Wizard starting from shoeing donkeys Chapter 1475 - 507: Terrio’s Decision

"For the time being, let us set that concern aside. Our primary focus must be securing command over this Floating City with the utmost speed," Vice Chairman Bertrand declared, dismissing the topic with a wave of his hand after a brief moment of reflection.

"Judging by its proportions, even if every resource of the Dragan Empire were mobilized, constructing a Floating City of this magnitude—rivaling the ancient Goblin capital—would require years of labor and a staggering commitment of gold and manpower."

"Moreover, the Federation possesses a natural edge in the integration and subjugation of the Floating City, as our technological foundations and engineering corps far surpass those of the Empire."

"Should we manage to dominate the Floating City ahead of schedule, we will secure a period of total strategic superiority. Does anyone have objections?"

"Very well, though it remains a missed opportunity," General Randall remarked with a casual shrug.

"Vice Chairman, I concur with your assessment. I propose we initiate the exploration of the Floating City without delay."

"As it stands, the trio consisting of Lord Terrio, Lord Hernandez, and—yes, that Young Master Rein—have only managed to scout down to the second basement level."

"While that particular foray was ultimately a failure, the discoveries made were nonetheless remarkable," noted Congressman Nelson, the Elder holding a pipe.

"Congressman Nelson, I believe a reminder is necessary regarding a detail you have overlooked; the primary objective of Lord Terrio and his comrades was the rescue of Lord Haleem, not a reconnaissance mission," Trena countered, her tone laced with a sharp edge.

"Peace, Congresswoman Trena. My point is simply that the third and fourth basement levels of the Floating City Ruins likely harbor even greater revelations."

"It is possible that the coming finds will significantly hasten the Federation's mastery over the Floating City. Wouldn't you agree, Congresswoman Trena?"

Nelson maintained a smile, appearing unbothered by Trena's earlier interruption.

"On that specific point, I am in agreement," Trena replied with a nod.

Internally, however, she was certain that this old fox Nelson was weaving an intricate web for some hidden agenda.

"In that case, I recommend that the Military Department spearhead the initial scouting. The Federation boasts many powerful Cultivation experts with military ties, and the Military Department is best equipped to mobilize them for the next phase of the descent," Nelson suggested, smiling toward General Randall.

At this juncture, Trena realized their true intent: they were actively courting the favor of the military leadership.

"Lord Nelson, I appreciate the confidence you have placed in the Military Department! It so happens that Lord Alvin and Lord Garrett have just concluded their prior assignments. They are the perfect candidates for the Floating City expedition."

"Vice Chairman, would it be acceptable for these two Lords to join Lord Terrio in re-entering the ruins? We ought to gather more intelligence before the Federation assembles a larger host of experts," General Randall said, seeking Bertrand's approval.

The lips of the stunning Congresswoman Trena tightened momentarily. She felt the urge to protest, yet she had to admit Randall’s logic was sound. The current data ended at the second basement level, which was far too insufficient.

Intelligence gathering had to be the priority before the Federation committed a massive force of experts to the ruins.

"Proceed, General Randall. Please coordinate with the two Lords. I shall move quickly to petition the council to recruit as many powerful individuals as possible for the Floating City Ruins exploration," Bertrand decided, glancing at Trena before siding with Randall’s plan.

"You are most kind; I am merely performing my duty," Randall replied, offering a polite bow and a smile.

Once the session ended, General Randall and Congressman Nelson exited the chambers one after the other.

While walking through the airship’s corridor:

"General Randall, I happen to have a thirty-year-old bottle of Carl Bordeaux on board. Would you care to join me for a glass?" Nelson invited with a friendly grin.

"Indeed, one cannot simply pass up Lord Nelson’s vintage collection." Whether it was a gesture of thanks for Nelson’s support during the meeting or standard political courtesy, Randall saw no reason to decline.

Moments later, they were settled in Nelson’s opulent private cabin.

Following some light conversation, Nelson swirled the crimson liquid in his glass and remarked, "General Randall, to be honest, I was very much in favor of your initial proposal."

"I am grateful; I sensed your support, Lord Nelson. However, since the Vice Chairman has opted to postpone the matter, there is little else we can do."

"Hehe, in truth, this situation doesn't necessarily require direct action from us or the military. In fact, we don't even need the Zaral rebels to step in. After all, if the rebel forces were to slaughter the Empire Delegation on Federation soil, it would be a scandalous stain that would be difficult to explain away."

Nelson spoke with an air of absolute certainty.

"Oh?" General Randall’s brow furrowed, not immediately catching the drift of the conversation.

"Back in Westin City, the Empire Delegation and the Federation worked in perfect harmony to slay the 'Ice Sea Giant Demon' Gazrian. I have heard that this act deeply offended the Sea God Sect, resulting in numerous reckless retaliatory strikes along the Federation’s coast for days on end."

"Your information is correct," General Randall confirmed, nodding his head.

"So, consider this: what if the precise departure time and travel path of Young Master Rein or the Empire Delegation were 'accidentally' leaked to the Sea God Sect by a mole within the Zaral rebel forces?"

"Then, naturally..." Randall finally grasped Nelson's implication and the true motive behind the scheme.