Fantasy Lord: Starting with Daily Information

Chapter 69: Baron Pape's Anger

Thor's contract was simple: after signing, they had to obey Thor's commands, send their eldest sons to Eagle Ridge to join his knight order, and pay an annual fee of 1,000 gold coins, essentially a tax, though worded more gently.

This was considerably less than the ransom previously demanded. However, signing the contract would make their lands vassals of Eagle Ridge, an unacceptable outcome for them.

Despite this, Baron Pape Lawrence, Baron Valmy, and Baron Graton had no real choice. The Lawrence territory was indeed strong but was led by an incompetent heir. Pape knew that if he left his lands to his son, the territory would fall within two years. The other two barons were in no better position. Though their heirs were less foolish, their territories were not as strong. Without their leadership and knight forces, their lands would also soon collapse.

“I agree to sign the contract,” Baron Graton sighed and stepped forward to sign.

“Baron Graton, you!” Baron Valmy looked at him in disbelief.

“We have no choice,” Baron Graton shook his head. The first option was financially unfeasible without selling off their entire territories.

“Thor, you win!” Baron Valmy sighed, stepping forward as well.

Ripples spread out, and a magical formation enveloped them as the contract was sealed, binding them.

Thor did not worry about these two as he did about Pape abandoning his territory. These barons' lands would soon crumble without them.

“A wise choice. You may leave now,” Thor smiled. “Remember to send your people within seven days, and your seals will be lifted.”

The three barons sighed and left the room. Outside, the captured knights and apprentice were released, but the slaves remained. The three barons had to send over the slave contracts as well. Though reluctant, they complied since preserving their knightly forces was crucial.

Watching them leave, Thor smiled. The contracts, bought for 1,000 gold coins, were well worth the investment. These barons' lands were now his vassals, solidifying his dominance over the Maine Valley. Full annexation was unnecessary and impractical at this stage; integrating them as vassals was the optimal strategy. This allowed him to utilize their forces while preparing for future expansions.

Thor returned to the castle, contemplating his next steps for development. The external threats were resolved. Apart from a foolish baron to the west, the rest were subdued. With thousands of new slaves, he could now execute his plans for development. 

“I still need more talent,” he mused, considering the next steps.

Meanwhile, the three barons returned to their lands.

At the Lawrence estate, Orper Lawrence was shocked to see his father.

“F-Father!” he stammered.

But...

“Bam!” Pape's blow sent Orper flying.

“Don't call me father. I have no son like you!” Pape roared in anger, causing everyone in the castle to tremble, even silencing the baroness who looked down in fear. No one had expected Pape to return.