Chapter 18: The Climax

As Surma recounted the whole story in detail, both Doloni and Warren were deeply moved. It was hard to believe that those proud and noble knights of the Bohemian Kingdom’s Court Magic Knights, as well as the self-proclaimed neutral and fair mages of the Mage Guild, would end up acting as mercenaries and assassins for some local forces!
If all this was true, it would undoubtedly be a severe mockery of the Bohemian Kingdom and the Mage Guild’s stance, severely damaging their reputation and prestige throughout the central regions of the continent. No one had the right to do such a thing!
“Your Highness Doloni, Count Warren, these actions have enraged Lord Komer greatly. He always believed the Bohemian Kingdom to be the pillar of the central regions of the continent, especially since its fair and just stance had always been admired by neighboring countries. But interfering openly in other countries’ internal affairs using such despicable methods will surely provoke great anger and dissatisfaction among the people in eastern Nicomedia. However, considering the good relations between our two sides, and as far as we know, this is merely the action of a few individuals and does not represent the attitude of the Bohemian Kingdom. On behalf of Lord Komer, I am here to negotiate with the Bohemian Kingdom.”
Surma spoke in a reasoned and measured manner, treating Doloni and Warren with great courtesy.
“Hmm, Mr. Surma, if all this is true, it is indeed unacceptable. But I heard you say earlier that you would bring us the kingdom’s magic knights. What do you mean by that?” Doloni asked promptly.
“Your Highness Doloni, how could we make such claims without solid evidence? We have come here only after obtaining sufficient proof. The two knights from your Court Magic Knights’ order, Selinger and Zilomba, are currently captured and imprisoned in Poznan. They have told us the truth in detail. Therefore, I hope to negotiate with Your Highness Doloni regarding the return of these two magic knights.”
Surma tactfully explained the purpose of his visit.

Surprise! Absolute surprise! Doroni and Warren exchanged glances; neither could hide their joy. If there were two witnesses, and if they could get those two witnesses under their control, it would be a devastating blow to Bramont. If Bramont sent magic knights and mages to secretly assist the Gallics out of personal reasons, perhaps His Majesty the King might turn a blind eye. But if they were involved in an assassination attempt and captured, it would undoubtedly cause catastrophic damage to the reputation of the Bohemian Kingdom—something absolutely unacceptable. And once they took control of the situation, Bramont…

“Mr. Surma, I’m surprised. Why don’t you go to my brother? This matter originated with him, and it’s he who should resolve it. Isn’t that a better choice?” Doroni and Warren exchanged a look before asking.

“Your Highness, Lord Komer is very angry at Lord Bramont’s actions. Moreover, Lord Bramont has fallen into an infatuation and is being used without realizing it. Under these circumstances, Lord Komer doesn’t want to have any contact with Lord Bramont. That’s why we thought Lord Doroni would be the most suitable arbitrator,” Surma said with a shrug.

“Hmm, I see. Very well. I’m willing to discuss this issue with Lord Komer. I can also assure Lord Komer that the private actions of certain individuals cannot represent the stance of our Bohemian Kingdom. At the same time, I’ll inform His Majesty the King to come up with a reasonable solution that satisfies you,” Doroni nodded, showing great understanding of their feelings.

“Thank you, Lord Doroni and Count Warren, for your support. I’ll convey this to Lord Komer. I believe he’ll be eager to develop friendship between Komer and the Bohemian Kingdom.”

“Mr. Surma, I think there’s one issue we need to resolve: the two magic knights. If we can get those two magic knights into our hands, I believe it will greatly help resolve this matter. What do you think?” Warren finally spoke up.

“Hmm, I understand that. But Count Warren, your magic knights and mages have caused us tremendous harm and losses in battle. Many people here advocate executing those two magic knights through trial. Lord Komer is also under great pressure regarding this. I hope Lord Doroni and Count Warren can understand that.”

