Chapter 18: The Knight’s Loyalty

Chapter 18: The Knight’s Loyalty

TL: Etude

Paul, filled with indignation, witnessed a scenario that had previously only existed in history books: a collusion between officials and bandits, now unfolding right before his eyes.

From Quiks confession, Paul learned that a few months ago, Edward had suddenly left with his trusted fleet. The specifics of their mission were unknown to these peripheral underlings. In the absence of the tiger, the monkeys declared themselves kings. The scattered pirate groups, now unrestrained, turned rebellious. Where there were once prohibitions under Edwards strict orders, now it was a free-for-all, with each group seizing whatever they could. Some pirate groups, emboldened by Edwards departure, even dared to venture into the inland territories near Graymans lands, areas untouched for nearly two decades.

After further interrogation of Quik, Paul ordered him to be thrown into the dungeon. With a stern face, he announced to everyone that he planned to take advantage of the absence of the pirates main forces to eradicate the remaining pirates in the Northwest Bay and restore peace to his territory.

The steward, Ford, expressed his concerns: I understand your anger, my lord, and dealing with the scattered pirate groups should pose no problem. But what if Edwards main fleet returns? As weve seen recently, other families wont help us until they themselves are under attack. Alone, our territory might stand little chance against Edward.

Thats why we need to build a strong navy. When Edward returns, well be ready to defeat them, Paul replied. He knew that the nobles of the Ordo Kingdom had little awareness of maritime power, which had allowed pirates to thrive.

But my lord, shipbuilding is expensive, Ford cautioned. Add to that the cost of training sailors and regular maintenance; its a bottomless pit.

Dont worry, gentlemen. Well have bread, and well have milk, the young Count assured confidently.

Pauls decision to eliminate the pirates was not just driven by indignation towards the nobles indifference to the coastal commoners plight. He had other reasons as well.

During his time in this world, he realized it was technologically backward, comparable to medieval Europe on Earth, with most goods produced through manual craftsmanship. He pondered over various industries that could generate immediate income, such as papermaking, book printing, and ceramics.Updated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

The challenge, however, lay in the backwardness of Ordos northwestern region, where the populace was largely illiterate and poor. Who would buy his products? While the nobility might be interested in novel items for decoration, relying solely on noble customers wouldnt bring much profit. Therefore, he needed to sell his products in the more economically developed southern regions, such as the capital, Shine Castle, or even further, through the Horn Bay Alliance, to distant lands.

How to transport the goods? Land routes were out of the question. Aside from the ongoing war in the south, even in peacetime, the many checkpoints and greedy local lords would make it impractical. So, he turned his attention to sea routes. By eliminating the pirates and securing maritime paths, he could leverage the advantages of sea transport large cargo capacity and direct access to destinations without the extortionate demands of local lords.

Agreed. We should specifically form two companies for naval combat, focusing on training in boarding actions and other maritime combat techniques. Next time we face the pirates, we wont be so passive.

The firearms invented by Lord Count seem perfect for naval combat, especially the hand grenades. We should equip a large quantity. Throwing a few onto an enemy ship as we approach would guarantee casualties.

The muskets are also effective. I personally witnessed four of the enemy taken down by them. A single shot was all it took.

Constructing a few ships with battering rams, or repurposing fishermens boats, and sailing down the Vis River

Your suggestions are all excellent, Paul said. Ill assign personnel to increase the production of firearms and start building warships.

The atmosphere at the meeting grew increasingly enthusiastic as they rode the wave of their recent victory, with everyone eagerly offering suggestions.

While Paul was listening and pondering over the suggestions, a servant quietly entered and whispered something to steward Philip, who immediately tugged at his sleeve.

Whats happened? Paul asked.

My lord, weve found the bell-casting artisan you were looking for.

Paul slapped his thigh in delight, Oh? Ha ha, finally! He then excused himself from the discussion, urging the servant to lead the way, and quickly left.

The people left behind were confused. Was there something more urgent than dealing with the pirates?

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