Volume 6: Cautious Planning Chapter 10: Conspiracy_2

"Rohl, don't lose your composure," said Duke Zellin as he took a sip of the fruit-juice wine handed to him by his attendant. "They are not having an easy time either. The 'Utrecht Decree' still cannot be fully implemented. If it weren't for the support of financiers and usury merchants, the kingdom's finances would have likely collapsed by now. With the Northern Beastmen rampaging, the kingdom has many expenses; its army is stretched thin, and military expansion requires funds. His Majesty the King probably spends his nights just as restless. However, those two from the North seem to be wavering in their stance, likely intimidated by the beastmen's atrocities. The Caucasus has now become the kingdom's focal point of attention. You had better be cautious," he continued, savoring the fragrant blend of juice and fermenting alcohol, a sensation that Duke Zellin always enjoyed and savored.