Bahamut, who had an almost accurate grasp of the situation in the surrounding states, including the Empire, listened as the emperor sought his counsel on overcoming the current predicament.
In response, Bahamut spoke calmly.
“According to what I have heard, it is difficult to assemble an expeditionary force with the Empire’s current capacity. However, allowing Hangury and Roland to collapse like this would be akin to ignoring the disaster to come.”
“I see your point. It’s embarrassing, but as you said, the Empire needs a break for a while. Organizing a new army is impossible at a time like this.”
Everyone knew that the emperor had even borrowed money from Bertina, who stood behind Bahamut, to address this issue.
To the emperor, who expressed such difficulty, Bahamut, with a slight twinkle in his eyes, proposed an alternative.
“That’s why, Your Majesty… I believe now is the time to use Your Majesty’s authority—the mighty authority of the Emperor of the Holy Empire, as the proper ruler of the continent.”
“What does that mean?”
The emperor, intrigued by this unexpected suggestion, expressed both doubts and deeper expectations. Bahamut continued, observing the emperor closely.
“As you know, the Tarkic Empire and the Dragona Empire are so-called pagans who deny the continent’s orthodox religion, the Holy Church. Remind the continent’s monarchs of this fact and inform them of the danger, by order of the emperor, the guardian of enlightenment.”In other words, the plan was to compel countries like the Kingdom of Frank or the Kalmar Alliance in the north to abandon any other thoughts and cooperate in the coming war. However, the emperor slowly shook his head in response.
“The theory sounds good, but it’s probably difficult. No matter how much justification they provide, they won’t easily be swayed by that level of talk. If it doesn’t serve their national interest, they won’t move.”
“Of course, Your Majesty. That’s why I think it’s necessary to use a carrot and a stick simultaneously to proceed with this task.”
“Carrot and stick? What do you mean?”
The emperor began to show intense interest in the story that was somehow appealing to his ears.
“The stick is to give the edict a stronger force so that they do not disregard Your Majesty’s authority. Your Majesty, obtain the sanction of the Holy Father at Rhome, so that those who withdraw from further war against the infidels will be immediately excommunicated.”
“It’s reasonable…”
The emperor thought it was a sensible suggestion.
Although the pope’s power had weakened considerably due to various incidents, his authority was still alive. Furthermore, the influence of the great saint, who quietly maintained her position behind the pope, remained significant.
Above all, considering the fundamental nature of the two countries, Tarkic and Dragona, even if the pope declared excommunication against any country that aided or cooperated in their invasion, it would not be problematic.
History had already proven that monarchs and nobles excommunicated for such legitimate causes faced backlash from the public, so the utility of this whip was evident.
“That’s not a bad idea. But what about the carrot?”
“The carrot is for those who might still consider the advantages of disregarding Your Majesty’s authority and cause. What we want right now is for them to actively participate in this situation rather than merely remaining silent, so we’ll need a suitable lure.”
This made sense. Even if the pope’s decree were issued immediately, no countries, like the Kingdom of Frank before, would attempt to backstab them. However, this didn’t mean they would actively step forward solely for religious reasons. If they mobilized their military, it would only be a pretense, insufficient to overcome the current challenges.
In this respect, the emperor realized that the carrot was, in a way, more important than the stick.
“Tell me, what is the lure for that arrogant Kingdom of Frank and the Kalmar Alliance?”
“Yes, Your Majesty… that is…”
Bahamut continued his explanation, and upon hearing everything, the emperor’s face began to show deep concern. If the emperor accepted Bahamut’s proposal, it would indeed be possible to resolve the situation amicably while meeting the conditions set at the outset. The Empire would be able to successfully block the offensive of the Tarkics and Dragona without suffering losses. However, the Empire might gain nothing in return.
In some cases, the Holy Empire might be left empty-handed while potential competitors advanced. Nonetheless, the emperor knew there was no better option. In the worst-case scenario, as Bahamut had mentioned earlier, the Empire could suffer a huge blow, making this plan a sensible precaution.
After careful consideration, the emperor could only nod in reluctant agreement.
“…Alright, then. Let’s proceed immediately. Not just for the Holy Empire, but as you said, for the benefit of the entire continent.”
“This one is in awe, Your Majesty.”
