Chapter 42

Chapter 42

Youre thoroughly no, disgustingly insane.

Erica couldnt hold back and lit another cigarette.

But at the same time, her mind was racing, sensing that the situation was far from ordinary.

What could be the meaning of leading the Cheonrye tribe?

It implied that they would not hesitate to use force if necessary. Unlike the Central Army, which was half-dispersed due to the aftermath of battle, the warriors of Cheonrye were heated with fighting spirit.

More than anything, the damn thing is, apart from Ians lineage, the situation is flawless.

As soon as they stepped out of the mansions main gate, the screams of the territorys people cursing the Central Army resonated. Facing them were Derghas soldiers, but to the people, they were family, friends, and neighbors.

The resentment and hatred of the people of the territory will be deep for a while. However, if a descendant inheriting Bratzs blood takes the lead, efficient command will be possible. And most importantly, since the border barbarians, who are the most important in the frontier, have come out in support. Ah, f*ck.

Her head throbbed.

If the Central Army had been additionally deployed, they could have undoubtedly driven out Cheonrye and achieved a complete victory in Bratz.

But whether Erica and her troops would be part of that glorious moment was uncertain. They would probably end up receiving faded commemorations as sacrifices.

Ericas lips twisted.

The appointment of the lord is the Emperors jurisdiction.

I know that. Before the Emperors appointment, no one has the authority.

No one has it, and everyone has it.The initial instance of this chapter being available happened at N0v3l.Bin.

Erica could do it, but that meant Ian could do it too. She chewed her cigarette grimly, glaring at Kakantir, who continued to prattle on about Ians necessity.

Ian was born and raised in Bratz territory, so he will be of great help in rebuilding. If its not Ian, Cheonrye will not give priority negotiation rights to any of Bariels forces, and for peace, well have to go through the initial stages of understanding.

It was tantamount to breaking off relations. And this was not much different from meaning war. The words, coming from the chief of Cheonrye, carried weight.

Cheap talk. F*cking hell.

It seems the this knight is indeed a commoner.

Cant you shut that mouth? You shitheads are really

Kakantir glared at Erica with cold eyes. But she did not flinch, lifting her head.

She had struggled like hell to climb up from the bottom to this point. The goal of her life, being a lord, was about to be snatched away entirely.

Just to let you know, if you kill me, its as good as declaring war on Bariel, you know?

Oh, thank you for telling me that. Otherwise, I might have cut your throat right away.

Grrr

Crunch.

Kakantir stepped on the neck of a fallen man, laughing. The subordinate instinctively gasped for breath, trembling. Erica felt cold sweat run down her back.

Alright. I think I roughly know what you want.

Erica pretended to back off, folding her arms and deflecting the conversation. She had been the internal candidate for this territory since she was offered the role of investigation team leader by Molrin. It was clear that her name was on the lords appointment letter Ian was eyeing.

So she couldnt back down here.

But I havent secured Dergha or Countess Mary and Chels bodies yet. I also have a duty to arrest all the rebellious soldiers and establish the majesty of the royal command.

You are right.

Before completing my mission, I cannot leave the mansion. If you truly want to ease Bratzs pain, do as you wish. But I hope you act only for peace. Otherwise, the imperial sword will fly here from the center.

Until the revelation from the center appointing Erica as the lord of this place arrived. Until then, she had to endure. Once she receives the authority, shell smash those arrogant mouths that babble on.

Fine. Then well help in arresting Dergha.

Ian nodded as if satisfied with the conversation. Sneaking the foot in had been successful.

According to Erica, capturing Dergha and other key people in the mansion would be tantamount to giving the Central Army a reason to garrison here.

We will also take the lead in the reconstruction. The investigation team and Central Army have incurred the wrath of the people of the territory. Step aside for efficient progress.

Perhaps, is it an ulterior motive to save Dergha?

Ericas eyes narrowed at the suddenly occurring assumption. She flicked the cigarette butt she had just smoked and signaled to her subordinates.

Youd better be prepared if you try anything funny.

Lady Erica, it doesnt seem like youre that close to Sir Molrin or know much about the situation?

What?

Its from the right!

It flew from the right!

Protect the count!

Bow your head!

The fear that a sword might fly in again at any moment. Dergha trembled and hid behind the knights.

Hey, Dergha.

Shiik!

Chang!

A flying arrow aimed at Dergha. A knight swiftly deflected it with his sword to protect his master.

Between the leaves, beams of light began to rain down like rain. Above the thud, figures with sand-colored hoods started to appear.

Its been a while, youve changed a lot.

Ka, Kakantir!

Its the Cheonrye! Cheonrye tribe!

The red dye made it look like they were wearing blood. Dergha couldnt understand what was happening. Hadnt he defeated me in one blow? Even sending the head of the knight Bell.

Why, why are you here?

Curious?

F*ck it! Count, run!

Alex! Form a defensive line!

The knights shouted, pulling Derghas arm. All the warriors standing next to Kakantir had drawn their bows.

Kakantir smirked at Derghas back.

If youre curious, ask your son.

At that moment, Dergha and the soldiers felt a sudden release in tension. They turned their heads towards the direction of the strong wind.

Father.

Swoooosh.

Like a sprite living in the forest. Each strand of shining golden hair fluttered in the wind, and his green eyes were beautifully curved.

It was Ian. His son, whom he had sold to the Cheonrye.

Ive, returned.

Ian! You! You bastard!

His surprise only momentary, Dergha remembered that Ian, in collusion with Molrin, had made him like this. The one who had dragged him, living honorably as a lord, down to the ground, that cursed piece of his flesh and blood. Past humiliation and future hatred were all Ian.

Ill kill you, Ian! Dismember you and feed your meat to your mother! Then, throw you both into a burning pit alive! Ill make you feel like youre living in hell!

Derghas roaring rage filled the forest. Ians expression did not change. In that relaxed smile, Dergha felt his blood pressure rise even more.

You bastard!

Count!

Tadadadak!

Without knowing it, Dergha grabbed a sword and rushed at Ian. Though his body was tired and injured, Dergha leaped up and aimed at Ians neck. And Deo, escorting him like a shadow.

Clang, clang! Clang!

Soo deflected Derghas sword, and Beric blocked Deos coming right after.

Ah.

Wincing as if slightly hurt by the recoil, Beric looked down at his stomach. But that was only for a moment. He grinned and waved at Deo.

Hi. Doggy.

Dog, doggy?

Dont you remember me? I remember you.

Beric swung his sword widely and charged at Deo.

At the training ground. You beat the hell out of me, didnt you?