Chapter 65 - Battle for the Throne 2 (1/2)
The army of loyalists gathered on the river’s bank, northeast of Heidelberg. They would then advance southwest, to fight off the rebels
However Count Ludwig had become aware of their latest movements, and as such some last minute changes were made to their plan.
They still met as planned, but weren’t in any rush to advance.
While they set up camp and held their position, Woohyuk was in a hurry to secure the next in line to the throne.
Duke Arnold, King John’s nephew, was a well known silk pants who spent most of his time either hunting or whoring.
‘It’ll get complicated if he were to die.’
At least until this war against the rebels was over with, he needed to keep the Duke alive. He was the pillar behind which the loyalist nobles gathered, allowing Woohyuk to skip any kinds of formalities.
Woohyuk stared at a distant valley as he was riding a horse along with Sanghoon.
The forest in the northern part of Cerendia was teeming with wildlife and had spectacular views. It was one of the reasons that Duke Arnold would choose to go hunting here nearly every day.
“Check to see if there are any traps.”
“Yes, Boss.”
Searching for traps was easy for someone of Jung Sanghoon’s skill.
As he led the way, scouring through the forest.
Piing!
An arrow flew right by him, burying itself in an oak tree behind Sanghoon.
“Oops, I missed my shot.”
A blonde haired bearded man said from atop his white horse.
Simply by his colorful attire it was clear that he was a high ranked noble.
“Are you Duke Arnold?”
“Yes, but who are you?”
There weren’t many that would speak to a royal such as himself in such a casual manner.
As Arnold was still shocked by his brusque mannerisms, Woohyuk handed him a sealed letter.
“Although I can’t reveal it right now, this is an urgent letter which requires your attention.”
It was a letter from Gaius, the 5th Legnion’s Commander. It basically outlined Count Ludwig’s treachery in forming a faction with other nobles that opposed the royal family.
“A rebellion… it’s indeed dire news.”
Duke Arnold’s expression darkened as he finished reading the letter in its entirety.
He had been expecting this to happen eventually, but not nearly so soon. As he was about to speak, the sound of approaching horses rang out. Those that had killed King John were not likely to leave his immediate successor alive either.
Woohyuk stepped front as he left the Duke’s safety to Jung Sanghoon.
Everything went quiet, until…
Swooosh!
Taang!
He deflected the arrow with Grandia, appearing quite imposing. As he went to slaughter the enemy horseman, Duke Arnold’s eyes widened in surprise.
‘Who is he?’
He hadn’t revealed his identity, perhaps he was a noble from another country. Still, he couldn’t understand why he would choose to help him.
“Haaa!”
A spearman jumped out from behind the bushes and charged towards him. Jung Sanghoon lept off his horse and buried his two daggers in the spearman’s neck.
“Kuhuk…”
As the enemy spearman dropped to the ground coughing out blood, Duke Arnold felt relieved.
“Thank you.”
“Don’t mention it.”
Jung Sanghoon stood up and kept completely focused on his surroundings once more. The Rogue class had a passive skill which increased Dexterity by 15%. Even if the opponent was stealthed, he would be able to catch the slightest change in the environment if they revealed even the slightest flaw.
“Are you hurt anywhere?”
“No, thanks to you.”
Duke Arnold thanked Woohyuk who was dragging a man with black hair.
Woohyuk nodded as he kicked the young man which he had already disarmed.
“Kuuuuk”
The captive groaned as he fell down to the ground. He had the appearance of an Asian from back on Earth. Given that he was wearing an Adventurer’s watch, it was very likely that he was from the Akatsuki Clan.
“Where is your leader?”
“Don, I don't know….”
As the prisoner fed him some lies, Woohyuk crushed his fingers under the sole of his boot.
“Kuaaaah”
“I don’t have time for games. From now on every time you don’t answer you’ll lose one of your fingers..”
Of course the same punishment would apply if he were to lie.
As Woohyuk pulled out his Vampiric dagger, the young man’s face turned blue.
“I’ll speak! Please, don’t torture me!”
The captive had already been conditioned to fear torture, no doubt having been caught committing all types of crimes by his own clanmates.
Seeing him tremble in fear, Woohyuk had a satisfied smile.
‘That’s good.’
In order to properly rule over the Rhine kingdom, not only did he have to prevent the nobles from rebelling, but the Clans as well.
Woohyuk lifted his foot, listening to what he had to say.
* * *
According to the young Japanese man, Akatsuki along with the Exodus Clan were currently hiding in the capital city of Heindelberg.
The 1st Legion along with Akatsuki and Exodus, would help secure Blackburn as soon as Gwain decided to make a move. This would allow them to control the kingdom’s central politics.
However, due to the swift response on the part of the loyalist army, the plan was temporarily put on hold.
‘As expected, they are involving the army.’
King John who had air for brains, would do whatever Count Gwain told him.
Woohyuk however wasn’t too worried since he had already prepared some countermeasures.
‘Currently the Commanders of the Legions are no doubt holding a meeting in the Marquis’ territory.’
Gaius sent them a detailed letter about the entire incident, strongly urging them to immediately bring to justice the three main culprits.
Count Ludwig from Erutonia.
Count Ethan from Issilon.
Count Gwain from Floren.
Their plan to poison the King was also brought up, so the Legion Commanders would soon have to come to a decision.
‘I have to make sure that at least Maximus makes the right choice.’
He couldn’t expect all the Commanders to side with King John, but Maximus’ support was crucial.
Woohyuk recalled the past as he watched the elevator descend down the cliff. It operated on a magical pulley system.