I Got a Gallery in the Wild - Chapter 218

Around the time Grylls was welcoming a non-family family member into his home,

The world was abuzz over the crisis that had unfolded in El Dorado.

It was as obvious as common sense that a nation should not turn violence against its own citizens.

After all, the very reason humanity established nations was to escape the threats of the wild.

Yet the nation, which was supposed to protect its citizens, had turned around and attacked them instead.

Even if violence were committed, without a legitimate justification, it held no validity.

But El Dorado did not just break that principle; it laid bare its absolute worst shame for all to see.

Not only did various countries issue statements of condemnation, but Mephisto openly mocked them.

Claiming that after defining the demons as the Demon King’s forces, they themselves went and committed actions worthy of a Demon King.

Ironically, Mephisto’s realm had matured culturally, drastically reducing violent incidents.

However, as a nation most beloved by the Goddess and founded directly by Her, it might stagger, but it would not crumble.

On the contrary, with the legendary hero Cain making a direct appearance, El Dorado’s prestige had nowhere to go but up—provided they could overcome this crisis.

This aspect was bound to exert minor and major influences on numerous nations.

And that applied to,

’It isn’t the worst-case scenario, but it isn’t entirely welcome news either.’

Arnold, who had recently ascended to the throne as Emperor.

Alongside reports received from his subordinates, he closely monitored the trends in the Gallery.

Currently, El Dorado was in the middle of cleaning up the aftermath and deciding the fate of the Pope.

It was an ideal opportunity to launch a political assault rather than a physical one, yet he could not do so.

It was because of Cain, who had descended upon answering the Hero’s summons. Due to this single factor, he had no choice but to walk on eggshells.

’This is why religion is such a headache.’

Countless gods existed in this world, but the vast majority of people revered two deities.

Aragon, the God of Magic and Order.

Aris, the Goddess of War and Justice.

This was no different for the Central Plains located to the East.

They merely adapted the titles to the Central Plains style, but religion itself existed there as well.

However, in that region, the power of "Buddhism" was so formidable that the influence of these gods was somewhat minor.

’The fact that they don’t outright deny it is noteworthy in itself.’

Even the Central Plains, famous for its conservatism, did not suppress religion.

Because even they did not deny mythology. Which made it all the more problematic.

The fact that Cain had manifested in person meant...

’It’s effectively a direct endorsement from the Goddess.’

From here on out, El Dorado’s authority would only grow higher, never lower.

Though the Hero had practically dragged it up by the collar, even that could not be ignored.

’At least thanks to the Gallery, I was able to make quick judgments, which is a relief.’

Had it not been for the Gallery, it would have taken roughly three days to realize the situation.

But thanks to the Gallery, rapid assessment of the crisis was possible. It was a moment where the Gallery’s merits shone.

’The problem is that El Dorado is close to a state of anarchy... Will the Hero step up as acting leader?’

It would take about a month for a proper government to be established.

Until then, it was highly likely the Hero would step up as acting ruler, given that she possessed the absolute support of the citizens.

Arnold gathered as much information on the Hero as possible. However, there were no substantial records.

She was born an absolute orphan, raised in the Vatican due to her innate talent, and subsequently selected as the Hero—that was all.

After that, she was branded a traitor and forced onto the run.

’Her political capability is bound to be lacking compared to the Pope.’

The Pope possessed formidable political skills himself; he had simply committed acts that should never have been done.

It was obvious Alfheim would cause a scene moving forward, so it was questionable whether the Hero could handle it well.

Of course, Alfheim would also find it uncomfortable to attack El Dorado. Cain might descend once again.

Therefore, they would be desperate to tarnish its prestige by any means necessary. Perhaps they might employ alternative methods.

’Even in a situation like this, Alfheim only issued a condemnation statement and stopped there. What on earth are they plotting?’

Both in the Gallery and in reality, Alfheim was an exceptionally quiet nation.

They say no news is good news, but Alfheim was far too quiet.

Frankly, it wouldn’t be surprising if they were stockpiling power for world conquest.

Alfheim, and the Elves, possessed the power to do so. After all, they were a race that stood shoulder to shoulder with the Demon Race.

’If push comes to shove, I’ll have to send a delegation to draw out a reaction.’

Having become Emperor, it was about time for such moves.

Not just Alfheim, but other countries as well.

For now, he planned to send envoys to nations sharing immediate borders.

’There’s so much to do. Far too much.’

