"Nozomi, why did you let that young man go? And why did you make me say those things to him? We can't really sell any demi-humans to him. We may have fooled him for now, but what about in three days? It doesn't solve anything."
"Hahaha! Roland, it seems you haven't understood Sister Nozomi's intention yet." A robust and cheerful voice rang out as another demi-human approached.
This was a demi-human of the 'Bear' race, with a large body and strong muscles.
"Wait a minute! Shan, are you saying..." Roland, suddenly enlightened, his eyes lit up.
"Exactly, big sister obviously wants to turn the tables and teach that arrogant guy a lesson!"
As the triumphant voice echoed, a third demi-human emerged from the shadows. She clenched her fists, and although not as muscular as the bear one, she was still robust and agile - a female 'Tiger' Jiu.
Following Jiu was the last one, hissing softly, wearing glasses, and looking scholarly, suggesting he played a 'tank' role. His green scales and slender tongue marked him as a member of the 'Snake-race'.
These four demi-humans were clearly the leadership of the revolutionary army, discussing the plan with Roland.
"I've already sent someone to check, and that young man was telling the truth. The deed to the mansion is real. He's probably some rich noble's son from outside, and a wealthy one at that."
The scholarly snake young man, adjusting his glasses, was the first to report. After hearing his words, Jiu, the female Tiger, let out a scoff.
"Hmph, what does it matter if he's rich? These Country's nobles are all the same fools. Buying an old mansion for such a high price, they don't even realize how much they're overpaying."
"Being foolish is good for us. The stupider he is, the more advantageous it is for our next plan," the Bear man named Shan agreed.Continue reading on N0 VêLbIn
"Wait! Hold on a second, are you planning to... take action against him?"
Roland finally found an opportunity to interject, followed by Nozomi, the Fox lady, who spoke:
"Roland, we can't always trouble you by hiding here. We've been dormant for too long, and it's time to take action. Our original plan was to target a corrupt official in Sealed City soon, but now it seems... we have a better target."
"Right, right, hiding any longer and my body will start to rust. I need to kill a few corrupt officials to cure my sickness. But if Sister Nozomi thinks that noble young man is a better target, then let's start with him as an appetizer!" Jiu theatrically clenched her fists together.
"I agree. Also, there's another point: the fake revolutionary army impersonating us has been too prominent lately. They're going too far, targeting civilians. The more silent we are, the more rampant they become, quickly tarnishing our reputation."
"According to my recent investigations, many humans who were willing to support us have turned against us because of this. Even many of our brethren who are still in the dark are starting to doubt us. This can't go on. We need to make a big move, then declare our intentions to the world, to regain the image of the revolutionary army!"
The Snake man's voice grew more passionate as he spoke, highlighting his emphasis on the importance of 'image.'
"Alright, since everyone agrees on this plan, the next step is to figure out how to implement it. When he comes back, do we just... take him out right here?"
Shan was the first to suggest a straightforward approach. Jiu, who shared his direct nature, also seemed quite satisfied with this idea.
Unfortunately, Leng, the Snake man, shook his head in disagreement: "No, we can't act here. It's too dangerous. If the Dragon Gate Army traces it back to us, our hideout will be directly exposed."
"If we're going to take action, it has to be in his house. Moreover, by doing so, we'll be hitting the fake revolutionary army in the face. It also sends a message to the public that the true revolutionary army, even if we rob or kill, only targets the houses of the nobles and corrupt officials, never harming civilians!"
"Yes, Leng is right. I was thinking the same. First, we pretend to sell one of our own to that young man. Then, our comrade inside can gather information on the layout and security of the young noble's mansion. Later, under the cover of night, we strike from both inside and out. This not only enhances our reputation but also greatly boosts our financial resources."
"Yes, pinky swear!"
After seeing the children obediently retreat, the black cat girl finally had a chance to turn her attention back to the adults in the meeting.
Noticing their looks of sympathy and reluctance directed at her, Ashe smiled lightly and shook her head.
"I've heard everything from the back. I'll take on this mission."
"Ashe..."
Jiu was the first to break, rushing over to hug the black cat girl. Shan sighed heavily, turning away, unable to bear watching.
Emotions were important, but Leng stepped forward, gesturing for Jiu to let go. His cold serpentine eyes met Ashe's as he spoke earnestly:
"Ashe, this operation is crucial for us. It's pivotal to our future, so... you must understand what I mean. For our future, some necessary sacrifices are inevitable. You must be mentally prepared. Our future is in your hands now."
"Yes, don't worry, brother Leng, and everyone else."
The black cat girl nodded emphatically, her gaze sweeping over all the members of the revolutionary army present, the demi-humans forced to wear collars, and the recently seen emaciated children. Ashe clenched her hand hidden in her sleeve, solemnly promising:
"I will do it."
"I will seize the future for us all!"
....
....
The next day, at Renji's mansion, his pager rang before dawn. When Renji answered, a familiar voice came through.
"Mr. Renji, the new merchandise you requested was prepared urgently last night. However, due to the tight timeframe, I couldn't find as many slaves that meet your requirements, so there's only one this time."
"Don't worry, though the quantity is small, the quality is assured because she is a... Cat girl!"
Roland, calling Renji, sounded casual, but in reality, he was extremely nervous. The members of the demi-human revolutionary army around him also felt a heavy weight in their hearts.
The most critical part of their plan hinged on Renji accepting this slave. Without an inside agent, they couldn't ascertain Renji's specifics, and the risk of their operation would increase significantly.
After a brief silence on the other end of the line, Renji's voice came through, carrying a frivolous tone laced with mockery.
"Ah, Roland."
"How did you know my favorite type is a cat-girl~?"
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Well, this chapter counts as 2 chapters XD? NO....