With the arrival of the Special Operations Preparatory Department and Quintin's army, the outcome of the battle near Leafall had become inevitable. This development was beneficial for both the residents of Leafall and Adrian's group. Under Adrian's governance, the residents of Leafall had endured considerable pressure, not from any direct actions from Adrian, but from the psychological strain of living in uncertainty. Once the situation in Leafall was resolved, Adrian would undoubtedly depart. Therefore, for the residents of Leafall, this was undoubtedly welcome news.If Quintin were to assume control of Leafall, the city, having already endured the ravages of war, would likely remain free from further conflict in the foreseeable future unless other factions from Obscura launched counterattacks in subsequent conflicts, which seemed highly unlikely. Quintin's arrival prompted the complete mobilization of the entire nation for war. Obscura now faced not only Quintin's two hundred thousa
Despite Alfie's frustration, he was powerless to act, given that his group comprised only around twenty individuals, while Talan's group boasted three hundred members, each proficient in combat."If I could take you, I'd knock you down right now!" Alfie muttered under his breath.Talan glanced confidently at Adrian, anticipating the latter’s agreement to their proposed strategy. However, much to his surprise, Adrian dismissed the idea."The situation here has been resolved. With only Sandstone remaining, I see no need for us to engage in this," Adrian stated."Why?" Talan inquired, puzzled by Adrian's decision.Adrian shook his head, offering an explanation, "Capturing Sandstone lacks practical significance. It's primarily symbolic. We already possess one symbol, and acquiring another city in the same manner isn't necessary."Talan felt a sense of resignation. He noticed Alfie chuckling beside him, which only added to his irritation. However, Adrian's words prompted a realization
Three days later, Quintin officially established his residence in Leafall. Under his governance, the residents of Leafall felt as if they had entered paradise. Quintin's years of experience as the lord of Silverboa had endowed him with a profound understanding of balance. While Adrian had instilled fear into the hearts of Leafall’s residents, Quintin's mission was to cultivate gratitude in them. Only through a blend of benevolence and authority could the people of Leafall be fully subdued. Although the submission of Leafall's inhabitants may seem insignificant, utilizing Leafall as a successful model would prove crucial for future endeavors within Obscura.On the third day, Quintin summoned Adrian after settling all matters. Adrian met Quintin at the residence prepared for Leafall’s lord. Alongside Adrian, Rufus and Illya were also summoned. However, as Illya had assumed the guise of Rufus's subordinate, he missed the opportunity to meet Quintin.As Adrian entered the heavily guarded
Adrian was certain that Quintin had overheard every word, and this rendered any of their plans futile. Despite their considerable power, Ilyas and Rufus remained distant from the echelons of true dominance, a chasm likely insurmountable in their lifetimes."You've arrived at last," Quintin remarked, taking a leisurely sip from his tea.Quintin was seated behind a desk, dressed in traditional Obscura attire. Adrian surveyed the surroundings, noting Quintin's thorough preparation. He was accompanied by a retinue of formidable experts, ensuring his security. Unless individuals of Adrian or Ronan's caliber attempted an assassination, no one would even approach Quintin.Adrian sat down opposite Quintin, who poured him a cup of tea. "Why are you dressed like that?" Adrian asked."Hush! Don't let it slip! I just wanted to know what it feels like to wear these," Quintin remarked with a smile.Adrian felt resigned. To him, it seemed unremarkable, and he struggled to comprehend Quintin's cu
However, Quintin was certain that something significant must have occurred at Mori Island. He observed Adrian silently, anticipating an explanation."Well, I came to Obscura because of an order from a captain on Mori Island," Adrian clarified."If you didn't wish to comply, could a mere captain have commanded you?" Quintin inquired."Believe it or not, but it was indeed under his directive that I came here," Adrian affirmed.Observing Adrian's nonchalant demeanor, Quintin sighed and gestured dismissively. "Rest assured. Since he dares to trouble you, it means he has an issue with me. He won't retain his captaincy for long."Adrian smiled and nodded in acknowledgment.After a brief pause, Quintin inquired, "What are your thoughts on the forthcoming events?""Are you referring to the war?""Yes. I'm interested in hearing your perspective.”Only a select few were aware that Adrian possessed not only immense power but also a strategic acumen that rivaled many renowned and seasoned
Quintin smiled warmly and said, "Rise. Your contribution to the acquisition of Leafall has been substantial. No formalities are necessary."Rufus's eyes gleamed with joy. Quintin's demeanor suggested that he had left a favorable impression, which was immensely gratifying for Rufus. He had meticulously prepared for this moment, even considering surrender prior to the war's onset, all in anticipation of such recognition.However, Rufus was oblivious to the disdain lurking in Quintin's gaze. To Quintin, the denizens of Obscura, including its supposed nobility, were mere primitives. He found it ludicrous that some of these nobles had opted to surrender at the war's outset. If Quintin were the ruler of Obscura, he would sooner perish than have such subjects.Unaware of Quintin's profound disdain toward him, Rufus continued to harbor aspirations of advancement and prosperity."I heard you have an aide named Illya by your side?” Quintin inquired, catching Rufus off guard."My lord, he's
Initially, Rufus had presented himself with composure, but Quintin discerned his true nature and elicited profound terror from him during their exchange. Conversely, Illya appeared equally frightened, yet Quintin detected a subtle difference in the former’s demeanor.The enigma lay in why Illya felt compelled to feign nervousness. Before long, Quintin unraveled the mystery. Illya deliberately projected an image of incompetence to divert attention from himself and prevent Rufus from feeling slighted. Upon this revelation, Quintin couldn't help but stifle a chuckle. Illya's strategic maneuver added an intriguing twist to the situation.'Ah, it appears Mr. Adrian was correct. Illya truly possesses talent,' Quintin mused inwardly.Despite being a commoner, Illya not only displayed fearlessness in Quintin's presence but also executed the pretense of fear with remarkable conviction. This suggested that Illya's cunning might surpass Quintin's initial estimation. It occurred to Quintin that
"Do you have any objections to this arrangement, Illya?" Quintin inquired.Illya harbored objections to this arrangement, a sentiment he kept to himself. Hearing that Quintin also wanted to see him earlier filled him with joy. Though he couldn't discern the reason, it was evident that he had captured Quintin's attention. Why else would Quintin remember his name? As the lord of a city burdened with myriad daily affairs, Quintin had no reason to remember the name of someone inconsequential to him.Illya's affiliation with Rufus was solely to leverage him as a means to further his own agenda. Finally, an opportunity had presented itself. If seized, it could liberate him from Rufus's influence, allowing him to pursue his own development. However, his hopes were dashed. Quintin's demeanor made it clear that he intended to treat Illya as Rufus's subordinate.Rufus glanced smugly at Illya, convinced that Illya had failed to earn Quintin's appreciation. Quintin had previously made it clear