How to Live as a Wandering Knight

Chapter 104.1: ?????? ??? ?????? (4)

Chapter 104.1: ?????? ??? ?????? (4)

While Gareld hesitated, the bishop somehow managed to soothe and calm Johan down.

Just step outside for a moment, brother.

But what if that person attacks the bishop. . .

I understand your concern, brother, but who would come as an envoy and attack me? There are more than a hundred warriors here.

Johan hesitated at those words. The bishop thought Johan hesitated because of worry, but that wasnt the case.

, . . .

From Johans perspective, who had experienced battles, the bishops words seemed somewhat amusing.

The people here had a narrow way of thinking. It wasnt a matter of high or low status, but rather a lack of imagination.

Anyway, it didnt matter much. From Johans view, it didnt seem like Sir Gareld would attack the bishop.

And even if the bishop was captured, it wouldnt be a problem for Johan. To Johan, the bishop had no value as a hostage.

Then I shall follow your words.

As Johan was about to leave, Gareld urgently signaled a servant. Recognizing the signal, the servant nodded slightly.

Sir, I have something to tell you separately.

As soon as he stepped outside, Johan nodded to the whispering servant.

So, are you saying you will turn to Biagiones side?

Ahem. Not a side, rather, it means no longer being hostile. Your Excellency.

Gareld spoke cautiously. The two seemed similar but were different. One meant actively working for Biagione, and the other simply meant withdrawing from the fight.

Anyway, it was welcome news for the bishop. The opposition had been tightly united, spreading rumors in the city, making it hard to breathe. . .

Its regrettable, but unavoidable. If youve come to know the truth and changed your heart, thats enough for me.

I am ashamed too. To be swayed without knowing anything.

God will forgive you, Im sure.

The two exchanged formalities. Gareld got straight to the point.

Your Excellency. Do you know what Sir Giordano and Sir Bucho are doing? They are writing to the church. They are offering gold to spread bad rumors about you.

. . .!

The bishop was startled. The political landscape within the republic was so intricately entangled that it was often unclear who was attacking whom.

The bishop was no exception.

He knew many were eyeing the privileges he held, but he didnt know who was leading this.

. . . . . .!

But these two characters were even bribing the church to slander.

How dare! What do they take this Biagione for!

Yes, Your Excellency. Punish them sternly. . . and, may I take my knights with me?

!

The bishop finally realized Sir Garelds intent. He hadnt joined the fight but provided enemy information, meaning he was asking to release the captured knights without ransom.

Gareld was desperately hiring forces to defend the newly conquered lands on the Ulcana Peninsula. From Empire connections to mercenaries. Losing trustworthy knights in such a situation was critical.

Thats. . .

As the bishop made a troubled face, Gareld hoped he wouldnt just take and refuse.

Their authority lies with the mercenaries.

Then, if you could persuade them. . .

They are too rough and wild. Its impossible.

If Your Excellency could pay the ransom on their behalf. . .

Why should this Biagione do that?!

The bishop turned stern. His demeanor cooled significantly as soon as gold was mentioned. Gareld was taken aback.

Because my situation isnt so good right now.

Then reduce those mercenaries youve hired! The diocese isnt in a good state either! Struggling even to help the poor, where do you think such wealth comes from!

, . . .

Everyone in the city knew he was wealthy, but to say such things. Gareld was boiling with anger. He disliked everything about these republic folks. They lacked any sense of honor.

. . .Understood. Your Excellency. I misspoke.

. ?

It wasnt surprising that Gareld had come secretly. The servant had informed in advance. It was that they had exchanged intentions without Biagione knowing.

As soon as he arrived, Gareld tried to persuade Johan by talking about what the bishop had done. Initially, Johan intended to ignore it, but changed his mind as Gareld persisted.

What would happen if he showed a yielding attitude here?

As Johan gradually showed reactions like ! , . . . ? !, Gareld became excited.

Finally, he had met someone he could communicate with. It seemed they could understand each other being from the same Empire. Those beastmen on this peninsula were all. . .

Elated, Gareld revealed more and more. About the bishops situation, the citys state, those pressuring the bishop. . . It was a kind of venting.

Oh, to treat a bishop like that. . . These republic fools know nothing of honor.

Thats what Im saying!

Johan realized that the bishops situation was worse than he thought. The religious community was fiercely attacking him for the corruption he had committed, and the rumors in the city were not good.

Now, if he loses the bishop position, he would have to retire and live in seclusion.

.

Johan was relieved that he had received it in advance from the bishop. Even if the bishop retired lonely, Johan and his men could leave happily.

. . .Its such a shame we get along so well in conversation. Would you consider taking up the sword with me?

While talking, Gareld had confirmed who Johan was.

He had heard rumors about Marcels troll slayer.

At first, he was skeptical whether it was just a rumor or not, but now that he became the dukes standard-bearer, he must have had real skills.

His identity was certain, and his honor was great, so there was no harm in pulling him in. The warriors he led were also impressive. . .