Chapter 481 Allies of the Armed Great Tomb
The old chief's lament was not unfounded; Campbell had indeed joined forces with the demons of hell, though the Campbellians themselves were unaware of it.
Standing behind them was none other than the Demon King of Thunder County.
At this moment, the esteemed Demon King was standing on the lawn in the backyard of the Andes Manor, chatting and laughing with his dear ally, and watching with a smile as the Grand Duke played with the new toys he had brought from "overseas".
Beside a long table, Edward was holding a musket, examining it as if he were using a telescope.
His face held a keen interest, along with a subtle scrutiny, as if he were assessing the strength of an ally.
Several loyal Campbell guards stood at a distance, watching this scene with a mixture of awe and curiosity.
As soldiers, they shared the same curiosity as Grand Duke Edward regarding the legendary standard weapons of the Principality of Corin.
The streamlined rifle looked shorter and lighter than the flintlock rifles currently in service with the Duchy of Campbell. The dark wooden stock was polished smooth and warm, while the cold steel parts exuded a precise and dangerous luster, like a work of art.
It looks quite nice, much more elegant than those bulky flintlock muskets in the armory. It's just a pity that its barrel is too short; it would likely be a major disadvantage in bayonet fighting.
In battles against the Demon King's army, which excels in melee combat, close-quarters combat is commonplace, and this is precisely what the Campbellians are best at. As early as the middle of the First Age, they were renowned throughout the Old World for their "mercenary phalanx spearmen," and it wasn't until the reign of the Isaac dynasty that they became the most elite musketeers under Lint Isaac and unlocked the "gunpowder legacy."
As the soldiers silently made their assessments, Edward was also making a similar judgment in his mind—
The allies' weapons look decent.
However, the true value of a rifle ultimately lies in its power and rate of fire. Hopefully, what His Highness the Prince brought is not just a flashy, impractical weapon.
“…A very interesting design. I didn’t expect the Principality of Colin to have such advanced manufacturing technology, able to make weapons that look like works of art.” Edward smiled brightly as he gently placed the rifle in his hand on the table.
Luo Yan smiled faintly and spoke in a casual tone.
"Haha, Your Highness, this is not just a craft item; its power is in no way inferior to the mainstream weapons of the Imperial Army."
"Really? That's something to look forward to." Edward's eyes did indeed show a hint of anticipation, as if he were implying that Edward should demonstrate for him.
Luo Yan naturally noticed his expectation, smiled, stepped forward, and took the rifle that Edward had put down.
"Please allow me to demonstrate for you, Your Highness."
As he spoke, he took out a peculiar bullet from a leather ammunition box on the table next to him.
The bullet's tail was a rolled-up cardboard shell, seemingly containing gunpowder, while the tip was a sharp lead bullet.
Under the intrigued gaze of Edward and Campbell's soldiers, the wizard skillfully pulled a metal lever located at the rear of the barrel to the side and rear, revealing an empty cylindrical barrel.
He then inserted the cardboard bullet, and with a "click," pushed the lever back into place, locking the chamber.
The entire movement was as natural as breathing, so smooth that everyone couldn't help but show surprised expressions. The complicated loading process could be simplified to such an extent.
Compared to cleaning the gun barrel with a cleaning rod, carefully pouring in a measured amount of gunpowder, inserting the bullet, and then tamping it down with a mallet, this is like a child's game!
"It's very simple, isn't it?"
Seeing Edward's interest, Luo Yan handed the rifle back to him, a relaxed smile on his face, and said, "I'd like to give you the opportunity to test fire it. You can fully feel its power from the recoil."
"Haha, then I shall respectfully accept your offer."
Edward had the same idea, so he didn't refuse and took the rifle from Mr. Colin's hand with a smile.
Two servants quickly stepped forward and planted a target at the other end of the lawn, about a hundred paces away from Edward.
After the servant left, Edward raised his gun, squinted at the target, and pulled the trigger.
"Bang--!"
The explosion of gunpowder shattered the tranquility of the manor.
For a Gold-level expert, this amount of recoil would at most only make his collar flutter, but it still startled Edward.
This power should not be underestimated!
Meanwhile, a small but not sizable mass of debris exploded in the center of the distant target.
While Edward was astonished by the power of the shot, the Campbell soldiers standing beside him were amazed by His Majesty's marksmanship, as he had actually hit the bullseye!
Even if their Grand Duke was a superhuman, shooting at targets with a flintlock musket would be no easy task. After all, in their understanding, muskets were different from bows and arrows; the trajectory of bullets was highly unpredictable, and only a dense array of guns could create sufficient firepower.
Edward was clearly aware of this as well; the rifle was not only as powerful as the best flintlock rifle in his army, but its accuracy was also somewhat exaggerated.
