The New Ruler's Stance

The people froze at Justin's words. The joy that had filled their eyes quickly turned back into fear. Justin waited in silence for that fear to grow, knowing that sometimes silence could be more effective than a hundred words.

"I know you've suffered until now, but it'd be troublesome if you started seeing me as your savior."

The civilians here had a deep-rooted fear of pioneers, but that fear was instilled by Chad and his gang. If Justin assured them that he and his group were different, their fear would diminish. They would begin testing boundaries, seeing how far they could go. In the worst case, they might treat Justin as "the kind of pioneer who doesn't mind a little disrespect," like people who cower before criminals but shout at those who save them.

"Not a chance. I didn't take over this territory to see that."