The Holy Man of Another Century Gospel

Chapter 236 We can talk

The following morning, Eric and Natalia postponed their visit and stayed home, giving their time to Governor Austin.

The two sides were in perfect sync, not mentioning the upcoming talks at all during breakfast. Instead, Austin started the conversation by talking about the experiences of his youngest daughter, Liliana.

"When Your Highness met Liliana in Oren, was she alone?"

“That’s right, I also find it strange. She is, after all, the daughter of Governor Rentani. Even if she is married, she should have at least five or six guards when she goes on a long trip. After all, Miss Austin herself said that the couple is useless... Excuse me, I was referring to their combat abilities.”

Austin sighed. "The people I sent to Ori have the results. They sent word back last night that her husband didn't die of illness, but from a curse."

Eric and Natalia exchanged a glance. "Wow."

Both of them were surprised, but not too surprised, since Liliana became a widow rather quickly.

“I haven’t found out who did it yet,” Austin continued, “but I’m grateful to His Highness Eric for returning to Oren in time, scaring away the group, stopping them from persecuting Liliana, and then escorting her back to Sunset City.”

Eric didn't feel he had provided much protection for Liliana before leaving Oren; if someone wanted to harm her, there were plenty of opportunities. However, since Austin had said so, he had no reason to deny it.

He suddenly realized that Austin was now showering him with compliments and gratitude because she was trying to make up for the negative impression left by their unpleasant encounter yesterday morning.
It seems Austin really wants to reach a conclusion with them...

"Does Miss Austin know about this?"

"Liliana is unaware of this yet, and we ask that Your Highnesses keep it a secret from her for the time being."

Natalia nodded slightly.

“But because of that child’s cowardly choice when she was at a loss, the shadow of suspicion has fallen on her.” Austin looked at the two of them. “Do your Highnesses believe she is innocent?”

The two looked at each other and nodded one after the other, "Of course I believe you."

“Then please, Your Highnesses, write a statement for me. I need to give Rodney an explanation, and I can only use your names to clear Liliana of suspicion,” Austin pleaded.

Natalia glanced at Eric again, who was looking at her as well, and quickly nodded: "No problem, I'll write it when I have time later, I can write it according to what the governor dictated."

“Your Highness may proceed as you see fit,” Austin said.

They had almost finished breakfast, and Austin invited the two to his study upstairs.

Kasha glanced at them but didn't follow.

Upon arriving at the study, the governor quickly took out paper and pen, instructing the two men to leave proof that their youngest daughter was innocent.

Based on Austin's account, Eric fabricated a story about rescuing the cursed Liliana in Oren to prove her innocence, while Natalia's account was entirely empty talk, without any concrete details, but her point of view always revolved around Liliana's innocence.

After receiving the two handwritten certificates, Austin was filled with gratitude and expressed his thanks. He then naturally steered the conversation toward the matter of providing assistance.

—The big one is coming.

Eric took a breath, adjusted his posture, and listened with Natalia as he began by offering a roundabout apology for his attitude the previous morning.

The process of getting to the point was somewhat tortuous, but better than nothing. What truly surprised the two of them was Austin's obvious concessions once they got to the point.

Even though they hadn't reached the stage of negotiating specific terms yesterday, Eric and Natalia could sense this, which made them even more cautious.

What was the opportunity?
While Natalia took over the conversation with Austin, Eric secretly made a guess.

Surely it couldn't be because Austin suddenly realized how much help they had provided to his daughter?

What else happened yesterday... feeding the seabirds?

Eric glanced discreetly out the study window, where Austin had stood watching him yesterday as he rewarded the seabirds that had just completed their air raid in the courtyard below.

Were you intimidated by his commanding presence in the air force?

"...The fulfillment of obligations by local provinces to the imperial central government is important not only to the imperial central government but also to you. Imagine, how can an imperial central government that cannot afford money or an army maintain the stability of the entire empire? I do not want to delve into whether Rentani can maintain its position amidst chaos, but you should acknowledge that a stable situation is the foundation of prosperity."

Natalia took a breath and glanced at Eric, who hadn't said a word for a while, and noticed that he had a mysterious smile on his face.

“I completely agree with Your Highness,” Austin said helplessly, even though he had already said the same thing just now.

He couldn't help but feel a little puzzled. He was certain that he had shown a conciliatory attitude, but the two princes opposite him were on guard.

What went wrong?

Did he change too quickly?
He has always maintained an attitude of being open to discussing and loving the empire.
With their respective doubts, both sides slowly pushed forward the negotiation process.

During this time, Liliana also visited her father's study.

"That explains why the carriage has been parked downstairs. Didn't the two princes go out today?"

Eric and Natalia simply nodded without saying a word, and Austin then dismissed his daughter.

Liliana gave a soft snort and left.

“Miss Austin has finally cheered up after staying home for so many days,” Eric said.

Austin waved his hand. "It has nothing to do with staying at home for a few days. I was the one who agreed to let her stay."

