Regressor of the Fallen Family novel Chapter 166

Chapter 166

“Whew. Much time has passed, let’s quickly deal with the simpler issues. First, Master Clayton, how much more funding do you require for the tower of magic?”

“For starters, the issue of the tower’s expenses and recruiting apprentices pales in comparison to the cost of the research…”

“Yes, I understand the necessity of that research. Please tell me the amount you need. I will support you, no matter what it is.”

Without mentioning specific conditions, Logan approved the request generously.

Clayton’s face brightened at the promise that seemed to grant everything he desired.

“However, I will make certain to check how the money is spent. Through Dwayne, we will audit the procurement of materials and expenses rigorously, so please state the necessary amount within reasonable bounds.”

Logan drew a clear line.

The line between being taken advantage of and making an investment.

Clayton then realized the excitement on his face and let out a wry laugh.

It was amusing how disappointed he was in himself.

‘Since when did I have such an abundance of funds?’

And, if providing proper evidence allowed for any needed support, there was no reason to hesitate.

“Understood, Your Grace. For now, a sum of ten million gold should suffice.”

Ten million gold.

The tremendous amount casually stated silenced the crowd for a moment, but then…

“Fine. Dwayne, we can manage that amount, can’t we?”

“…Yes, it will be tight, though.”

“Then that settles it. Sir Clayton, does this solve the research issue for the time being?”

“Indeed, my lord. Thank you, Prince.”

“Not at all. Please endeavor further. The day your research succeeds, you will receive rewards far exceeding all your efforts.”

“Rewards? This is already more than enough!”

“Excuse me?”

“The chance to realize the dream of our school in real-time is reward enough for me. I will strive even harder to be more helpful to the territory.”

They exchanged pleasantries with smiles, yet within those courteous words lay the significance of the research Clayton was conducting.

Most of the retainers noticed and their eyes brightened, but none dared to probe into what Logan chose not to disclose.

“Next on our agenda is the workshop for which… hm, bringing in the dwarven artisans should solve the issue, and the workshop’s budget is sufficient, so I’ll entrust that to Philip who has experience with the trades. Philip, you won’t have any issues, right?”

Expecting a positive response, Logan posed the question.

And yet…

“I think it may be better to postpone it for now.”

The young man with grey eyes expressed his concerns with a troubled look.

“Why is that?”

Hamar stared at Philip, while Damian next to him tugged at Philip’s sleeve.

Unfazed, Philip began to explain his thoughts.

“The largest… uh, human market in Harun City has been one of the main stages of the civil war. With the market currently paralyzed, trying to acquire dwarven artisans might mean their already expensive prices could increase tenfold, or even more. Now is not the right time.”

“And when would be?”

“Within one or two months at the earliest, three months at the latest, the market will flood with supply which should considerably lower the artisans’ value. It would be far better for the territory to wait and then acquire… bring them over.”

Even Hamar, who instinctively frowned at the talk of supply and acquisitions, nodded at Philip’s explanation.

‘Philip, as always, is sharp when it comes to money.’

Logan also couldn’t help but smile, putting aside thoughts to revert him back from administrative duties to his main profession soon.

“Yes, Philip. That was a very sound suggestion. Hamar, please be patient. You understand my intention?”

“Huh. Of course, my lord.”

As the matter of the workshop was settled, Logan turned to Heinke.

“The knighthood matter my father mentioned should be discussed with Sir Heinke. Please speak frankly on your thoughts.”

“…Your Highness. As I have already told the lord, I am considering retirement.”

“What? Why would you say that!”

Padrick raised his voice in dismay, but Heinke’s expression remained unchanged.

“I do not believe it proper for someone looking to retire to speak on matters regarding the knighthood.”

“Hmm, always such a person…”

Logan let out a sigh.

“Sir. The family fully understands your situation and is grateful beyond words for your sacrifice and loyalty. However, Sir Heinke, the family needs your experience right now. Could you possibly lend your assistance a while longer?”

“…My opinion may not be of help.”

“Whichever the opinion, our knights, including myself and my father, will greatly respect it.”

At those words, the old and battered knight looked up to the high seat with a vacant gaze.

Aware that it may cause sorrow, but still moved by the pitiful eyes and gentle smile of his lord, Heinke sighed deeply, reflecting on his regrets before falling silent in thought.

Under everyone’s anticipatory gaze, he voiced his opinion.

“It seems the best answer is to simply roll with it.”

“…?”

A brief silence followed in the conference room.

If glances made a sound, this would have been it.

The ebbing anticipation and the encroaching disappointment were palpably prickling his skin.

Amidst the shifting atmosphere of the crowd, what concerned Heinke the most was the astonished look on the face of his lord staring at him.

“It is not about simply rolling with it!”

With an unprecedented voice,

the old knight passionately began his speech.

“The most crucial aspect surely concerns the transmission of our knights’ symbol, the Iron Blood Sword, doesn’t it?”

The crowd’s expectation rose again.

“The senior knights can act as instructors to transmit the Iron Blood Sword to the new knights and take the lead in training. This would not only solidify their stance as veteran knights but also aim for unity with the new recruits.”

One after another, the retainers nodded in agreement, showing their consensus.

“It would also be a good measure to give special allowances to the senior knights acting as instructors.”

With no sign of the earlier gloom, Heinke delivered his views passionately.

Like a blossoming tree in old age.

Unbeknownst to Heinke himself, life seemed to return to his face as he spoke.

Seeing this, a smile spread across Padrick’s expression, and

Logan nodded with a smile as well.

“Good suggestion, Heinke. We shall proceed accordingly. Your help has been invaluable.”

Heinke’s own proposal came without surety of resolution.

Despite that, the prince and future Grand Duke warmly agreed.

With that benevolent encouragement, Heinke allowed a slight smile to grace his face.

‘It’s going well.’

The knight, loyal to the family for years, had regained his motivation.

Despite injuries and deterioration, the family showed respect for the loyalty offered.

Logan hoped Heinke would serve as an emblem of that commitment, and even without an alternative superior suggestion, trying Heinke’s idea was worth it.