The Strong Should Rule the Weak

"Long time no see, Second Prince." The Simulacrum chuckled softly and waved a hand, causing the portal to vanish.

Emmanuel wore black armor without a helmet. His face was gaunt, and grease stained the corner of his mouth; he had clearly been eating just moments ago.

But it was not mealtime.

"Anser Horleywen!" He glanced at the fading portal, then calmly surveyed his surroundings, his gaze full of vigilance.

"Rare that you still remember me." The Simulacrum imitated Anser, smiling gently.

Back in Brarr Rock City, Anser had fought this Second Prince and taken a shield from him.

"You want to kill me?" Emmanuel floated quietly within the Ethereal Plane, making no attempt to flee at once.

"Why did those Beastmen capable of turning into dinosaurs launch a revolt?" the Simulacrum asked.

"A revolt? How laughable!" Emmanuel curled his lips into what seemed like a smile, yet his entire presence grew several degrees colder.

He sized up the Simulacrum, smiling without smiling. "I always thought you were an upright Paladin. Now it seems... heh."

The Simulacrum said nothing. Even its expression did not change.

Seeing this, Emmanuel continued, "The Emerald Plains were originally the habitat of dinosaurs. This branch of Beastmen also traces its bloodline back to Faerun. They have lived here for thousands of years. The dragons are the invaders—"

The Simulacrum raised a hand, cutting him off. "I have no interest in that. I also don't think Bane's Chosen of God should dwell on such distant history."

"True, but I was merely explaining the Beastmen's legitimacy." Emmanuel nodded slightly. "You should understand. I am only helping the Beastmen resist decay and reclaim their ancestral homeland."

"You're quite good at twisting concepts," the Simulacrum said flatly. "The Green Dragon Queen is gone. The Emerald Kingdom has already installed a