Knight Lord: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 544 Su Li's Formal Response to the Empire
After finally acknowledging Su Li's victory, Commander Adelbert paused and said, word by word, "For the glory of the Blazing Sun, for the Church to truly gain a foothold in the heart of the Empire... I, Adelbert, on behalf of the Blazing Sun Knights... accept this risk!"

“But!” he emphasized sharply, holding up a finger, “we must formulate the strictest and most detailed guarantee contract terms! The definitions must be as clear as they can be! The right of oversight must be effectively implemented! If those guys from Eternal Light dare to overstep their bounds in the slightest in the future, I will be the first to not let them off the hook!”

Although he spoke harshly, his agreement to the guarantee meant that deep down he had begun to try to believe that the Eternal Light could reform itself, or at least was willing to gamble on that possibility.

A satisfied smile finally appeared on Su Li's lips. He had successfully persuaded this stubborn legendary knight, and through ingenious tying of interests and political maneuvering, he had simultaneously put two seemingly impossible things on track.

"Of course, Your Excellency, we must finalize every detail to ensure everything goes perfectly." Su Li solemnly promised, then clapped his hands lightly.

The vermilion doors on the inner side of the council chamber were opened by the guarding knights. Two men emerged from behind the doors—Duke Bohemond and Bradley, the acting Grand Master of the Knights of Eternal Light!

They had clearly been waiting outside, having overheard the entire heated exchange inside the hall.

At this moment, both men wore expressions of barely suppressed excitement, especially Vice Commander Bradley. This knight, known for his fortitude and composure, now had slightly reddened eyes, his clenched fists were so tight that his knuckles turned white, and his body was even trembling almost imperceptibly due to the intense emotional turmoil.

They had just experienced a rollercoaster of emotions outside the door.

When they heard Grand Master Adelbert's initial, volcanic rejection, when he called the Eternal Light "a cursed wretch," and when he listed those sharp and realistic risks, both of their hearts sank to the bottom.

Duke Bohemond's expression was grave, while Bradley could barely contain his urge to rush in—this might be the only chance for the Eternal Light to escape the millennium-long nightmare!
They held their breath, listening intently as Su Li guided them step by step, explaining from a faith-based perspective, and then throwing out the earth-shattering bargaining chip of "electoral votes." Every silence and hesitation from Adelbert made their hearts race; every softening of his tone gave them a glimmer of hope.

When they finally heard Adelbert's hoarse "You won," the two people outside the door almost shouted out in excitement!

Duke Bohemond let out a long sigh of relief, his tense shoulders finally relaxing, and a relieved yet appreciative smile appeared on his face.

Bradley abruptly closed his eyes, tilted his head back, and forced back the tears that were about to spill from his eyes, but the violent heaving of his chest revealed the turmoil raging within him.

As they entered the council chamber, their gazes immediately fell upon Su Li, who sat at the head of the table. Their eyes were filled with unparalleled gratitude, even a hint of awe. Duke Bohemond spoke first, his voice tinged with admiration: "Earl Su Li, truly… astonishing skill and courage." He said little more, but his words spoke volumes.

Vice-Commander Bradley strode forward and stopped in front of Su Li. He didn't speak, but instead clenched his right fist and struck it heavily against the armor on his left breastplate, producing a clear and firm sound. He bowed deeply to Su Li, almost at a ninety-degree angle, a gesture that lasted for several seconds, filled with the highest respect of a knight and unspeakable gratitude.

As he straightened up, his voice, though somewhat hoarse, carried an unwavering resolve: "Earl Su Li... no, Lord! The Knights of Eternal Light, with their four thousand brothers, owe you a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid! From this day forward, your will will be the target of our swords!"

His gaze then turned to Grand Master Adelbert, whose expression remained somewhat complex but who had resigned himself to his fate. He bowed solemnly once more: "Grand Master Adelbert! Thank you for your trust and courage! I, Bradley, swear in the name of the goddess of justice, Verena, that the Eternal Light will uphold the knightly code and will never allow the glory of the blazing sun to be tarnished because of us! We will prove that your guarantee is worthwhile through every action we take in the future!"

Adelbert looked at the excited and sincere Bradley, then at the smiling Su Li and Bohemond, and finally, somewhat awkwardly waved his hand, saying in a muffled voice, "Alright, alright, anyone can say nice things! Remember your promises today! If anything goes wrong later, I'll melt your armor with the Holy Fire of the Sun!"

Although his tone was still rough, the hostility that kept people at arm's length had dissipated, replaced by a kind of awkward sense of agreement, similar to "since we're all in the same boat, let's try not to let it sink."

Seeing this, Su Li knew that the most crucial step had been taken firmly. He smiled and gestured for Bradley and Bohemond to take their seats.

"Alright, now that we've reached an agreement on the most important principles, let's have the four of us discuss this 'sacred guarantee' agreement and the specific details of how to compete for electoral seats."

