Newly Annexed

The two spoke in low voices as they slowly descended from the troop-review platform and walked toward the castle.

Edgar continued reporting another urgent matter. "My lord, the financial problems can be eased for now, but another pressure has arisen as a result. You brought back nearly four thousand freed slaves from Tyrol this time, and over the past half month, more than five thousand refugees from Fran City and other areas affected by the war have also been registered."

"Nearly ten thousand more mouths now need to be housed and fed in Carnford's core territory! Moreover, according to the information I gathered from the merchant caravans, with militia rebellions breaking out throughout the territory and the situation growing unstable, the number of refugees coming to seek refuge in Carnford is still increasing. How to properly settle these people is our most urgent task."

Karl showed little worry at Edgar's words. Instead, a look of perfect timing appeared on his face as he pointed toward the southwest. "There's no need to worry too much, Edgar. Didn't we just seize Tyrol and take control of the gateway to the entire Southwest Peninsula?"

"Harald has just suffered a crushing defeat and will have no strength to counterattack in the short term. That means the vast and fertile Southwest Peninsula is now ours for the taking—the best 'overflow zone' we could ask for."

"Organize these nearly ten thousand newcomers, along with the refugees who arrive later, and move them all to the Southwest Peninsula! There are vast stretches of fertile land abandoned because of the war, as well as deserted villages. They need people to cultivate and rebuild them!"

Edgar nodded. This was indeed the best way to resolve the population pressure, but as the official in charge of domestic affairs, he had