Internally there were no issues, but the external situation was extremely unstable.

El Dorado had gotten somewhat better, but who knew what incident might erupt next.

Information was needed. Along with an overwhelming supply of materials.

’The Iris Kingdom is also riding high because of Kadir...’

Prior to El Dorado, the hottest topic had been the levitation incident of the Magic Tower.

Currently, the Magic Tower had regained its original position, yet rumors like this were circulating:

That the Magic Tower soaring into the sky was actually due to Kadir, caused by his ascension to a higher realm of mastery.

It couldn’t be dismissed as mere nonsense because Kadir was precisely that kind of monster.The source of this chapter is novelping . com.

After all, he was a mage who possessed a record of slaying a dragon single-handedly.

"Ugh..."

Arnold groaned softly and pressed firmly on his temples.

Since crises were breaking out simultaneously, he didn’t know where to begin untangling the knot.

In a situation like this, he needed to forge an alliance with at least one friendly nation, but it was difficult to find one.

’El Dorado is politically unstable, the Iris Kingdom would tell me to piss off, so the last remaining option is...’

Only Wydd, the nation of Beastfolk. A place that could be considered a neighbor both distant and close.

Once classified as barbarians, they transformed into formidable adversaries after establishing a nation.

To the point that even the Demon Race preferred to avoid fighting the Beastfolk.

’This place is relatively better.’

Arnold circled the name "Wydd".

In his heart, he wanted to get friendly with Mephisto, but that might provoke Alfheim.

Well, cultural exchange would be steadily maintained. For now, gathering intelligence was the top priority.

Knock, knock, knock—

[Your Majesty. It is Gorgon. May I enter?]

As he racked his brain, his loyal servant, Count Gorgon, knocked on the door.

Arnold finished clearing his desk and granted entry.

"Enter."

Creeak—

Upon granting permission, Count Gorgon revealed himself.

Was it thanks to the title of a servant trusted by the Emperor?

His complexion was far brighter than before, and his posture was immaculate. A relaxed expression was an added bonus.

"So, what is it?"

"I have located the region Your Majesty requested previously."

"Is that so?"

Arnold’s eyebrows arched slightly. A reaction indicating he hadn’t expected to find it so quickly.

Subsequently, he tapped his desk with a finger and spoke.

"Did anyone else visit and cause any trouble or disrespect?"

"From what I verified, there was none. However, rumors seem to have already spread. Thanks to that, we located it quickly."

"Preferably, let us not initiate contact from our side first. Even if it is merely soil, it could prove to be a precious resource."

At Arnold’s instruction, Count Gorgon nodded.

What Arnold wanted to find was the fixed handle user who had received soil from the Forest of the Four Seasons through Grylls.

The moment Arnold saw the post made by that fixed handle user, he realized: with this soil alone, every year would bring a bountiful harvest.

Of course, it would have to undergo various research, but even from the post alone, its efficiency was palpable.

"What is that person doing currently?"

"They are said to be conducting crop breeding and enhancement at home."

"Breed enhancement... Could they be an Academy student?"

"They come from a long line of farmers, I am told."

"And despite that, they attempted crop breeding?"

"Yes. I heard they have already developed a variety for livestock consumption."

To think such an outstanding talent existed. Arnold quickly spun his thoughts.

A fixed handle user who consistently received soil from Grylls of all people.

Among the fixed handle users interacting with Grylls currently, the only ones Arnold knew were that person and Count Gorgon.

"First, dispatch an official letter to the local lord there. Tell him not to bother the person. Have him grant accommodations so they can conduct research steadily."

"Understood."

"Ah. Also suggest admission into the Academy. The more knowledge one possesses, the better."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Subordinates might complain about offering so much support to a single individual.

However, just as one would not want to lose a fish caught on a hook, Arnold did not want to lose a ’conduit’.

Right now they were only receiving soil, but later on, they might receive something even more extraordinary.

"Ah. Also, an asylum request has arrived."

"Asylum? From where?"

"From El Dorado..."

"Ignore it. I refuse to witness Cain descending right above our heads."

Finally, he completely brushed off the asylum request. Afterward, Count Gorgon politely bowed and exited.

Once he had stepped outside, Arnold let out a deep sigh.

Just when he thought things were wrapping up, another matter popped up.

’Still, I feel good.’

The prospect of acquiring more resources from the Forest of the Four Seasons brought him joy.

