Chapter 332 In the Name of St. Sith
In the banquet hall of the Valencia Family Manor, the air was not only filled with the scent of perfume and fine wine, but also with an indescribable anxiety and expectation.
Under the gilded lights, luxuriously dressed guests gathered in groups. People talked and laughed softly, but their eyes couldn't help but focus on the door of the banquet hall.
Or to be more accurate -
The same figure is reflected in both pairs of pupils.
"...I didn't expect the Prince Regent to actually go out to greet him in person!"
In the corner, an older baron could not conceal the surprise in his voice. Although his voice was very soft, it still clearly reached the ears of many people around him.
A nobleman next to him smiled softly.
"What's so strange about this, I'm more surprised that the Duke of Valencia also followed him downstairs."
"Forget the Prince Regent, His Excellency the Marshal is here...and Captain Julian!" Another noble then whispered, the surprise on his face was more obvious, "This is not like his style."
"I What's even more surprising is that he actually received an invitation..." The gentleman with his arms crossed narrowed his eyes slightly, with a hint of mockery at the corner of his mouth, "When did the Valencia family's manor allow even those without titles to come in?"
The Eberg family has titles, but the commander of the Julian Army is obviously just a civilian with a false title... at least in the eyes of the old nobles.
"Don't just focus on the army and the Senate," a baron not far away couldn't help but said with sparkling eyes, "Holy Saint Sith, I actually see the president of the Adventurer's Guild here! In my impression, that guy doesn't like to appear at noble banquets."
The companion next to him glanced at him and said with a smile.
"What's strange about this? It's obvious that the Adventurer's Guild is also eyeing the business of the Janna continent. I heard that a demon king's territory seems to have emerged there recently."
Another noble interjected.
"Who is the president of the Adventurer's Guild? Count Cassit Hilfin next to him is the real big shot!
The man holding the red wine glass in his hand smiled and said meaningfully.
"Indeed, who doesn't know that the Sylfen family is the confidant of His Majesty the Pope. The Senate, the army, and the Holy See...hehe, there is something good to watch tonight!"
The overt and covert fighting between the three major factions in the Holy City is not a secret at all to the guests present. Many of the guests invited by the Valencia family are themselves members of the Senate, or have inextricable connections with the Senate.
However, just as everyone was waiting for the conflict between the big shots who usually disliked each other with the mentality of watching the excitement, an unexpected scene happened.
I saw the Regent Granville Porta and Marshal Rako Aiberg smiling and chatting elegantly with Prince Colin. Soon Count Cassit Hilfin and President Abor also joined them calmly.
The atmosphere between the few people was harmonious and harmonious, and there was no sign of any deep estrangement.
There is certainly an element of playfulness in this. After all, the more powerful a person is, the more they cherish their feathers, and they rarely fall out in person even if they feel unhappy.
However, even if it is a joke, there is no need to act to this extent.
After all, when they meet someone who doesn't agree with them, they can turn around and leave. There is no need to force themselves to waste on such meaningless things as playing the piano to others.
Obviously——
They are interested in the topic raised by Prince Colin!
And this interest is obviously not based on personal preference, but is related to the actual interests of the family and even the faction, so that no one of them can turn around and leave... At least they are not willing to give up this opportunity to their political opponents, and are willing to listen to what the young man has to say.
This unexpected harmony made many nobles who were observing secretly feel ripples in their hearts, wondering whether they should find a chance to go over and listen to what they were talking about.
"This young Prince Colin's social skills are unusual..." An older earl narrowed his eyes and whispered to his companion standing aside, "There has not been a figure in the Holy City who has been favored by the three forces at the same time for many years."
His companion nodded slightly, with an imperceptible recognition in his tone.
"It seems that our Prince is indeed a person. People from the Senate, the Marshal's Palace, and the Holy See can actually live in such harmony... This is really rare."
Compared to the older nobles who are observing secretly, the noble children who have not inherited the title of their fathers are much more straightforward.
