Chapter 98: The Heated Argument

Chapter 98: The Heated Argument



As Vincent was about to prepare to leave, King Thandor spoke again, his voice carrying a weight that demanded attention.

"Twenty-one of our people were killed."

Vincent froze mid-step, the words hanging in the air like a heavy cloud. He slowly turned back to face the King, his expression carefully neutral.

"What do you mean, Your Majesty?" Vincent asked, keeping his tone respectful but guarded.

King Thandor's gaze was piercing, his eyes locked onto Vincent with an intensity that was hard to ignore.

"What I mean," the King continued, "is that twenty-one of my people-trained scouts, seasoned warriors-were killed recently. They were on a mission, tasked with gathering information, and now they are dead."

"That's unfortunate. Where did you send them? And isn't 21 people a lot for a scouting mission?"

King Thandor's eyes narrowed slightly, scrutinizing Vincent's words and demeanor. "I sent them on a mission that required subtlety and precision. They were tasked with gathering intelligence on certain developments that concerned us. Twenty-one may seem like a large number, but they were divided into smaller teams, each with specific objectives."

Vincent nodded slowly, taking in the King's explanation. "I see. And they were all lost?"

"Yes," Thandor replied, his voice heavy with the weight of the loss. "All of them. Their lives were extinguished by a force we have yet to identify. The precision of the attacks suggests a level of skill and power that is... rare."

Vincent softened his expression, trying to convey sincerity. "I assure you, Your Majesty, that my resources and capabilities are dedicated to our shared goal-defeating the Demon King's forces. If I had any knowledge of who was behind the attack on your scouts, I would share it with you immediately. The last thing I want is a conflict between us."

King Thandor leaned back slightly, calming his nerves and studying Vincent with a more measured gaze.

"Okay...okay," King Thandor relented, though his eyes still held a trace of doubt. "Very well, Vincent Stryder. For now, I will take your word and assume that you had no part in this tragedy. But understand this-I will continue my investigation, and if I discover any evidence that links you or your team to this attack, our alliance will be over. There will be consequences."

Vincent nodded, maintaining his composed demeanor. "I understand, Your Majesty. You have every right to seek justice for your people. I would expect nothing less if I were in your position."

The King's gaze lingered on Vincent for a moment longer before he finally sighed, the tension in the room easing slightly. "Let us hope that we find the true culprits soon. In the meantime,

I will hold you to your word."

"You can count on it," Vincent replied.

King Thandor gave a curt nod, signaling the end of their conversation. "You may go. I will

have my guards escort you back to your convoy."

Vincent bowed slightly in respect. "Thank you, Your Majesty. We will take our leave."

Once outside, Vincent breathed a sigh of relief. It was indeed a relief.