The Viscount spoke slowly in a low, husky, magnetic voice, carrying a madness no less intense than the bearded man's.
"This country is on its last legs. As the lord of this territory, I know the taste of betrayal better than you do. I agree with you completely. The current government can no longer keep the country running. We need a revolution."
An icy amusement crept further into the Viscount's voice.
"But those who see clearly are always in the minority. General Freeman Luo, only when I saw you today did I finally see hope. You're right. It doesn't matter whose power we use, so long as it can save this country. I will stop at nothing."
The bearded general's bloodshot eyes widened slightly. He burst into laughter. "Hahaha, you're exactly the kind of ally I need. But..."
The bearded man's tone shifted, becoming accusatory.
"Do you dare swear an oath? Honorable Viscount, swear before God and the Devil Belial!"
Thunder suddenly cracked outside, and rain came roaring down in torrents.
The kerosene lamp's flame flickered in the dim, noisy surroundings.
History reached a great turning point.
The Devil watched the humans before him with blood-red eyes, enjoying the spectacle, yet remaining lofty and remote, like a brand the world shunned at all costs.
Blood-red eyes met dark green pupils. One held utter malice; the other, a calm madness.
Xie De stood and walked forward, step by step. He pronounced every word clearly and precisely. Candlelight fell across his face, his silver hair cascading like a waterfall. Little of his expression could be seen; only his voice could be heard, resolute, leaving himself no way back.
"I, Tyrese Scheid, lord of the territory of Northend in the Grand Duchy of Er'yue, subject of His Majesty, fourth hereditary Viscount of the