The bleak night wind threaded through the riverside woods like the fingers of a ghost, making the leaves shiver. The cries of birds and insects fell silent, leaving only a rustling sound, like invisible footsteps moving through the forest. A strong scent of blood lingered in the air. The battle on the road—or rather, the one-sided slaughter—had ended some time ago when a shadow finally detached itself from behind an upright tree trunk. She cautiously approached the roadside and stared blankly at the place where the battle had taken place.
She had never dreamed things would turn out like this. She had originally thought the Cultists would take that detestable woman away, while she stood by without intervening. Everything had been within her expectations.
Yet she had witnessed an earth-shaking change. Even now, she still did not know whether the person who had slaughtered everyone like a cold-blooded monster was truly the Merchant's Daughter, who normally looked so foolish that it was almost contemptible.
What kind of monster was she?
Delphine drew a deep breath. The thick stench of blood rushed into her nose, and a wave of nausea suddenly surged in her chest.
She clenched her teeth and forced herself to forget about it.
Although she tried her best to remain calm, and the overall direction of events had not strayed too far from her expectations, her hands were trembling slightly for some reason. She was afraid. Clearly, this was an emotion others rarely saw in her.
Ever since she had effectively taken control of her family, Delphine had thought there was nothing left for her to fear. She had buried those overly soft and unnecessary sentiments long ago. Men were ruthless, but she was even more resolute and merciless than they were.
Revenge was no different.
There was