Bahamut knelt and paid his respects to the emperor, who accepted his counsel.
Meanwhile, observing this interaction in silence, Bertina, who had been quiet all along, felt a familiar chill run down her spine. It was the same feeling she had experienced when she first met Bahamut.
‘As expected… he’s a truly terrifying person…’
***
Kingdom of Frank .
A country with the most fertile land on the continent, frequently found itself at odds with the Holy Empire. However, due to the increasing pressure from Emperor Charles of the Holy Empire, the situation in Frank had deteriorated to the point where they once considered an alliance with the Tarkic Empire.
During this turbulent time, a letter, supposedly sent by the emperor of the Holy Empire, was delivered to King Henri of Frank. Given the history of animosity, where they had been pointing swords at each other just a few months ago, King Henri initially wanted to tear up the letter and toss it into the stove. However, he couldn’t disregard an edict from the emperor that had been recognized by the pope.
‘Alright… Let’s see what they’ve written. If it’s the same nonsense as before, I’ll…’
Grinding his teeth, King Henri opened the letter. However, as he read its contents, his expression changed drastically.
“This… Is this real? Did the emperor really send a letter like this?”
“Yes, Your Majesty. It is a clear fact, considering the emperor’s stamp and the seal of His Holiness the Pope.”
“Hmm…”
After confirming the facts again, a serious expression crossed King Henri’s face.
“The situation must be very serious… For the emperor to bring us in with such conditions.”
Saying this, King Henri reread the letter. In addition to the threats of excommunication issued by the pope concerning the Tarkics and the Dragona Empire, the emperor had set forth additional conditions. The armaments needed to address this issue would be lent by the emperor in the form of a low-interest loan, along with all the benefits arising from the war. All rights to territory, prisoners of war, and other spoils would be conceded to the participating countries.
Furthermore, until the situation was officially resolved, the Holy Empire declared that all hostilities against all countries participating in this ‘hospital’ would cease.
‘From the perspective of our Kingdom of Frank, which is periodically harassed by the Holy Empire, the last clause alone makes this offer worthwhile. And then… haha, even though it’s in the form of a loan, relinquishing all rights to the spoils of war while securing the funds… It’s clear that the emperor is desperate.’
Although it was a loan, it was an attractive offer, given the low-interest rate and sufficient repayment period. Above all, if Frank could win in the war, the rewards would be enormous. Even from King Henri’s perspective, it was an opportunity worth seizing. Moreover, the justification was perfect; refusing would lead to significant losses.
As the king weighed his options, a servant cautiously asked, “What would you like to do, Your Majesty?”
A deep smile began to form on King Henri’s lips.
“Of course, we must accept. Following the emperor’s orders may not look good, but there are no flaws in terms of justification and practicality. Above all, if the situation is this serious, we, who claim to be the guardians of the Holy Church, cannot stand idly by. Naturally, participating in this cause and drawing our swords is the proper duty of a servant of the Lord.”
“I see… I understand, Your Majesty. I will send a reply accordingly.”
As the servant departed, King Henri watched with an expectant smile.
‘I can’t miss an opportunity like this. Pressured by the Holy Empire from both sides, our situation has been difficult. However, if I handle this well, I will be able to expand the reputation and influence of Frank.’
HELP:
During the recent unrest in the country I am from, our family hardware store was broken into and looted by thugs. I don’t know why they did it, since my family has always been minding our own business, without bothering anyone else. I’m guessing some people are taking advantage of the current lawless and chaotic state of the country.
Anyways, the incident now leaves me as the only earning member of my family. Long time readers know that I was already dealing with a mountain of trouble (that I inherited from my father), and was already struggling. I had created a plan of action, and was steadily moving forward. But this incident destroyed whatever plans I had, again. I don’t know why bad things keep happening to me again and again. I might as well be cursed or something.
So here I am, after much hesitation, once again asking for your support. If you are reading this, please help if you are able to, I repeat, help only if you are able to. I am not asking something for free, you can become a Patron at Patreon to gain access to more chapters, or sponsor as many chapters you can from any of the novels you enjoy on Goblinslate here at BuymeaCoffee. Or if you just want to help, you can donate any amount at the Wishlist at BuymeaCoffee.
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