CHAPTER 137: BLAZING RIVALRY

Brian opened his eyes to meet the expectant gazes of Stagnant Water and Elizabeth. The lingering heaviness from the vision still clung to him like a suffocating fog.

[So? How is it? The slaughter of those innocent villagers? Or Prinian? Or the trap against you that finally woke you up? Which one stings the most?] SWORD teased, its voice echoing in Brian's mind like a cruel whisper.

"Why?" Brian asked, his voice low, trembling as he struggled to contain the anger and sorrow bubbling within him.

"It was a necessary evil. I would do it again—and again—as long as it serves the empire's best interests," Commander Joshua replied, unapologetic and void of guilt.