The barrel was cold, while the gun itself was exquisitely crafted, clearly no mass-produced weapon. The seemingly decorative patterns on it told Runkal that this matchlock possessed Extraordinary Power.
Without a doubt, it was an excellent weapon.
Of course, it would have been even better if it hadn't been pressed against his forehead.
"I think there may have been a misunderstanding!"
With both hands raised high, Runkal spoke quietly but distinctly, keeping his body absolutely still.
He didn't want a hole blown through his head.
Nor did he risk resisting someone who had appeared behind him without a sound.
Whatever the other man had done, or whatever he had used to do it, he now held an overwhelming advantage and complete control. As for Runkal?
As someone with a healthy awareness of his own limitations, he knew how to cooperate in exchange for a chance to survive.
In fact, he did it often.
"A misunderstanding?"
"I don't think so."
"Why were you watching Holruf?"
Qin Ran's voice was icy, filled with murderous intent.
It wasn't feigned, but genuine killing intent, enough to instantly coat Runkal's forehead in fine beads of cold sweat.
Holruf?
He isn't here because of Viscount Sika, Withered Branch, Sleeping Deer, Decayed Water, and Mist?
The unexpected question caught Runkal off guard, leaving him momentarily stunned.
That earned him rough treatment from Qin Ran.
He raised a foot and kicked Runkal in the neck.
The kick was vicious, yet its passage through the air sounded like a snake's hiss.
Hiss! Hiss!
Amid the hissing, streams of air surged with the kick, like venomous snakes darting out of the grass and biting at Runkal's exposed skin.
Thud!
When the top of Qin Ran's foot struck his neck, Runkal collapsed as though struck by lightning.
That kick had nearly