He took it as a coincidence and decided to try again, so he imitated Prince Colin's actions, pulling the metal lever to open the locked chamber.
And at that moment, he was stunned once again.
All that could be seen in the empty gun barrel were faint spiral patterns, but no gunpowder residue was visible!
No need to clean the barrel—
You can load the next round directly!
Realizing what was happening, Edward no longer hesitated and almost instinctively picked up the second cardboard bullet from the table.
His movements were clumsy yet incredibly swift; he quickly loaded the bullet into the chamber, pulled the metal lever, and aimed again!
"Bang--!"
Another shot!
The orange-yellow flames suddenly shot out, drawing a straight trajectory in the air and accurately hitting the target a hundred paces away!
Archduke Edward's movements became faster and smoother, and his expression grew increasingly astonished, as if he had witnessed an incredible miracle.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
The crisp gunshots, like rapid drumbeats, rang out one after another in the backyard.
In just half a minute, this Grand Duke, skilled in riding and charging, had become the most elite musketeer in Campbell's army.
His fastest record was firing five bullets in just ten seconds, and each one hit the target precisely!
There was no barrel explosion!
There was no accidental discharge!
The soldiers nearby were stunned; it was the first time they had ever seen such an outrageous weapon, and they could hardly believe their eyes.
After emptying the magazine, Edward finally stopped and put down the rifle whose barrel was already hot.
Looking at the target riddled with holes in the distance, his face remained calm, but his heart was in turmoil.
Five shots in ten seconds...
What a terrifying rate of fire!
Even for the most elite line infantry regiment in the Duchy of Campbell, firing four volleys per minute is an achievement worthy of a medal!
He simply couldn't imagine how terrifying Campbell's army would be on the battlefield if they were all equipped with such weapons!
Faced with a barrage of thirty rounds per minute, even a Gold-level expert would probably have to retreat... or at least switch from the front lines to the flanks.
The advent of firearms and cannons has already significantly limited the capabilities of superhumans, but the changes it has brought about are not yet obvious.
If this thing becomes widespread...
It seems even the Trident Knights will have to fade into history.
Although the Trident Knights were the pride of the Duchy of Campbell, Edward felt no panic, but rather a surge of delight.
He took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the turbulent emotions in his heart, and turned to look at Prince Colin, his emerald green eyes burning with intense flames.
"Your Highness Colin, my dear friend, this is truly... an incredible weapon. Has the Empire's military technology advanced to such a terrifying degree? Why have I never seen anything like it before?"
Luo Yan had already guessed that he would ask this question, so he gently shook his head and said with a smile.
"Unfortunately, the Empire has not equipped itself with this weapon. Even the Duchy of Colin only recently acquired it from the United Kingdom of Gutaf... We have only recently equipped ourselves with it."
In fact, the technology behind this rifle goes far beyond what Edward understood; there are many aspects that the Grand Duke couldn't comprehend.
For example, rifling design, smokeless powder, and so on.
However, it was Prince Colin standing here, not Professor Colin, so there was no need for His Highness Edward and the surrounding soldiers to know not only what happened but also why.
Before Edward could speak, he continued.
“According to my agreement with the United Kingdom of Gutaf, I should not have circulated such advanced weapons to the Old World, causing bloodshed. However, you are my ally, and Princess Eileen's condition is truly worrying me. When I return, I will personally go to see their Queen and explain this matter.”
Edward's eyes widened, and a hint of surprise appeared on his face.
He understood the message conveyed in those words—
His allies planned to arm his army with this weapon, which was precisely what was troubling him most at that moment, yet he didn't know how to bring it up.
However, he did not show his surprise on his face. Instead, he looked serious and held onto Prince Colin's arm with both hands.
“Your Highness, thank you for everything you have done for us… Princess Eileen and I will always remember your kindness.”
Colin gave an embarrassed smile and coughed lightly as he spoke.
"It would be my honor if I could be of any help to you and Princess Eileen."
Love-struck people are terrifying...
The Campbell soldier standing beside him was both moved by the prince's tenderness towards Princess Irene and ashamed that the prince had so easily gifted the weapon to his ally.
The people of the Principality of Colin are really unlucky to have such a prince. What if the United Kingdom of Gutaf doesn't give in?
However, considering that she seemed to be a queen, the soldiers remained silent for a moment before worrying about their Princess Eileen.
Thunder City boasts a thriving economy, and its cultural industry is no less impressive than that of Holy City. The citizens of Holy City love to paint, write novels, and, most importantly, read novels.
This story feels familiar; I've seen it somewhere before.
Edward didn't think in that direction; his mind wasn't muddled, and he understood perfectly well that there were only interests between nations.
He would never forget the kindness of His Highness Colin's help.
