Traitors had to die, but before judgment was passed, the Count of Hot Spring was not killed—only captured. Then began the effort to win over the knights of his territory. Punishing the traitor was merely a pretext; what Liszt truly wanted were Hot Spring Island's resources, both material and human.
The Hot Spring Island Count's betrayal had given him the perfect excuse to plunder those resources openly.
At that moment, standing in the cellar and looking over the dazzling array of treasures, Liszt asked the Count of Hot Spring, whose hands and feet were bound, with great interest.
"The Eagle Kingdom truly spared no expense. They gave you so many treasures. I often visited the Tulip Family's cellar, yet not even a tenth of its treasures could compare with yours. Tell me, when did they win you over and plant you as a spy in the Sapphire Grand Duchy?"
"Your Highness, I am willing to offer all my wealth to you, and my family and I are willing to follow you for life!" the Count of Hot Spring hurriedly said.
"And then? Continue being a spy?"
"How could that be, Your Highness? I truly wish to turn over a new leaf. I will start anew and follow you with unwavering loyalty forever!"
This sort of bullshit was truly meaningless, yet the Count of Hot Spring had no choice but to say it, even if there was only the slightest chance of earning forgiveness. But Liszt did not care about any of his declarations. Bargaining with a dead man was beneath him, especially when he was a true Dragon Rider.
"When did you become the Eagle Kingdom's inside man?"
"Ten years ago. When my son took part in the Pioneer Order war, he was captured by the Eagle Kingdom. From then