Merchant's Sister: You're always thinking about providing for us, Big Bro. I wish you wouldn't burden yourself so mu—cough, cough!
- I'll go buy some medicine!
Choose: I'll go buy some medicine!(Captain) is about to rush out the door when Aglovale calls out.
Aglovale: Wait. (Captain), you stay here with them.
Aglovale: I shall return shortly.
The captain helps to calm the siblings down. After some time, Aglovale comes back with a small package in hand.
Aglovale: I've brought some medicine and fruit that can provide nourishment. Take these.
Merchant's Sister: Oh! You went out of your way to bring so much back...
Aglovale: Well, (Captain) here was about to do the same despite being unfamiliar with the area.
Young Merchant: Huh? I don't remember mentioning that it was this exact type of medicine...
Aglovale: I took a look at the empty bottle over there. I understand that this specific medicine helps to calm the symtpoms your sister has.
Young Merchant: I-I appreciate it... Still, I cannot simply accept this much from you...
Aglovale: Nothing to fret over. It was an emergency—and I had yet to make my payment for the cotton candy.
Young Merchant: In that case... I humbly accept the help. Thank you very much!
(Captain) cuts the fruit into slices as the stall owner immediately helps his sister take the medicine.
Young Merchant: Whew... Looks like she's finally asleep. I'm truly grateful for all the help today.
The captain breathes a sigh of relief.
Young Merchant: I have heard that the lord of Wales is fair and benevolent. I can only hope that our lives will be easier under his rule...
Aglovale: ...
Aglovale is silent as the words of the merchant echo in his heart.
The Lord of Frost returns to the castle and resumes his work after seeing (Captain) off to the guest room.
Percival: Aglovale. I was worried that something had happened, seeing as you did not return even after the festival was over.
Aglovale: Apologies for making you wait. One particular interview went into more depth than I'd expected. Now, let's hear your reports.
Tor: In conclusion, it appears there are no objections to the intended direction of the new policies. However, we have received some additional requests.
The three hover over a desk, writing on a piece of paper spread out between them as they compile the opinions gathered.
Aglovale: Hm. Seems like everything has been covered for the most part.
Aglovale: You gathered not only the opinions of the merchants, but also looked into their respective positions and intentions. You never fail to impress me with your work.
Tor: It is thanks to Lord Percival's amicable demeanor that the merchants felt comfortable sharing about themselves.
Percival: Heh. Lyria and Vyrn also accompanied us and helped to lighten the mood.
Aglovale: Very good. We will publish a detailed plan for adjusting our policies tomorrow.
Tor: What do you think about the idea of offering incentives for merchants who pay higher amounts of tax?
Aglovale: From what I see here, I believe the existing incentives should be enough. Any more would only feed conceit.
Percival: Then can we assume that no adjustments will be made in this aspect?
Aglovale: Yes. We can still publicize the fact that such opinions have arisen.
Aglovale: I promised that all topics will be officially discussed and released to the public. Even if the suggestions remain unadopted, there is no reason to disregard them.
Percival: Equal treatment for all citizens... I truly respect you for that.
Aglovale: As lord of this land, I am merely picking out the weak areas that may inevitably lead to the people's discontent.
Aglovale: It is nothing more than a way to maintain Wales's stability, though this method may differ from your ideal.
Percival: I have learned much, Aglovale. Thank you.
Aglovale: I'm glad.
Aglovale: ...
In his office, Aglovale thinks back to the young merchant from the festival and begins to form a plan.
The Ruler's Orders: Scene 3
The next day, the merchant seeks an audience with the lord of Wales, where he discovers that the lord is, in fact, Aglovale. Eager to improve the merchant's situation, Tor and an accompanying official give suggestions for financial relief, but Aglovale tells them such measures could be taken as partiality by the people and he suggests a different system of aid. That night, Aglovale receives a gift from the merchant as a token of gratitude and spends a peaceful evening in his yukata.
The festival comes to an end, and Wales returns to its everyday life.
Aglovale and Tor attend another regular public hearing, where people have come to appeal for help on matters they are dissatisfied with.
