“I had summoned Gregory, who had been in charge of guarding the gold mine.
The reception room was simple yet exuded a sense of elegance. However, a heavy atmosphere hung in the air.
The sound of sipping tea echoed softly.
After placing my cup back on its saucer, I turned to face Gregory once again.
‘Now then, about the gold mine’s security detail—I intend to terminate the contract.’
‘…I had a feeling this might happen.’
Well, of course, he would. Our house is currently recruiting over 3,000 volunteer soldiers, partly to replenish our forces after the recent war.
If we can guard the mine with our own troops, it’s better to do so. It’s more cost-effective and reliable. Mercenaries, after all, are driven by profit, which makes them inherently less trustworthy.
That said, I do appreciate the quality of their work. There haven’t been any notable problems under their watch.
‘Surprisingly, I’ve grown quite fond of life here…’
It seems he’s expressing his own sentiment.
Perhaps he wishes for a contract renewal, but we don’t exactly have funds to spare right now. Any expense that can be cut should be cut.
When we initially hired them, it was a desperate measure due to a lack of available troops.
Gregory looked at me intently, but I gave no response.
Understanding that I had no intention of renewing the contract, Gregory appeared slightly disappointed as he rose to leave.
‘Thank you for your service, Your Grace.’
As Gregory expressed his gratitude and prepared to depart, I addressed him.
‘You have two choices.’
Gregory stopped abruptly in front of the door.
‘The first is to go elsewhere and seek a new employer.’
I’d rather he not choose this option.
If he were to be hired elsewhere, it would likely be by one of the rival encircling nobles. If that happens, we could end up facing each other on the battlefield…
‘The second is to pledge your loyalty to me.’
‘…Are you offering to hire me as a knight?’
Gregory asked, but I shook my head.
While I recognize his skill and extensive combat experience, unfortunately, he cannot wield aura. Hiring him as a knight would be difficult, as aura is a source of pride for knights, and this could provoke discontent among them.
‘I am recruiting volunteer soldiers.’
Though hiring him as a knight is out of the question, I want him as part of our forces.
‘But don’t misunderstand me. Even in the military, I will guarantee you a certain position. We’ll soon have around 3,000 new recruits, but we’re short on knights. We need experienced individuals who can train others. Naturally, food, clothing, and shelter will be provided.’
Managing nearly 5,000 soldiers is no small task.
While about half of them have experienced combat, most of them have only been through one battle. Having someone with extensive battlefield experience to guide them would be invaluable.
Still, if he refuses, so be it.
Gregory appeared to be deliberating but finally took a deep breath and knelt before me.
‘Allow me to reaffirm my pledge, Your Grace.’
‘Aren’t you going to consult with your subordinates?’
‘If they object, I’ll just knock some sense into them,’ Gregory replied with a hint of humor.
Although it sounded tyrannical, it was clear he cared deeply for his men.
‘…Besides, I’m intrigued.’
‘Intrigued by what?’
Gregory looked at me with a serious expression.
‘I’ve traveled across many lands, but this place—the taxes are low, and the people’s faces are bright. I’m curious about what you aim to achieve, Your Grace.’
‘That’s… well, a little embarrassing.’
His direct attention made me feel somewhat self-conscious.
‘Don’t misunderstand me, Your Grace. It’s not just me—your people have high hopes for you as well.’
‘I see…’
Little by little, my actions seem to be yielding results.
‘Then, I must work hard to meet those expectations. I’m counting on you, Gregory.’
‘Yes, Your Grace! Though I am but a wanderer, I shall serve you with utmost loyalty!’
