Canossa's Masterstroke (Bonus Chapter for 'leo627')

A "A-Class Corpse Tide" that posed a serious threat to the city's safety became the stage for Old Man Tuster to showcase his cutting-edge technology.

The Eight-Armed Mech rampaged through the horde of zombies, like an invincible war god, charging in and out seven times.

With his energy restored, Tuster no longer needed to worry about whether he would faint at any moment.

The Super-tier Technology of the "Steam Sphere" provided the mecha with endless power, making the steel behemoth seem tireless and stronger with each battle.

Once the gun barrel had cooled down, he would unleash a burst of fire from the replaced ammunition box; after that, he would charge in and hack and slash wildly.

The low-level zombies swept through a group with a single slash, while the high-level zombies almost all fell after just one round under that black blade.

The advantages of a mechanical body are too prominent in this kind of group war where "experts are killed by random gunfire".

Not to mention his many arms, the four blades, one sword, and one shield he wielded were so dense and impenetrable that the undead couldn't get close at all. Even when high-level undead got close, the old man's "Shockwave Black Blade" preferred opponents who could outmatch him in strength.

You and I are locked in a power struggle, but I have more hands; I never hesitate to stab someone in the back.

There are almost no opponents who can withstand a single blow.

That "Steam Sphere" injected super-powerful energy into the Six-Armed Mech, taking its combat power to a new level, almost reaching its limit.

In terms of the number of enemies killed, Old Man Tuster alone killed three fifth-tier giant Earth Dragon Living Corpse, as well as thousands of low-level zombies.

This astonishing achievement was only less than the salvo of cannons fired from the city walls.

With those giant undead killed, the zombie horde attacking the city tonight was no longer a threat.

Before long, Kolman Warrior and Mechanical Knight left the city to begin clearing the battlefield; the battle was nearing its end.

With the alert lifted, the people in the city returned to their normal lives.

"Mechanical Legend!"

Beside Ymir, Storm General Baron at the six-armed machine that was wreaking havoc, and he didn't know how to express his feelings at that moment.

His Mechanist Legion's main combat strength comes from mech equipment; you can see the power of these mechs everywhere.

This fighting power is comparable to that of the "Ten Great Legends".

Furthermore, in legion battles, combat mechs can be more effective and versatile than legendary Transcendent.

Originally strong in low-tier Mechanical Armor, it was largely underestimated in high-tier armor, primarily due to its slow movement speed, lack of agility, and inability to penetrate high-tier battle aura armor without battle aura.

The mecha before him had completely redefined Baron's understanding of mechanical equipment.

All the "shortcomings" were made up for by the advanced mechanical technology that was ahead of its time.

No one understands the impact of mechanical equipment on modern warfare better than the military of the Oma Empire, the birthplace of Steam Machinery.

It can be said that whoever masters more advanced mechanical technology will hold the initiative in future wars.

Putting aside the fact that this six-armed super armor is difficult to operate, an ordinary person could probably operate a normal two-armed mech, right?

If even one is this powerful, then we don't need many. Just send a hundred, and they'll be sweeping across the battlefield!

At that moment, everyone's gaze towards Old Man Tuster changed.

What began as disdain for an unknown old man transformed into awe for the strongest individuals and top-tier mechanics.

Not far away, Canossa, who had been observing the entire territory, was also shocked when she saw the six-armed armored figure.

Her eyes gleamed with a strange light as she looked at Rein's retreating figure on the city wall, muttering to herself, "His friends really are all monsters."

In fact, this territory has a "shortcoming," Canossa had already thought of long ago.

That is, even if they possessed this airship- Mechanical City, whose technological level was far beyond that of the current era, Rein and his people could not make good use of their soft power.

Other resources can be solved with money, but technology is a major problem.

The best mechanics are all at the Oma Royal Academy of Sciences, that is an undeniable fact.

Canossa originally thought this was almost an unsolvable problem.

Top-tier mechanical engineering talent cannot be bought with money. They need a top-notch academic circle, a research environment, and a network of senior mechanics!

None of these qualities are present in a new territory far from the Oma Imperial Capital.

To put it bluntly, Princess Ymir only came to establish a new territory after losing a political struggle. Apart from her absolutely loyal inner circle and the demoted officials of the "New Deal," no one would be willing to come to this "remote and impoverished place" to participate in any construction.

Moreover, those truly top-tier mechanical talents, like "Grandmasters" or "Grandmaster," would be treated like high-ranking nobles anywhere. Who would come here to suffer?

She had been wandering around the city before, and after hearing about a "Mechanical Grandmaster," she breathed a sigh of relief.

At least, it's barely enough.

However, looking at Tuster's impressive display of power now, Canossa felt it was time to re-evaluate their partnership.