They gathered together in small groups, chatting excitedly, their eyes full of longing for Prince Colin and the distant continent.
"Have you heard? Baron Tich Kosia, who has been in the limelight recently, became rich overnight in the continent of Janna! It is said that there is gold and gemstones everywhere, and the opportunities for wealth are endless! I listened to what my good brother Langton said!" A young noble said to his companions with interest, his eyes full of yearning.
Another young man also said excitedly.
“I’ve heard about it too! That Kosia, he recently stayed at the Royal Empire Hotel! Now his story is being circulated throughout the Holy City. The Holy City Gospel seems to be planning to publish his personal biography, telling the story of a down-and-out young man who lost all his family property. How to gain the blessing of Saint Sith because of his piety, and to open up territory for the empire in a strange land! "
A count's eldest son, who was almost forty years old but had not even received a baron title, couldn't help but say enviously.
"If we can climb Prince Colin's big tree, maybe we can make a fortune there too!"
The land in the Old World has been divided up, and even the land in the New World is almost done, and no one wants to take the remaining places.
After hearing the story of Baron Kosia, many young guys started thinking about it, thinking that they could also try their luck.
Furthermore, there is no entrance to hell in Janna continent...at least not yet. It is thought to be much safer than places near the front line like the New World.
The faces of the young guys were filled with excitement. Amidst the eloquent discussions, it seemed as if wealth everywhere was within reach. The ladies not far away covered their faces with fans and whispered about topics that made the girls in the boudoir blush and heartbeat.
“Have you heard? Prince Colin is still single,” a lady in a gorgeous evening dress whispered in a reserved manner, but her eyes were shining with joy. “Young, handsome, with enviable wealth and status... I don’t know what kind of girl he likes. ”
The best friend next to her gave her a wink, and said with a giggle, "What? You still want to volunteer?"
The girl who was teased did not blush, but instead puffed up her chest confidently, and the full moonlight flickered on her body.
"Why not?"
The lady next to her covered the corners of her mouth with a fan, snickered and glanced at a young girl hiding behind her father not far away, and said in a sinister manner.
"Then you have to hurry up. The youngest daughter of the Duke of Castellon's family seems to be very interested in him. Did you see the expression on the face of the paper? Tsk tsk, look at that cute look, as if she has never seen a male before."
The lady in evening dress shook her wavy hair, glanced in the direction of the little girl, and said disdainfully.
"Haha, except for women whose family background is worthless, Your Highness Colin will not like that kind of coquettish bitch, only those who are full of wisdom, tenacity, courage, beauty and talent..."
Before she could finish her words, her best friend couldn't help but roll her eyes.
"Oh, by the name of Saint Sith, I have never seen such a shameless guy!"
Obviously——
Their relationship is not as good as it seems on the surface, but this lady is still a little short-sighted and does not complain behind her back.
The conversation between the three people was just an insignificant episode in the banquet. However, this episode was also a microcosm, and to a certain extent, it reflected the interest of the upper class of the empire in this prince who came from afar.
At least——
Duke of Castellon is indeed very interested in the marriage with the Colin family, and his little daughter, who is new to the world, is indeed full of affection for that heart-warming smile, and her rosy face is full of joy.
It would be best if two people can see each other.
It's a pity that Mr. Colin is too busy and has no time to waste his eyes on a certain person.
He has to respond to everyone’s expectations.
This is where he is selfless.
Whispers and chuckles are like gentle wind, passing through the bustling banquet hall, bringing a bit of coolness to the restless dinner party.
Feeling the enthusiasm from the empire from those gathered, expectant eyes, Luo Yan listened carefully to the adventure stories of Mr. Tuodewen, the president of the Adventurer Guild, and his request for opening a branch on the northern coast of the Janna continent, and then he pondered for a moment and spoke.
"Mr. Todwin, your proposal is indeed very exciting. As you said, the Adventurer's Guild is well-known. It can not only bring vitality to Deadwood Port, but also spread the gospel of Saint Sith. As the most loyal servant of Saint Sith, we, the Colin family, naturally welcome it, not to mention that we are still facing threats from hell."
