Chapter 73 Elton

Chapter 73 Elton

As the sun rose, casting its warm glow on the horizon, Luak's newly assembled hunting team cautiously ventured into the pale forest. Their legs trembled with each step and their eyes darted around nervously, scanning the surroundings for any sign of movements. Their hands also shook uncontrollably, making it difficult to firmly grip their weapons as the tales of man-eating black demons that roamed the West forests of Stahl kept appearing in their minds, intensifying their apprehension and fear.

Although northern people were known for their courage and somewhat wild tendencies that enabled them to live on this extreme region, they were still human beings and susceptible to the fear of the unknown. The rumors hovering on the camp made their minds fertile fields for the birth of disturbing and mutable images of the black demons in the forest, making their hearts yearn to seek retreat inside the camp. Right now, the makeshift wooden walls that had been erected during the last few days looked like those of an impenetrable fortress, able to stand high even under the attacks of ferocious beasts. The only thing that prevented them from trailing back to the camp was the presence of the pig-like man behind them that compelled them to press onward.

Elton, the eldest son of a Luak's Earl, was infamous throughout the kingdom for his envious, arrogant, and barbaric tendencies from a young age. At the age of fifteen, he killed three of his younger brothers under the excuse of a friendly spar, eliminating those who could threaten his position as the heir of the family. He had also ordered the execution of those subjects that dared to make fun of his image and raise question about his actions.

When Elton turned seventeen, preparing to inherit his father's mantle, he enlisted into the army as a captain, turning the lives of those under him into a hell. There, he had to serve for the next ten years, amassing enough merits, and growing his strength through countless battles.

The Northern culture placed great emphasis on martial skills, considering it an essential characteristic for the nobility, which would enable the kingdom to survive through generations. In the end, the harsh reality created a culture that tended to suffocate other essential areas of development, such as strategic warfare and innovation. It was rare for someone to ascend the noble hierarchy based solely on schemes and intelligence, without the strength to support it.

Merchants were one of the prime examples of this asphyxiating northern culture. They were often marginalized and looked down upon, facing strong criticism from the noble class. Their way to pursue wealth and social status clashed with the values that maintained stability in these societies, which believed that "Where there is no strength, gold shall not visit". As a result, the development of important fields was greatly hindered, contributing to the North's stagnant state, at least for Luak and Aritreia. On the other hand, thanks to Garret's living ideals, Stahl still managed to maintain a working merchant class, but one who still wasn't allowed to inherit nobility titles.

The soldiers snapped out of their daze, their eyes darting between each other and their fallen comrade. Some felt a twinge of sadness swelling up within them, while others shook their heads in resignation. The fear of the rumors hovering about the black demons had been momentarily obstructed by Elton's devilish presence. If they didn't follow his wishes, they would die at their captain's hands. The soldiers steeled themselves and pulled up their mantles, covering their necks, before continuing with the mission, leaving the soldier's lifeless body behind.

The group trudged through the forest for hours, their eyes scanning the forest for any signs of prey, be it wolves or bears. Sometimes, those with enough hunting experience would venture a bit further away from the group while maintaining a safe distance, enough to allow their voices to be carried by the forest. Yet, despite their best efforts, not a single prey had crossed their ways.

The soldiers apprehensively glanced at each other, unable to shake the feeling that something was happening behind the curtains, watching them from the shadows. Every rustle of leaves, every creak of a branch sent shivers down their spine, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed heavily on their hearts. The created images of the black demons kept coming back to their minds, making them wish to run away back to the camp, but Elton's figure kept them in control.

"Your useless bunch!" – Elton's angry voice echoed through the forest, causing the soldiers to slightly increase the distance between them, afraid to become another victim – "What are you doing? Where ar-"

*Awooo*

Just as Elton was about to unleash his frustration at the soldiers, a chorus of howling wolves pierced through the silent forest, causing him to instinctively turn his gaze towards a distant mountain that was covered by a white blanket of snow. A primal instinct seemed to wash over Elton, telling him to go back and not try to venture into that mountain, but he refused to listen to it. He was a powerful man and wouldn't let fear hold him back.

With a fierce glare, Elton shifted his attention to the soldiers surrounding him. His voice cutting through the air -"What are you waiting for? Let's go!"