Ch. 2761Don't Speak If You Don't Know How (As Expected, King of Benevolence 2 Feels Great to Play)
Key Plot Points and Events
- Fang Zheng arrives at Minas Tirith, having delivered a message from Rohan and witnessed the battle at the riverbanks.
- Faramir, having escaped, recounts the battle to Fang Zheng and Gandalf. Sauron's army, led by Orcs and Ringwraiths, has taken the riverbanks, and Faramir's forces were forced to retreat.
- The Steward orders Faramir to retake the riverbank outpost, a suicidal mission. Faramir accepts the order, but Fang Zheng intervenes, knocking Faramir unconscious to prevent him from going.
Character Developments
- Faramir: Shows loyalty to Gondor and his father, but struggles with the weight of his father's expectations. He's willing to die to prove his loyalty but is ultimately saved from a suicidal mission by Fang Zheng.
- Fang Zheng: Demonstrates his power and indifference to the fate of Gondor. He shows concern for Faramir's life and the city's defense but is unwilling to get involved in politics. He uses unconventional methods to prevent Faramir from going on a suicide mission.
- Gandalf: Struggles with the Steward's lack of faith in Aragorn's return. He's concerned about the city's defense but is powerless to stop Faramir's mission. He's grateful to Fang Zheng for saving Faramir but is surprised by Fang Zheng's methods.
Significant Themes
- Loyalty vs. Pragmatism: Faramir's loyalty to his father and Gondor is challenged by Fang Zheng's pragmatic view of the situation. Fang Zheng argues that Faramir's life is more valuable to the city's defense than a suicidal mission.
- Power and Influence: Fang Zheng's power and influence are evident in his ability to stop Faramir's mission and his indifference to the Steward's authority. Gandalf, despite his wisdom and experience, is powerless to stop the Steward's orders.
Character Interactions
- Fang Zheng and Gandalf: They have a tense but respectful relationship. Gandalf is grateful to Fang Zheng but is surprised by his methods. Fang Zheng is indifferent to Gandalf's political views and the fate of Gondor.
- Fang Zheng and Faramir: Fang Zheng shows concern for Faramir's life and the city's defense. He uses force to prevent Faramir from going on a suicide mission, showing a level of care despite his indifference to Gondor's fate.
- Faramir and Gandalf: Gandalf tries to dissuade Faramir from going on the mission but is unsuccessful. He's concerned about Faramir's life and the city's defense but is powerless to stop the Steward's orders.