"Oh?"

“Liliana must have said something to the two princes. I’ve changed my mind. If she has a daughter, she can stay. If she has a son, she should stay even more. Otherwise, who will inherit the Austin family business in the future?”

Eric smiled, then suddenly realized that this might be the reason Austin had changed his attitude.

Even if tax revenue and military aid to the empire's central government were restored, the assets of an entire province would still be too enormous. Regardless of how much they could gain or how much they would have to give up in the future, the most important thing was to keep it in their own hands.

"You plan to personally groom your grandson to be your successor?"

“Your Highness is right. If possible, I hope that Your Highness will stay and baptize him.”

Eric laughed, "Miss Austin mentioned this before, but her due date is still a long way off, and we can't afford to delay."

Austin expressed his regret over this.

Eric thought of something else, "But if it's a grandson, how will the governor explain it to Marquis Rodney?"

Austin dismissed it, "It's just borrowing his son's seed. I don't want his family's wealth, and I won't take a single penny from him. His second son killed his eldest son and sent his grandson back, so he'll definitely not escape his... Damn, I let it slip."

When Austin noticed the two people opposite him widen their eyes, he realized he had accidentally revealed the truth and couldn't help but swear.

It would have been better if he hadn't said anything, but now that he'd said it, Eric and Natalia couldn't pretend they hadn't heard it.

"Is this the governor's conclusion after his investigation?" Natalia asked.

“Cough… There’s no direct evidence to prove that it was that kid who did it, but I asked Liliana about many details before she left the territory, and I can basically confirm that it was Rodney’s second son who instigated his eldest son to go on a long trip, and then found an opportunity to kill him on the way.” Austin’s tone was much more certain than his words.

Eric and Natalia exchanged a glance. "I remember now, Miss Austin did mention that her husband had a capable younger brother."

"Um……"

"It seems that their capabilities have even exceeded expectations."

Natalia remained silent.

Seeing that the two had started talking about this topic, Austin coughed lightly, trying to get back to the main point: "My people are still investigating, and they may find some more concrete evidence. In short, we can give Rodney an explanation that he can accept."

Eric nodded. “If you need any help in Oren, Governor, please just ask. The people at the city lord’s mansion will do their best to assist you… Here, I’ll write them a letter later.”

"That's wonderful, thank you, Your Highness."

After exchanging a few polite words, the topic returned to the negotiations.

When Eric and Natalia temporarily lowered their guard, the negotiations progressed significantly, leading them to gradually believe that Austin genuinely wanted to reach a conclusion that day.

“No one’s army can act independently after arriving in Lutia; they all need to be under the unified command of the Military Council. However, I think Governor Austin does not intend to stay in Lutia for long. Therefore, before sending out troops, you need to select a general to represent you in the decision-making of the Military Council. The Military Council does not accept any orders from elsewhere.”

“…I understand, I will decide on this person soon.” Austin said this, but his expression was mostly hesitant.

Sending one's own troops to Lutia and granting them full authority, even to subordinates one completely trusts, would still cause some hesitation. Eric could understand his feelings, but he couldn't fully comprehend them either.

At this point, if he had a son who could accompany him to Lutia, even if he wasn't particularly capable, he wouldn't have hesitated so much...

Austin was now regretting that he hadn't tried harder when he was younger.

However, now was not the time for regrets. He quickly composed himself and focused his attention back on the content of the negotiations.

"As for supplies, we won't be too demanding. If the governor is going to send a large army to Lutia, at least make sure your own people can have enough to eat."

"Your Highness need not worry about that. In order to drive out the demons as soon as possible, I will not be stingy with my own people, nor will I let the other warriors on the front line just watch. I will purchase a large amount of food in Gradia and transport it to Lutia."

Natalia nodded, racking her brains for an answer while giving a perfunctory response.

The negotiations have been basically completed, and now is a good time to add some minor conditions. As long as they are not too excessive, Austin will agree.

"By the way, Governor..."

Eric, on the other hand, first remembered a small matter: "I met a dwarf craftsman in the northern part of Sunset City. He is quite skilled, but it seems that his workshop will have to be relocated to another place soon. Can the governor solve his problem?"

Austin glanced at him in surprise. "This doesn't require my help. Her Highness could have solved it with a single word."

Eric smiled: "This is, after all, the Governor of Austin's place. In any case, the Governor should be informed, and it is up to you to decide."

Austin was pleased with his attitude and casually said, "No problem."

Natalia then remembered something important: "His Highness Eric once proposed recruiting coastal fishmen as mercenaries to supplement the forces on the main battlefield. What does Governor Austin think?"

Austin paused for a moment, then quickly nodded. "Okay, merfolk are cheap and easy to use, much more cost-effective than orcs. Although they're all pretty stupid, they're also easy to manage."

"Princess Natalia and I will continue south, where we will recruit fishmen along the coast and even in the archipelago."

