"As for the military funding... regrettably, the white ships of the Holy City encountered a storm last night, leaving a significant material shortage. According to the Holy Seat's will, this month's tithe needs to be increased by twenty percent and should be prioritized for delivery to the Holy City through the inland waterways."
Lampard's heart sank completely at that moment.
He understood.
From the very beginning, the Church Court never intended to hold the Southeast Province.
In their eyes, this was not territory, not citizens, nor even the foundation of their faith, but merely a livestock prepared for slaughter at any time.
The only thing they cared about was whether they could squeeze out the last drop of blood, the last piece of meat, the last bit of oil before the knife fell.
This thought was like an ice needle pierced into Lampard's mind.
But his face could not show the slightest flaw.