Official: Next person, please.
A young man walks forward and is shocked when he looks up to see Aglovale's face.
Young Merchant: You're... the man from yesterday! Are you... the lord of Wales?
Aglovale: I hid my identity in hopes that I could hear the honest thoughts of my people. I apologize for keeping the truth from you.
Young Merchant: Nothing to apologize for at all! I'm terribly sorry for yesterday...
Aglovale: Think nothing of it. Be at ease.
Young Merchant: Y-yes, my lord...
Aglovale: Well then. I assume you came to this hearing because you had something you wanted to say.
Young Merchant: ...
Yes. I'm currently living day to day with barely enough earnings, you see.
Young Merchant: It was of my own will that I moved to Wales. But I'm wondering if you would consider setting regulations for merchants who sell their products at low prices.
Aglovale: So you believe it would be easier for you to conduct business if limitations were imposed on those who can afford to sell at low prices.
Aglovale nods and turns his gaze to the official standing next to him.
Aglovale: What do you think from an expert's point of view?
Official: Putting regulations in place would inhibit the freedom of trade for the Wales market.
Aglovale: Hm, yes. I was thinking the same.
Official: However... I was of a similar position before you called attention to my circumstances, my lord.
Official: Perhaps adjustments can be made where those whose assets fall below a certain amount can be exempt from the current policies.
Aglovale: That would be ideal, although there may be merchants who end up abusing the system in order to be exempt.
Aglovale: Yet we do not currently have the resources to be able to oversee each and every merchant conducting business in Wales.
Tor: (I did not know of the circumstances when I was ordered to procure the medicine and fruit yesterday, but I assumed something had happened.)
Tor: (Judging from his behavior last night, I'm certain that Lord Aglovale wishes very much to help this man.)
When the Lord of Frost closes his eyes to ponder, Tor decides to speak up.
Tor: May I offer a word, my lord?
Aglovale: Proceed.
Tor: From what I understand, this man is an independent merchant unaffiliated with any particular organization.
Tor: What do you think of offering subsidiary aid to individual merchants as a way of strengthening the diversity of Wales's trade industry?
Aglovale: Indeed, we cannot undermine diversifying the industry, as that can greatly influence Wales's power as a nation.
Aglovale: However, from what this merchant has told us, the products he sells are items that can be produced in great amounts and at low costs.
Aglovale: If we favor select people, other merchants will come to harbor feelings of injustice, which in turn will hinder their creativity.
Aglovale: As part of my duties in laying the foundation for Wales, I must invent a structure in which merchants can use their energy and creativity to their full potential.
Tor: ...
Aglovale: My purpose for visiting the festival and asking the citizens was so that I could find a good system for merchants to devote themselves to their businesses comfortably.
Young Merchant: But at this rate... my prospects are much too dark. I beg you, my lord!
Aglovale: I understand your anxiety for the future.
Official: Lord Aglovale, I do not mind if my next salary is used to contribute toward a solution for this...
Aglovale: That would be nothing more than a temporary measure. If these circumstances continue, no number of wages sacrificed will ever be enough.
Official: ...
Young Merchant: You mean to say... it was meaningless for me to have come to Wales...
Aglovale: No. You made the correct choice to move here in the midst of your desperation.
Young Merchant: The correct choice?
Aglovale: First, I suggest you take the time to study more on trade. Wales has a scholarship system in which aid can be provided for one's education.
Aglovale: Your trade skills are unpolished, but I myself have witnessed your ability to establish rapport with customers.
Aglovale: Hahaha! I did not expect to be reminded of what it is like to be a child again. It was a splendid time.
Young Merchant: Th-thank you very much!
Aglovale: With your talent in customer service, I can guarantee your eligibility for a scholarship.
Aglovale: Those well-versed in business are often invited to lectures. Use this opportunity to study well and apply what you learn to your own business. Teach your brother as well.
Young Merchant: Thank you, my lord! This gives me hope!
Official: Lord Aglovale... You truly put in the utmost effort for your people.
Aglovale: It is for the well-being of Wales. A man who studies well and can contribute as a merchant in the future will greatly aid our nation's power.
