Blackmail

The dimly lit room was filled with an air of anticipation as Durian summoned Knight William to join him. The door swung open, and William entered, offering a slight but elegant bow, a show of respect for his young lord. The commander adjutant, acknowledging his presence, bowed and quietly exited the room, leaving the two men alone.

Durian's gaze sharpened as he fixed his eyes on William, searching for any signs of weakness or ambition. The conversation between them began, their words veiled in layers of subtlety and intrigue. Durian probed and tested the knight's loyalty to the Blackwood family, seeking to uncover his desires and potential weaknesses.

"I must say, William, your performance during our recent encounters has intrigued me," Durian remarked, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "Your calm and ruthless demeanor in the face of danger... it is a quality I find appealing."

William met Durian's gaze with a steely resolve. "I serve the Blackwood family faithfully, my lord. My purpose as an initiate knight is to uphold their honor and protect their interests."

Durian's smile widened, his eyes glinting with a mix of admiration and cunning. "Indeed, loyalty is a commendable trait. But tell me, William, is loyalty alone enough to fulfill your ambitions? To rise above the ranks of mere knights and carve your own destiny?"

William's expression remained steadfast. "Ambitions are not what drive me, my lord. I seek only to serve and protect."

Durian's voice lowered, carrying a hint of threat beneath its smooth tone. "Are you sure, William? The Blackwood family has amassed great wealth and power over the years. Imagine what you could achieve if you were to align yourself with me, the future head of this powerful family."

William's eyes narrowed, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face. "My loyalty lies with the Blackwood family, my lord. I have no desire for personal gain or power."

Durian's smile faded, replaced by a glimmer of impatience. "You speak of loyalty, yet I sense hesitation within you, William. Do you not value the safety and well-being of your family? Think carefully before you answer."

A mixture of fury and despair clouded William's features. "How dare you threaten my family, my lord! They have faithfully served the Blackwood family for generations. I will not betray them for your selfish desires!"

Durian's eyes narrowed, his tone turning ice-cold. "Very well, William. You have made your choice."

In one swift motion, Durian unsheathed his sword, the glinting blade flashing through the air. Before William could react, Durian's strike landed, a quick and precise cut that left a shallow gash across the knight's face.

Pain surged through William's cheek as he clutched at the wound, his eyes wide with shock and fear. Durian's laughter filled the room, a chilling sound that sent shivers down William's spine.

"A scar to remind you of the consequences of disobedience," Durian sneered.

William's anger gave way to despair as he realized the futility of resisting Durian's demands. He fell to his knees, his voice filled with resignation. "What... what do you want me to do, my lord?"

Durian's smirk returned, satisfaction oozing from his every pore. "Change your appearance, don simple leather armor, and go to the slums. Subdue the drunkards and gangsters, and establish a new gang within the city. Create chaos and infamy, making them appear unsuspicious to the Windcrest underworld. I am certain that once this new gang gains fame, they will eventually cross paths with the Venomous Vipers."

William's head bowed, his voice laced with defeat. "It will be done, my lord. If there is anything else..."

Durian's grin widened, a touch of malice in his eyes. "No, that will be all for now. Go, William, and carry out your mission swiftly and without hesitation. Remember, failure is not an option."

With a heavy heart, William turned to leave, his face still stinging from the fresh scar that now marked him. Durian's laughter followed him, a haunting echo of the darkness that had enveloped his path.