Chapter 219.1
Chapter 219.1
Chapter 219.1
“That’s all I have to say on the issue of compensation for villages on and near the western border.” (Council Member 1)
“Good. What about the border guards?” (King)
“There was some disruption, but it seems to be stabilizing.” (Council Member 2)
“Don’t just rely on reports from the field. Send someone to investigate. I’m sure Count Chandale will be able to investigate.” (Crown Prince)
“Yes.” (Council Member 1)
The main topic of discussion at the Council in front of the King and Crown Prince was the post-mortem on the recent attack of the Demon Army.
The strategies used in defense against the Demon Army had been largely successful, but it was still impossible to say that there were no problems such as confusion at the scene. The damage to the areas through which the Demon Army had passed could not be left unattended.
The recovery from the damage to the royal capital had already been entrusted to the subordinate organizations, and the role of the national authorities had shifted to dealing with the larger aspects of the situation.
“What about the matter of having soldiers help with the reconstruction work?” (King)
“We are moving forward with that as planned. However, we will still have to make necessary adjustments based on the situation on the ground.” (Council Member 1)“Order them to give you a report on the adjustments they have made. It will be a valuable record.” (Crown Prince)
Minister of the Interior Audenried and Minister of War Schundler bowed their heads in agreement with the Crown Prince’s order. This plan, too, was originally devised by Welner.
In a normal situation, soldiers would have shown some resistance to doing construction work, especially when something like this was being done for the first time, but in the name of restoring the damage caused by the Demon Army, the soldiers would have little resistance to cooperating with the project.
“Count Zeavert, I would like you to send beans from the Count’s territory to these damaged areas.” (King)
“I shall prepare it.” (Ingo)
Ingo, Welner’s father, bowed to the King. Due to their transport capacity and preservation technology, legumes could serve as emergency rations in such cases. The Royal Household therefore ordered Zeavert to assist in this regard.
At the same time, it was also convenient for the Royal Family to compensate for Welner’s unselfishness, as they could emphasize their confidence in Zeavert both at home and abroad by adding to his reward. Ingo knew this, so he complied without a trace of disapproval.
“Order to pay the inhabitants of the affected areas if they cooperate in the transport of supplies.” (King)
“Where will the budget come from?” (Ingo)
“I will ask the church to help us with that.” (Crown Prince)
The Crown Prince’s comment made the nobles around him laugh.
The church also took donations in the countryside. If they were to package it as support to people, which it actually was, it would be difficult for the church to refuse.
In fact, since the kingdom had evidence that High Priest Leppe was complicit in the attack on the royal capital, the church was more than willing to cooperate with the government to avoid the kingdom revealing the truth to the public. Of course, it would also improve the image of the church in the public eye.
With that matter out of the way, the agenda changed.
“What about the diplomats in the royal capital?” (King)
“Some of them have returned to the country, claiming to be suddenly ill, while others have come and gone, including a messenger presumably carrying a letter.” (Council Member 1)
“If that’s the case, there’s no reason to blame them.” (Crown Prince)
In essence, the story of an attack on the Bain kingdom’s royal capital was a major incident. What would be even more problematic, however, was the spread of rumors that the Royal Capital had been attacked, and that great damage had been inflicted. Neighboring countries may see this as an opportunity to invade the country.
Not letting these diplomats go to their respective countries would only give rise to speculation among other nations that the Bain kingdom was in a very weak state and had held diplomats hostage to avoid spread of information.
The Bain kingdom would like to avoid having countries believe in false information and meddle with its borders. Therefore, the diplomatic representatives of each country were allowed to leave the royal capital or send out emissaries.
“How will Farlitz react?” (Crown Prince)
“We will proceed with our investigation.” (Council Member 2)
Several people lowered their heads at the King’s question. It was already known that Coltrezis House and the neighboring country of Farlitz had some kind of relationship, but the extent to which the Farlitz side would be willing to interfere was unpredictable.
If Coltrezis House were to abandon their lands, position and defect, it would be acceptable to ignore them, but if they planned to rebel with the help of Farlitz soldiers, it would be necessary to take immediate action.
Ironically, Coltrezis House moved more on emotion than reason, making it difficult for the leaders of the Bain kingdom to read the current situation.