Aglovale turns back to the young man with welcoming eyes.
Aglovale: Thank you for coming to Wales. We hope this will be a place where you can devote yourself to your endeavors.
Young Merchant: I-I'll do my best!
The man's face is filled with hope. However, he suddenly begins to fidget, his expression nervous.
Young Merchant: My apologies, I'd very much like to thank you for your generosity, my lord... but as you know, I have nothing to offer at the moment...
Aglovale: If you wish to repay me, then do so not with material goods, but with your growth.
Young Merchant: As you wish! I'll definitely become a skilled merchant—just you wait, Lord Aglovale!
Aglovale: I look forward to it. I'm certain you will become a dependable brother for your younger siblings as well.
That will be all.
The young man bows his head in gratitude over and over before taking his leave.
Tor: Lord Aglovale. Why did you allow me to speak earlier?
Aglovale: What do you mean? Is something the matter?
Tor: It's just that... it seems to me that you'd decided what to do since the start of the conversation.
Aglovale: That is untrue. After all, one should always judge only after hearing the other's opinion.
Aglovale: That is what I believe as lord.
Tor: My lord...
Tor: (Lord Aglovale must be feeling the heavy weight of his responsibilities in overseeing his subjects' lives.)
Tor: (Yet he is willing to continue facing his duties with open arms as lord of Wales.)
Aglovale: You think more than you need to, Tor.
Tor: Huh? Could... you tell by my expression?
Aglovale: No, your face is as unreadable as always. But I do believe I've come to understand a little of what you are thinking as of late.
Tor: I... am unsure whether that is news to be celebrated or taken as critcism.
Aglovale: Hahaha! Then you may think about it until you are sure.
Once Aglovale has listened to all of the people seeking an audience from him, he returns to his own office in high spirits.
Aglovale: Hm? Are these... wildflowers?
His gaze falls on a vase in the room. Several thin yet somewhat charming flowers have been carefully placed in it.
Tor: Pardon my intrusion, Lord Aglovale. I have brought you your tea for the night.
Aglovale: What are these flowers, Tor?
Tor: My lord...
Ah, yes, the flowers. The merchant slated to receive a scholarship brought them as a token of appreciation. I have taken the liberty of placing them in a vase.
Aglovale: Ah, the merchant. Why did you put them in my office?
Tor: I believe he wanted to show his appreciation to you directly, my lord.
Aglovale: And so you chose to set the flowers in a place where they would be in my field of vision.
Aglovale: Heh. I suppose if wildflowers were used to decorate anywhere else, ignorant fools may start to question the welfare of Wales.
Aglovale: Perhaps it is a wise choice to place them here after all.
Tor: Thank you, my lord. I merely wished for the merchant's gratitude to reach its recipient.
Aglovale: If he has time to pick flowers... I do wish he would use it toward his studies instead.
Tor: (His words may be sharp, but I can see that his expression has softened.)
Aglovale: What is it, Tor? Speak if you have something to say.
Tor: It is nothing... Speaking of which, is there a reason you are dressed in your yukata?
Aglovale: Heh. I've come to feel rather comfortable in one.
Tor: I see. Your eye for craftsmanship is impeccable as always.
Tor is relieved to see that Aglovale seems to have thoroughly enjoyed his time at the festival with the captain.
Tor: (It seems the festival was a good change of pace. I'm glad I asked (Captain) to accompany Lord Aglovale for the visit.)
Aglovale: On another note, you certainly went out of your way in asking (Captain) to take the lead.
Tor: So you realized... I apologize for my impertinence.
Aglovale: All is well. I had a splendid time walking around the festival stalls with the captain.
Tor: (Captain) would be delighted to hear those words from you, my lord.
Aglovale: Heh. It may not be such a bad idea to invite (Captain) again and spend another day in this guise.
Aglovale turns to look out the window at the town below.
The conviction in his eyes is proof he will no doubt bring joy and prosperity to Wales and its people.
Slowly, Aglovale's expression softens from a battle-worn lord's to that of a man enjoying the quietness of a warm, summer night.