At the Backlund Police Headquarters, as the press conference officially began, Lorne's performance in the face of reporters' barrage of questions was flawless.
He first briefly explained his "original intention" to personally investigate due to the disappearance of a factory employee's child, then skillfully steered the conversation towards the police.
"————I must admit, after I found those poor girls and clashed with the vicious criminals, it was the Backlund police who arrived in time and ultimately brought the situation under control."
"Otherwise, it would have been impossible for me alone to bring those poor girls back safely. Their response was incredibly swift, and their actions were extremely professional. I am genuinely proud that Backlund possesses such a well-trained police force."
These words, which severely deviated from the truth, brought extremely satisfied smiles to the faces of several high-ranking government officials seated in the front row. Their dignity, at last, was preserved.
However, the reporters clearly wouldn't let him off so easily.
"Mr. Scott!" a male reporter wearing gold-rimmed glasses asked loudly, his voice sharp and penetrating, "There are rumors that you were actually treated as a criminal suspect by the police that night and detained at the police station for several days. Is this true?"
As soon as this question was posed, the entire press hall instantly fell silent. All eyes were focused on Lorne's face, awaiting his answer.
The smile on Lorne's face stiffened slightly. Alas—he sighed inwardly, then showed a perfectly timed expression of surprise and helplessness.
"Where did you hear that news? This—this is an unsubstantiated rumor."
He paused, seemingly organizing his thoughts, then continued: "The truth is, that night, to protect those girls, I had an intense struggle with the criminals and sustained serious injuries. It was the police officers who arrived in time who saved me and took me back to the police station for emergency protection and treatment."
"As for the following few days, that was merely me, as a key witness in the case, cooperating with the police for some routine questioning and investigation. I believe this is an obligation that every citizen of the Kingdom of Luen should fulfill, isn't it?
"
He spread his hands, a humble smile on his face: "I am just an ordinary business owner, an ordinary citizen who did what he believed was right. I hope everyone will stop spreading those false rumors; they are harmful to the brave police officers."
These words were airtight, reasonably explaining why he was at the police station while also preserving the dignity of the relevant departments.
The reporters below exchanged glances, then began to press their camera shutters even more frantically, capturing the radiant image of this "humble and upright hero" on their film.
After the press conference, the reporters gradually dispersed.
"Mr. Scott." A slightly corpulent middle-aged man in a police chief uniform walked towards Lorne with a genial smile.
"Thank you for your speech today; it saved us a lot of unnecessary trouble." Police Chief Huntington showed a genuine smile. Lorne's words today had successfully preserved his career, and he was undeniably happy.
"Chief, you are too kind; I merely said what I ought to say." Lorne politely responded.
The two exchanged a smile, everything unspoken.
Afterward, the two discussed some business matters. Police Chief Huntington very sensibly stated that he could arrange for the Backlund police department to purchase a batch of firearms from Lorne's factory to arm the police force. At the same time, he would also use official channels to help promote Lorne's factory.
Lorne was very satisfied with this; it made his half-day performance in front of the media worthwhile.
"Oh, by the way, there's a gala in a couple of days. I hope Mr. Scott can attend." After the pleasantries, Huntington extended an invitation to Lorne.
"A gala?"
"Yes, a charity event," he explained.
"The government plans to use the confiscated assets from Capin to establish a relief fund. The annual proceeds will be used to consistently help these rescued girls, as well as others harmed by Capin's crimes, giving them a chance to escape their current predicament."
"I see." Lorne nodded. This was indeed a good idea, and it made the best use of the resources.
"So, you hope I, as a party involved, will attend to add some credibility?"
"More than that." The Chief shook his head slightly, adding, "After discussion, we intend for you to manage this fund."
"Me to manage it?" Lorne was somewhat surprised. He had thought he would at most just show up to lend support, acting as a mascot.
"If you are unwilling, you can also just be a nominal figure. Specific matters are still open for discussion, but we will respect your choice."
"Many upper-class individuals will be attending then," Police Chief Huntington added meaningfully. He believed that Scott, as a smart man, a "hero" who had just gained immense prestige, would never give up this excellent opportunity to enter higher social circles.
Do they want to use this fund as compensation and hush money for me—
"I understand, I will attend on time." Lorne showed a delighted expression. He had no reason to refuse such an opportunity that could enhance his social status, genuinely help others, and establish connections with the upper class. "Excellent!" Police Chief Huntington's smile widened. "At that time, representatives from the Churches will also be present, and their assistance might be needed for the fund's operation and the use of the donations."
The Churches—yes, after all, I've already encountered Punishers, so it's normal for the Churches to want to get involved. Lorne understood in his heart but still asked an extra question: "Is it the Storm Church?"
"Yes, the Storm Church will indeed send representatives," Huntington confirmed, but then changed the subject, "However, the main partner for this charitable fund, we have tentatively decided, will be the Night Church."
"The Night Church—" This answer surprised Lorne. This whole matter seemed to have nothing to do with the Night Church.
"Is something wrong?" Huntington noticed Lorne's confusion.
"As far as I know, the girls who escaped from the villa that day eventually hid in the Storm Church's cathedral." Lorne gave a logical reason.
"That is indeed the case. But—" Huntington smiled, "Aren't you a devout believer of the Evernight Goddess?
We believe that having a devout believer manage a fund aimed at helping female victims, in cooperation with the Evernight Goddess Church, which also focuses on tranquility, peaceful sleep, and refuge, will gain more public recognition."
This—actually, I could also be a believer of the lord of storms. After all, during my time at sea, I had more dealings with them, although mostly being pursued by them, but I know a bit about their doctrines and rituals—
Lorne felt a bit awkward. The identity of "Scott" was indeed a believer of the Evernight Goddess, but he hadn't even been to a cathedral of the Evernight Goddess! If there were Church members present at the gala, and he revealed any slip-ups in conversation or was unfamiliar with their doctrines and rituals, it would be embarrassing.
However, during his interrogation, he had indeed claimed to be a believer of the Evernight Goddess in front of the Punishers, and Scott's social network also believed this. Changing his statement now would make him even more suspicious.
"Moreover, most of those rescued this time are poor young girls. Therefore, we believe that cooperating with the Evernight Goddess Church is more appropriate."
"So, some noble individuals closely associated with the Night Church will also be present then," the Chief added.
"I understand, your arrangements are very reasonable." Lorne showed a sincere smile, but his heart was furiously grumbling.
Speaking so grandiosely, it's probably because the Punishers discovered something and wanted to get involved, so you used my faith as an excuse to block them. After all, the "hero who saved the girls" is a believer of the Evernight Goddess, so no matter how strong the Storm Church is, it would be difficult for them to openly oppose this.
Then, bring in the Night Church to balance the Storm Church. And for the Night Church, this is unearned prestige and merit, so why not take it?
However, for me, this is also an unearned opportunity. It's just a charitable fund; it won't stir up too much trouble, but it can greatly enhance my social image and status. Refusing now would only make me seem guilty or have ulterior motives.
He smiled and nodded at Police Chief Huntington: "I think we will have a pleasant cooperation."