Chapter 471: CII. Knife (5.2K)
Twenty-eight years ago.
The court’s situation teetered on the brink of collapse, with the Great Nobles already in complete disarray thanks to the King’s blood tax and the Secret Department’s reign of terror.
Indebted tenants, surviving family members of innocent men killed to take credit for their work, and wandering refugees from wars that tore the nobility’s households apart—these tragic remnants under the rule of Old Aran Country blended together, sparking frequent uprisings both large and small within the nation.
The Royal Court’s grip on Aran Country was like a wild horse breaking free from its reins.
Only Zote himself could march forth, violently suppressing all who would not obey.
Only the heavens knew how long this state of affairs could last.
Old Aran.
Duke Soterlan’s territory (now Cast Province)
Devouring flames scorched the ashen sky that sprinkled down fine snow, the carbonized dust of ruined walls soared into the clouds along with tears and blood, all hurled by the heatwave.
Inside the castle hall.
Following Zote’s orders.