Not only does Rein have the support of high-ranking combatants like the Kalman Tribe, but he also has Bazel, the Mechanical Legend before him. In fact, he was once a disciple of Ilubeck Neto, the former president of the Potioner's Association.

Healthcare, military, technology, and of course, their own "Black Gold Merchant Guild" and that Princess!

What's even more peculiar is that the connection between all of this rests on one person.

At that moment, Canossa suddenly thought of something, her eyes darted around, and she muttered to herself, "Tsk tsk. It seems that you have no choice but to become the city lord."

As Rein descended from the city wall, he ran into Lady Canossa. He smiled and asked, "Lady Canossa, are you on your way to see the Princess?"

A subtle, unusual glint flashed in Canossa's eyes as she smiled and nodded. "Yes, there are some things I need to discuss with her."

Rein figured the two were best friends and would definitely catch up when they met, so he didn't think much of it. "Oh! You can wander around for a bit, I'll go check on Old Master Tuster outside the city."

"Um."

Canossa smiled and nodded, watching Rein walk out of the city.

Then, she went straight upstairs.

He removed his gas mask and walked directly toward Ymir.

Ymir was quite puzzled when she saw such a stunningly beautiful woman walking towards her.

She was certain she didn't recognize the woman in the cheongsam, but the face seemed vaguely familiar, as if she had seen it in some important intelligence.

Then, she remembered.

"It is an honor to meet you, Your Her Highness the Eldest Princess."

Canossa greeted them, then got straight to the point and introduced herself, "Let me introduce myself, I am Canossa J. Claufer, the vice president of the 'Black Gold Merchant Guild'."

Upon hearing this, Ymir's azure pupils contracted slightly. Without showing any emotion, she gave the woman before her, whose purpose was unclear, another once more, and said politely, "Hello, Miss Canossa. I have also heard of the reputation of your esteemed merchant guild. It is an honor to meet the renowned president of the 'Black Gold Merchant Guild' here."

In the aristocratic system, merchants did not actually have a high status. Generally speaking, no matter how wealthy a merchant was, he was not qualified to meet the royal family.

In the eyes of the Established Nobles of the two great empires, all professions and people, except for themselves, are second-rate!

But in the eyes of someone with Ymir's vision, business is definitely an important part that cannot be underestimated.

She had considered the issue of trade in her territory long ago.

But now, she is in an awkward situation, as it is difficult to find a suitable chamber of commerce for trade.

There's no need to consider the "Sunflower Merchant Guild." Those Established Nobles would rather her territory die in the womb than let the guild they helped build trade for them.

Even smaller chambers of commerce would face difficulties if this monopolistic giant were excluded.

Not to mention that very few are qualified to cooperate with the territory, even if they are, almost no professional businessman would dare to place their bets on her.

It seems that no one has a high opinion of his ability as a "political loser" to establish a new city in the City of Radiance.

However, the "Black Gold Merchant Guild," a true business tycoon, was actually proposed by Ymir's advisors.

But I didn't consider it.

First, they had little contact with the higher-ups at Black Gold; second, her own identity was very sensitive.

When the "Black Gold Merchant Guild" was suppressed and annexed, the Omar royal family, the Spurglin Family, was involved and profited immensely.

Given this single point of contention, there can be no basis for cooperation between the two sides.

But now, Ymir was surprised to find that there was a Black Gold Merchant Guild president in her territory.

If Canossa isn't one of their own, then she must be one of Rein's people.

Thinking of this, Ymir had a vague premonition that her peaceful state of mind was about to be trampled on again.

And then, just as Ymir had predicted.

After introducing herself, Canossa's first words were, "Mr. Rein has signed a cooperation agreement with me for his new territory. Therefore, our Black Gold Merchant Guild will fully invest in the commerce of this territory, providing initial construction funds and material support. Furthermore, I will also relocate the Black Gold headquarters here. In return, my guild will provide intelligence to this territory that is no less valuable than that of your Omar Blackwater Platform."

Smart people don't beat around the bush; Canossa threw out her most important card directly.

Funding, materials, trade, and intelligence—each is a crucial element for the development of a territory.

After a pause, Canossa took out the contract she had signed with Rein and said, "But this alliance was signed by Rein and me. So, I intend to ask Her Highness the Eldest Princess for her opinion."

Upon hearing this, Ymir was not far away, raised her eyebrows slightly.

It was indeed a surprise brought by Rein.

She glanced at the contents of the alliance agreement and said decisively, "Rein is my ally, and his decision is my decision. I have absolutely no objection to the terms of the alliance agreement."

They didn't just have no objections; it was like a dream come true.

The existence of this business alliance is what truly brought this new territory to life!