With Bradley and the Duke of Bohemond seated, the atmosphere of the meeting eased considerably. Although still serious, the goals were now aligned. Su Li knew that the next step was to translate the agreement in principle into concrete and enforceable terms.

He cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping over the three key figures present—Adelbert, Bradley, and Bohemond—began to explain the core concept:
"Now that we are about to forge this sacred pact concerning the future of our two great knightly orders, we must first clarify the core values ​​that the pact must uphold—the 'Glorious War' concept advocated by our Sun Goddess Violet."

Su Li's voice was clear and steady, as if stating an unquestionable truth:

"The so-called 'Glorious War' is not merely about pursuing victory. It requires us to adhere to basic moral principles and chivalry in war. Its core includes: not attacking an enemy who has clearly surrendered; avoiding harm to non-combatants (especially civilians, women, and children) whenever possible; not treating prisoners of war with torture and excessive cruelty; and the purpose of war is to maintain order, uphold justice, and eliminate threats, not to plunder and destroy itself."

He looked at Bradley, his tone questioning, but more of a guiding confirmation:

"Vice Commander Bradley, you are a devout follower of the goddess of justice, Verena. I would like to ask whether the values ​​of the 'Glorious War' that I have expounded are fundamentally in conflict with the order and justice advocated by Her Majesty Verena?"

Bradley immediately straightened his back, his face showing no hesitation, and replied decisively, "Of course not! My lord, the 'Glorious War' you speak of is precisely the concrete manifestation of order and justice in the extreme situation of war!"

He elaborated further, his tone revealing a profound understanding of his own faith: "Her Majesty Verena is the goddess of learning and justice, the guide of the bureaucratic system, and the guardian of knowledge and law. The core of her doctrine lies in upholding 'order' itself and ensuring that 'justice' is served. As for the specific forms of war, as long as they do not violate the basic principles of order, and as long as their ultimate goal is to restore or defend a more just order, Her Majesty will not interfere excessively with their specific tactics and methods."

Bradley turned his gaze to Adelbert with a sense of satisfaction at finding common ground: "In fact, Her Majesty Violet, as a patron of officers and tacticians, advocated the concept of 'glorious war,' which precisely infused the act of war with a framework of order and morality. This is highly consistent with Her Majesty Verena's fundamental goal of maintaining order."

He even gave an example: "Within our Knights of Eternal Light, many officers and knights also study military books, learn from ancient and modern battles and various military strategies. Because Her Majesty Verena is the goddess of learning, she encourages us to learn and absorb all beneficial knowledge, which naturally includes how to wage war more efficiently and morally. This is where the teachings of the two goddesses can perfectly complement each other—one lays the moral foundation and ultimate goal of war (order and justice), while the other guides the specific path and spiritual principles for achieving this goal (glory and tactics)."

Finally, he concluded with a sense of enlightened agreement: "This is why, among the many sects in the Empire, the Church of the Blazing Sun and the Church of the Goddess of Justice have always been relatively close, and there is an implicit alliance between them. Because our core doctrines are logically similar at the underlying level, both of us are committed to establishing and maintaining an order based on law, knowledge, and morality in a chaotic world."

Bradley's explanation was clear and powerful, not only eliminating any lingering reservations Adelbert might have about the integration of faiths, but also making Su Li's proposed "Glorious War" values ​​a solid bridge connecting the two knightly orders and the two religious sects.

After listening, Adelbert stroked his crimson beard, nodded slightly, and commented in a deep voice, "Hmm... that makes some sense. Winning is important in war, but if we fight like the Greenskins or Chaos brats without any bottom line, it certainly doesn't align with our mission of purifying the world's filth."

The way he looked at Bradley was less scrutinizing than before, and more like that of a "fellow traveler".

Su Li nodded in satisfaction: "Very good. In that case, we can make 'strict adherence to the values ​​of the Glorious War' one of the core terms of this sacred guarantee contract and write it down clearly. We need to refine the specific code of conduct and defining standards one by one to ensure that they are clear and unambiguous and to avoid ambiguity in the future."

The focus of the meeting officially shifted to the tedious yet crucial stage of drafting the terms. With shared values ​​as a foundation, the subsequent negotiations, though still fraught with debate, had a general direction set. The remaining task was to reach a consensus on the details, ensuring that this unprecedented "sacred guarantee" would both save the Eternal Light and maximize the protection of the Flame Sun Knights' interests, ultimately achieving a win-win situation and paving the way for Su Li's grand plan to secure electoral seats.

This in-depth negotiation surrounding the "Divine Guarantee" contract terms is significant in ways that go far beyond resolving the curse on the Knights of Eternal Light. During hours of intense discussion and meticulous word-by-word analysis, the representatives of the Eternal Light, especially Vice-Commander Bradley, had to repeatedly and deeply understand and examine the values ​​of the "Glorious War" advocated by the Goddess of the Sun and the underlying doctrines in order to clarify the terms and mitigate risks.

