Chapter 14: jealousy, jealousy

Chapter 14: jealousy, jealousy

Kayson let me double on his beautiful apple-red chopper to the trial. Streaking through the city like a comet in the night sky. I felt better on account of Suzakis healing, but was still a mess; blood sprayed across my jacket, bags under my eyes, and a bit hungover. I was riding the wave of fate, and aside from burning hate for a murderous prick in my chest, there wasnt much fuel left.

We arrived at the Brass Kings favorite parkthe Shinto Shrine in Chen-Squarepacked with delinquents wearing our jackets. Each division proudly on display. Kayson steadied me with a hand on my shoulder as I climbed off his bike. For what its worth, I and my squad dont believe youre to blame. If I were you, Id keep my mouth shut about Tristan. I doubt theyll believe you, and itll weaken your position.

Means fuck all, dont it? If were lettingem get away with murder?

He shrugged, not giving me the answer I wanted. We cut past the crowd of Brassincluding a few captains and lieutenantsright to the constable gathered right at the lacquered red shrine, all under the gaze of the Stalwart Immortal. The man had a streak of blond dye in his hair and beady eyes that made my skin crawl. Tristan stood next to him, his eyes stabbing into me.

The constable jerked his finger towards a spot before the shrine. My cue. Kayson disappeared into the crowd of Seventh Division. Leaving me to face justice on my own terms.

You can bend when faced with fire. Or you can toughen up. I squared my shoulders, and met Tristans hostile glare, striding before the whole of the Brass Kings to my assigned spot. This bastard murdered our Captain. Id be damned if he got away with it. Tristan frowned as he saw something in my expression he didnt care for.

Luca Cavicchi, warrior of the Fourth Division, subordinate to Tristan March? asked the constable. The side conversations petered out as the crowd listened.

Ya, thats me, I said.The source of this content nov(el)bi((n))

I will ask you a series of questions regarding the death of your Captain, Till Astren. Do you swear to answer completely, and without lie, under the eyes of the Stalwart Immortal?

It was a heavy oath. But I didnt plan to lie. I met the constables beady eyes, looking away from the psychopath for the first time. I swear.

I believe that is enough. The constable said. Tristan looked at him with a small smile.

Are you sure? I have more men willing to testify if youd like.

The constable slowly shook his head. I felt a tangible weight in the air as the constables eyes latched on me. My Soul Seed resonated, this guy was a cultivator. Someone with a high level. My tongue felt like leadkeeping me from protesting.

That wont be necessary. For brevity, Ill assume their testimony rings similar. Ive already asked a few pointed questions ahead of his arrival. Further theatrics arent needed. Luca. His eyes snapped to me. We shall not be pressing into this matter of cheating at our gambling den, as it appears your lieutenant already dished out punishment. However, now is your one chance to explain your act of cowardice which directly lead to the death of Captain Till; may the Immortals whisper his name to the heavens.

At this he took a sad look at the shrinethe eyes leaving me felt like taking a thousand-pound weight off my back.

I cleared my throat, trying to gather myself together. Tristan Tristan killed the Captain. I ran because I was afraid hed do the same to me. They lied for him. Hes a fucking psychoand frankly, I cant even blame them for lying. Id be afraid to say anything else too. I ran since I thought hed come shank me next, and Im sure they think the same too.

The pressure cut me off from any further words as the constables intent hardened. His face grew red, and I found it hard to stand properly.

Tristan Marsh is a man in good standing. Before you say anything dumber, I will it clear the second reason Im here, and why Ive asked the other captains to attend; by the will of the Viceroy, Tristan Marsh is officially appointed as the Captain of the Fourth Division. Motherfucker. Our blooming war with the Crimson Eagles requires strong leaders to push for our revenge and territory. Tristan has shown himself capable over the last few months. There is no room for dissonance in our ranks, and war is no place for a coward. Eyes riddled with pure disgust lingered on me. Ive heard enough. By my ruling, this useless bag of trash is to be exiled.

Blood left my face. This was bad, real bad. Being exiled without a pardon meant both me and my family were free game for any of these fucks to go after. The dangerous glint in Tristans expression told me he knew that very well.

Before my judgment is carried out, per our traditions, I now offer the rite to challenge my ruling. If any captain holds dispute, speak now or hold your peace. The constable declared, scanning the crowd and lingering on the present captains.