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Chapter 244.2

Chapter 244.2. Power And Intrigue

-Miu’s Dad POV-

The surprising words, which seemed almost excessive, left everyone, even the most composed among them, visibly astonished. Even though it was a directly managed enterprise, having corporate taxes exempted would mean a substantial amount of money.

By using funds for the stock acquisition of Dog Puppy Company in this operation, the shares remained. And on top of that, the reward of exempting corporate taxes seemed overly generous.

Japan’s tax revenue for the year would likely decrease significantly.

How generous. It must have been because Kanna Dukedom was such a hindrance.

“Directly managed~! So, if you increase the number of directly managed companies carelessly, you might end up with an enormous tax bill next year! After all, unlike subsidiaries, you have to make things transparent!”

Miu, who had been quietly eating roast beef of a Hornbear Coew, raised her hand and innocently made this point.

Her words prompted a slight reaction from all the adults.

“Miu-san, you’re overthinking things. We believe everyone here is running a clean and honest operation.”

“Indeed-nya. We’re running a clean and honest operation, but there are various dealings with subsidiaries-nya~.”

Nobunaga-sama responded with a wry smile and averted his gaze while Sasami-san took a drink.

When it came to settlements with subsidiaries, there were various ways to avoid paying taxes. It wasn’t illegal or tax evasion, but rather, it was a gray area.

Incorporating a directly managed company here would result in exorbitant taxes for the following year. Perhaps Nobunaga sama had set a sweet trap under reward.

“Well, well. Among us, the most cunning is Yoshiyuki’s daughter.”

“Indeed. We can catch a glimpse of Miu’s astonishing talent.”

Lately, more people paid attention to Miu’s seemingly innocent actions and words. Enraku-san chuckled, and Ouga-san closed his eyes and nodded.

“Don’t be too greedy. Thank you, Your Highness. On behalf of all Aburage, I express my gratitude.”

“Of course, we do too.”

In response to our words, without showing hints of the trap the Emperor had set, Nobunaga-sama answered with a cheerful smile.

“Thank you very much. And so, for particularly outstanding accomplishments, His Majesty is considering bestowing the title of Marchioness upon Countess Takano.

“Marchioness!?!”

Everyone was shocked by these unexpected words. Since the founding of the Japan Magic Empire, the number of Marquisses and Dukes never changed. But he’ll give it to Miu?

“That’s correct. Countess Takano’s recent accomplishments seem fitting for such an honor. She surpasses Sena in her use of recovery magic and has saved many people, devoting herself to the Japan Magic Empire.”

“…That’s an incredible story.”

It was an unbelievable story. I pinched my cheek to confirm that it wasn’t a dream and didn’t seem strange. A Marchioness.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed that even Father was wide-eyed in astonishment.

“Your Highness! Thank you for considering my achievements and bestowing this honor upon me!”

With a delighted smile, Miu raised both hands in a victory pose. Nobunaga-sama nodded in approval.

“Oh no, it’s my pleasure. I’d like to discuss the marchioness title in more detail.”

“That’s right! I’m so happy to become a Marchioness. So, if I receive this title, will I remain a Count? Will return the Count and become a Marchioness, right? So, how should I divide the assets?”

“Ah! Ah~ yes, that’s right. Your Highness, the title of marchioness is granted, not through elevation, right?”

Understanding the meaning behind Miu’s words, I could comprehend why the Emperor would grant the title of Marquess.

High-ranking nobles couldn’t hold multiple titles concurrently. That meant they were instructing me to divide the considerable assets of the Takano, which had grown significantly, due to its enormous wealth.

Even if Kanna Dukedom’s influence weakens, it’s not reassuring if there’s someone else surpassing the Royal Family.

Marquissate and County. Temporarily, we might become powerful houses, but it wouldn’t be strange for us to become hostile toward each other in the future.

No, they’ll scheme. With the powerful Marquisate and County, it’s easy to imagine that the County won’t be satisfied being part of the same family. It’s a sad thought, but it’s likely.

Yet, Miu answered that she would accept. What should we do? Understanding the Emperor’s strategy, I contemplated with a troubled expression.

But my daughter didn’t break her smile, still beaming.

“Understood! In that case, I’ll take Kamakura’s flower fields! I’ll be a florist!”

“…That’s a splendid decision, don’t you think?”

Nobunaga-sama displayed a hint of caution at Miu’s quick decision. The others focused on Miu, expecting the conversation to continue.

With her hands near her mouth, Miu continued speaking florist florist, while smiling mischievously.

“For the transportation company and the title of Count, I’ll give those to Sora. And for the maritime transport, I’ll give the vacant Viscount title to Mai!”

“…Restoring Takano County to its former scale by giving away the Marquisate and the Count title to others? Have you considered the future benefits for Takano Marquisate?”

She seemed determined to distribute assets. Even so, if the transportation company remained, the County would still hold considerable power. Hopefully, it won’t escalate into a family feud.

It seemed he had calculated that this could significantly reduce the strength of the Takanos. Nobunaga-sama smiled cheerfully.

“Yeah. It’s so everyone can get along well! I think it’ll be fine!”

Miu continued to smile, seemingly unaware of the implications.

I was about to interject, suggesting we think a bit more about the distribution when I noticed the radiant gleam in Miu’s eyes.

“I think this is just right! Look forward to my no-strings-attached flower shop!”

Perhaps overwhelmed by that radiant gaze, Nobunaga-sama swallowed audibly. The others wore intrigued or thoughtful expressions.

My daughter is a good kid. Maybe I should discuss the education approach with the Druid Arch Mage. That might become quite difficult.

I have a feeling it’s going to be tough. Miu had a face like that always does the most outrageous things.