The variety of special traits meant that Valdes was specialized in many different areas. Among these traits, his interest in popular culture indicated that he had constantly pondered effective ways to express his opinions. Naturally, this included cultural activities, and he was likely thinking about something akin to popular theater at that moment.
Furthermore, zealotry and collective hypnosis had once been Valdes's strong suit. He could perfectly align the audience with his views, dismissing any other judgments entirely. Following this, he would instill a collective frenzy, pursuing a common goal with great fervor.
This was what one might call a "speech buff." It allowed the audience to forget their fears or become numb, filling the space with conviction and momentum. Once their minds were fully armed with ideology, the individuals would transform into truly formidable beings.
Jared pondered once again. Was Valdes someone he truly needed? Yes. Were there elements in his future that he could worry about? Yes. Was he ready to ensure that future could change? He could strive to do his best. There were more positive elements than negative ones. “I cannot handle all the management of the territory alone. Moreover, there's no one else who can take Valdes's place.” Jared made up his mind. While he felt anxious recalling the story of 'Paradiso' from his past life, he believed, just as Lena had, that he too could change Valdes's future.
Clearing away all other distracting thoughts, Jared spoke firmly to Valdes. "Valdes."
"Yes, my lord."
"Would you consider working under me as the Minister of Propaganda for the Crivia territory? I would like you not only to be my spokesperson but also to nurture and promote the cultural industry."
"Minister of Propaganda... are you serious?"
Valdes was quite taken aback. Other famous speakers based in territories were usually aiming for political careers, but Valdes had no such ambitions. He found joy in sharing his insights with an audience of decent folks at the Crivia pub, serving flavorful, high-quality beer.
Of course, he hadn't started speaking without dreams. At one point, he had hoped to climb the ranks and worked in a position similar to a propaganda officer under another lord. However, he had faced disappointment after disappointment, as each lord he served was a hollow being, a selfish devil seeking personal gain.
The lords were all of such low caliber that he grew disillusioned with humanity itself. They pressured him to concoct tales of virtues they did not possess while openly engaging in shameful acts, such as hiding news of disasters plaguing the territory without a shred of guilt.
After undergoing such experiences, Valdes chose to return to a solitary life. Although he received offers several times since then, he rejected them all, thinking they were all the same.
"But my lord, you are different."
Recently, someone had changed his mind—Jared, who was offering him the position of Minister of Propaganda right before his eyes. Jared prioritized the well-being of the territory and incorporated various magical engineering benefits into it. The magic stone lamps were a revolution!
Thanks to this, the crime rate had drastically decreased, allowing people to walk the streets at night with peace of mind. Additionally, the production of the staple crop, Retira, had stabilized, significantly alleviating the chronic food shortages that plagued the northern continent.
"This person should be enough... to realize my ideals. I cannot make assumptions, but at least based on what I see now." Valdes’s eyes sparkled with determination as he looked at Jared. Jared did not rush for a response. He quietly maintained eye contact, patiently waiting for Valdes’s answer.
As if a thought struck him, Valdes spread his fingers and said, "I have one condition."
"Speak."
"I do not wish to serve as the propagandist of a devil. The path of a propaganda officer means a complete unity with the one you serve."
"If the leader becomes a devil, then you too must inevitably become one. Well said." Jared nodded in agreement. Valdes did not see himself as separate from the territory or the lord; he considered it a shared destiny and community. It was a professional stance—not only what Jared desired, but also how Valdes naturally felt.
“I want to be able to sing not falsehoods but truths with the blessing and virtue of my leader! Can you promise me to be such a leader? If so, I will devote all I have to you, my lord.”
"Is that all? Speak of your desired compensation."
"Haha, I have no desire for money. I only wish to elevate the person I serve to the highest position in the world... that ambition holds far greater value than mere coins."
Valdes’s calm voice infused with sincerity stirred Jared's emotions. 'Was he an ambitious man? Rather than a king, he dreams of being a kingmaker.' Hearing Valdes’s heartfelt words was something he had never encountered in 'Paradiso.' Indeed, he simply wished for his master, the one who took him in, to rise unyieldingly despite any tribulations. It made sense now why he had poured his all into speeches before the audience, perhaps because he longed for the success of the demon lord he had served.
