At this point, Manus paused. Looking at the expressions on everyone's faces, he said coldly, "I don't know which of you serve Gamongri, or which of you serve the other Deputy Commanders, but the Third Legion's miserable state is right here before you."
"Go inform those you secretly swear loyalty to. Tell them to prepare more strength, more troops, and bury the Human Ninth Legion in the Kamo Tribe Territory."
"Now get the hell out."
At his words, everyone bowed in salute before leaving the hall.
Before long, only Manus and Bartholomew remained in the entire hall.
"What, here to watch me make a fool of myself?"
Turning to glance at his brother-in-law in name, Manus spoke without expression.
Hearing this, Bartholomew bowed slightly and said, "A temporary defeat is not frightening. What is frightening is becoming trapped in the shadow of defeat and being unable to escape."
Manus snorted at Bartholomew's advice. "I understand that better than you do. So, do you have anything else to report?"
Hearing that, Bartholomew opened his mouth, then abandoned the thought of offering further advice. Lowering his head, he said, "I shall take my leave."
Watching Bartholomew depart, a complicated look flashed through Manus's eyes. He murmured, "Bartholomew, I'll be watching you. Always watching you."
Outside the hall, a Low-Gold Black Asia Orc stood by the entrance with a hand over his face. Upon seeing Bartholomew, he hurriedly lowered his head in salute.
"You are the City Lord here?"
"Yes, my lord."
The Low-Gold Black Asia Orc answered cautiously, terrified of angering the man before him.
Bartholomew looked at the palm print on his face and waved a hand, drawing out the power hidden within it.
Feeling the swelling pain vanish, the Low-Gold Black Asia Orc lowered his head and said gratefully, "Thank