After the soccer tournament ended, a man approached.
“It’s been a while, Your Grace.”
“Well, well, Bishop Heinemann. Did you watch the tournament?”
“Yes, it was quite a splendid event.”
With a single nod, I gestured for him to take a seat on a nearby chair.
“Please.”
“Oh, thank you, then.”
Once we were seated, one of the knights brought over a table. A servant poured tea, placing a cup in front of each of us. Bishop Heinemann took a single sip before setting the cup back on the table.
“First, congratulations on your victory, Your Grace.”
“Thank you, Bishop Heinemann. It’s thanks to your efforts in maintaining order among the people that I could confidently leave the rear in your hands. I owe this to you.”
Indeed, had there been a rebellion among the citizens, victory would have been unattainable. Securing the safety of the rear is of paramount importance.
“We, too, find it preferable to have a duke who does not impose tyranny.”
“Of course. I have no intention of ruling through tyranny in the future either.”
Hearing this, Bishop Heinemann’s expression eased slightly.
When oppressive rule stirs dissatisfaction, the populace often turns to religious powers for support. While this increases the influence of religious factions, if discontent reaches its peak, they may become a rallying point for rebellion.
However, it is crucial to note that religious leaders are intellectuals and belong to a neutral class. They lack military strength. A confrontation with nobles who command knights would end in slaughter.
This would weaken the nation and devastate the people’s livelihoods. Even from a religious standpoint, rebellion is not desirable.
Incidentally, my domain employs a volunteer system rather than conscription. This means we have many citizens capable of fighting. If a rebellion were to occur, we could face enemies several times our size. That’s precisely why I’ve built good relations with religious groups.
“How are the people faring?”
When I asked, Bishop Heinemann quietly placed his cup on the table with a soft clink.
“Overall, they’re in good spirits. Before the war, there were voices of concern among the populace. However, after the victory and due to certain developments, trust in Your Grace seems to be growing, particularly in the eastern regions.”
“That’s good to hear.”
I paused to sip my tea.
“However, this battle left many wounded.”
When I broached the subject, Bishop Heinemann’s expression turned sorrowful.
“Yes, I’m aware. Even though it was necessary, the losses in war are always tragic.”
“That’s why I’d like to discuss their future. Of course, we plan to prepare positions, such as administrative assistants. But we can’t accommodate everyone. Do you have any suggestions?”
Bishop Heinemann furrowed his brow, deep in thought.
“Let me see… I’ve heard about their backgrounds. We could take in some of them to help with tasks like organizing books. However, there’s a limit to what we can manage…”
The two of us pondered for a while.
“There is one possibility… though I’m not sure it’s even worth calling an idea.”
I leaned forward at his words.
“Let’s hear it.”
“It might be challenging to integrate them into existing society. In that case, it could be better to establish new workshops or trading houses.”
“New workshops or trading houses, you say…”
I already have deep ties with the Golden Sheep Trading Company. Starting a new trading house under the duchy would likely cause unnecessary friction. That leaves workshops…
One idea flashed through my mind.
“Thank you, Bishop Heinemann. This has been helpful.”
“I’m glad to be of service, Your Grace.”
Standing up, I shook hands with Bishop Heinemann. Determined to bring my idea to life, I headed toward the streets of the capital.
