Cooperation 1

Translator: Cinder Translations

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After careful consideration, Paul ultimately chose the royal family's support.

Giles was far away on the horizon, and regardless of whether he esteemed Paul or not, if Paul got into trouble, Giles wouldn't be able to reach him. Moreover, if exposed, His Majesty the King could easily crush Paul like a small shrimp behind him who caused trouble.

Originally, Paul had intended to wait and see for a while longer, but since Alden had already attracted the covetousness of surrounding powers, it was better to place his bet early. Earl Kent of Embrun, in his reply to a plea for assistance, had asked Paul to become his vassal, and his ambitions made Paul very wary.

Half an hour later, Steward Philip led Baron Hansel Abbott into the study. Given the report of the fire in the capital's grain warehouses, Paul had already guessed why Hansel had come to see him.

As soon as Hansel entered, he complimented, "Congratulations, Lord Grayman, on successfully eradicating the pirates. Strangling so many villains at once truly upholds justice on behalf of the Lord of Light, which is greatly comforting to the people!"

Paul smiled wryly and said, "Baron, you certainly are well-informed to know about this even when you're 'traveling.'"

Hansel tactfully ignored the sarcasm in Paul's words, his expression unchanged as he replied, "Lord Grayman's glorious deeds have long been spread throughout the northwest. Lords like you, who rid the realm of harm, are rare. There are too many incompetent fools who go against the teachings of the founding kings."

To avoid getting sidetracked, Paul gestured for Hansel to sit down and instructed Philip to bring two servings of honeyed wine. They toasted each other.

Paul began, "Baron Abbott, I have recently gained detailed information about the rebellion in the south."

"Oh? How does my lord see it?" Hansel inquired.

Paul waved his hand dismissively, "What else can I see? Just from his nickname 'Greedy Wolf,' one can already understand Giles's character. It's said that he coerces the surrounding lords into submission, and any loyal ministers who dare resist are ruined. He controls the trade routes, extorts passing travelers, and incites widespread grievances."

Hansel nodded solemnly, "All of that is true. Giles's notorious reputation is well known."

"Why does His Majesty tolerate him so?" Paul asked.

"His ancestors fought alongside King Rodney I, building up a vast power base for their own family. There are even rumors that the crown of the Rodney family was handed over by Giles's ancestors. Of course, such treasonous rumors are completely groundless. In any case, a slight misstep could lead to the fragmentation of half of Aldor."

Paul inwardly gloated, thinking that even the ancestors of Grayman followed King Rodney to conquer lands. How did they end up in this remote and insignificant northwest? This was karma—let them reap what they sowed.

Suddenly adopting a serious expression, Paul continued, "Rogues like Giles must be eradicated at all costs. We must unite closely around His Majesty's government, guided by a unified Aldor, and steadfastly strive to achieve national unity."

This novel rhetoric left Hansel puzzled. What did this all mean?

Paul gave Hansel a meaningful look and asked, "So, how is the situation now? Has His Majesty's army moved south to suppress the rebellion?"

Hansel hesitated for a moment, considering whether to directly mention the issue of supplies, but he changed his approach and said, "The loyalist army is gathering and will move south soon. When the time comes, they will surely swiftly quell the rebellion."

"Couldn't you just get to the point?" Paul thought to himself.

"According to my steward, Baron, you have important matters to discuss with me. What is it?" he asked aloud.

Hansel's gaze shifted, and he stammered, "Um... it's like this... with so many armies gathered together, daily provisions for the soldiers... Lord Earl, you understand, right?"

"I understand nothing," Paul cursed inwardly. "Why is asking for help so difficult?" Oh well, I'll give you an opening.

He rested his chin on clasped hands, arms on the table. "Baron, as you can see, my territory is quite remote and sparsely populated. I can't offer much manpower to aid His Majesty."

Disappointed, Hansel was about to reply when Paul changed the topic abruptly, "But that doesn't hinder my enthusiasm to serve the kingdom. As you said, since Giles holds nearly half the kingdom's power, this war won't end anytime soon. Give me one or two years, and I'm confident I can multiply Alden's output several times. This will provide essential supplies for His Majesty's army, including ample food..."

At the mention of "food," Hansel's ears perked up.

"And abundant iron goods..."

Hansel became even more interested; iron goods were crucial in warfare. He asked inquisitively, "Lord Grayman, are you truly this confident? And what exactly are you relying on?"

Paul pondered for a moment before replying, "I rely on the agricultural and metallurgical technologies I'm about to improve. I've already experimented with them." Nonsense; these were honed through trials and errors in another world.

"But suddenly increasing production in a remote region will certainly attract envy. I hope to receive the royal family's protection."

Paul stated his request.

Hansel rubbed his chin and asked, "Can you contribute these technologies to the royal family? I believe His Majesty would greatly reward you and ensure your safety."

Paul pursed his lips and loudly exclaimed, "Philip, escort Baron back to his room."

Hansel quickly raised both hands and said, "Wait! Lord Grayman, keep these technologies in your hands. I'm sure they'll be most effective in the hands of their inventor. I only mentioned it casually. As long as you can provide sufficient military supplies, I'm willing to petition His Majesty to guarantee the safety of your territory. His Majesty is fair in his rewards and punishments and will not overlook a deserving servant."

"That's more like it," Paul breathed a sigh of relief.

But then Hansel continued, "However, I'm just a lowly figure with little influence. What truly impresses His Majesty is the supplies you can provide. How much can you offer right now?"

Paul frowned; he needed time. It wasn't possible to conjure up so much so quickly.

Seeing Paul's change in expression, Hansel secretly rejoiced and said, "If Lord Grayman is willing, I personally can offer you a little help to achieve your goal of increasing production several times, thus gaining His Majesty's recognition as soon as possible."

Paul looked at Hansel and asked, "What can you bring to me?"

The baron replied casually, "I saw the 'Recruitment Decree' posted in the town center. It's written quite well! Regardless of birth or lineage, these two criteria are rare in this era."

"Are you interested in serving under me?" Paul asked.

Hansel shook his head, "If you're willing to grant me this authority, the royal commissioners are obligated to assist local lords with administrative duties. However, my personal abilities are limited. What I'm saying is, in this age of lineage supremacy, there are many disgruntled fallen aristocrats in the south and numerous ambitious but door-closed commoners. Regardless of their capabilities, they at least meet the recruitment decree's criteria: literacy and numeracy. Would Lord Grayman be interested?"

Paul stood up slowly. The baron's words had indeed struck a chord with him.

(End of the Chapter)