The crowd waited in anticipation for what Feratu had to say. He took a deep breath and began.
"Yesterday, Kurani was attacked! By an unknown invader from overseas! Our emperor suspected that this might happen, and that’s why we were dispatched here as quickly as possible! However, we arrived too late, and the city suffered significant damage!"
"Oh really? You don’t say!" a citizen shouted.
In an instant, Feratu’s fists ignited in flames, and he locked his gaze on the man as if addressing him directly.
"The commander of the 5th Unit, Fetu, fought the intruder and was defeated! Not only did HE lose the fight, but in his reckless battle, HE destroyed YOUR city! For these crimes, he is now imprisoned inside the garrison!"
Some people in the crowd seemed slightly reassured by this statement, though others were not. It didn’t change their situation, but there was some comfort in knowing that one of the culprits had been caught.
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"The intruder, however, managed to escape last night! And this man here is responsible for that!" Feratu shouted, striking Makon to the ground with his flaming fists.
The loud thud caused many to recoil as Makon’s face hit the now-cracked asphalt.
"He recognized the intruder during his escape! But instead of stopping him, he helped him flee! For these crimes, he too will be imprisoned, where he and Fetu will remain until their punishment is decided. Their verdict will be announced in a few days! Until then, the units that have been deployed to support you will assist in the rebuilding efforts, until they receive new orders and leave! That’s all!"
With that, Feratu grabbed Makon by his cloak and dragged him back into the building.
No one in the crowd dared to speak up. After Feratu’s speech, no one wanted to challenge the army.
Slowly, the crowd dispersed and returned to their tasks.
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Meanwhile, in the rebels’ hideout...
After a surprisingly restful night, Kawao and Koru returned to the cave where they had brought Kenzo the night before.
"Ah! There you are," Sid said, sitting at a table in the center.
"Come, sit down! We have a lot to discuss!"