System: Build My Own Territory Chapter 949 - 284: Gold Pounds Pave the Way

Lynn gave a nod of understanding.

He was well aware that the 'small manor owners' Samuel mentioned were akin to the Frank Manor located in Morgan Town.

Samuel elaborated, "As a Lord, specifically a Viscount appointed by the Ducas Clan."

"Jon Zack also responded to the call."

"He departed with soldiers from the city and a retinue, comprising seven thousand troops in total, heading north to provide aid."

"However, just one month after Viscount Jon Zack and his army left Kakasong City."

"He suddenly reappeared with his troops."

"The entire situation felt as though..."

Lynn furrowed his brow, completing Samuel's thought, "As if he only appeared to show his allegiance to Mark Ducas upon being summoned."

"And then, he immediately retreated with his soldiers back to Kakasong City?"

Samuel affirmed, "Yes, Master Lynn. While I can't be certain of the exact reason, that is precisely the impression I received."

A contemplative silence fell upon Lynn.

If.

Mark Ducas's sole intention was to reinforce Jon Zack's forces.

And to strengthen his grip on the Southern Border, then such actions would be understandable.

However, if the purpose of reinforcing these forces was to launch an assault on his own territory.

Then he would need to be fully prepared.

After all, Godfrey, the Knight Commander of the Ducas Clan, was already aware of his existence and had set foot in his territory!

Although the Sword and Shield Corps stationed in Morgan Town had not attacked his domain after Godfrey's departure.

Alternatively, perhaps through negotiation, a portion of the profits from the open-pit salt mine was ceded.

Even if Godfrey was unaware of his true identity at that moment.

There remained a significant risk to the security of his territory.

Lynn inquired, "Captain Samuel, beyond this, is there any other information you possess?"

"For instance, the defense map of Kakasong City, patrol schedules, and a list of all Viscount Jon Zack's supporters?"

Even though he had already tasked Gasper with deploying spies around the various small towns near Kakasong City.

Gathering intelligence from Samuel beforehand would complement their efforts.

This would allow for cross-referencing and lead to the acquisition of the most precise intelligence.

Samuel responded, "Master Lynn, I am indeed in possession of the defense map of Kakasong City."

Lynn's gaze sharpened, fixed on Samuel as he awaited further details.

Samuel continued, "However, due to Jon Zack's increased security measures, the defense and patrol arrangements within Kakasong City are subject to frequent changes."

"I will need to return to Kakasong City, consult my references, and then provide you with an accurate defense map."

"Master Lynn, you will have to wait a short while."

Lynn agreed, "Of course."

Hearing Lynn's positive confirmation, Samuel felt a measure of relief and proceeded.

"Regarding Jon Zack's supporters, they command a certain military strength... There are a total of eight individuals."

"They are Zock Connally and Neil Lewis, manor lords in Alba Town..."

"Benito Hammond and Benjamin Edward, manor lords in Rasio Town..."

"..."

As Samuel meticulously detailed the information.

A sense of admiration involuntarily bloomed within Lynn's heart.

His casual conversation with Samuel had yielded information.

That surpassed what Gasper had managed to uncover in Kakasong City.

Indeed.

The higher one's standing and position, the more information one could ascertain!

Fortunately.

Samuel had already consented to continue gathering intelligence for him in the future!

With Samuel acting as his eyes and ears within Kakasong City.

He could naturally receive firsthand accounts of events transpiring beyond his territory.

Upon concluding Samuel's account, Lynn possessed a relatively clear understanding of Viscount Jon Zack's armed forces.

Viscount Jon Zack, along with his eight supporters from the surrounding towns, commanded a total of seven thousand soldiers.

Jon Zack personally controlled over two thousand soldiers.

This included one thousand fully armored soldiers and another thousand equipped with cloth or leather armor.

This intel closely aligned with the reports Gasper had gathered.

The remaining five thousand soldiers originated from Jon Zack's supporters.

After speaking for several minutes, Samuel paused.

He summarized, "Master Lynn, that encompasses all the information I have regarding Viscount Jon Zack."

"Should you require more detailed intelligence, you may await my return to Kakasong City for further investigation."

Lynn nodded, "Thank you, Captain Samuel."

"The information you've shared is exceptionally valuable to me."

Samuel bowed humbly, "Master Lynn, you are too gracious."

"It is Samuel's honor to assist Master Lynn."

"Furthermore, Master Lynn has already provided us with ample compensation!"

"Indeed, if Master Lynn desires, a modest expenditure of Gold Pounds would have allowed you to obtain some of the information I've shared."

Lynn acknowledged with a sound, indicating his understanding.

What Samuel implied by 'some information' undoubtedly included the defense map of Kakasong City.

Following a brief exchange of courtesies.

Samuel bowed once more and took his leave from Lynn.