This process, inadvertently, became a profound exchange and fusion of ideas. To ensure their future actions wouldn't trigger a curse, the Knights of Eternal Light had to internalize principles such as "no indiscriminate killing," "humane treatment of prisoners," and "distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants" as inviolable red lines in their actions. This was not merely about upholding the contract, but also about actively embracing and integrating into a new military culture that emphasized war ethics and order. The values ​​of the blazing sun, like a gentle stream, quietly seeped into the very marrow of this knightly order that worshipped the goddess of justice.

Conversely, the representatives of the Flame Sun Knights, while strictly limiting the terms to protect their own interests, also gained a deeper understanding of the Church of Justice and its Knights' operational model and internal discipline. With a shared goal (redemption and risk prevention), and given that their faiths were not opposed, both sides found increasing common ground and room for cooperation.

This negotiation greatly enhanced mutual trust and connection between the two church orders, laying an incredibly solid foundation for a more stable and deeper strategic alliance between the Church of the Sun and the Church of the Goddess of Justice in the future.

Although Adelbert and Bradley were merely leaders of important knightly orders within their respective churches, and not the highest decision-makers, they both made it clear that such a significant joint matter required that the details and preliminary consensus be relayed back to the highest levels of their respective churches for review and final decision by the archbishops, the College of Cardinals, and even the Pope.

However, with the personal involvement and active promotion of the two Grand Masters (or Acting Grand Masters), and with this sacred guarantee contract aimed at "redemption" and "co-construction of order" serving as a model, and more importantly—all eyes were unanimously drawn to Su Li in the main seat, and Duke Bohemond beside him, representing the imperial authorities—if the Church of the Blazing Sun could successfully obtain a secular electoral vote, and Count Su Li would become its holder; if the Province of Suland (whose ruler, Prince Phyllis, had a close relationship with Su Li) also firmly supported this alliance…

Therefore, driven by such powerful secular forces and faced with tangible and enormous strategic interests, the possibility of the two churches' leadership approving and deepening this alliance will no longer be a distant dream, but a bright prospect worth striving for.

With this in mind, the atmosphere in the conference room became even more heated and filled with anticipation. All eyes ultimately focused on Su Li and Duke Bohemond.

Su Li knew it was time to give a formal answer.

He composed himself, his expression becoming solemn and serious. He met Duke Bohemond's gaze directly and spoke clearly and forcefully:

"Your Excellency Duke Bohemond, after careful consideration and in-depth discussions with our allies, I, Su Li Bauhinia, hereby formally reply to you, and through you to the Electoral Council, as follows:"

He paused briefly to make sure each word was clear and accurate:

“I accept the title of Imperial Earl conferred by Parliament and endorse Parliament’s arrangements regarding the current status of Maleburg and its tariff rights for the next five years.”

This first sentence indicates that he accepted the main olive branch extended by the empire and was willing to abide by the rules of the game on the surface.

“However,” Su Li’s tone shifted abruptly, like a sword being drawn, “this is not an unconditional acceptance. The peace and stability of the Black Forest Territory, and even the long-term tranquility of the entire northern border princely territory, require a more solid and just foundation.”

"For the sake of stability in the southern border of the Empire, to maintain the 'dignity' of the Electors' Council's authority here, and even more so to avoid unnecessary bloodshed and turmoil, I, and the Black Forest Territory, have chosen to accept the boundaries drawn by the Council and temporarily cease hostilities."

"This 'restraint' does not stem from fear, but from consideration of the bigger picture and respect for the overall interests of the Empire. However, my compromises and concessions must never, and will never, come at the expense of the security and fundamental interests of the Black Forest Territory."

"The Empire must make a reciprocal commitment and provide tangible guarantees! The Parliament must clearly assure you that the existing interests and security of the Hessian Territory will be respected and protected by the Empire! It must guarantee that no one is plotting in secret, trying to tighten the noose around our necks little by little, and that no one will be allowed to hold a poisoned dagger to the throat of the Hessian Territory at all times!"

His voice rose, carrying an undeniable determination:
“Therefore, I demand that the Electors Council formally recognize and establish the legal status of the ‘Secular Electors of the Church of the Blazing Sun’! And I, as the chosen one of the Goddess of the Blazing Sun, the Earl of the Black Forest Territory, and… (his gaze swept over Adelbert) a supporter of the Church’s Loyal Knights, demand to become the first holder of this Elector title!”

He directly revealed his ultimate goal, which was earth-shattering.

