Chapter 142

The blood drained from the administrator's face. He glanced back and forth at the intimidating knights surrounding him. His eyes darted back to Riftan's impassive expression, and he gulped.

"I-It was not my intention to offend," he said, suddenly less combative. "I am merely…"

The man wavered before pressing his lips together. Though visibly scared, he seemed spitefully incapable of staying quiet.

"This town belongs to the Duchy of Croyso," he said, tilting his chin at a proud angle, "and I am merely conveying my lord's wishes. Over the past few years, you have not only taken our serfs but have lured many of our artisans and merchants to the south. Many of the duchy's settlements are thus in dire straits. Do you not think it natural that we do not welcome you here?"

The man glared at Riftan with all the fire of a martyr fighting injustice. It was clear that he truly believed him to be the vicious oppressor.