With trustworthy trade, this territory established in the remote mountains can truly grow in the future!

After a pause, Ymir was also Rein about where this amazing guy, Raine, got to know so many impressive people.

She hadn't even recovered from the shock of the "Grand Mechanical Master" Tuster when the president of a top-tier chamber of commerce arrived.

She asked curiously, "Excuse me for asking, but what is your relationship with Doctor Rein?"

Canossa stated without reservation, "Mr. Rein and I are very close friends and allies. You could say that it is because I trust him that I have my chamber of commerce fully committed to building this new territory."

Upon hearing this, Ymir realized that the woman's words had a hidden meaning. She seemed to have guessed the other party's purpose, and a glint of light flashed in her eyes.

Before she could think further, Canossa continued, "I've also heard from Rein that you don't intend to establish a traditional private estate. You hope to build a 'City of Freedom.' I also think this proposal is excellent."

Upon Ymir's eyes vanished.

The foundation for all cooperation lies here.

Neither she nor Rein intended to cultivate this territory into a private power.

But as long as their ideals aligned, Ymir felt that he could negotiate any conditions the woman in front of him might offer.

Canossa said, "But as a business ally, I would also like to offer some suggestions regarding territory development."

Ymir remained calm. "I would like to hear the details."

Canossa, clearly prepared, directly pointed out the predicament, saying, "Your Her Highness the Eldest Princess, as you've noticed, your forces and the Kolman people will find it difficult to integrate due to cultural differences. Even all of Rein's resources, including myself, will find it difficult to fully trust an unfamiliar ally in the short term. Your subordinates will face the same challenge; they will also harbor resentment towards Rein's people. At least for a long time to come, harmonious coexistence will be a major issue. If not handled properly, even if the territory is successfully developed, it will definitely become a significant threat in the future."

"Yes. What you mentioned is also something I've been considering."

Ymir nodded, acknowledging it as an undeniable fact. "But I believe there won't be any problems with my cooperation with Doctor Rein. He is also my most trusted friend and ally. Although there might be some friction at the beginning of the territory's development due to differences in civilization, things will get better in the future. Besides, now that Doctor Rein is here, everything is even less of a problem."

She assumed that Canossa was worried that she would compete with Rein for power and increase the risk of business investments, so she directly stated her position.

At this moment, a subtle hint of mockery flashed across Canossa's expression. "I heard from Mr. Rein that you two went through hardships together and forged a deep friendship."

Ymir was also extremely intelligent. She clearly understood the hidden meaning in his words and said directly, "He once saved my life and helped me out of trouble many times. Both in public and in private, there is an absolute foundation of trust between us."

That's good.

Upon hearing this, a meaningful smile appeared at the corner of Canossa's eyes, and she finally confirmed something.

She brought the topic back to what she had just said, adding, "The issue of integrating the inhabitants of the new territory is a minor problem that can be solved with time elsewhere. But in this basin, both zombie hordes and Beast Tide pose a deadly threat. If the integration issue isn't resolved quickly, it will become a major problem."

Ymir understood her purpose and asked, "President Canossa, it seems you have a better solution?"

Canossa proposed, "To be honest, I'm here representing the 'Black Gold Merchant Guild' and also on behalf of Rein. I have a suggestion that can resolve this issue in a short time."

Ymir listened with slight surprise. If this problem could truly be solved, it would indeed rid the territory of a major headache. "Please speak."

Canossa didn't rush to speak, but instead walked over and whispered something in his ear.

Then, the Her Highness the Eldest Princess frowned, as if she were quite shocked.

Then I listened again, and fell into deep thought.

After a moment, Ymir's expression returned to normal, and she decisively made a decision. "Alright! I agree to this condition."

Canossa smiled as expected and said, "It's a pleasure to cooperate with you."

Rein went to check on Old Man Tuster's body after the great battle, and after getting everything ready, he returned to the city, just in time to see Ymir and Canossa walking down the city wall side by side.

Canossa gave Rein a meaningful smile, but didn't come over, seemingly taking a few steps slower on purpose.

At this moment, the Princess walked over alone.

She turned directly to Rein and said, "Doctor Rein, let's have a meeting tomorrow with the core members to discuss the future direction of the territory's development and resolve some of the current issues."

Rein nodded. "Okay."

There are indeed many problems in the territory right now. We must fight, sit down, and talk to resolve many urgent issues.

The two didn't say much.

Before leaving, Ymir suddenly added something that sounded rather strange, "Oh, and... I accept your proposal."

"???"

Rein was confused. What suggestion did I make?

Before he could say anything more, Ymir turned and left.

He suddenly realized that the way the Princess had looked at him earlier seemed a little strange.

