"Indeed, a speech that captivates the public heart stirs deep emotions within. However, it is not an easy feat. If you can promise me at least 500 gold coins as a retainer..."
"Considering the fandom I have built and the size of my dedicated audience, you must promise me a position that is at least equivalent to that of a Grand Administrator."
"Film? This is the first I've heard of it, but it seems like it won’t mean much. Nothing can rival the heartfelt words of a true orator."
"Remarkable."
The next morning, as I met with the talent candidates I had scouted within the Klibia territory, I rubbed my aching forehead. The person I sought should be someone who could make use of film technology to actively promote my territory and myself. In short, I was looking for a suitable Minister of Propaganda.
The image I envisioned for the Minister of Propaganda was not one that thrived on incitement and fabrication. I had no intention of seeking someone who could draw the masses into a frenzy based on fallacies and lead them into blind fanaticism. I merely wished for someone who would convey to the people of the territory the policies being enacted, what I, the lord, was paying attention to, and what changes were being made.
However, the promising candidates within the territory all demanded a hefty sum. Perhaps sensing their worth, they immediately threw out exorbitant figures during our first meetings. Some even suggested they could fabricate any stories needed to praise and extol the lord! Furthermore, they firmly stated that they could never compromise their beliefs or convictions with me.
It was a complete deadlock. I felt out of balance, as if the roles were reversed—it seemed I was the one being measured by them rather than the other way around. Understanding that those who earned their living through the adoration of the public would have their heads held high, it made sense. Yet, none of them were what I wanted.
‘In the end, should I meet Valdez, whom I had placed on the final candidate list?’
Despite my expression being passive, a profound change swept across my face. Valdez Hantzpeter. Though I had written down his name last, he was someone I felt a sense of reluctance about meeting. His reputation as a propagandist for the Demon Lord Army in <Paradiso> was notorious, having deceived many citizens in the past.
His eloquent speech and ability to mesmerize the crowd drew the attention of many. Moreover, he had the unique ability to evoke a special ‘speech buff,’ stirring his audience to action. Consequently, it was not uncommon for audiences swept up in collective madness to become a riotous mob and rise in revolt.
‘If I approach him with a principle similar to that used with Lena, it might work.’
I recalled Lena, who was diligently sweating under the training of Ella even now. The Wall of Lamentation, Lena. According to history, she was destined to stand at the forefront of the Demon Lord Army. However, before that fateful encounter, she had found herself on a new path, shaping her future.
Furthermore, Ella, her current master, was a follower of the Holy Sect and had an extreme aversion to dark cults and necromancers. It would be a while before she began to take an interest in dark cults. She was a different person now compared to her future self. Being under her tutelage meant there was a significant chance of being influenced by her beliefs. In essence, I felt sure that my intervention had somewhat altered Lena's future as a subordinate of the Demon Lord Army.
As for Valdez, he remained an enigma. Unlike Lena, who had lost her beloved and comrades during the war between the Holy Empire and the forces in <Paradiso>, ultimately falling into the grasp of the demons to join the Demon Lord Army, Valdez had consciously chosen his path based on his beliefs and convictions to become a propagandist for them.
“Let’s go see him anyway.”
Isn’t it better to take action than dwell on it endlessly? I made my way to find Valdez, a man who relished exquisite beer as an avid drinker. There was only one place where he could be.
The Klibia Pub was located in the former Klibia territory. Having opened about a year ago, it was already famous not only for its size but also for satisfying the tastes of discerning beer enthusiasts. This place was established when Jared began to manage the territory in earnest, right after founding the Arkhenes Trading Company.
The original name was different. However, it was named after the territory to reminisce about the past of Klibia, which had now become a Grand Territory. This was only possible with Jared's approval. Inside were many rare beers that were hard to find elsewhere. Arkhenes had invited artisans from various places to produce beer for the pub and even built a large brewery. Though the initial costs were high, the returns were remarkable.
Hunters seeking to conquer the Nightmare Forest always stopped by Klibia Pub for a drink. Naturally, they spent freely while utilizing the associated lodging services, explaining its prosperity. Now, Klibia Pub had become a landmark; a true holy ground for beer lovers.
“Now, fitting this peak time, allow me to present our wonderful orator, Valdez Hantzpeter!”
It was none other than Arkhenes introducing Valdez. Although he was busy running the trading company, he occasionally visited the pub. When this place gathered many hunters and territory residents, he felt the need to manage it closely. He was worried that its purpose as a gathering spot could shift, potentially causing harm to Jared.
“Thank you. Thank you.” Valdez stepped forward to acknowledge the applause as Arkhenes naturally ceded the podium. It was at that moment that…
“Lord?”
