Lord Malphas prioritizes being on the ground.
"Man... I never imagined that slum would make such a comeback. You really are the best, Boss—doing top-notch work as always." "Of course I am, you idiot. We’re pros, aren't we? Whether it’s a dump or a ruin, fixing it up right is our job." "Still, you didn't *have* to take command personally. You’re the head of the Engineer Corps, after all. You could’ve just left it to your subordinates..." "What are you talking about, you moron? What kind of craftsman doesn't check the site himself? Let me tell you, I don't feel right unless I see every single job site with my own eyes. I trust my crew, sure, but that’s just the craftsman’s nature in me." "You really are all about being hands-on, Boss. The executives back at HQ were grumbling about it, you know? Saying they’re in a bind because you keep disappearing so often." "As long as I leave the paperwork to them, it’s fine. Besides, you were the one who asked me to handle this town." "I’m grateful you took the job on such short notice, Boss. The thing is, the local lord had embezzled a huge chunk of the budget, so the infrastructure was in shambles. Even the Lieutenant General was saying we needed to do something about it fast..." "...I was strongly urged to do it, after all." "I'm managing with the supplies I have on hand for now, but the situation is so dire that I'm running short on all sorts of things. The problem is, since this is all so sudden, the Finance Bureau is dragging its feet on approving the budget. That greedy bastard Mammon!" "Well, that’s to be expected, I suppose. So, I’ve already made some arrangements on my end to cover that. When I infiltrated their base, I funneled some of the funds and treasure they’d hoarded to a local wealthy figure. I’ve set it up so we can procure materials soon, disguised as a 'cooperative investment' from them." "That’s my reliable little brother for you! But you’re really walking a tightrope here. Won't the Finance Bureau’s investigation unit catch wind of it? It’d be a huge headache if they started sniffing around." "I’m not the type to get outsmarted by a bunch of suits from Central. (Whispering) Besides, I’ve been asked to handle this matter confidentially by 'the higher-ups' as well." "I see. Well, it’s a huge help to us, that’s for sure." "But we really ought to clear this with 'that guy' from the Construction Bureau, so I’m counting on you, Big Bro." "Whaaat... *Him*? I really can't stand that guy." "That’s your job, Big Bro. I’m counting on you! ♪" "Sigh... Give me a break..."