The swift and brutal efficiency of Tatsuo's response to the bandit threat sent shockwaves through the region. The destruction of both bandit groups, coupled with the widespread rumor of Viscount Sanngandr's involvement, created a palpable tension that hung in the air. News of the Viscount's potential treachery, and Tatsuo's unwavering resolve, spread like wildfire, reaching even the highest echelons of power within the Yōgan Domain.
When the news reached Archduke Nakir Cendis, his reaction was swift and decisive. He understood the gravity of the situation. The involvement of a Yōgan Domain noble in such illicit activities, especially one that could potentially implicate the domain in conflict with the Shinku Hou Empire, was unacceptable. He knew that if this news reached the ears of Kabayashi Tsuru, the Divine General stationed within the domain, the consequences would be catastrophic.
Kabayashi Tsuru, a legendary warrior and a staunch loyalist to the Imperial family, served the Yōgan Domain as a Divine General. Her devotion to the Empire was absolute, and any hint of treachery against the Crown Prince would ignite her wrath. She would not hesitate to dismantle the entire domain, leaving no stone unturned, to extract every living member of the Viscount's family, ensuring that no shadow of doubt fell upon the Empire's heir.
Archduke Nakir Cendis, a seasoned general in his own right, understood the urgency of the situation. He knew that swift and decisive action was needed to prevent Kabayashi Tsuru from intervening. He immediately dispatched a brigade, led by Vanguard General Count Fery Threefang, to the Viscount's county. The mission was clear: publicly execute Viscount Sanngandr and eliminate any evidence of his involvement with the Guardian Bandits.
Count Fery Threefang, a formidable warrior with a reputation for ruthless efficiency, led his brigade with unwavering determination. He understood the importance of this mission, not just for the Yōgan Domain, but for his own reputation. He would not allow any obstacle to stand in his way.
As Count Fery's brigade descended upon the Viscount's county, a wave of fear swept through the region. The Viscount, caught off guard by the Archduke's swift response, found himself isolated and defenseless. His attempts to rally his forces were futile, his allies deserting him in the face of the Archduke's wrath.
Count Fery's brigade, their movements precise and their attacks relentless, overwhelmed the Viscount's defenses. The Viscount's castle, once a symbol of his power, was reduced to rubble, his guards scattered and defeated. The Viscount himself, stripped of his authority and his pride, was dragged before Count Fery, his eyes filled with fear and desperation.
Count Fery, his expression cold and unforgiving, publicly executed the Viscount, his head rolling on the ground before the horrified eyes of his former subjects. The message was clear: treachery against the Empire, or any act that could jeopardize the domain's relationship with the Crown Prince, would not be tolerated.
The execution of the Viscount was swift and brutal, a stark reminder of the Archduke's power and his determination to maintain order within his domain. Count Fery's brigade then systematically eliminated any trace of the Viscount's involvement with the Guardian Bandits, ensuring that no evidence could be used to implicate the Yōgan Domain.
The news of the Viscount's execution spread quickly, reaching Tatsuo's ears within days. He received the report with a sense of grim satisfaction. He had sent a clear message, and the Yōgan Domain had responded in kind. The swift action of the Archduke demonstrated a level of political acumen and strategic thinking that Tatsuo respected.
"They understand," Tatsuo mused, his eyes narrowing. "They understand the consequences of their actions."
He knew that the situation with the Yōgan Domain was far from resolved. The intricate political landscape, the powerful nobles, and the presence of Kabayashi Tsuru made it a volatile region. He would continue to tread carefully, balancing strength with diplomacy, ensuring that his domain remained secure and his people safe.
Inside the quiet solitude of Tatsuo's office, the familiar chime of the System broke the silence, signaling a new quest. He turned his gaze towards the shimmering blue screen that materialized before him, its glowing text casting an ethereal light across the room.
Ding! New Quest Available!
New Quest: Conquer a Viscounty under the Blackthorn Duchy of the Skylance Kingdom.
Reward: Gold Reserve inside the Viscounty.
Tatsuo's brow furrowed. The Blackthorn Duchy... Skylance Kingdom. It was the same kingdom from which Dragonsden County had been wrested, piece by piece, only six months prior. The System's apparent fixation on this kingdom was becoming increasingly conspicuous.
"Skylance again?" he muttered, a hint of weariness in his voice. "Does the System truly harbor some deep-seated animosity towards them?"
He considered the implications of this new quest. The Blackthorn Duchy was a powerful entity, and any move against them would require careful planning and significant resources. However, he had a more pressing matter at hand: securing the trade routes with the Yōgan Domain. He couldn't afford to divert his attention at this crucial juncture.
"This will have to wait," he decided, his voice firm. "The Yōgan Domain trade route is my priority."
A few days later, a message arrived, its contents causing Tatsuo to raise an eyebrow in surprise. An announcement had been made: Divine General Kabayashi Tsuru of the Yōgan Domain would be visiting Dragonsden City.
"Sister Tsuru?" Tatsuo mused, a flicker of confusion in his eyes. He had known Kabayashi Tsuru since his childhood. She was more than just a general; she was a figure of unwavering loyalty and immense power, practically an elder sister to the Imperial siblings. The Emperor had taken her as a student when she was young, recognizing her exceptional talent. Under his tutelage, she had become a force to be reckoned with, earning the title of Divine General.
"Why would she visit me?" he wondered aloud.
He knew Tsuru was not one to make casual visits. Her presence usually signified a matter of great importance. Was it related to the recent bandit incident and the Viscount's involvement? Or was there something else entirely?
As Tatsuo pondered the reasons for Tsuru's impending arrival, he began to prepare. He ordered his guards to ensure the city was presentable for such a high ranking guest. He knew Tsuru valued discipline and order. He would not give her cause to find his city lacking. He also sent a message to Rota to make sure the Lions Calvary and the Drake guards are on their best behavior and their best gear.
He also had a feeling that Tsuru's visit would be more than a simple courtesy call. He prepared himself mentally for whatever she had to say, knowing that her words would carry the weight of the Empire itself. He knew that any interaction with Tsuru, would be a very delicate situation.