Arkhenes quickly noticed a familiar face among the audience. Jared was present! To see Jared, who was usually swamped with public duties, here was unbelievable. He felt a mix of surprise and joy. Arkhenes had not seen Jared's face recently. Memories of their chat in the carriage with Hayes came flooding back. Jared was truly someone whose charm grew deeper the closer you were to him.
“It’s alright. Just stay put. Do not introduce me.”
Arkhenes understood Jared’s intent through his gestures. It seemed he wanted to enjoy this moment as a member of the audience rather than draw attention to himself as the lord. Perhaps overthinking it was unnecessary.
Eventually, Arkhenes settled into a suitable spot, diverting his gaze from Jared.
“Today, I wish to speak about the path our beloved Klibia Grand Territory will take moving forward!"
Valdez finally began. Applause erupted from the expectant audience. Standing on the podium, he extended both fists forward. This was Valdez's signature gesture, an enchanting pose to captivate his audience!
Throughout the speech, I listened intently, not wanting to miss a word of what Valdez had to say. His words undoubtedly captured the hearts of the audience and drew forth their inner emotions.
‘Yes, many people fell under the spell of that speech and sided with the Demon Lord Army, labeling the Holy Alliance as corrupt and vile demons.’
Memories from <Paradiso> returned and pricked at my heart. Fortunately, Valdez seemed to refrain from any actions that would advocate for the dark cult or criticize the management of the territory. He expressed his views, at times fervently, at times gently, on the direction our Klibia territory should pursue.
What he proposed was an active campaign of conquest, particularly emphasizing the expansion of influence via maritime routes rather than overland ones. The idea of widening influence via sea routes felt unfamiliar but resonated with me.
“Thus, I conclude. You, my esteemed audience, stand at the center of history. Let us together bear witness to whether Klibia walks the path of prosperity or one of decline.”
“Great! That was a wonderful speech!”
“I guess I must prepare to bury my bones in Klibia!”
Applause thundered once more. As Valdez stepped down from the podium, he received their cheers and claps before quietly heading outside. Some audience members followed him, requesting autographs, but he politely declined, moving on.
At that moment, aiki, who had quietly returned from outside, approached me and asked in a low voice, “My Lord, how did you end up here?”
“I came to see someone.”
“Were you perhaps looking for Valdez?”
I nodded. Apologies to Aiki, but that wasn’t truly why I came.
“In that case, please follow me. Valdez is a regular at our pub and an important speaker, so we’ve set up a separate VIP area for him.”
“Ah, so he isn’t outside but in his own space.”
“Yes, my lord. If I overstepped my bounds, I will humbly accept punishment.”
“No, you did well. Good job.”
I shook my head while encouragingly patting Aiki’s head. He blushed slightly, briefly embraced me, and then stepped back. For a moment, I felt a bit strange. It must have just been a coincidence, right?
“This way.”
Aiki led me to Valdez. I was eager to meet him.
“Greetings, my lord.”
“You knew I would come.”
“It was impossible not to recognize the only shining figure among the audience.”
As Jared entered the VIP room, Valdez, who had been waiting, greeted him.
“I’ll fetch you tea brewed with Calacas petals, my lord.”
“Sure, thank you.”
Arkhenes discreetly excused himself. He mentioned he would bring the flower tea Jared enjoyed as part of his diet.
“I apologize. I didn’t mean to take advantage, but Arkhenes has been so considerate.”
“No need for apologies. Everything that occurs here is within my discretion granted to Arkhenes.”
The gaze exchanged quickly between Jared and Valdez. Jared scanned Valdez’s information with his special vision while Valdez took in the image of Jared, whom he had only heard of before.
‘As the rumors say, he is young and brimming with vitality. He didn’t get tied down by formalities but quietly listened to my speech among the audience.’
Valdez was surprised by this. Normally, nobles, especially someone of lord status, would inevitably attract attention wherever they went. Even as they complained about the crowd's interest, they tried to showcase their presence in any way possible—a typical trait he had observed among nobles.
Yet Jared had quietly buttoned his coat amidst the audience, half-hidden, focusing intently from the beginning to the end of Valdez's speech. That was neither pretense nor performance; he was genuinely paying attention.
Because of this, Valdez had spoken even more passionately.
At that moment, as Valdez was astonished by Jared, so too was Jared by the information he scanned regarding Valdez.
[Special Trait: Eloquent Speech S / Propaganda Oratory A / Fanatical Followers B / Popular Culture Studies B / Group Hypnosis C]
‘Indeed, the talent I was searching for is right here.’
The perfect candidate was right in front of him.
Chapter 73.