The main reason was that Dustin detested traitors, and backstabbing individuals deserved harsh punishment.
After dealing with the five rebels, the remaining generals who had sided with the rebellion faced various consequences. Depending on whether they had voluntarily participated or were coerced, they were either demoted, assimilated into the monarchy’s forces, or sent to prison.
In the course of addressing the rebellion, Dustin also tasked Albert with leading a unit of the Draken Guardians to the Dragon Guard’s hidden treasure vault based on directions from the treasure map.
The entire process went smoothly. Despite the presence of the Dragon Guard’s elite fighters, they proved no match for the ultimate grandmaster, Albert.
With ease, he wiped out the remnants of the Dragon Guard and brought back all the treasures from the vault.
Cinna had told the truth. The treasures inside the vault were piled up like mountains. It took the monarchy over a hundred large trucks and tens of thousands of men to clear out the vault completely.
The sheer quantity and value of the treasures were beyond calculation. A conservative estimate suggested that the West Lucozian military expenses could be covered for the next 20 years.
With a single vault containing so much riches, the three vaults combined would be enough to rival a small kingdom.
The first thing Dustin did when the treasures were brought back was to distribute rewards based on merit.
Three of the Southern Four Sovereigns -Lincon, the Marquis of Riverside; Wyatt, the Marquis of Sunfire; and Tyrus, the Marquis of Ravenwood- received substantial rewards for their significant contributions.
Generals and soldiers under their command were also granted various degrees of rewards.
After concluding all the affairs, three days had passed.
During Dustin’s afternoon meal, he received an unexpected visit from Albert, who carried a wooden box in his hands.
“Your Highness, I have something to report,” Albert announced with a bow, exuding an air of utmost deference.
“Sit down and talk.” Dustin gestured, inviting Albert to take a seat.
“I wouldn’t dare.”
Albert noticed the dishes on the table and said with his head still lowered, “It seems Your Highness is having your meal. I’ll return later.”
“It’s alright. Just say what you need to say.” Dustin didn’t mind being interrupted.
“Yes, Your Highness,” Albert replied and placed the box on a nearby chair.
He reported, “Cinna Shaffer has fulfilled his promise and ended his life. This box contains his head. Would you like to inspect it for yourself?”
Dustin’s utensils halted midair, and a fleeting expression of regret crossed his eyes. However, he quickly regained his composure.
“No need. Send it back and ensure he receives a proper burial,” Dustin said calmly.
“Yes, Your Highness.”
Albert picked up the wooden box and was about to leave when Dustin raised his head and added, “Don’t make things difficult for his family.”
“I understand.” Albert nodded and excused himself.
“Yet another departure,” Dustin said, sighing softly. A mix of emotions flitted across his face.
While he harbored disdain for Cinna’s betrayal, he understood his decision. From a different perspective, Cinna had acted to safeguard his family, and in that light, he had committed no wrongdoing.
They merely had different stances and made opposing decisions.
