Chapter 149: Andrew
TL: Etude
Baron Abbot, these cans are indeed what the kingdoms army needs, Viscount Williams expression had significantly improved since their initial meeting.
So, how are they made? Naturally, it would be best if he had control over the production.
Hansel gave a regretful look. Im sorry, Viscount, but I also do not know how the canned goods are made. The inventor and producer of the cans is Count Paul Grayman of Alda in the Northwest Bay. He only commissioned me, as a royal commissioner, to promote this processed food to the kingdoms army, but he never mentioned anything about the production process.
Viscount William shook his head repeatedly. Thats really unfortunate, too unfortunate. This Count should have offered the production method directly to the royal family. What has happened to the loyalty of the local lords to His Majesty the King? Have they all forgotten the oaths their ancestors made to Rodney I?
In reality, what truly disappointed the Viscount was that the other party was a titled noble and a count, making it difficult to forcibly obtain the canning method, especially during such a sensitive period of lordly rebellion in the south.
Hansel thought to himself, the original oath didnt say that the lords must obediently hand over whatever the royal family desired.
Viscount William continued, Baron Abbott, please be sure to convey to Count Grayman that if he can disclose the canning method, His Majesty the King will surely reward him generously.
I will certainly pass the message to Lord Grayman.
Although Hansel agreed verbally, he thought to himself: Since when can a quartermaster make decisions on behalf of His Majesty the King? And what use are such empty promises?
Does this mean the kingdoms army is interested in these canned goods?
Interested? Of course.
The Viscounts eyes shifted.
But I wonder about the production capacity of the cans? You see, once the military decides to purchase, it will definitely not be a small amount.
Hansel replied with slight trepidation, Well I must not hide from you, Viscount, that the current production of cans is rather limited. However, you neednt worry, as Lord Grayman is expanding his canning factory in his territory. By February of next year at the latest, he should be able to supply the kingdoms army on a large scale and in a stable manner.
Thus, Baron Andrew and his Baylding troops remained in the south.
In the drawing room, Hansel met the waiting Baron Andrew a robust man with a resolute expression and impressive appearance.
Introducing himself first, Hansel said, I am Hansel Abbott. What brings you to me, Baron Andrew?
Baron Andrew stood up to greet him. Its an honor to meet you, Baron Abbott. I heard youre the royal commissioner stationed in Alda, our neighbor?
After inviting Andrew to sit again, Hansel confirmed, Indeed, I am here on official business and will soon return to the Northwest Bay.
Andrew expressed his appreciation, Its rare to see someone as dedicated to their duty as you, Baron Abbott. The royal commissioner assigned to our Baylding just found an excuse to return to Crystal Shine and disappeared. Ive heard this isnt an isolated incident.
Hansel inwardly scoffed, The lords of each region would be only too glad to see their commissioners leave sooner rather than later, wouldnt they?
Andrew continued, Ive learned about Angelo and others rebellion from the letter sent by Lord Ganard. Although Ive always disliked them, I never expected them to betray their oaths. Its a disgrace to knighthood.
Thankfully, Count Grayman timely intervened to crush these traitors. Lord Ganards alliance with him was not in vain. Please convey my gratitude to Lord Grayman when you return.
Hansel nodded with a smile, Ha, of course, Ill be sure to pass on your message to Lord Grayman.
Their conversation flowed well, and Hansel discerned from Andrews words:
He truly was unaware of Angelo and others conspiracy;
Baron Andrew constantly upheld knightly ideals but was somewhat politically nave.
In a way, Hansel found such a character quite endearing.
After a pleasant conversation, Hansel agreed to a small favor for Andrew to carry a stack of letters back to the Northwest Bay, most of which were letters from Baylding soldiers to their families, written on their behalf.