“Thank you, Mr. Chance! Thank you!” Lorcan exclaimed, quickly bowing deeply to Jared.
Nestor also released his grip. He didn’t want to harm Lorcan. The latter had been a loyal ally for many years, after all.
“Mr. Chance, we’ve successfully reclaimed the city, and the Foster family has been defeated. There haven’t been any suspicious individuals around these past few days, so it should be safe now!” said Nestor.
“General Quivey, I appreciate your efforts,” Jared said calmly.
Nestor wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, responding, “It’s an honor to work for you.”
“What about my subordinates in Imperial Fox City? Why is it that I only see your soldiers?” Catina inquired, her concern evident.
“Oh, during the takeover, there weren’t many beast race members left in the city. Most were from the Foster family, and a portion were associated with the Demon Seal Alliance. It’s likely that, with the city’s fall, many fled or were killed by the Foster family,” Nestor explained.
Catina’s heart immediately sank. As a queen, she had fled, leaving behind a city filled with her subordinates and people. She had no idea how they were faring now.
It was one thing if they had simply run away, but if they had been killed, Catina feared she would never be able to forgive herself.
“Don’t be sad. Take your time and start over,” Jared said softly, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. “I believe Imperial Fox City will rise again.”
Nestor, standing to the side, observed the interaction between Jared and Catina and quickly grasped the nature of their relationship. He eagerly chimed in, “Fox Queen, we can always attract new citizens. I believe there are many beast clans out there seeking refuge. While the city is being reestablished, I can arrange for my men to stay on as guards to ensure its safety.”
Nestor was keenly aware that earning Jared’s favor was paramount. No matter how significant his military accomplishments, it was far more important to appease Jared. A single word from Jared to Bernard could change everything.
“I’ll also reach out to the Duad Formation Sect and the Violet Flame Sect for support. I believe Imperial Fox City will soon be restored to its former glory.” Jared stroked Catina’s hair.
At that point, their connection had deepened. What had begun as a transactional arrangement had blossomed into something much more profound.
With his strength as a Seventh Level Tribulator, Jared no longer needed protection from Catina. Furthermore, their bloodlines had merged, eliminating the necessity for her to sleep with him. Yet, their bond remained strong, transcending mere convenience. It was now rooted in genuine emotions, no longer a simple exchange of benefits.
Catina gazed at Jared, her eyes sparkling with determination as she nodded emphatically.
Jared stayed in Imperial Fox City for just two days before departing for Demonia Mountain, with Cloud accompanying him. Feenix remained behind to assist Catina because it was challenging for her to rebuild the city on her own.
Jared felt a sense of unease about leaving her, but having Feenix by her side reassured him. After all, Feenix commanded great respect among the beast races.
The airship soared through the sky, gliding effortlessly past majestic mountain peaks and winding rivers on its way to Demonia Mountain.
Jared sat inside, deep in thought as he calculated the timing of his upcoming duel with Aiden.
“Cloud, we’re passing over Southedge City, and I’d like to make a stop at the Soul Demon Sect to check on Faiyar,” Jared said, seizing the opportunity to use his spare time wisely since there was still some time before his duel with Aiden. He thought of visiting Faiyar and, at the same time, inquire about any news Trystan might have regarding the Blood Bone Sect.
The Soul Demon Sect specialized in soul manipulation, renowned for their ability to aid individuals in restoring their physical forms. In contrast, the Blood Bone Sect was notorious for their practices involving the use of human bones. Given the connection between the two sects, Jared hoped Trystan could provide valuable information about the Blood Bone Sect.
With information about the Blood Bone Sect, Jared could begin investigating the whereabouts of the Vermilion Demon Lord’s remains. There was even a chance that the sect might already possess the coveted remains.
Cloud nodded in understanding, expertly guiding the airship as it veered toward the southern region.
