Chapter 26: The First to Fall
Arthur's anger flared, and he cursed Tarian in his heart, yet he showed no clear reaction. After a short silence, he said, "Your words are quite arrogant. Normally, I would have ordered your head cut off, but you've just given me an idea."
"I'll give you one week. Bring me the head of the bandit leader. Chadwick, you'll accompany him and supervise — he might flee from sheer terror when he fails as well."
Tarian's face turned red, and he couldn't refuse the task. Doing so would destroy his image before everyone, not to mention the potential punishment. Although the Baronet suspected something about Arthur, he wouldn't dare defy his orders until he was sure of his doubts.
"Speak up! Why have you gone mute all of a sudden?" Arthur shouted at Tarian angrily, rising from his seat. He moved his head slightly, and Chadwick immediately drew his sword and pointed it at Tarian's neck. His actions were swift and unexpected, causing everyone in the hall to tense up, instinctively reaching for their weapons.
Tarian looked at Chadwick and cursed internally, 'This bastard has become a loyal dog to that fraud.' But he dared not say it out loud. Calmly and submissively, he said, "Forgive me, my lord. My silence wasn't a sign of refusal—I was merely thinking of the best way to deal with the bandits."
"Heh, let's see how clever you really are." Arthur nodded, and Chadwick backed off.
"Take fifty elite soldiers with you. Bring the other mage as well. I don't want any excuses. Go now — I've had enough of your disgusting faces."
Everyone froze, unable to process such a strange order. But Arthur's furious glare snapped them out of their daze. Edgar quickly commanded:
"Move! Prepare the rations and horses. You must leave before sunset."