I Build a Modern Shelter in Fantasy World

Dickon really did not like it. The new Baron had drawn the attention of many Barons at once in a single meeting.

Their focus was now on Gideon, Dickon worried Gideon influence could grow far greater than his own.

The discussion about aid for the north had ended, Liam led the meeting again to talk about the complaints from each territory.

Some Barons voiced their complaints freely, without hesitation and without feeling intimidated. That was because they knew Gideon would protect them from Dickon.

"Many villagers are unemployed. I don't know where to allocate them," asked one of the Barons, ruler of a village in the southeast.

"Just order them to become soldiers. That's better!" Dickon declared firmly, speaking before Liam could give advice.

"Dickon's suggestion is not completely wrong. The Kingdom of Moko is unstable and needs many soldiers. You can make use of the potential of unemployed men," Liam explained.

"But what about the women?" the Baron asked.

"Hire them as a whore. That could help them make a lot of money," Dickon answered.

"But—"

"Identify what the village is lacking, then use tax funds to build businesses," Gideon interrupted.

Dickon shifted his focus forward, staring at Gideon again as he gave another suggestion that had never crossed his mind. Liam smiled.

Every proposal Gideon offered caught his attention because his ideas were always fresh and never considered before.

"Oh, I want to hear it, Lord Gideon."

Gideon nodded, standing up once again to share his thoughts on the village's problem.

"Thank you for the time, Viscount Duncan. What I mean by a village's lack is the problems its people face. For example, if the village lacks food, then use tax funds to employ them to open farmland," Gideon explained.

"If there is a shortage of clothing, allocate funds to train them in sewing."

"If there is a lack of entertainment, allow them to open taverns."

"There are many things villagers can do besides becoming soldiers. That is because being a soldier does not make the economy productive," Gideon answered.

Liam was pleased, and Helena was also pleased every time Gideon spoke with confidence. Helena even began to feel drawn to Gideon because of his courage to oppose Dickon and provide clear solutions to the problems.

"Consult with the other Barons, invite them to cooperate in business. That way, there will be many jobs for the villagers."

Gideon turned toward the Baron who had asked the question and responded with a nod. The Baron felt enlightened. Gideon truly gave many solutions, but he planned to ask him directly after the meeting was over.

"I hope Baron Gideon is not too busy after this meeting," the man said.

"Of course. We can talk a lot about how to handle your village's problems."

Liam agreed, then looked forward and asked the other Barons about their complaints.

Dickon kept scowling in silence, his sharp eyes fixed on Gideon, radiating a growing aura of anger. The desire to kill Gideon was born in his heart after this meeting because he had been humiliated too many times.

After listening to their complaints, Liam's assistant noted the results of the meeting. Liam explained that he would search for the best solutions to all the problems.

"The meeting is over. Thank you for coming, my fellow Barons."

"This is a little gift for you, something to accompany your trip home," Liam said.

The staff came in carrying gifts for each Baron. Inside was the finest wine brought directly from the Capital, unlike the wine popular in Mischo.

To them, only the elite noble enjoyed that wine. It was an honor for them to taste it as a gift from Liam.

Liam rose and walked out of the meeting hall. The Barons stood and saw him off. The meeting was over, but the room remained lively with conversations among the Barons.

Gideon and the Baron from earlier continued to talk about the solution Gideon had given. The man felt enlightened and knew what he needed to do.

He expressed his plan to cooperate with Gideon in trade and other matters. Gideon did not object.

After finishing, the Baron left the room escorted by his guards. Gideon had completed his duty here, and now it was time to return to the Viscount's residence and prepare to leave for the north.

"Why the rush?" Helena asked.

Her question made Gideon reflexively turn, narrowing his eyes as he saw Helena approaching, holding her wine.

Lena was still upset with her. The woman chose to stand in front of Gideon, blocking the whore from seducing him.

"You have a very brave guard," Helena said.

"She's not my guard, but my friend."

"Is that so? I thought she was your lover or wife," Helena teased, making Lena blush even though she was still annoyed.

"Did you want to discuss something with me?" Gideon asked.

"You stood out so much in the meeting earlier. I can be sure Dickon truly hates you now," Helena answered.

"Dickon. A strange name for a noble."

"If you're free, I can host you in my residence. Just walk straight ahead and you'll find the large building there," Helena said, turning her head and pointing north of the city.

Gideon nodded. He would remember the invitation. But he would not come today because there was important business he had to take care of.

Helena sighed. She wanted to spend more time with Gideon, but if he was busy, she had no choice.

"Very well, you can come whenever you like."

She bid farewell and left for her carriage. Gideon and Lena did the same, getting into their own carriage and riding away.

On the way, Lena spoke a lot about Gideon's behavior earlier. Gideon realized he had gone too far.

He should have stayed quiet and not voiced so many opinions, but Dickon kept insulting him until he lost his temper and control.

First meeting and I've already gained a new enemy. Wonderful.

"Will the village be all right?"

"The village will be fine. Lucas and the others will guard it well."

When they arrived at the Viscount's residence, Gideon was immediately welcomed by Liam. The man stepped forward, thanking him, which confused Gideon.

"Thank you, Lord Gideon."

"For what?" Gideon asked.

"Your suggestions. You helped me avoid Dickon's influence," Liam explained.

"What's the deal with this man named Dickon? Why is his influence so strong?" Gideon asked.

"He is the Baron of the western district. He is rich and his military is strong. Without Dickon, the city would be crippled," Liam explained.

"Shouldn't a Viscount have a stronger military?"

"Yes, our forces are large, but Dickon has followers. He also controls the economy and trade," Liam answered.

"You have a heavy burden, Viscount Duncan."

"But you were there in the meeting. Only you dared to stand against Dickon," Liam said.

"I can't stand him. He's the same type of man as Nozel. I must kill him!" Gideon declared firmly.

"Rest and drink with me," Liam offered.

Gideon nodded but declined gently. Luke had woken up, his rest was enough, and his stomach was full. Gideon and Lena had also returned from the meeting, and they needed to change clothes.

He could not stay long in the Viscount's residence. Gideon worried the situation in the north was getting more dangerous and threatening Norton's life. So, they needed to leave as soon as possible.

"I can't stay here for long. We must continue our journey."

"You're leaving?" Liam asked, and Gideon confirmed.

"Hmm… very well. Do you need food or wine?" Liam asked.

Gideon turned to Lena, and the woman responded with a slow nod.

"Sorry to trouble you, Lord Viscount."