After a pause, Luo Yan continued with a hint of regret on his face.
"To be honest, although the continent of Janna is vast, my territory is sparsely populated. Even if this branch is opened, I'm afraid it will be difficult to recruit enough adventurers."
When he heard the word "just", Tuodewen's heart skipped a beat, and sure enough, he heard a polite rejection after that.
But he did not give up, but said quickly.
“Your Highness, there is no need to worry about this! The Guild has already considered the problem of manpower. As long as Your Highness agrees, we can dispatch experienced elite adventurers from various branches of the empire to the continent of Janna! Not only can they quickly help you open up the situation and suppress the labyrinth that has not yet formed a climate, We can also help train local newcomers. I can assure you that we will not take up too many of your resources, let alone cause you trouble!"
Looking at Mr. Tuo Dewen with a sincere face, Luo Yan just smiled in his heart.
It’s okay if it doesn’t cause any trouble.
You are the biggest trouble!
Not to mention how troublesome an organized and disciplined "civilian violence group" is for the ruler, even for the sake of his little brother Ig, he cannot let this group of savage beasts take root in the Janna continent so early.
Unless——
This group of savage beasts is under his control.
He looked like he was thinking about it for a few seconds.
Just when Count Cassit Hilfin was about to come forward to smooth things over, Luo Yan gently threw out the words he had already thought of.
"Mr. Todwin, you misunderstood. It's not that I am reluctant to invest resources in the noble cause of the Adventurer's Guild. In fact, it's quite the opposite. As long as it is beneficial to the empire, even if there is no benefit, the Colin family will do it without hesitation."
"Then--" This matter has turned around. Tuo Dewen quickly spoke, but Luo Yan did not give him time to finish his words.
"Compared to the Adventurer's Guild, I was inspired by you and thought of a better idea."
"Oh?" Captain Julian raised his eyebrows and said curiously, "I'd like to hear more about it."
He is different from Cassit.
As an officer, he has no interest in the Adventurer's Guild at all. The only way out for men in the empire is to join the army. Only those "second-rate men" who are greedy for money will become adventurers and exchange the power given to them by Saint Sith in exchange for money.
No matter how the adventurer sees himself, at least this is how he sees the adventurer!
Luo Yan looked at him and nodded slightly, then continued.
"I heard Marshal Eberg mention earlier that there are many young people in the empire today. These young people are eager to make achievements but have difficulty finding opportunities. The Duke of Valencia also lamented that although the aristocratic children in the empire have ambitions, they have no way to display their talents. It's not that I look down on the profession of adventurers, but... if all these ambitious people are allowed to become adventurers, it would be a bit humiliating."
Cassit coughed lightly and said.
"Your Highness, I disagree with this. You may not understand it when you first returned to the Empire. The Adventurer's Guild in the Empire has been very different from what it was five hundred years ago."
Don't understand?
That I understand very well!
Luo Yan nodded slightly, looked at Cassit and said.
"Mr. Hilfin, I understand what you want to express. The Adventurer's Guild is a child of the Holy See. I fully agree with this, but... I am talking about the thoughts of the vast majority of people present. Even if the Holy Light is equal to everyone, we have to admit that some children are closer and some are further away. I respect Mr. Todwin as an adventurer, but please don't be offended. This is what I saw after coming to the Holy City."
Kassite was silent.
This is indeed true.
He would not let his children become adventurers, and other nobles present would be even less likely to do so... Only nobles in remote areas would let their children without inheritance rights work as mercenaries or adventurers for an unrealistic opportunity.
Tuo Dewen smiled bitterly, nodded and said.
"It's okay... Your Highness Colin, I understand that what you said is the truth, and I also believe that you have no personal prejudice against me. Put this topic aside for now, let's talk about the idea you thought of."
Perhaps——
The timing I chose was too bad.
This is, after all, the Valencia family's manor, and the people standing here are people from two different worlds than the Adventurer's Guild.
