While Josh and the others were discussing matters, Gwen, in the room next door, suddenly frowned.
She turned to look out the window and pricked up her ears, as if listening for something.
Her expression quickly grew grave. She set down her half-finished bowl of porridge, rose to her feet, and ran toward Josh.
"High Priest! High Priest! Something's happened!" Gwen shouted as she ran. She passed through one dilapidated house after another. Doors opened, and believers emerged upon hearing her cries.
Some still held bowls of porridge, while others had already grabbed wooden clubs and stones from the ruins.
Inside, persuaded by his companions, Josh had already begun to waver. He had made up his mind that even if Lord Theus drove him away, he would return to Castel for a look. No matter what, that remote island was his homeland.
Just as he was about to make his decision, he suddenly heard Gwen shouting outside.
The group exchanged glances, immediately rose, and opened the door.
The slight girl came running over, her face full of anxiety. The moment she saw Josh, she said, "High Priest, there are cultists everywhere outside! Blood Port is in rebellion—it's those people from the Mother Goddess Church!"
Josh was startled. With no time to ask where Gwen had gotten the news, he looked toward the believers pouring out from the various houses and shouted, "Immediately notify all our brothers and sisters still outside and have them return at once! Those who can wield weapons, come with me and hold the street entrance! Everyone else, move the supplies! Hurry!"
Blood Port had not been peaceful for a day or two. Josh and the others had long made plenty of preparations. He led a group of believers out, while his remaining companions each took charge