The Hidden Front

Franz's expression remained calm, carrying a worldly-wise composure, as he replied, "My lord, before becoming a soldier, I was the head of a guard for a medium-sized caravan that traveled between the Northern Territory and even into the interior."

"Having worked in this line of work for over a decade, I've traveled to almost every Count and Baron in the Northern Territory, escorting goods for different employers. To ensure the safety of the routes, deal with inspections, and interact with Lord's Residence in various places, I must memorize the coats of arms of important castles along the way, the insignia of Lord families, the layout of major towns, and the course of mountains and rivers."

"This information is my livelihood; it's already etched into my mind."

A look of understanding flashed in Karl's eyes. "I see. No wonder you were able to pinpoint the flaws in their words so accurately."

He paused, a hint of admiration in his voice. "It must be from years of dealing with people and all sorts of people that you've developed the ability to see through people's hearts. I think you should understand why I transferred you from the front-line combat troops to the Intelligence Department, right?"

Franz met his gaze and nodded steadily. "I understand, sir. My... experience and observation skills might only make me a more vigilant soldier in the army's ranks, but here, in the shadows where one needs to distinguish truth from falsehood and see through people's hearts, they should be able to play a greater role."

"Exactly," Karl affirmed. "On the front lines, you might become an invincible Soldier King, but a thousand soldiers are easy to find, but a good general is hard to come by, especially one who can see the way ahead for me in the shadows and distinguish friend from foe."

"On the covert front, your talents can be displayed more fully and crucially. What's needed here is not only courage, but also wisdom, patience, and insight."

"I'm at your beck and call, sir," Franz replied succinctly and firmly, with the obedience characteristic of a soldier. "As long as it's about opposing the Sauron, and ultimately avenging our blood debt, I'm willing to go anywhere and do anything."

Karl stared at him, his tone growing more somber. "Franz, Tommy has given me a general overview of your situation, including your past and that deep-seated hatred."

He paused briefly, his voice steady yet firm, without the slightest beating around the bush. "I must tell you frankly, I am not from the Northern Territory, and my family never experienced the tragedy of being slaughtered by the Sauron. Therefore, if I were to say that I can 'empathize' with your pain, it would be hypocritical politeness and disrespect for the suffering you have endured."

Franz's pupils contracted slightly, but his expression remained calm. Only his hands, resting on his knees, unconsciously clenched tighter as he quietly awaited the Lord's next words.

Karl's gaze fell on Franz, and he continued, "We may come from different pasts and carry different wounds. But one thing I'm certain of is that our goals are completely aligned and unbreakable."

His voice suddenly rose. "I will kill the Sauron, I will drive these barbarians who bring destruction and death from the lands of the Northern Territory, I will annihilate this tribe that constantly creates tragedy! This is the vow and ultimate goal I, Karl von Schmidt, as Lord Carnford!"

He leaned forward, closing the distance between himself and Franz, and asked, word by word, "So, Franz, are you willing to use your methods, your talents, to help me, so that together we can accomplish this goal? To pave the way for righteous revenge with a sword gleaming in the shadows?"

Franz's chest heaved violently, and he abruptly stood up, this time with a release of long-suppressed emotions. He knelt on one knee again, and when he raised his head, his eyes burned with a blazing fire, a fire ignited by hatred, identification, and resolve.

"My lord!" His voice was hoarse with excitement, yet exceptionally clear and resolute. "I, Franz, hereby swear! I will follow you with my life until the Sauron are utterly buried! This vow will never waver!"

This time, Karl didn't immediately make him stand up, but instead looked at him deeply, as if trying to etch this vow into their souls.

"Alright! I've got it." Karl said in a deep voice, "Get up, Franz. From now on, you are the hidden blade that Carnford will use to pierce the heart of the Sauron. Richter will tell you exactly what to do."

"Yes, sir!" Franz replied emphatically, stood up, saluted again, then turned and strode away.

His steps were more steady than when he arrived, as if he had found a new center of gravity and direction.

As Karl watched him leave, he knew that this was not just a simple personnel change, but a deeper covenant with a soul tempered by hatred.

This battlefront, hidden beneath the light, is destined to be even more brutal and deadly.

After Franz left, only Karl and Richter remained in the room for the time being.

After a brief silence, Richter stepped forward and raised a problem that needed to be addressed. "Sir, there's one more thing. After days of interrogation, we've extracted almost all the valuable information about the spy we initially captured, and he's basically no longer of any use. So... what should we do with him?"

Upon hearing this, Karl said coldly, "Since they're useless, then kill them."

"Take him to the most central and busiest open space in the Shantytown Area, and publicly behead him. Have someone announce his identity as a spy and his crimes in public, so that everyone can see clearly what happens to Sauron spy who betrays Carnford! The purpose is to make an example of him and deter those who might be lurking or who might be bribed in the future."

Finally, he added a chilling order, "After the execution, hang the body on a flagpole and leave it exposed for three days to enhance the deterrent effect."

Richter was not surprised by the order. His expression was solemn, and he nodded heavily. "Yes, sir! I understand! I will arrange and carry it out immediately!"