82 Coward And Traitor (2/2)

”Move forward.”

Following his orders, the Tuhan proceeded to move onward. By now, the citizens were slightly wary of An Sun, choosing not to attack anymore in fear for their lives. However, that didn't prevent the foul, malice words escaping their mouths.

”Tsk, don't even try playing the hero act! We all see you for whom you truly are, a traitor and a coward!”

Ignoring their insults and resentful glares, Rin strides her horses away from the crowd, following An Sun and his men.

The words coward and traitor rang violently through her ears until the shouts of the citizens were no longer heard.

…

”That was rather harsh, don't you think? Seems like northern people do possess some fighting spirit. Although it's directed toward the wrong person.” Manchu strode his horse alongside Rin's and smirked amusingly. ”Makes me wonder why you chose to save such ignorant fools. Why not try defending yourself?”

Coughing, Rin's eyes stared down at her horse and slowly turned to look at Manchu.

”Saving them was more of a duty than a choice,” Rin said softly. ”The truth makes no difference. They will only believe what they want to comfort themselves even if it's flawed.”

Chuckling lightly, Manchu stares ahead with a smile. ”Humans truly are confusing and complicated beings.”

”Yes…” Rin lowered her eyes, coughing as she spoke. ”But I've come to realize, anger is nothing but a shell for the fear and hurt in a human being. It's their only way of knowing how to survive in this world.”

Manchu became silent as he listened to Rin's words. The usual witty and amused smile on his face gave way to a vacant expression. A shadow passed over Manchu's eyes as if he recalled something.

”Hah. It seems you're right Mr. Strategist.” Manchu smiled crookedly, and soon after ushering his horse forward away from Rin.

Rin calmly withdrew her eyes to stare at the bleak gray sky. Anyone who relied on his people to support him was a fool.

They, who were nothing but simple-minded beings, could easily turn against the one they so willingly chose to follow once they realized they couldn't grant them their needs.

Protection, comfort, and power.

Times like this one could purely rely on themselves.

Remembering her grandfather and uncle, Rin's hands on her reins tighten. Her eyes look around to see the Tuhan soldiers moving forward with cold, emotionless expressions.

Grandfather, Uncle Guo…

”Forgive me, for breaking your promise,” Rin whispered and bowed her head.

Forgive your foolish granddaughter for not writing you a longer letter.