Northern King said, “If we could think of the consequences, I'm sure Legion from Southern Faction would have thought of them too. They might not be willing to initiate an attack if they haven't figured out how powerful the new leader is.”
Johnny said, “Well, all we need to do is add fuel to the fire!”
His suggestion instantly caught Northern King's attention. “Oh? What plan do you have in mind, Johnny? How do we do that?”
Johnny explained, “Rumor has it that Southern Faction's rent collector might be the illegitimate son of the faction's Legatus. Are you aware of this?”
Northern King inclined his head. “It's not just a rumor. It's the truth. During one of the drinking sessions, Southern King got drunk and spilled the beans.”
Johnny continued, “What do you think Southern King would do if he finds out Southern Faction's Centuria had killed the rent collector? I'm sure he'll go all out to avenge his son.”
Northern King was bereft of words upon hearing that.
He looked at Johnny in disbelief. “Johnny, you want us to kill the Southern Faction's rent collector and pin the blame on the faction's Centuria?”
Johnny immediately cut in, “What are you talking about, Northern Master? The culprit who will be responsible for killing the rent collector is the new leader of Centuria, and I'll be the one who will go against all odds to rescue the body. I'm aware of the consequences of my action, but the world needs to know that the murderer is Centuria's new leader. Most importantly, he will pay the price with his life!”
With a serious look on his face, Northern King nodded steadily.
Johnny's storytelling skills were so impressive that he nearly bought that story.
After patting Johnny on his shoulder, Northern King said, “Johnny, I'm surprised you have a knack for coming up with such brilliant strategies. I can't believe I've overlooked this talent of yours. From now on, I'll make you my confidant. Stay by my side and help me come up with plots and schemes. Instead of making you a rent collector, I must put your talent to good use.”
Northern Master expressed his gratitude. “Thank you, Northern Master! Thank you!”
“Come. Let's go and meet Speedy.” Northern King continued with a smirk. “Or should I say Speedy's corpse?”
After returning to the main hall, Northern King looked at Speedy and asked, “Speedy, how much do you know about Centuria's new leader?”
“I only know his name is Zeke Williams. Other than that, I know nothing about him,” Speedy replied.
Northern King said, “Oh? Does that mean you have no idea how powerful he is either?”
Speedy shook his head. “I'm not sure, but there's something unusual about that man. We might have exchanged a few blows, but I still couldn't figure out what he had in mind.”
His remark confused Northern King and others even more. Instead of identifying the new leader as an invincible or incapable warrior, Speedy described him as unusual. What does “unusual” even mean? Why would someone describe another person as unusual? It might not be wise to offend the new leader as he seems to be a force to be reckoned with.
Northern King then said to Speedy, “Is there anything else you want to add on, Speedy?”
In other words, he was giving Speedy a chance to utter his last words.
Failing to read between the lines, Speedy said, “Thank you for saving my life, Northern Master. I'll forever be grateful to you. I shall not disturb you any further. Please get your men to take me home. I'll tell Southern King about what you've done for me, so don't worry. He will definitely repay your kindness.”
Northern King nodded. “He doesn't need to thank me. I'll get Johnny to send you home.”
He turned to Johnny and said, “Johnny, I want you to send Speedy home since you're the one who brought him here. Is that okay?”
“Of course. It's my honor to serve you, Northern Master.” Johnny bobbed his head in response.
Johnny walked up to Speedy and helped him up. “Come on, Speedy. I'll take you home.”
“Thank you!” Speedy said repeatedly.
While Speedy was turning around, Northern King waved his hand and slit his throat with his invisible energy, severing his head.
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