At worst, we can just make a few more concessions to the United Kingdom of Gutaf on the issue of the special zone, give those lizardmen a little taste of sweetness, and bribe that queen with benefits, wouldn't that be enough?
He certainly won't make things difficult for Colin!
Just as His Highness Edward was in high spirits, Luo Yan gave Punk, who was standing to the side, a look. Punk immediately understood and stepped forward to stand next to His Highness Edward and said respectfully.
"Your Highness! Although I am of humble origin, I have a heart that longs to serve my country. Coincidentally, I learned a few trades in the city's workshops a few years ago and have some knowledge of machinery. In my humble opinion, although the structure of this musket is intricate, it is not difficult to replicate given Thunder City's industrial capabilities. As long as I have detailed blueprints, I am confident that I can produce it for you!"
This Mr. Punk was the groom that Luo Yan had hired for a huge sum of one gold coin when he first entered Thunder City. Because of his ambition and learning ability, Luo Yan took him under his wing and had him manage the businesses in Thunder City.
For example, the listing of the Colin Group and the "stock exchange" on Queen Street were both orchestrated behind the scenes by this Mr. Punk.
For Edward, Mr. Punk's suggestion was perfectly timed, perfectly matching his current eagerness to master the technology.
Furthermore, this Mr. Punk was someone close to Prince Colin, and was considered a trustworthy "one of their own" by both Prince Colin and himself.
Edward smiled and looked at the sensible businessman with appreciation, speaking in an approving tone.
“Your patriotism is admirable, and I think your suggestion is excellent! Of course, this matter still depends on His Highness Colin's opinion, after all, it is his.”
“How could I possibly have a problem with that?” Mr. Colin said with a smile and in a gentle tone. “If Mr. Punk is willing to serve our Grand Duke, that would be even better.”
He was the one who gave the order to do this.
"Haha, since Your Highness has said so, if I don't give something in return, wouldn't the Campbell family seem too stingy!"
Edward smiled with delight, then looked at Punk, who was waiting with his eyes lowered, cleared his throat, and announced in a solemn voice.
"From today onwards, I entrust the forging of this new equipment to you. Everything you need—land, craftsmen, or start-up capital—will be provided to you without reservation by the Duchy of Campbell. Furthermore, I can assure you, we will take as many rifles as your factory produces! The militia of Thunder City will be the first to complete the deployment of this new weapon!"
As he spoke, he turned to look at Jan Andes, who had been standing silently to the side, accompanied by the head of the Andes family.
“Mr. Andes,” Edward instructed, “I know about your family’s connections in Thunder City. Give him your advice on this matter. I believe your patriotism is no less than his. For the sake of our duchy, make sure this factory is up and running as quickly as possible!”
A flicker of surprise crossed Jan Andes' eyes, but he quickly regained his composure and bowed respectfully to his emperor.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
After saying that, he turned to Punk and gave him a friendly smile.
"Mr. Punk, please rest assured that although the Andes Group has little involvement in the arms industry, we will do our best to help you."
As he spoke, his mind raced, carefully analyzing the deeper meaning behind His Majesty the Grand Duke's words.
The military industry in the Duchy of Campbell has always been a complex and sensitive area, mainly controlled by traditional nobles who own their own territories and blacksmith guilds.
After all, the standing army was mostly composed of the lord's private soldiers, and their weapons and armor were naturally made by blacksmiths in their respective territories.
If Archduke Edward intended to use this opportunity to seize a portion of this lucrative industry from the conservative lords, or even to establish a new army entirely under his control, it would undoubtedly be a tremendous boon for the Andean family.
They've long coveted this industry dominated by traditional forces!
With a mixture of excitement and joy on his face, Punk quickly expressed his gratitude to Grand Duke Edward and Mr. Andes, while also casting a grateful glance at Prince Colin.
Luo Yan nodded with a smile.
He was pleased to see that during his absence, the former stable boy seemed to have grown a lot.
Although his vision still couldn't compare to that of Jan Andes, who was beside Edward, his ability to read people was no less than the latter's.
This is the advantage of those who climb from the bottom to the top.
They are hardworking, shrewd and calculating, and observant.
Although traditional nobles often looked down on such talented people who rose from humble beginnings, Luo Yan never looked down on them.
On the contrary, he was surrounded by many such people.
Just then, Luo Yan suddenly thought of something and turned his curious gaze toward the ambitious Edward.
"Your Highness, I am deeply impressed by your decisiveness. However, if I may be so bold as to ask, since you value this weapon so highly, why not prioritize equipping it to the Duchy's most elite regular legions, instead of first equipping it to the militia of Thunder City? If I remember correctly, they are all conscripts, aren't they?"
This seemingly casual question was like a precise dart, landing in the most sensitive core of the power structure within the Duchy of Campbell.
