Chapter 224: Rinella’s Destiny is Her Own (17)

My hometown was far from the bustling cities.

In the realm, most major cities fell under direct imperial rule. Apart from the expansive territories of the five major noble families, smaller domains faced limitations to their prosperity.

The installation and upkeep of warp gates, the lifelines of civilization, incurred immense costs. As a result, only a select few cities reaped their benefits.

This left nobles to rely on traditional carriage travel.

Our journey followed this pattern as well. After arriving at a nearby city by using the warp gate, we left on the carriage arranged by my family for the homeward stretch

The road ahead stretched for two more days, winding through landscapes that occasionally stirred a twinge of regret within me.

The Percus territory was not well-off. Consequently, this hindered investment in essential infrastructure like roads.

Thus, our route through the poorly maintained paths, prolonged the journey.

With such circumstances plaguing the territory, my younger sister aimed to earn money to maintain and improve the roads.

Understanding firsthand the plight caused by these dilapidated roads, her dedication to their improvement was beyond imagination.

Not long ago, she had excitedly shared news of nearing her goal through a letter.

However, that dream fell apart not long after.

It was due to her foolish brother.

Looking back, I did regret it, but the choice was inevitable at that time.

Of course, it was also because of the implicit trust in my sister’s capabilities, something that was borne from years of my observation of her.

She never surrendered, always standing firm.

Indeed, my younger sister lived up to my expectations splendidly.

While the trading company’s collapse was inevitable, her letter hinted at the possibility of salvaging a considerable portion of our assets.

However, there was much to be gained from the Imperial Princess, so the letter included a request not to leak this information.