What reward should he ask for? Russell fell into thought.
Count Merlin said, "Your baronial title is certain to be approved. Let me offer my congratulations in advance to the Shadowflame Grand Duchy's newest baron, Russell Fluorite Mushroom... Of course, now that you're being elevated to a hereditary High Noble and founding a new family, you may change your noble surname."
Mel clicked his tongue enviously from the side. "I'm so jealous, Russell. One day, you'll become a hereditary baron."
Russell was just about to say something modest.
Mel added teasingly, "Unlike me, who can only become your sovereign—the new Grand Duke of the Shadowflame Grand Duchy."
Russell promptly rolled his eyes. "Grandfather, I'm siding with Kunsley."
Count Merlin stroked his beard and smiled. "Enough, you two boys. Stop trading barbs... Tell me, Russell, what reward do you want? Within the limits of my authority, Grandfather will do his best to meet your needs."
"Population." After pondering for a long while, Russell finally gave his answer. "Grandfather, I hope to receive enough people."
"Very well. I'll do my best to secure serfs for you as a reward."
With Count Merlin's assurance, Russell relaxed as well. As long as he could obtain a population reward, the pressure of developing the Blackfire Land and Thunder Marsh would be greatly reduced. Moreover, when Russell established his own nation in the future, he would need a vast population too.
In short, there could never be too many people.
A short while later, the conversation returned to the Demon Extermination Order. Count Merlin still could not decide whether to withdraw it.
Russell could not help but sigh inwardly.
He had always thought of his grandfather, Count Merlin, as a heroic figure who manipulated the tides of power. Perhaps not wise and mighty, but at least