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“Even if they did show mercy, Ibai would still be executed,” said Ismael. “As would you and I.”

‘I would be surprised if they let any of our reapers live,’ said Rholtam. ‘The non-servants might be spared, but they would be shunned for the rest of their lives and no longer be allowed to hold office in this country. Letting our House retain any power would just be asking our people to betray them the next time they were vulnerable.’

“I believe you are right.”

‘That sounds like a decision to me.’

“No surrender.”

‘Then let us see this through to the bitter end.’

And as if on cue, another reaper entered the Hall. It was Orric. ‘The enemy has breached the castle,’ he informed them. ‘Xuan Sebolt is leading their infiltration team, so Melchor and I will have to confront him. Your assistance would be most appreciated.’

Ismael stood.


Chapter One Hundred One: ‘The clash of Tide and Sea...’
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Hector climbed through the gaping hole in the rock that Lord Dimas had made for their group. They were entering through the front. The intention was to be noticed, after all.

With Xuan at the head of their party, Asad bringing up the rear, and Dimas and Salvador on either side, Hector was in awe of the power that surrounded him. These men were the strongest members of their respective houses, so it was a little intimidating, accompanying them to battle like this.

He had to keep his wits about him, though. There was a reason why it was only the five of them on this mission. They fully expected to face Melchor Blackburn, and according to Dimas’ father, combatants without the requisite soul defenses would only be a liability against the man.

Hector had figured that would disqualify him and Garovel from participating, but Garovel did not seem to agree. Instead, Garovel insisted on joining and even told everyone that Hector would be able to hold his own just fine.

‘Are you crazy?!’ Hector had said. ‘Don’t tell them that!’

‘Relax. You’ve got that shield of super-cheating, remember?’

‘This piece of shit isn’t gonna save me!’

‘You don’t think so?’

‘No!’

‘Well, let’s see if you’re right, then.’

‘Garovel, what the fuck?!’

Thanks to that, Lord Salvador had tested Hector personally. Which had been terrifying. But in the end, the shield did its job. Salvador hadn’t been able to hurt Hector and so did not object to the young Lord Goffe’s company.