Chapter 435

Chapter 435: Direct Execution

A flicker of surprise crossed Midi’s face upon hearing these words, soon replaced by understanding.

Whether in the politically charged Arad continent or the lawless Shaded Realm, privileged classes existed everywhere. Even this blood oath-bound bonfire gathering under the Dark Dragon God’s scrutiny proved no exception.

As nobility and a Kingdom ruler, Midi held no aversion to diplomacy. Moreover, he burned with curiosity to witness how far Simon—the overbearing eldest son of Death Scorpion family—would stretch his "privileges" beneath the colossal Dragon Head’s gaze.

"Why do you interrupt this sacred duel under Dark Dragon God’s protection, Lord Simon of Death Scorpion family?" Midi drawled, glancing at the unconscious Ulhan.

The bonfire gathering’s final match rules demanded personal surrender declarations to prevent external interference. Even tribesmen could be bribed—imagine dominating a match only for allies to forfeit suddenly, voiding all efforts. Powerful factions’ meddling likewise threatened fair selection.

Hence, only combatants could concede defeat. While Ulhan remained silent, his life rested entirely in Midi’s hands. Neither Water Spider Tribe members nor the lofty Simon could halt proceedings without violating the blood oath. This knowledge steadied Midi’s resolve.

Had it been otherwise, he’d have slain his enemy instantly.

Midi once more marveled at Dark Dragon City’s iron grip over Shaded Realm affairs. However bold or cunning, no dark elf dared scheme under that draconic visage’s watch.

Simon misinterpreted Midi’s pensive look as fear. Smug satisfaction curved the noble’s lips. "Mr. Midi, I’ll admit your skills impress me—for a human. But bonfire gatherings pale before Mososbury City’s true might. Consider becoming my retainer."

"You want me to spare Ulhan… and serve you?" Midi stared incredulously.

Mistaking shock for awe, Simon nodded haughtily. Surely this Wolfspider Tribe upstart—not even a Great Warrior—should grovel at such an offer.

Reality proved otherwise.

"Brain damage?" Midi tapped his temple scornfully. His Horn King Greatsword flicked out, etching a crimson line across Ulhan’s throat.

"You—" Simon’s composure shattered into rage. How dare this human defy him?

"You’re begging me, not vice versa," Midi stated lightly. "And you? My master?" He barked a laugh. "Your arrogance astounds. Care to test that boast in the arena?"

Dragon’s Blood sang in his veins, craving worthy opponents. Against a Level 65 expert, his Level 62 self stood little chance—but he’d slain a Level 70 demon viscount before. Trump cards existed for such moments.

Simon’s cultured poise evaporated. Fury contorted his features before cold laughter erupted. "Bravo, Mr. Midi! Such impressive… audacity."

"Courage? That’s not it; I’m just stating facts." Midi shrugged bluntly. "If you want Ulhan alive, show me a price worth considering."

The transaction was Midi’s true reason for halting his attack.

Though wary of the Death Scorpion family, he knew retreat wouldn’t solve their feud – facing it head-on remained his only option. Simon’s intervention hadn’t concerned him.

Even enemies could bargain. In Belmar Kingdom, warring nobles routinely exchanged captives for heavy costs. Since Simon wanted to protect Ulhan, Midi saw no harm in playing along.

A thoroughly understood opponent posed no future threat, Midi believed. Trading Ulhan for resources could boost his bloodline-awakened Dragon Blood physique, possibly reaching Level 63 soon.

But Midi miscalculated.

The Death Scorpion family, one of Mososbury City’s greatest powers, would never pay hefty costs to save a subordinate tribe’s Great Warrior from some human. That reeked of weakness.

Pride and family interests dictated only one path –

Pressure.

More pressure.

Total annihilation.

Hearing "price worth considering", Simon’s gloomy face hardened further. A Wolfspider Tribe human daring to haggle with Death Scorpions?

"Price? Your survival and the Wolfspider Tribe’s continued existence – that’s Death Scorpion’s offer." Simon glared at Wolfspider members. "The blood oath binds me here, but what happens after this bonfire gathering?"

Clearly, refusing Ulhan’s release meant Death Scorpion forces would massacre everyone in Wolfspider’s cavern post-gathering. Not even Midi’s personal power could stop that.

Simon expected this threat to cow the human, but Midi looked more relaxed than ever – almost mocking.

"If tribes can threaten like this, why have a blood oath? The Shaded Realm’s Dark Dragon God isn’t some fleeting decoration. Mososbury’s city council won’t let Death Scorpions manipulate bonfire gatherings." Midi’s calm voice cut through the arena. "Most importantly, I never expect enemy mercy. I only trust this!"

He raised his Horn King Greatsword. The declaration cracked like a whip across the silent arena.

Scanning the crowd, Midi added, "Mr. Simon here’s just five levels higher than his brother Sethe. Since you’re equally temperamental, we’ve nothing more to discuss."

"You want war? Have war."

Midi leapt, greatsword blazing. Ulhan and three meters of obsidian arena disintegrated. Only the trembling War Spear testified to the Battle Mage’s existence.

"You…!" Simon’s twisted face choked on rage.

The Water Spider Tribe stands erupted. Without blood oath restraints, hundreds would’ve charged Wolfspider’s position.

"This… this is madness!" The old mage mopped his brow. Midi’s earlier brilliance had raised such hopes, but provoking Water Spiders and their Death Scorpion masters?

Originally, offending Sethe meant little – the family disregarded that wastrel. But Simon was Death Scorpion’s rising star! This meant disaster.

"Expel Midi immediately!" The old mage decided.

A cool female voice interrupted. "Would that save us?" Galantis stared at him.

Would it?

Never. With excuses to devour Wolfspider, Water Spiders and Death Scorpions needed no reasons. Expelling Midi changed nothing.

The old mage hesitated.

"Or will you kill Midi and present his head?" Galantis’s sarcasm bit deep.

"Galantis! We Wolfspiders value honor! We’re no scheming curs!" The old mage flushed crimson.