Accordingly, Arnold logged into the Gallery to rest and savor the delight.

Right on cue, many entertaining stories were posted among the Recommended Posts.

’Anyway, I wonder if the Hero can properly manage the enraged public sentiment.’

Well, that was their business.

For now, let’s just enjoy some rest.

As Arnold anticipated, the enraged public sentiment in El Dorado—no, the Holy Kingdom—showed little sign of cooling down.

Already filled with rage and betrayal due to deception, the Vatican had even gone so far as trying to attack them.

It was impossible for this to be resolved by mere expulsion. At the very least, hanging them by the neck would be required to quench their anger.Get faster updates on novel‌ping.com.

"Kill the Pope!"

"Execute the Cardinals!"

"Death penalty! Death penalty!"

Because of this, every citizen demanded their execution. This outcry reached the ears of the Hero, Asella.

The problem was that, as an unprecedented situation, even holding a trial was far from easy.

Looking at the charges alone, it was a matter warranting hanging—specifically, a public execution.

But Asella firmly refused, asserting that it was not a matter to be resolved by someone’s death.

"Everyone! You must calm down! Even though the sinners’ offenses are grave, shouldn’t we hear their final defense!"

"What defense?! What defense?!"

"Are you in league with them too?! Huh?!"

Asella’s shouts only produced a backfire. From the citizens’ perspective, it was infuriating.

In the end, even Reyna, unable to watch any longer, reacted with a look of ’This is a bit...’

Of course, it wasn’t as if Asella had no plan. She appealed with all her might.

"In a moment, the sinners will present their final defense! After that defense, I will hand down the verdict!"

At the mention of handing down a verdict, the citizens’ fury subsided slightly.

To be precise, it was closer to suppressed. It wouldn’t be surprising if it erupted at any moment.

Soon, paladins dragged out the Pope, the Cardinals, and the military commanders.

Most were individuals directly implicated in this incident. Having been beaten thoroughly in prison, not a single spot on their bodies was unblemished.

Their faces were swollen, unable to even open their eyes properly.

"Kill them!"

"Execution! Execution! Execution!"

As the sinners revealed themselves, the citizens’ voices rose in volume.

Stones alongside various filth flying through the air was a common sight.

The Hero restrained them as much as possible while calling for a mage.

Because everyone had to hear their final defense.

"Now then. Is there anything you wish to say?"

"..."

"..."

Not a single person opened their mouth. For they instinctively felt it was already over.

However, only one person—the Pope—was different.

Despite being beaten far more than the others, his gaze remained steadfast.

Shamelessly so.

"I-I am innocent! I merely followed the will of Goddess Aris-nim, so why must I suffer such humiliation!"

"Shut up!"

"Can’t we just tear out his tongue first?!"

Naturally, it only fueled the flames. The citizens were enraged.

And this was precisely what Asella had aimed for. She asked the Pope nonchalantly:

"Do you truly believe you are innocent?"

"Indeed! You wretched wench are a traitor! Aris-sama clearly descended Cain-nim upon me!"

"I see. You must feel deeply wronged."

"I am...!"

"Then I shall help you clear that sense of injustice."

"Clear... what?"

Louis II wore a completely dumbfounded expression.

Just moments ago she sounded like she was going to sever his neck, and now she was spouting weird nonsense.

"Master Ludwig must have felt wronged as well. That is why he directly entered the Forest of the Four Seasons."

"T-That is..."

"Therefore, we shall offer you the same opportunity! Enter the Forest of the Four Seasons, meet a benefactor, and clear your injustice!"

"Y-You bastard...! How dare you call that a proposal...!"

"If you dislike that option..."

Asella smiled brightly and presented Louis II with an offer he couldn’t refuse.

"You are free to receive the unbridled fury of the enraged masses instead."

"..."

"Everyone! I shall hand down the verdict! As the sinners express their sense of injustice!"

Asella shouted toward the citizens.

"For their atonement! We shall send them into the Forest of the Four Seasons to search for our benefactor!"

"Waaaaaaaaah!!!"

"Long live the Hero! Long live the Hero!"

"Asella! Asella! Asella!"

Arnold had said he was worried about the Hero’s political capability.

But at least her speech and performance were exceptionally brilliant.

’I should send my thanks to Grylls-ssi first. And tell him that we’re sending people while I’m at it.’

If Grylls had seen this, he would have responded like this:

That he had no need for non-recyclable trash.

El Dorado was slowly returning to normal.