Cunning John Schemes Against the Research Institute, Old Manny's Long-Cherished Wish Comes True

"This is impossible!"

Before Manny could speak, Jonathan beside him flatly rejected John's proposal. "The entire Research Institute only has eight thousand people in total, and the six departments have merely one thousand academicians between them. You want to take five hundred academicians straight from us for one remote territory? You might as well ask the teacher to publicly support the Reformist Faction!"

"Don't even think about such an absurd demand. We can never agree to it!"

"—What does Director Manny think?"

Ignoring Jonathan's furious expression, John smiled as he asked Manny before him.

"In terms of academicians, five hundred is indeed rather excessive. Besides, the Imperial Supreme Research Institute's creed is to place scholarship first. What does Lieutenant General John think of that?"

"Indeed. However, with your vast wisdom, I assume you know that Fauken Bay differs from the Empire's other territories. It is an area extremely lacking in resources, where the average level of education among the populace is quite low. Therefore, in my opinion, five hundred is the bare minimum."

Ignoring Jonathan's fire-spitting glare and Manny's slightly furrowed brows, John paused briefly before offering a new proposal. "Additionally, I need to reiterate that what I need are five hundred professional scholars, not academicians who have reached master-level proficiency in a particular field. Naturally, I have even less need for apprentices who do not even understand the steps involved in constructing magical facilities."

"As for professional specialization and ability, your side may assess and select them yourselves. Furthermore, I have no intention of dragging the Research Institute into factional conflict."

"Therefore, after considering everything, I believe we can conduct this assistance in a different manner."

"For example, the Research Institute could assist Faoken Territory in carrying out three activities: promoting magical-device culture among the Beastfolk, conducting an investigation