How to Live as a Wandering Knight

Chapter 82.2: 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐇𝐮𝐧𝐭 (𝟏)

The crowd started murmuring. Usually, a feast followed the tournament, but there was more.

Were they talking about a one-on-one horseback fight? Or archery? Or maybe. . .

Its a hunt!

Since old times, hunting was the best event to prove a warriors prowess.

Of course, the honor was far from the hunters hunting, waiting with traps.

A true warrior should end the preys life with his own martial skills.

And another thing was Johan himself.

If the hunting target was a deer, it would be a noble leisure activity; if a wild boar, a fight for training and honor for young knights. If it were a rabbit, it would be too embarrassing to even speak of.

From this crescent moon to the next, the greatest honor will be bestowed upon the knight who brings back the most formidable monster! Until then, let the knights enjoy feasting and merrymaking in gratitude for the bounty!

A roar like thunder erupted again. It was the loudest cheer of the day. People admired the Dukes generosity and breadth, buzzing about the upcoming hunt. Every face was filled with anticipation.

However, the faces of the knights who would participate were serious.

Most of the knights were unaware of this event. It was natural to be bewildered by the sudden need to hunt nearby monsters.

Moreover, this custom was. . .

Isnt this a custom of those barbarians?!

Shh. Keep your voice down, sir. Moreover, hunting is a common practice in the Empire.

No, I must speak my mind! Hunting in the Empire? Where else do they hunt like this? Awarding glory to those who bring back the most impressive game is something those barbarians do!

The native families of the East naturally knew somewhat about the customs of the nomadic tribes.

Bringing back the most impressive game to honor and celebrate is their custom!

Anyone with a head would understand the Dukes intention.

The Duke was blatantly appeasing the nomadic tribes.

We already conceded in the tournament, and now we have to yield to them again?

Ha. Then why didnt you fight better in the tournament?

How dare you. . .!

You lack confidence in hunting, so youll draw your weapon here? Go ahead! Lets see how well an Empire knight dastard fights. Im curious to see how well you fight and whether youll disobey your masters command!

There was commotion and growling everywhere. It took the Dukes soldiers rushing over and warning to calm things down.

Interesting concept.

No wonder the centaurs were speaking so meaningfully. . .

The centaurs had left, and only Johan and his companions remained in the tent.

They needed to leave at dawn, so they had to plan as much as possible before then.

In fact, the most disadvantaged here was Johan, who was the least familiar with the geography.

Moreover, this hunt was. . .

Isnt it too much to go alone without any servants or escorts?

If they were going to side with the nomadic tribes anyway, its better to do so decisively. If allowed, knights from the Empire would have swarmed in dozens. Besides, isnt the justification plausible?

A true knight must hunt alone. No knight could argue against this.

It was good to show kindness to the centaurs. The Duke must see value in being kind to them.

At Caenernas words, Suetlg nodded. Johan asked them:

Cant you help in any way?

Thats unlikely. What capabilities do we have? Besides, it wouldnt be possible. We were already invited before you came. While you hunt, well likely be roaming around here.

?

Whether its me, this wizard, Stephen, or Marco. . .

Please tell me Sir Gerdolf wasnt invited.

Of course, Sir Gerdolf was invited too.

. . . . . .

I will do well, Sire.

Right. . . just nod and keep your mouth shut.

People from various houses had been sent even before Johans return.

These were houses that wanted to establish a connection with Johan, the knight, not just the Abner and Jarpen families.

Naturally, Suetlg and Caenerna were among the first to be invited. Being famous wizards from the Empire and not entangled with other noble families made them easier guests.

Of course, knights like Stephen and Marco were also invited. Despite concerns about their families, it was still worth trying to form a connection first.

Hearing this, Johan thought to himself:

?

Johan, already honored enough at the tournament, unlike other knights, didnt need to stake his life here.

If he could enjoy the eastern rivers, plains, and beautiful nature, and then receive some hospitality in the town before returning. . .

You seem troubled, can I offer any help?

As if dismissing Marcos ignorance, Caenerna replied:

He must be pondering his prey. Rash advice is meaningless. A knight must choose his own quarry.

.