Chapter 30: Temporary Changes
Arthur hung the corpses of Edgar, and his son, along with the head of the guards, and his deputy as a warning to everyone.
The screams of the servants pierced his chaotic mind, making him frown and shout, "Silence!"
His words thundered through the air, silencing everyone and making them hold their breath.
Then he began to speak. "It seems some of you did not understand the Duke’s intention when he declared me the new ruler of this Barony. And look where that misunderstanding has taken us. So, I’ll ask again, will you swear loyalty and obey me, or do you have a different opinion?"
Everyone trembled with fear. After a brief moment of stillness, a seasoned soldier knelt and said, "No, my lord. We will not repeat the mistake of our ignorant peers and rise against our lords. I offer you my loyalty, my life, and my wealth. Give the order, and I will follow."
Seeing a clear example before them, everyone else knelt simultaneously and cried out, "We offer our loyalty to the lord and swear to uphold our word, even if it means our death."
Arthur observed everything with cold eyes. He didn’t truly believe the servants’ words. He knew they would likely stab him in the back at the first opportunity. He couldn’t blame them. They feared him—feared his madness—and unlike his recruits, they hadn’t gained anything in return. Even though he couldn’t read their minds, he knew most of them were like dogs: offer them a bone with some meat, and they’d pledge real loyalty.
He could do that. He was armed with knowledge beyond anyone in this world. But he didn’t have the time, or the mood for it right now.
Quietly, he raised his hand and said coldly, "Your words are like useless barking. But I will pardon your miserable lives... for now. You have one chance, use it wisely. Those who follow me will achieve glory they never dreamed of. Those who oppose me will be buried in the deepest pit of this world."