Luo Yan knew the answer, of course; he just wanted to hear firsthand how Edward, the "chess player," would view the cracks on his chessboard.
Upon hearing this, Edward's excitement faded slightly, and a barely perceptible hint of gloom flashed in his eyes.
There are some things that can be said to Colin, who is also royalty, but are not appropriate to say to outsiders, not even servants.
He glanced instinctively at Punk beside him, who immediately bowed respectfully.
"Your Highness, I need to take stock of the tools and samples I brought... Your Highness, please excuse me."
Having said that, he tactfully withdrew from the lawn.
Jan Andes, of course, understood perfectly. Without needing His Majesty's prompting, he smiled and said, "I'll go with Mr. Punk and discuss the details of building the factory with him."
After saying that, he followed behind Punk.
Watching the two men and the surrounding guards retreat, Edward cleared his throat and casually revealed his true feelings.
"To be honest, Your Highness Colin, things have been rather unstable within the Duchy lately."
Luo Yan frowned slightly.
"Has...the king done something again?"
"It has some connection with King Ryan, but not that much. It's mainly an internal matter of the Campbell family."
He sighed, a hint of weariness on his face, and led Colin onto the lawn, continuing in a casual tone.
"You should know that besides me, Eileen has another older brother, my younger brother Jerok."
"I've heard about that gentleman. Your relationship... is in trouble?"
Edward gently shook his head.
"It has nothing to do with our relationship; our differences lie mainly in our philosophies of governance. He has always regarded my father as a role model and adhered to the traditions of chivalry, just like Irene. However, he is different from Irene; Irene is adaptable, while he longs for everything to remain the same."
"Everything remains the same..."
"Going back to the old ways, merchants were the lords' money bags, and farmers were the lords' tools. Of course, they would certainly put it another way, such as... providing stability and shelter to farmers who lost their land, even if they never made sure their farmers had enough to eat."
Edward grinned, seemingly mocking his brother's naiveté, yet also reflecting on the unpredictability of fate.
Just as he was uniting the nobles of Twilight Province to usurp the king's power, the king came to his territory and did the same thing.
He secretly lit a fire in his backyard.
What a tyrant!
Besides their skill in pretending to be asleep, they are also quite adept at causing trouble.
Luo Yan remained silent for a moment, then cast a sympathetic look at him.
Every family has its own problems.
“Yes,” Edward sighed and continued, “Perhaps I should have been stricter with my brother, but it’s too late to say that now, and besides… he’s never really liked me, he’s been more influenced by our father.”
“Since I took the throne, he went to the Earldom of North Creek Valley. You should have met Earl Derek at the auction in this manor.”
"I have a vague recollection; that gentleman seemed to be a strong and powerful knight." Luo Yan thought carefully and remembered the count.
“His skills are not limited to martial arts; he is also extremely cunning.” Edward’s face was somewhat gloomy as he continued slowly, “My brother, while staying in his territory, was not without his instigation. And now that Eileen has gone north, he has an even more high-sounding reason: to guard against the remnants of the Green Forest Army infiltrating the Duchy. He even wants to transfer the Trident Knights there… However, you and I both know that that rabble is long gone.”
Having said all he could say, Edward said no more.
He believed that with Prince Colin's intelligence, even without him explaining every single detail, he would be able to appreciate the complex emotions involved.
Luo Yan could certainly understand.
He pondered for a moment, sighed softly, and ultimately stood on the side of a friend, offering gentle advice.
"You are family after all, so you should value harmony."
Succession disputes have always been bloody and fierce.
Especially since the Principality of Campbell is at a critical historical juncture, not everyone is happy to see the changes taking place.
Edward smiled perfunctorily, a hint of warmth seemingly rising in his eyes, but nothing more.
"I hope so, and I also hope that the kid can come to his senses and not do anything stupid that makes people laugh and cry."
He is not a cold-blooded person.
But if anyone tries to divide his duchy or obstruct the reforms he is implementing, he will not hesitate to take action, even against his own brother.
Luo Yan said no more and subtly changed the subject.
He could see the determination he wanted to see on Edward's face.
The kingdom and the tribunal, the duchy and the forces of the "New Testament"... the two sides, who are secretly vying for power, have already divided into two distinct camps.
Now it's a matter of who fires the first shot.
If he could, he would have preferred that day to come later, so that the brave Campbells could shed less blood.
The situation here is completely different from that on the continent of Gana. The lizardmen on Gana have nothing, so they believe it's better to suffer a short, sharp pain than a long, drawn-out one. But the Campbell people have everything, so they may not be able to bear the unbearable pain that life cannot endure.
However, Luo Yan was also aware of this.
Just like the unpredictable future in the virtual world, not everything can exactly go according to the will of fate...
(End of this chapter)
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