Chapter 631: Defeat
Unlike Aurora, which was modern and heavily monitored even with its supernatural presence, power there did not make anyone invisible. At least, that was the truth on the surface. Michael believed the opposite could also be true. The stronger a person became, the fewer laws could touch them.
But that was Aurora.
This was the land of origin.
Here, the world followed older rules. If there was no one stronger above you, your word became the law. Nobles could kill commoners and call it justice. Men without noble blood could rise by sheer strength and still be respected, even if they disrespected those of noble birth.
Power ruled everything. Count Hallem could casually send an assassin after Michael and, if Michael had been just a lucky young man with a bit of talent, his death would not have mattered. The Count could even pay a fine or negotiate with Michael’s family and move on as if nothing happened.
This world was a food chain disguised as a civilization. In truth, it was much like the Awakeners’ belief that this place was a crucible for strength. The strong devoured the weak, and the weak who survived grew stronger in turn.
Michael had tried using words first, his tone calm and polite. But Darius mistook civility for weakness. Since reason failed, Michael turned to the other method he had already mentioned—fear.
Michael leaned forward slightly, his expression softening. "Now then, Sir Darius," he said quietly. "Smile for me."
Darius blinked in confusion. "My Lord?"
Michael tilted his head, a small smile on his own lips. "Do I look that frightening? Come now. Smile."
The knight hesitated, but under that steady gaze, he forced a grin. It was awkward at first, then turned into something strained and uncertain.
Michael studied it, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Hmm. Not bad. But it looks more like you’re trying to be polite."