Phield rubbed his brow. "Ten lashes, and half a month's pay deducted. Punishment will be carried out after the battle."
"Thank you, my lord."
The soldier wiped the cold sweat from his face, inwardly relieved. As long as he kept his life, that was enough.
"Why did you attack me?"
Phield's voice turned cold.
"Heh, what do you understand? If you and I died together, my children would inherit my title cleanly and restore the family's glory. I knew Mai betrayed me and joined the Shadow World Sect, but I chose not to expose her—because she would never harm her own children."
Baron Mountain Ape cackled.
"Whether the Empress wins or the Shadow World Sect wins, our family will survive."
"Nice plan. Too bad I won't leave a single one of you. Let me give you a couple of slaps first—see if that clears your head."
Phield leaned down, smiling mockingly by his ear, then struck him twice across the face, leaving his mouth full of blood.