He did not blame His Highness Colin for his polite refusal.
After calming down, he thought about it carefully. In fact, His Highness Colin had already given himself a lot of face. In comparison, Commander Julian could hardly hold back his laughter.
Luo Yan nodded with a smile, then continued speaking with the steps he handed over.
"As I just said, since you are all optimistic about the prospects of the continent of Janna, and the young people of the empire also need the opportunity to make a career, why don't we set up an organization for those brave young men that is more in line with their status - for example, establish a knighthood in the name of Saint Sith!"
Marshal Laco fell into deep thought, and the face of the Duke of Valencia also shone with an unpredictable light, while the Regent Granville standing next to him carefully observed the Duke's expression.
Knights——
The first thing Laco thought of was the Royal Knights.
Although the Royal Knights were originally composed of nobles, as time went by, the Knights had long been filled by the "upstarts" of the empire.
The reason is very simple. The imperial nobles do not like to practice martial arts at all, especially charging with lances. It is all a sideshow played by the barbarians of the Lion Kingdom.
In contrast, they prefer to wave their wands gracefully and rain down death on the enemy's heads from thousands of meters away.
Furthermore, the conditions on the front line are too difficult, and the empire's teleportation technology is not as developed as Hell's. If they want to show off on the front line, they have to take a boat for more than a month. If they die on the Demon God's territory, there is a risk that their souls will not be able to come back.
Over time, the empire's knights were basically under the control of the officer faction, and even the Holy See found it difficult to get in.
Thinking of this, Laco's lips curled up with an imperceptible smile.
Sure enough, he read it right——
Colin is on their side.
However, just when he was about to say something, the Duke of Valencia spoke first and looked at Colin with careful eyes.
"Knights? Your Highness, this is really... an unexpected proposal. I wonder how the knighthood you envision is different from the existing knights in the empire, such as the Royal Knights?"
As if he had expected that someone would have such a question, Luo Yan smiled slightly and continued.
"The difference is... the Knights I am talking about is not a purely military organization, but a quasi-national organization that has its own territory and laws and exists to fulfill its sacred obligation to expand territory for the empire!"
As Luo Yan expected, the expressions on everyone's faces became wonderful the moment he finished speaking.
Especially Commander Julian, who was standing next to Marshal Laco, whose eager eyes were like a blazing flame.
Your own territory!
That is the most straightforward desire deep in the hearts of the officers of the empire, but it is suppressed by the tradition of the nobles of the empire.
"...It does not belong to any family, and is only loyal to the Holy Emperor and Saint Sith, but everyone in this organization can share its glory equally!"
In response to the burning desire, Luo Yan vividly painted this blueprint that no one present had seen before, and poured paint on the white canvases.
That pigment is exactly the color of flame!
Luo Yan did not put all his attention on the faction of Marshal Laco, and soon turned his attention to the Whig Duke of Valencia, who had an unnatural expression on his face. He evenly aimed at the pain point deep in his heart——
"Everyone can share its glory, even if this person is not on the front line of the Knights, as long as he contributes his strength to the Knights!"
The Duke of Valencia was slightly startled.
“What do you mean.”
Luo Yan said with a smile.
"This knighthood is a joint-stock company."
Joint-stock system?
The Duke of Valencia was stunned.
Not only him, but also all the nobles present looked at each other in confusion. Only Kasit Hilfin showed a thoughtful expression, as if he heard some overtones.
The property income of most nobles depends on the land. In contrast, the Holy See is more proficient in management. However, "even the Knights can operate joint-stock partnerships" was beyond his expectation.
But for Luo Yan, he was still surprised too early.
While Mr. Cassit was still thinking, His Royal Highness Prince Colin quickly made a proposal that even the nobles of the Senate could not refuse -
"To put it more bluntly and more secularly, that is, those who have money should give money, those who have people should give people, and those who have strength should give strength. , Even a person with nothing can dedicate his devout faith and a passionate heart to Saint Sith! "
After saying this, the Duke of Valencia immediately understood, his eyes gradually brightened, and his expression when he looked at Prince Colin once again had a smile of appreciation.
