Chapter 24

The Crown Prince’s party was scheduled for the time when the snow would melt after the new year, so there was still some time to spare, allowing me to return to the Duke’s domain.

Once the snow melted, we would regroup in the capital city of the Duke’s domain and then head to the royal capital.

As usual, we would have to wait about three months for the snow to melt.

Amidst the first flurries of snow, I ran through the streets of the capital city of the domain.

Arriving at my destination, I knocked on the door. A man opened it, and I slipped inside the building with Erich.

“Duke, it must have been cold outside, right?”

“Indeed. The snow is starting to fall.”

“Please, this way. I have prepared some tea for you.”

“Then I’ll gladly accept your offer. Thank you, Bishop Heinemann.”

Bishop Heinemann managed the church here in the capital city of the Duke of Baltia’s domain.

Religion was deeply intertwined with the lives of the people, who often came to the church for advice or to pray. Because of this, I regularly visited to stay informed about the people’s situations.

I was shown to a room, and after I took my seat, Erich sat beside me, while Bishop Heinemann took his seat opposite us.

“The water was just boiled, so this should warm you up.”

I accepted the teacup from the Bishop and took a sip.

“These are fine tea leaves.”

When I complimented the tea, Bishop Heinemann responded with a kind smile.

“Recently, we’ve been able to acquire good tea leaves, thanks to your governance, Duke.”

“No, no. The stability of my rule is due to your efforts, Bishop Heinemann, in being attentive to the needs of the people, allowing the citizens to feel secure.”

“It’s my honor if I have been of any help to the people.”

I placed the teacup on the table and turned to face him directly.

“How have the people been doing lately?”

“Well… The security has improved, and I think the people are looking more cheerful. But, there are still many needs that remain unmet.”

“Like what, for example?”

Bishop Heinemann took out a small notebook from his pocket.

“We’re managing with food for the time being. The most pressing issue now is home repairs.”

The Bishop gazed beyond a small stained-glass window as he spoke.

“With such a harsh winter, homes left in disrepair could lead to people freezing to death.”

“I see… That makes sense. I’ll request the Golden Sheep Trading Company to procure the necessary supplies. Even if it’s too late for this winter, we’ll have it ready by next year.”

In the domain, there were villages that had been plundered amidst the war.

In such places, it wasn’t uncommon for everything to be destroyed in the search for hidden supplies.

“Yes, please do. I will continue to offer my prayers so that the number of those who freeze to death is minimized.”

“It’s not much, but please take this.”

With these words, I took a few gold coins out of my pocket.

“Thank you as always, Duke. May the grace of God be with you.”

“May I use that room again today?”

With a warm smile, the Bishop granted his permission, so I bid him farewell and left the room.

Since I had visited this place many times, I knew my way to my destination.

It was the library.