Chapter 167: Pirates (2)
“You confirmed it?” Aquaz asked, looking at Ketal.
“Yes.” Ketal nodded in response to her question. “The pirates have indeed settled down and are living within the territory.”
The buildings across the main road from where they'd stood earlier had felt out of place. They were dirtier than the surrounding structures, and the people there seemed rougher. It made perfect sense now. The residents weren't ordinary citizens; they were pirates.
“Judging by the fact they’ve even constructed buildings, they must have been here for more than a year or two. Hardly living up to the name pirate anymore.”
“Is that so...” Aquaz ground her teeth, her conviction solidifying.
This estate was unquestionably colluding with pirates. Her face etched with dismay, she spoke, her voice trembling slightly. “How could you, Lord Bulkan? You are charged with protecting this city and upholding its laws but instead, you welcome pirates and engage in dealings with them... This is utterly unacceptable.”
She delivered her judgement sharply. “I will expose your sins completely. I will summon the adjudicator of the Sun God. You will receive punishment befitting your crimes.”
“No!” Lord Bulkan cried out, his face a mask of desperation and perceived injustice. “His Majesty the King permitted this! It’s all been approved! Just as you said earlier, it’s not really a problem!”
“The king permitted it?! That’s impossible!” Aquaz vehemently dismissed the lord’s excuse.
Just then, Ketal’s voice interjected calmly, “Is it? I think it’s quite possible.”
“W-what?” Aquaz’s expression faltered at the unexpected remark. The lord’s eyes widened as well, clearly not having anticipated the barbarian seemingly coming to his defense.
“What do you mean by that?” Aquaz asked Ketal.