"To express my sincerity and absolute confidence in the success of this matter," Su Li held up the scroll of [Verena's Truth Contract], its light shimmering, "I am willing to use this treasure of order as proof. Furthermore, I promise that once the council passes this resolution, the Black Forest Territory will annually bestow upon every current secular elector of the Empire who supports me a complete [Blessed Wisteria Tree Pod] free of charge, for... a hundred years!"

He offered an irresistible price. The promise of longevity is the ultimate temptation for any ruler.

"This is my final answer, and it is also the key to the future relationship between the Black Forest Territory and the Empire." Su Li looked intently at Bohemond. "Your Excellency, please make sure to convey this message completely and accurately to every member of the Elector Council."

He presented the Empire with a problem that could potentially shake the very foundations of imperial power, along with a coveted gift. The pressure now rested entirely on the side of the Electors' Council.

Duke Bohemond took a deep breath, his face displaying a complex expression of shock, admiration, and solemnity.

He was well aware of the weight of this reply, and he also understood the enormous ambition and precise calculations behind Su Li's actions.

“Count Suli,” Bohemond said in a deep voice, “I will convey your reply verbatim. But I must remind you that the addition of electoral seats involves the fundamental legal system of the Empire, and its difficulty far exceeds your imagination. Even with… (he glanced at the contract and the hinting pod) such a bargaining chip, it will inevitably face unimaginable resistance, especially from the north…”

“I understand.” Su Li interrupted him, her tone calm yet full of confidence, “But some roads must be walked by someone. And some rules are not immutable. I believe that the members of the council can make the choice that best serves the long-term interests of the empire.”

At this point in the meeting, the most important decisions have been made. What follows will be an even more intense diplomatic game and power struggle, and the Black Forest Territory, under Su Li's leadership, has resolutely stepped into this more turbulent platform.

The Duke personally dispatched an elite guard to escort the reply document, speeding towards the imperial capital, Terra. It was foreseeable that when this document, containing the declaration of acceptance of the earldom title and the claim to electoral seats, arrived in Parliament, it would unleash a far more intense debate and storm than before.

However, in the Hessian Territory, another grand ceremony concerning faith and redemption is being prepared in full swing.

The location was chosen to be Flashspear City, situated in the western part of Blackforest Territory, adjacent to the Silverlight Plains. This city was chosen because it houses the legendary sacred relic—the Spear of Heaven. As a relic of the God-King, its eternal, unfailing radiance acts like a beacon guiding the way in the dark world, easily attracting the attention of the gods, especially during important sacred ceremonies.

Here, the Knights of Flame and the Knights of Eternal Light will formally conclude the "Sacred Guarantee" contract, which was reached after arduous negotiations.

On the day of the ceremony, the sky was clear, and the sunlight seemed to be drawn by a divine inspiration, shining exceptionally brightly on the ancient stone walls of Flashspear City. The square in front of the monastery was cleared, and the core members of the two major knightly orders stood in formation, the gilded armor of the Flame Sun Knights and the silver-blue robes of the Eternal Light Knights complementing each other, solemn and dignified.

Grand Master Adelbert and Grand Master Bradley (soon to be officially appointed), clad in their most solemn ceremonial armor, stood before the temporary altar beneath the Spear of Heaven. High priests from the Church of the Sun and the Church of the Goddess of Justice stood on either side, chanting ancient prayers from their respective sects.

Oliver, the head of the bureaucracy of Verena's chosen territory and the dean of the provincial council, personally presided over this important ceremony that concerned the fate of two top knightly orders and affected two southern churches.

As the two captains, under the watchful eyes of countless people, placed their contracts, each bearing the insignia of their knightly order and their personal soul imprints, together on the altar, and solemnly swore an oath to the goddess Verena, who symbolizes justice and order, an extraordinary phenomenon occurred!
The gentle radiance that the Spear of Heaven had been emitting suddenly became incredibly intense, as if it had been infused with new energy. A pillar of pure light shot into the sky, piercing straight through the clouds! At the same time, it seemed as if another invisible sun was casting its gaze upon the sky above, its warm and majestic light merging with the pillar of light from the Spear of Heaven, enveloping the entire plaza in an indescribable sacred atmosphere.

That was the manifestation of the Goddess Verena's power of order, and the divine grace of the Goddess Violet's light of purification, creating a wondrous resonance and convergence at this moment!
The holy emblems worn by the members of the two knightly orders began to glow on their own. They could clearly feel a warm and powerful force cleansing them. The knights of Eternal Light, in particular, seemed to have shed the invisible shackles that had been borne for thousands of years, and their souls became lighter.

Bradley, standing at the very front of the altar, felt it most intensely. The intertwined divine grace, like a surging tide, washed over his body and soul. The ailments and blockages accumulated within him from years of war and the curse he bore melted away rapidly under the impact of this powerful yet gentle force, like snow under the sun. He felt his senses had never been so clear, his power so surging, and his connection with the Goddess of Justice so strong!
(End of this chapter)