Hearing the music and words, Valen immediately nodded. “If you have any requests, just let us know. As long as it’s within our capabilities, there’s no problem.”
“Well, Count Valen is straightforward. As you know, I’m a merchant, and merchants measure interests in terms of money. If I ask for five hundred thousand gold shields in compensation, I think I can convince others to agree to it when I return,” Sulma said with a sly smile.
Five hundred thousand gold shields? That was an exorbitant demand! Those damned Giza people! Anger flashed in both Doloni and Valen’s eyes.
“Your Highness, Count, please understand our predicament. Such a huge insult cannot truly be compensated with money. But Lord Komer is currently in financial straits, which is why I propose this alternative solution. Moreover, this will also help you win Lord Komer’s friendship—Isn’t that what you both desire?” Sulma smiled mysteriously. “By the way, I have some news for you both: Lord Komer has already taken control of the Livonia region southwest of Nicosia, and he will soon be engaged to the princess of the Kingdom of Bessarabia.”
“Ah?” Doloni and Valen exchanged glances immediately. The Principality of Bessarabia was an important neighbor of the Kingdom of Bohemia, especially since it bordered Doloni’s fiefdom. Gaining Bessarabia’s friendship and support would be a great opportunity for the Kingdom of Bohemia, which had always wanted to improve relations with them.
“Very well, Mr. Sulma. Please go back and tell Lord Komer that we will soon go to Poznan to discuss this matter with him. Also, please keep this confidential for now to avoid unnecessary trouble,” Valen decided firmly.
“Rest assured, developing friendly relations with Your Highness Doloni and the Kingdom of Bohemia has always been Lord Komer’s wish,” Sulma said with a slight bow.
Once the Giza people disappeared behind the doors of the reception room, the young man blurted out, “Five hundred thousand gold shields? Why don’t those damned Giza people just steal it?!”
“Your Highness, although five hundred thousand gold shields is quite expensive, I think it’s a good deal. In fact, even without the information that guy revealed, I still think it’s worth it,” Valen said calmly.
“Oh, is that so?” Doloni said in surprise.

“Your Highness, we don’t have much time left. If we let Prince Bramont proceed at his own pace, you will have no chance at all. Right now, Prince Bramont is blinded by emotion and has made a foolish move that violates the kingdom’s sacred rules. We must seize this opportunity to damage Prince Bramont’s reputation in Your Majesty’s eyes—only then will we have a chance.” Warren’s thoughts wandered far away. “Besides, this could also win us over the leaders of the Knights Order. I’m sure Prince Bramont didn’t consult them before attempting this assassination. Once this becomes public, their support for him will plummet, and the same goes for the Mage Guild. You surely understand the influence of the Knights Order and the Mage Guild in the kingdom—this is also an opportunity for us.”
The young man’s eyes sparkled with excitement. Indeed, this was his chance—a rare opportunity. His brother’s position as heir was not secure. If he could use this chance to bring him down, it would be wonderful; even if not, it could at least greatly affect his brother’s image in their father’s eyes, creating opportunities for himself in the future.
“Hmm, Warren, you’re right. This is worth half a million gold shields. And if that Comer really becomes the son-in-law of the Principality of Bithysaria, one can imagine the influence he’ll have there. This is good news for us as well.” Dolonni stood up excitedly. “This guy is right—he’s truly brought me an excellent gift. My opinion of the Giza people has suddenly changed quite a bit. I just don’t understand why Lord Comer would choose the Giza people as his messengers.”
“Hehe, Your Highness, the Giza people aren’t unwelcome everywhere. As far as I know, at least in Lord Comer’s territory, they’re not. There, they’re considered a relatively noble race. Compared to half-orcs and barbarians, don’t you think the Giza people are acceptable as well?” Warren also smiled.
“Hmm, true enough. It seems Lord Comer is quite remarkable. Those barbarians whom ordinary people fear can be subdued under his rule—just that fact is awe-inspiring.” Dolonni was also impressed.
“Yes, Your Highness. This is precisely why we need to make friends with Lord Comer. The rise of any force has its reasons. Ignoring it or turning a blind eye is foolish and dangerous.” Warren wrapped it up perfectly.