The grand mansion of County Constantine stood tall and proud amidst the barrenness of the surrounding landscape. The sun shone brightly overhead, casting its warm rays over the estate's sprawling gardens and fountains.
Inside the mansion, two men sat across from each other, deep in conversation.
Arlo's forehead creased as he peered into Count Constantine's eyes and questioned him intently, "David, why did you not allocate the funds given to you by the empire for the purpose of securing the county's defenses? And Where did those resources go?"
"Arlo, my dear friend, the aftermath of the previous war left my people hopeless, helpless, and without a future. As their leader, I couldn't just stand by and watch them suffer. So, I made a difficult decision and used the funds to build schools, homeless shelters, orphanages, and healing temples in the county to help those in need instead of using them to improve its defenses or build a new sewer system." The count's eyes darkened with sorrow as he replied, his voice laced with regret.
Arlo was all ears as the count elaborated on his actions, feeling a tumultuous blend of respect and conflict towards his selfless self. Count Constantine's immense compassion and empathy for his people were truly remarkable. However, Arlo couldn't ignore the potential repercussions of the count's actions, which almost led to the destruction of the beloved Constantine County.
"Do you also believe that my decision to prioritize my people's well-being was a selfish one?" The count questioned, rubbing his temples in exhaustion.
Arlo exhaled a deep breath, "Your actions saved countless lives and offered hope to those who had none. But, it also endangered the entire northern region of the empire, not just the Constantine County. I think you were both right and wrong in your choices. However, I am not in a position to judge you. The sun will decide what is to be done with you."
The count let out a somber sigh, his eyes cast downward. "I understand the gravity of my decision, and I will face whatever consequences come my way."
Despite the tension and unease between them, Arlo could sense the count's genuine remorse and nodded in acceptance.
Arlo then probed, "Do you have a plan to resolve this situation?"
A glimmer of hope flickered in the count's eyes as he answered, "Yes, the emperor has agreed to my request. He will be sending aid to the county in the form of the wandering knights. They will soon arrive via the long-distance teleportation portal."
Arlo's heart swelled with relief and gratitude as he heard the count's news. The wandering knights were one of the empire's most powerful organizations, led by none other than his and Badulf's uncle, Ishtag. Their arrival would undoubtedly alleviate the tension and ensure the safety and security of the people of Constantine County.
Meanwhile, as Roy stood outside Count Constantine's study, his heart was pounding in his chest.
The Count was a prominent and influential figure in the Constantine County, and Roy desperately needed his help to complete his quest and save the people.
Rat-a-tat-tat!
He took a deep breath and knocked on the door, hoping that the Count would hear him out.
"Come in," the Count's voice echoed from inside.
Roy pushed open the heavy doors, and his eyes met with Count Constantine's welcoming smile. He had heard of the Divine executioner and was happy to meet him. After all, Roy had helped him deal with the remnant of the rat army.
The room was dimly lit, with a warm fire flickering in the fireplace, casting long shadows across the walls. As he stepped inside, Roy couldn't help but notice that Arlo was also there, his stern expression softening slightly at the sight of Roy.
"Roy, what brings you here?" Arlo asked curiously.
Their expressions shifted to one of surprise as Roy explained that he had overheard their conversation and had something important to propose.
"What is it?" they asked in unison.
"Spies lurk within our County, undead disguised as citizens," Roy began. "I detected some of them on my way here, but I didn't want to alert them by taking action. My proposal is to take out these hidden enemies before the wandering knights arrive. But I can't do it alone. I need help."
The Count was taken aback by Roy's words. "You can detect the presence of the undead?" he asked incredulously.
Arlo spoke up, "I think he can. I've seen him deduce everything about a boy he had never met before with a glance. He can read a person like a book. So what can he not do? I believe he has some kind of ability that lets him see through the lies."
Roy nodded, "What my uncle is saying is indeed correct. I have a unique ability that lets me discern the truth."
The Count turned to Roy, "What can I do to help?"
Roy explained that he needed the Count to order an immediate evacuation, even if it caused panic among the citizens. The evacuation would force the enemy onto the streets. He would only need a few minutes to detect how among the citizen was an undead and a similar amount of time to deal with them.
Then, they could storm in and reveal the truth to calm the public.
Count Constantine's expression was grave as he contemplated Roy's proposal. He knew that it was a difficult decision, but the safety of the County was at stake. After a few moments of careful consideration, he nodded his agreement with Roy's plan.
"Do it," he said firmly. "Order the evacuation and take out these undead spies. We must get rid of these hidden dangers at all costs."
The evacuation order was soon announced, and chaos erupted throughout the County.
The knights and mages scrambled to escort the people out of their homes, urging them to leave everything behind and flee to safety.
Countless people stumbled into the streets. The undead creatures disguised as citizens, not wanting to cause any commotion and keep themselves hidden, also followed suit.