If we really talk about financial resources, these poor devils who only "take advantage of the emperor" are far less than one ten thousandth of the Senate nobles.
The nobles contributed money and land, and the common people contributed their strength and lives... This is the most traditional and pure model of the empire.
It is indeed the Colin family with a profound historical background——
The young man is still very sensible!
Although Commander Julian, who was standing next to him, frowned slightly, he soon relaxed a little when he saw that Marshal Laco didn't say anything.
If something is only good for the officers of the empire, then the Senate of the empire will definitely not pass it easily.
The same applies to the Holy See.
As a member of the nobility, it is not easy for His Highness Colin to consider the demands of the middle and lower-level officers of the empire and propose some plans that are beneficial to the officer faction.
Anyway, wouldn’t the Empire’s Knights still be in the hands of the officer sect in the end?
No matter how many cronies the nobles placed in the army, nothing was a problem in the face of time.
After all, they are unwilling and impossible to leave the Holy City themselves and develop beyond the vast ocean. The emperor has a throne that he cannot live without, and they also have their own throne - and the name of this throne is called the Holy City.
And those down-and-out nobles who have been excluded from their inner circle, even if they were once members of the senatorial faction, will eventually be assimilated by the friendship of Paoze after going to the front line and become part of the officer faction - just like Marshal Laco.
“...Whether it is a family with strong financial resources like the Duke of Valencia and the Duke of Castellon, or other nobles with vision but no chance to realize their ambitions, they can participate through funding or direct investment and share the future benefits according to their contribution. Of course, we are also the same Adventurers are welcome to participate, and I even desperately hope that the "Unfathomable Baron" Tuodewen can help me! "
"I will!" Tuodewen, who was stunned by this broad prospect, subconsciously responded, and after a moment he suddenly came back to his senses and became embarrassed.
The Unfathomable Baron was a title he earned while training as an adventurer. Although he often talked about it after retiring and becoming the president of the Adventurer's Guild, he was actually too shy to mention it at such a banquet where the guests were either rich or noble.
Speaking of which, did you mention this nickname just now?
He couldn't help but sigh in his heart, and was even flattered. He didn't expect that Prince Colin, who had just arrived in the Holy City for less than two days, would even hear about the deeds of a little person like himself.
Seeing Tuo Dewen looking directly at him, Luo Yan smiled and nodded to him, then faced those fiery eyes and continued in a passionate tone.
"Although it is vulgar to say that we want to distribute worldly benefits to those who are passionate about sacred causes, I still have to say that its mission is grand and sacred! It transcends all worldly interests! It is to expand the territory of the empire! To spread the fire of civilization! And most importantly - to spread the gospel of Saint Sith to every piece of land we have seen but have not received!"
When he clarified the real interests and talked about these ideals, his eyes became obviously more fiery than before.
Land!
Honour!
There is also faith!
But just drawing a cake is not enough, he must make the cake look big enough - whether it is the future prospects or the present!
"In order to show the determination and sincerity of the Colin family in this matter," Luo Yan offered the most tempting conditions, his voice was calm but resounding, "I, Roxey Colin, am willing to allocate a piece of land with rich resources and superior geographical location from the direct territory of the Colin family in the continent of Janna as the fiefdom of the knights!"
Looking at the banquet hall that had quieted down for some time, and the excited faces, he continued with a clear voice.
"This knighthood will establish civilization and order in the barren land in the name of Saint Sith, open up safe trade routes, shelter all kind and law-abiding people of the empire, educate the barbarians, and let the glory of the empire and the gospel of Saint Sith be spread forever on the continent of Cana! Not just with swords , we must use holy light and prosperity to make the barbarians there surrender to our empire from the bottom of their hearts!"
"Because it is in the name of Saint Sith——"
"The name of this knighthood should be called the Knights Templar!"