Chapter 73
Minister of War Luschen finished preparing the tea and sat down in the seat opposite.
He had also heard, through the grapevine, about the duel commotion with Viscount Rottem.
Viscount Rottem was still young, but his skill with the sword was not bad.
Claude, who was said to have overwhelmingly defeated him, was undoubtedly also superior in martial prowess.
In addition to that, he had also demonstrated a swift ability to procure equipment.
Luschen wanted to take this opportunity to strengthen his connection with Claude by all means.
“Lord Claude, if you wish, it would be possible to assign you other official positions. What do you think?”
“I appreciate the offer, but I usually reside in the Prominence Domain, so I believe it would be difficult.”
“Indeed, if you are not in the Royal Capital, there are few jobs that can be entrusted to you.”
He backed down, feeling disappointed inwardly.
After that, they continued with innocuous conversation.
Claude continued to converse with Minister of War Luschen while drinking tea.
Before they knew it, the conversation had turned to the topic of the military forces currently maintained by the kingdom.
The kingdom’s military strength is as follows:
The Imperial Guard, tasked with directly serving the royal family and protecting the royalty.
The Royal Knight Order, tasked with protecting the Royal Capital and responding to emergencies.
Infantry units that protect the Royal Capital and directly controlled territories.
Management units that oversee dungeons.
In addition to these, it is composed of knight orders and infantry units maintained by each feudal lord.
“I am thinking of creating a newly established unit equipped with the gear Lord Claude delivered.”
“It would be difficult to draw members from the knight orders, wouldn’t it? In that case, will they be from the infantry units?”
“That would be the case. I’ve looked at the delivery list, but if I were to be greedy, I would want a bit more in terms of quantity…”
“Production will require some time, but it’s possible since we just need to gather the materials again. Specifically, how much do you need?”
“Let me see. This much would be sufficient, even as reserves.”
Minister of War Luschen wrote the required number on a piece of paper and handed it over.
“I see. I’ve duly noted your request.”
Just then, there was a knock on the door, and Margrave Missia entered.
“Luschen-dono. I have something to discuss, but are you with a guest?”
“Margrave Missia. It has been a while. Not since my elder sister’s wedding, I believe.”
“Oh! Claude, is it? It has been a long time.”
“Lord Tyrant. Is there something you need?”
“I’ve checked the equipment that was delivered, and I was wondering if you could spare some for me.”
“You have a sharp eye. However, we are also short on numbers, so we can’t possibly spare any…”
“Can’t you somehow make it work?”
“Even if you say that… Lord Claude, can’t something be done?”
“Why are you consulting Claude?”
“It is Lord Claude who prepared the equipment delivered this time.”
“Alicia said he was exceptional, and it seems it’s true.”
And so, they ended up discussing the delivery plan with Margrave Missia joining in.