Mikhail isn't greedy, no! He's simply thrifty, practical. And he cannot fathom how anyone can leave trophies behind on the battlefield. No way does that mean he's stealing them! And of course Mikhail isn't a slave master! Although those who he corralled into signing service contracts might not agree.

The earth mages, for example, who are still busy erecting all sorts of structures toward the successful development of Mikhail's county. They work in three shifts with no days off.

Meanwhile, Mikhail continues to attract the notice of the emperor, who has even invited him to the capital for a reception . . . But is that a good thing? And how will the other aristocrats feel about it?