In the Name of Empress-Chapter 478 - 318: Homecoming (Part 3)

Merchants who do business fear nothing more than war.

Wars deteriorate the investment environment, cause investments to be lost, and could even cost their lives.

If not handled properly, the alarm bell sounded by this unexpected event could become the death knell of overseas trade.

This is absolutely unacceptable.

Sussex possesses absolute maritime control, and overseas trade is a crucial channel for her to replenish resources.

If the constant supply of materials from overseas is lost, it would be difficult for the Sussex Empire and the Jin Yuan Kingdom to withstand the Holy Alliance.

When Her Majesty the Empress appeared, the square, which had been in chaos, finally restored order. 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝘦𝘸𝑒𝒷𝓃ℴ𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝒸ℴ𝘮

However, the bewildered and helpless looks in people’s eyes still betrayed their true thoughts.

They are willing to be loyal to the Empress, but they hope to live more.

Their loyalty comes with a price.

The strategic depth of the Four Overseas Provinces isn’t sufficient; once war breaks out, Hansa City will quickly become the frontline. Who would dare to do business?

Sif sang the Siren’s Song, gradually calming the agitated hearts of the crowd.

Many who initially intended to retreat realized they had no way out.

Hansa City may seem unsafe, but with the Empress present, it is actually the safest place.

The Empire would never let the Empress fall into enemy hands.

Sif’s singing soothed most, but still, discordant noises arose.

The Four Overseas Provinces are not the homeland; the people here do not have much of a sense of belonging to the Sussex Empire or the York Clan.

They respect facts more.

"Your Majesty, what was the bell about earlier? I heard the alarm was sounded, is that true?"

Sif cast her gaze on the questioner.

The questioner, though not tall, was neither humble nor arrogant, and under her gaze, met her eyes without the slightest hesitation.

This fellow is...

Sif couldn’t recall his name but had some impression that he seemed to be an important member of the Talia Merchant Guild.

Seeing that Sif didn’t recognize him, the questioning merchant didn’t feel embarrassed; instead, he took the opportunity to introduce his name.

"Your Majesty, I am Noonis, a Talia merchant. My previous question was out of curiosity, not meant to challenge you."

Sif’s eyes narrowed slightly, her voice firm yet gentle.

"Indeed, the alarm was sounded just now. The identity of the signalman has been confirmed; they come from the Franks’ front line, where our country borders the Prudon Kingdom. It is speculated that military conflict has occurred with the Prudon Kingdom."

"There is no need to worry. Our country has formed an alliance with the Jin Yuan Kingdom. Over a million troops of the Freedom Alliance Army have been assembled. Whether it is the Prudon Kingdom or any other country, invasion of our land is doomed to fail."

"We have the famed general Christine from the Holy Hall of Light, and the ever-victorious Caesar Roland. I will also stay with you all, riding out the storm together!"

Sif never intended to hide anything.

With so many people on the square, at least hundreds of eyes had seen the bell being struck. Denying it would only expose her own insecurities.

Roland once said that a lie destined to be uncovered should never be told as it eventually erodes trust.

She spoke mainly of facts, except for Roland’s infinitely magnified military ability.

Sif’s words gave the originally perplexed merchants a slight sense of relief.

Though they still felt hesitant, at least they wouldn’t flee immediately.

"Your Majesty is wise, our army will surely triumph!"

Sif suddenly turned her head and looked towards the entrance of the square.

A luxurious carriage lifted its curtain, and from it stepped an elegantly noble figure, a hint of a rebellious smile at the corner of his lips. It was Roland.

He finally returned at the moment he was most needed.