The highest achievent for rcenaries was to receive a fiefdom and beco nobility.
Most rcenaries never reached this point, dying of old age or in battle. Even receiving a small town was considered a significant success.
Nobles who owned fiefdoms preferred to employ rcenaries with silver and gold, rather than giving away land.
However, the situation was a bit different with the order.
The order had the power to grant fiefdoms to rcenaries. This was more feasible because they were not giving away their own lands.
The order had the power to strip other nobles of their fiefdoms and legitimately give rcenaries the justification and rights to take over those lands!
The order had done similar things several tis before. They would call rcenaries to support an attack on the orders enemies and then settle them on that land.
It was natural to feel envious seeing those who were once rcenaries sitting arrogantly dressed as nobles.
.
. . . .
. . . , ?
?
It seems they dont know the exact purpose.
Johan muttered. This summoning was not about subduing one or two minor noble families. It was about fighting against all the Emperors nobles in the southern peninsula.
The rcenaries were thinking of titles like lord or baron, but considering the scale of this mission, it wouldnt be surprising if a count title was offered.
Eh, what? Is there so other purpose?
Ill tell you if its confird. Its just a guess for now.
Achladda showed no dissatisfaction at Johans words.
The ruler of the steppe had to be cunning and know how to hide their intentions. Even if Johan was being vague, it was just another sign of his qualifications.
So, Achladda, how did you deal with such discontented people?
How did I deal with them? Ignored the insignificant ones and crushed those who got arrogant in front of .
I should do the sa then. Ill keep that in mind.
Oh. Are you leaving now?
No.
Ah. . .
At Achladdas reaction, Johan smiled and said,
Cant act now. Just wait a little longer.
Johan understood the rcenaries reactions. They were still unaware of the exact details of the mission.
Eventually, it was likely that Johan would lead them south.
Such people couldnt be subdued by imdiate violence.
Waiting would naturally create justification and opportunity.
At Johans words, Achladda bowed his head.
Johan must surely have sothing in mind. Having trusted him once, Achladda simply followed.
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Many people were surprised, but Gurelic, despite his fierce appearance, was a quick-witted and agile person.
Thats why he was the first to make a decision this ti as well.
.
After resting, his mind was clearer and more agile.
No matter how he looks at it, Johan seems likely to hold a different and significant position in this gathering.
? - .
Other rcenary captains seed not to expect that Johan would take on the role of a commander.
Though Johan had gained fa for monster hunting, he was still too young and inexperienced. The rcenary captains present here usually had at least a decade, if not more, of experience in the battlefield.
Thats why they were even more confident. They thought it was absolutely impossible for that young knight to take on the role of a commander in the expedition.
But Gurelic had seen Johan himself.
He had seen Johan leading nearly a thousand soldiers southward without a hint of hesitation, and being the first to climb the high walls of Umdim and slaughter the enemies.
If soone were to ask Gurelic, ? Gurelic would honestly have to answer .
What if the order had made a similar assessnt?
.
Sir Johan!
?
Johan, who was teaching Euclyia how to play Go, turned his head at the sound from outside. Euclyia sneakily hid a Go piece.
Anyway, I rember it all. Whats the matter, sir?
I ca to join you in this endeavor! Please accept my sword!
. . .Oh?
Johan looked at Gurelic as if he were a curiosity. He had expected one of the rcenary captains to pick a fight first, not co to swear allegiance.
Really? For what reason?
From what I see, you are bound to take on an important role in this gathering. Rather than competing fruitlessly, I want to follow your lead and earn a greater reward.
Euclyia muttered sothing in the Eastern tongue beside him, roughly praising Gurelics wisdom.
Did you see that much value in it?
Youve already shown your worth in the city of Umdim.
At that ti, it was you and your n who excelled. . . Anyway, good! Ill accept.
Johan cheerfully agreed. It was convenient for the rcenaries to kneel and co on their own, especially soone experienced like Gurelic.
Wont the other rcenary captains be angry if they find out?
Actually, Im already on my way here, skipping the gathering. Let them be as angry as they want. Hmph. Do you think I care about such things?
Having already chosen his side, Gurelic did not hesitate. And one couldnt afford to worry about relations between rcenary groups in this line of work.
The most important thing was his own benefit, wasnt it?
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