Chapter 4.1

Kevin detests this particular type of silence the most. The eerie lack of sound and motion leaves him with the vague impression of nothingness, as though every sentient being had suddenly ceased to exist.

The apparent void triggers unpleasant memories for him, and yet he is acutely aware of the reality of the situation.

Located in the western region of the continent is a desert race notorious for its treachery, strangeness, and malevolent character, rendering it the moniker "Sand Ghost" among the populace.

Whenever a certain number of Sand Ghosts race across the border, individuals within a radius of a hundred meters are afflicted with the delusion that their ears and eyes have ceased to function-save for themselves, no other entity can be discerned.

Of course, the duration is very short, only about ten seconds or so.

Although the phenomenon lasts a few seconds, the impact of its effects is palpable during crucial moments of combat.

As commander of the Bronze Army during those years, Kevin spent a considerable amount of time "resisting the attack of sand ghosts" and eventually "died" on such a battlefield.

"The ghost sands linger..." Kevin's voice was colored with a chill as he tightened every muscle in response to the trigger of the memory. The words echoed in his mind, a haunting reminder of the danger that still lurked.

His hand found its way to the hilt of the dagger nestled in his waistband, a reflex born of experience. He knew that he could not afford to be caught unprepared.

Click——

The sound of the dagger's blade being drawn was like a gunshot in the stillness. Kevin's eyes narrowed as he scanned, searching for any sign of danger.

Abruptly, a knock resounds on the car door. Alert and armed with his knife, Kevin leaps into action, driving the blade into the door with force.

Kevin's physical build is not formidable, as it embodies a thin layer of musculature at best; he derives no strength advantage from his physique alone.

However, years of experience honed his offensive capabilities to the point that he was able to pierce through the seemingly impenetrable door with ease.

The door hinges break under his manipulation, collapsing in its entirety.

Kevin: "..." What the hell?!

Kevin's expression reflects his incredulity at the sudden turn of events as a gust of wind carries stones that collide with the car door to create a noise of "clicks."

Suddenly a spray of sandy particles rush into the vehicle and Kevin's face is awash with the gritty residue.

At that moment, the sand ghost has gone, and the illusionary effects dissipate, restoring Kevin's hearing and vision.

"Impressive. Within five minutes after I came down, you have already removed the car door." The sound of Oswald's voice reverberates nearby.

The rustling of his footsteps, as he approaches adds to the overall aggression of his presence. "Your Excellency Fassbinder, are you idle? Or are you frantically attempting to cause an uproar?"

"Are you looking for a fight?!" Kevin bristles with irritation at Oswald's tone.

Kevin's apprehension heightened as he realized that he had not let his guard down after the Sand Ghost experience.

He remained on one knee beside the car door, his defenses not loosened and knife at the ready, scanning the surroundings.

Oswald: "..."

"Did they genuinely just pass by?" he asked, his voice taut with tension.

Oswald approached Kevin, placing his arm on the door with a loud thud. "This is an unlikely case," he said, his voice laced with disbelief.

Kevin did not respond. He continued to scan the horizon, his eyes narrowed and his muscles tensed.

"Kevin," Oswald said, his voice more insistent. "Are you alright?"

"This area serves as a place of exile, not a battlefield; Sand ghosts frequently pass through. Their 'purely passing by' are common things here. This is not a matter to be doubted."

Kevin finally turned to look at Oswald. His eyes were wide and his face was pale.

"Sand ghosts can turn any place into a battlefield and will remain ignorant of the concept of rules in their next lives." Kevin's retort is pointed and devoid of warmth.

Oswald deftly grasps the tip of Kevin's knife with two fingers and directs him in a particular direction. "According to the Golden Lion Empire's old law, individuals who wield a knife against the empire will be hanged at the minaret and shall do so while 'bare'."

"And this carriage door—" He kicks the shattered door with his foot, chuckling to himself.

"Payment is due for this carriage door."

Kevin: "..." He buckled his dagger back onto his waist, pushed aside Oswald's hand on the door frame, and exited the vehicle.

Upon regaining his hearing, the surrounding environment suddenly became excessively noisy.

This town, referred to as the "Land of Diaspora", is a rather disorganized settlement with various styles of houses and castles scattered about without any sort of planning.

It appears as if the land is divided up and each spot is occupied by a different group.

Situated at the intersection of diverse ethnic forces, this town occupies the largest "crossroads" in the middle of the mainland and is coveted by many.

Depending on one's perspective, it may be considered heaven or hell.

Despite the disorderly nature of this location, certain unwritten rules have been established over time.

Even the sand ghosts dare not act recklessly here, making it both perilous and safe to some extent.

As customary, Oswald's chariots and horses could only remain on the outskirts of town, within the abandoned temple of Crow's Nest, a designated resting spot for passing troops.

These vehicles were guarded by heavily armored cavalry while the remaining elite troops were divided into two groups.

One group was tasked with purchasing rations and refreshments for all to share, while the other group disguised themselves and followed Oswald.

Kevin stretched his limbs under the carriage and spotted Oswald appraising him with a crossed-arms stance and displaying the impatience typical of the youth.

"Why, do you want to challenge me, Your Majesty?" Kevin exclaimed with frustration.

"Are you finished stretching? Come along, Mi Ao awaits us," Oswald turned his head and strode towards the center of Diaspora.

"What are we doing?" Kevin followed bewilderedly and arrived at a store crafted from gargantuan stones.