"I promise. I will become the leader you desire. If I ever lose sight of my original intent, you may leave my side anytime without regret."
"Thank you, my lord. Although my abilities are lacking, I shall dare to dream big with you once more."
“I shall devote my soul to ensure that you may become the great person you aspire to be.”
"Thank you."
“My lord, the Calakas flower petal tea has been prepared... uh?”
At that moment, Arkhenes entered the VIP room, astonished by the strange atmosphere. Jared and Valdes were firmly holding hands and exchanging resolute glances. 'Another capable person now fills my lord's side. How wonderful. Truly wonderful.' Arkhenes had watched Valdes for a long time and felt joy fill him. He had often wondered when Jared would recognize Valdes's true worth, and today happened to be that day.
It was a delightful night, one that made them forget they were in the VIP room. Though it was their first meeting, the conversations flowed seamlessly as if they had known each other for decades. Valdes had an innate ability to empathize and understood everything Jared said from his perspective with a deep sense of feeling. Thus, the conversation felt easy, as if he were speaking with a friend who shared his soul.
Jared and Valdes also discussed the film industry extensively. Since the concept of movies did not yet exist in this world, they had much to talk about. Thanks to Valdes' open-mindedness, their discussion quickly gained momentum.
"First, the very concept of movies is indeed unfamiliar. However, if we can foster a film industry, it would be an unparalleled strategy for territorial management."
"I think the same."
"Unlike theater, which is affected by location, nothing brings joy like seeing characters move on a big screen from afar."
"The devices are still being researched and developed. I am confident that better technology will emerge over time."
"I speak with conviction. The system is designed to allow for higher-level items to be produced as the production level increases. The current visual devices can fill a screen akin to that of a small movie theater. But with just one or two more upgrades, I expect it to match that of a large cinema."
“Perhaps we could start with promotional films addressing the joyful lives of our Crivia military, the incomparable welfare, and our recent accomplishments?”
"Promotional films..."
"I don't mean to use films solely for propaganda. I suggest we begin with accessible promotional films to secure filming techniques and methods, then explore various applications."
"Do you have any individuals in mind?"
"Since you screened something in the Kingdom of Cinders recently, I've been discussing the emergence of new cultural contents with acquaintances, among which are theater directors and several stakeholders."
"The connections you made at the pub?"
"Exactly. We refer to this network as the Crivia Family— a name we hold with pride."
"I'm delighted to hear that. You cannot imagine how touching it is for me to have my territory's name associated!"
"Hahaha, I had a feeling you'd react that way!"
"Feel free to suggest any worthy talents. I am all ears."
"Yes, I will compile a list of each individual's strengths and weaknesses."
"Strengths and weaknesses?"
When Jared asked in surprise, Valdes winked. "I am your servant, right? Naturally, I must speak only the truth. Even regarding my family, I would point out their flaws."
"Thank you. Once you pass me the list, I will meet and talk with them directly."
"An interview, you mean?"
"Certainly."
"Oh, and my lord."
Valdes naturally shifted the topic, indicating he wanted to speak of something else. Despite having talked throughout the night, there was an astonishing amount of discussion left to be had.
"I have one proposal I must make. It’s something I've been thinking about for a while, but no one ever took the initiative... ”
"Go on, as I said, I am all ears."
"My lord, how about writing a memoir that includes the chronicle of your childhood and your beliefs and thoughts on territorial management?"
"A memoir...? Isn’t it a bit early to write one at just twenty-six?"
"Not at all. The legendary hero of the Itima Empire, Sir Genitz, wrote his memoir at the age of twenty-one. There’s no reason you can't become a hero greater than that."
Whether Valdes was saying that to uplift Jared, it sounded genuinely pleasant to him.
"Very well. So how should I begin?"
Though it was past midnight and dawn slowly approached, Jared and Valdes's conversation showed no signs of ending. They spent several days and nights together in the VIP room, sharing an exchange that felt richer than a lifetime's worth of conversation with anyone else. In that moment, a talented subordinate emerged, and he had found a good companion who brought him joy.
End of Chapter 74