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#345 - Chapter 79: Faith is a double-edged sword (Part 2)

Gillian chuckled, teasing, "Hahahaha~ So, the High Septon was there satisfying the prostitutes' worship of the Seven Gods. Hahaha~ Sorry, usually even the most absurd and laughable things hardly amuse me, *pfft*, but this time I really can't hold it in."

At this moment, Grand Maester Pycelle stepped forward to smooth things over, saying, "Gentlemen, we are gathered here today to solve problems, not to interfere in the private lives of others." In truth, he himself was a regular at the brothels, so he naturally felt quite touched by this. He prayed inwardly, hoping that he wouldn't get dragged into this kind of thing, or he might be the one paraded through the streets one day.

Cersei asked with a smile, "Alright, quiet down. High Septon, what do you need us to do this time?"

The High Septon quickly replied, "Of course, I am requesting you to uphold justice, I implore you to defend our faith. Arrest those criminals and throw them into the black cells, severely punish their leader, that man called 'the High Sparrow' should be executed!"

Compared to the High Septon's incessant chatter, Cersei was quite interested in those 'Sparrows.' She interrupted the High Septon, "Alright, High Septon, I understand your situation. Where can this High Sparrow you speak of be found?"

The High Septon replied, "It is said that they often frequent Flea Bottom, the poorest and most chaotic place in King's Landing."

Cersei nodded, pondering to herself. She felt a hint of curiosity towards this so-called "High Sparrow," wanting to see for herself just what kind of person dared to challenge the authority of the church.

Thus, Cersei decided to personally venture into Flea Bottom to investigate. She led a company of soldiers, dressed in splendid attire, and set out on the road to Flea Bottom amidst the crowd's entourage.

Flea Bottom, this was where the most impoverished people of King's Landing resided. The narrow and winding streets were lined with dilapidated houses. Garbage was everywhere, and the stench was unbearable.

Cersei frowned, looking at the desolate scene before her, and a sense of disgust welled up within her.

However, she still endured the discomfort and continued forward. Along the way, people turned their heads, casting respectful glances at the esteemed Queen Mother.

At this moment, Ser Barristan Selmy of the Kingsguard said, "Your Grace, I don't think this is appropriate. Your Highness shouldn't be in such a filthy place. It's full of dangers and uncertainties, and if something unexpected happens, the consequences would be disastrous." Since the assassination attempt at the Red Keep, the guards had become extremely concerned about the safety of the high-ranking officials.

Cersei smiled dismissively and said, "Don't worry, Ser Barristan. I just want to see the true faces of these 'Sparrows' with my own eyes. As the Queen Regent, even in the poorest corners, I have a responsibility to understand the living conditions of my people. Besides, they are all extremely devout believers." Then, smiling at a passerby, she said, "The Seven Gods be with you, where is 'the High Sparrow'?"

The believer pointed her in the direction. Ser Barristan reluctantly nodded, having no choice but to vigilantly watch the surroundings. Three soldiers cleared the way in front, and Barristan guarded Cersei as she walked inside.

As they went deeper into Flea Bottom, the streets became narrower and narrower, and the stench in the air became even stronger. Cersei carefully avoided the filth on the ground, lest she stain her skirt. The space inside was larger than imagined, forming a small square between several houses.

In the center of the square, people were crowded together, a gathering of people dressed in coarse cloth and with haggard faces. However, their eyes shone with unwavering determination. Surrounding them were poor people waiting for assistance, and several figures were holding up huge iron pots in the center of the square, carefully cooking food. On the other side, several mendicant friars in sackcloth were busily moving among them, distributing steaming food to the crowd.

Among the bustling crowd, an old man with white hair was particularly eye-catching. His temperament was so unique that he stood out from the crowd at a glance. Cersei asked, "I heard that the 'High Sparrow' can be found here, can you tell me his whereabouts?"

The old man chuckled and replied, "Hehe~ 'High Sparrow,' what a wonderful and vivid metaphor! Although I have no fondness for those hypocrites, I rather like this nickname. Your Grace, what on earth has prompted you to grace this place with your presence?…"

The High Sparrow was indeed very charismatic, successfully winning Cersei's favor with just a few words. She couldn't help but exclaim, "These people trust you so much, compared to those in the church, I think you are more trustworthy."

The High Sparrow nodded slightly, and humbly said, "Your Majesty, thank you for your praise. To be honest, when I first heard of your arrival here, I mistakenly thought you were here to arrest me because of the High Septon's matter."

Cersei raised the corners of her mouth slightly and replied in a calm tone, "Why would I personally come to arrest a mere monk? However, the way you treat the gods' messengers on earth is really inappropriate. Today, the High Septon sought me out, not to arrest you, but to beg me to execute you."

Upon hearing this, the High Sparrow paused slightly, and then carefully replied, "Regarding this matter, how dare I presume to guess Your Majesty's thoughts." Although he appeared calm on the surface, his heart was already surging with turmoil and anxiety. Damn it! That damned fool is so ruthless! If I had known this, I should have killed him without hesitation.

Cersei chuckled and continued, "However… as far as I'm concerned, my opinion of him coincides with yours. The High Septon's current words and actions have degenerated to the point of no return. If he continues to occupy the Sept, it will inevitably lead to the gradual decay and deterioration of the faith from within."

The High Sparrow pretended to be working, but his ears were already perked up, and Cersei's words continued to ring in his ears: "So he is currently in the Red Keep's dungeon. Royal power and faith are the two pillars of this world. If one collapses, the other will cease to exist."

The High Sparrow was moved, and only then did he turn around and ask, "What exactly do you want? Your Majesty."

Cersei said with a smile, "We must do our best to support each other in order to move forward." At this moment, she had no idea what kind of beast she had unleashed.