Eric picked up the thread, "However, the fish-men of the South are not entirely trustworthy. If they spread out, they could become a hidden danger. In that case, we might need to use Sunset City, the capital of Austin, as a receiving port to send them to the battlefield in Lutia."

After a moment's consideration, Austin realized he might need those cheap mercenaries in the future, so he agreed.

It wasn't until almost noon that the negotiations between the two sides were finally concluded.

Governor Austin will provide all of Reentani's resources, both militaryly and materially, to the front lines. In return, after the demons are defeated, the Austin family will receive officially recognized governance of Reentani, a hereditary title. Of course, the Austin family will also have to fulfill their obligations to the Empire.

Austin and Natalia both seemed quite satisfied with the result.

"Finally, we have one more small request."

"Hmm? What's with all this requests? Your Highness, just say the word."

Natalia and Eric exchanged a glance, then looked at him. "We hope Governor Austin will make a public statement on this to inspire more people to join the resistance against the demons."

"No problem, no problem."

Austin readily agreed, "Alright, I'll hold another banquet at the Governor's Mansion tonight to announce this to everyone."

Natalia smiled. "That would be perfect."

"How many people are left on Your Highness's list? I'll arrange a reception room for you. You can go there to discuss things at any time during the banquet tonight."

“Thank you for your kind offer,” Eric said. “It seems we won’t be staying in Sunset City for much longer.”

Austin laughed heartily, “I’m not trying to get rid of you two princes. You’re welcome to stay at the Governor’s Mansion for another year.”

With Austin's full support, it didn't really matter whether the remaining nobles and wealthy merchants in Sunset City negotiated or not; however, there was no reason to turn down something that was offered to them.

Austin's statement will inevitably influence the choices of a considerable number of people. Eric and Natalia plan to use tonight's dinner to talk to as many of the remaining people on the list as possible, and ideally, to reach an agreement that very night.

In the afternoon, the two did not go out to visit anyone, but stayed at the governor's mansion to prepare for the banquet.

After writing the letter to Oren, requesting the city lord's full assistance in the investigation, Eric remembered Austin's promise to help him relocate the artisan workshop, so he prepared to go and take a look.

Passing through the small door, I arrived at Natalia's room. She was holding the list, staring absently at the remaining names. Upon hearing Eric's invitation, she thought for a moment, then shook her head and politely declined.

"Your Highness, please go ahead. I'd like to familiarize myself with these names a bit more."

Although Eric felt that the names on the guest list would be more enthusiastic than her at the dinner party, he didn't force her.

Before leaving the room, he looked back at her and said, "Take a nap; it might help your memory."

Natalia smiled. "I'll give it a try."

Eric and Kasha left the governor's mansion together.

Before long, the two arrived at the dwarf artisan workshop.

The dwarf craftsman, whom I had met a few days ago, seemed quite excited, clearly having received news from the governor's office that we didn't need to move.

What's even more remarkable is that he remembered Eric and guessed that it was Eric who solved the problem.

“I really don’t know how to express my gratitude, sir.”

Eric looked down at him, then gestured with his lip toward the longsword hanging on the wall. "I think you should know."

"Oh, I almost forgot! Of course, you can take the sword now."

Eric finally got his wish and personally took down the magical weapon with the purple label in his eyes from the wall.

The weapon forged by the dwarves was noticeably thicker than the one made by the elves. Although it looked about the same length as his previous Mist Longsword, it was heavier.

【Blade of the Tides】

"A longsword forged by dwarves in the style of the tides, with patterns on the blade resembling the waves."

As attacks continue, the power of each attack increases.

Eric swung it around a couple of times and quickly got used to the slightly heavy feel.

This longsword is nicknamed the Combo Sword in "The Thorn Soul Crown". Continuous attacks will grant a buff that increases attack power, which is especially suitable for him.

Eric was satisfied and then said he was willing to pay for it rather than take it for free.

The dwarf craftsman refused to accept money, saying that he had already saved him a lot of money by helping him keep his workshop.

“I didn’t quite understand before why a high-ranking clergyman like you would need such a weapon.” He looked at the longsword in Eric’s hand, “but seeing the way you wield it, I understand now that you are more of a warrior.”

"You're quite the smooth talker." Eric smiled at him. "No wonder you're a master craftsman; you have a keen eye."

After chatting with the dwarven craftsmen for a while, Eric and Kasha returned to the governor's mansion.

Back in his room, Eric couldn't resist drawing his longsword again and playing with it for a while, then suddenly realized that there was no sound from the next room.

He put away his weapon and went to Natalia's room, where he found her lying there with her eyes closed, her arms hanging at her sides, a list about to fall in her hand, and her breathing steady and shallow.

It seems she took his advice.

Eric didn't disturb her, and turned to look out the window.

It was still early, and there were still several hours before the banquet, so she could sleep for a while longer without being disturbed.

Their journey in Sunset City was coming to an end, and he, too, was entitled to a short vacation.

Eric tiptoed back to the next room.

"I've never been on a boat before... I hope I won't get seasick."

(End of this chapter)