Just then, Canossa walked over with a smile. "Oh dear, you two seem to be having a pleasant conversation?"

Hearing this, Rein vaguely guessed what the lady had said, and asked, "Lady Canossa, what did you and Ymir talk about just now? I felt like she was acting a little strange."

Canossa smiled slyly and said something surprising, "I represented you and discussed the marriage with her."

"What?"

Rein almost spat out a mouthful of blood when he heard this.

But then he thought Canossa must be joking, "This joke isn't funny at all."

Canossa shrugged. "I'm not joking."

Looking at her expression, and sensing that she seemed serious, Rein asked, "Madam, are you telling the truth?"

"Of course it's true!"

Canossa said dismissively, "Although I have absolute trust in you, I am, after all, the president of Black Gold, and I also have to consider the interests of the guild. Your territory and your situation are terrible right now, so naturally I want to help you solve some problems and reduce the risk of the guild's investment."

Rein rubbed his forehead in dismay and said quietly, "So... the solution you're referring to is to arrange a marriage?"

How could Princess such high status agree to such an absurd thing?

Did they go on my behalf?

You don't mean to say that was my idea, do you?

Thinking about this, Rein suddenly felt a terrible ache in his groin.

Canossa said, "Yes! I already said that a marriage alliance is the best way to solve the current problem. And then, that Her Highness the Eldest Princess agreed."

Rein found it increasingly absurd.

They agreed to it? How could they possibly agree to something so absurd!

Knowing that Rein didn't believe her, Canossa briefly explained the "forced negotiation" process, saying, "That Her Highness the Eldest Princess is a very clever woman; she naturally knows this is the best way to resolve the conflict. Besides, I represent not only you, but also our Black Gold Merchant Guild and the Kolman people. Right now, that Princess doesn't have many more bargaining chips than you; she has no choice but to agree."

This statement is half true and half false, but it makes sense logically.

Unbeknownst to them, the "bargains" around Rein had become far greater than imagined, while the Princess's faction had become the weaker party in the alliance.

Although Lei is not very strong, he has a relatively upright moral compass. He won't praise you when you are successful, and he won't trample on you when you are down on your luck.

Putting aside the alliance, the relationship between the two was already quite complicated.

It can be said that without each other, there would be no one like the other.

Rein rolled his eyes and said firmly, "I don't believe it."

Moreover, he was certain that Ymir was not the kind of person who would compromise if threatened.

By the way, aren't you two best friends?

Did this little boat of friendship capsize so easily?

Is this how you betray your best friend?

"Ugh, this is boring."

After teasing Heavenly Thunder without getting any belief, Canossa lost interest in continuing to tease him.

She then changed the subject, saying, "Of course she didn't really agree to the marriage alliance with you."

"."

Rein wore an "I knew it" expression and waited for what would happen next.

Canossa said lazily, "So, I gave that Princess a suggestion. Let her spread a rumor among her close associates. Then, without her actively denying it, the matter will be settled."

Upon hearing this, Rein pondered for a moment, his eyes lighting up as he instantly understood the brilliance of this move.

But he was still unsure if the Princess would actually agree to a suggestion that could damage her reputation. "What rumors?"

Canossa covered her mouth and chuckled, "Naturally, it's the rumor that you and she have a relationship that goes beyond friendship. Since that Her Highness the Eldest Princess doesn't actively deny it, her subordinates will take it as tacit acceptance of your relationship. But this isn't a real marriage alliance. Once the territories are more harmonious, she can deny it later, and everyone will still choose to believe her. So, apart from that Princess temporarily sacrificing a little reputation, all other developments in the territories are positive."

"."

Rein listened, and it seemed to make sense.

This "fake marriage" seems to be the fastest and most reasonable way to resolve the integration issue between the two groups of people in the territory.

But he always felt that something was off.

After a pause, Canossa continued, "Only under this premise will the people on the Princess's side agree to let you become the city lord. Even if it's the 'constitutional monarchy' you mentioned. If it's done this way, the Kolman people won't have any objections, I won't have any objections, and everyone will be happy."

Although he established a new city, Ymir had no intention of becoming a private lord.

However, the awe that her subordinates held for the imperial class could not be eliminated overnight.

To let a commoner become the Princess, overshadowing the princess? How could that be possible! Even if he were just an honorary city lord without any real power.

If there is a city lord, in their hearts, it must be Ymir!

But if that person is the Princess's man, then none of this matters.

Canossa's "rumor" succinctly resolved the current factional conflict within her territory, a truly brilliant move.

Thanks to 'leo627' 20,000 and 'Hey Hey's 1984' for the 10,000 coins reward. X3 is owed for the reward; 3 is owed for the monthly ticket.