Novel Bin Chapter 14: jealousy, jealousy
Chapter 14: jealousy, jealousy
Kayson let me double on his beautiful apple-red chopper to the trial. Streaking through the city like a comet in the night sky. I felt better on account of Suzakis healing, but was still a mess; blood sprayed across my jacket, bags under my eyes, and a bit hungover. I was riding the wave of fate, and aside from burning hate for a murderous prick in my chest, there wasnt much fuel left.
We arrived at the Brass Kings favorite parkthe Shinto Shrine in Chen-Squarepacked with delinquents wearing our jackets. Each division proudly on display. Kayson steadied me with a hand on my shoulder as I climbed off his bike. For what its worth, I and my squad dont believe youre to blame. If I were you, Id keep my mouth shut about Tristan. I doubt theyll believe you, and itll weaken your position.
Means fuck all, dont it? If were lettingem get away with murder?
He shrugged, not giving me the answer I wanted. We cut past the crowd of Brassincluding a few captains and lieutenantsright to the constable gathered right at the lacquered red shrine, all under the gaze of the Stalwart Immortal. The man had a streak of blond dye in his hair and beady eyes that made my skin crawl. Tristan stood next to him, his eyes stabbing into me.
The constable jerked his finger towards a spot before the shrine. My cue. Kayson disappeared into the crowd of Seventh Division. Leaving me to face justice on my own terms.
You can bend when faced with fire. Or you can toughen up. I squared my shoulders, and met Tristans hostile glare, striding before the whole of the Brass Kings to my assigned spot. This bastard murdered our Captain. Id be damned if he got away with it. Tristan frowned as he saw something in my expression he didnt care for.
Luca Cavicchi, warrior of the Fourth Division, subordinate to Tristan March? asked the constable. The side conversations petered out as the crowd listened.
Ya, thats me, I said.
I will ask you a series of questions regarding the death of your Captain, Till Astren. Do you swear to answer completely, and without lie, under the eyes of the Stalwart Immortal?VIsit n0(v)eLb(i)n.𝘤𝑜𝓂 for the best novel reading experience
It was a heavy oath. But I didnt plan to lie. I met the constables beady eyes, looking away from the psychopath for the first time. I swear.
You were reported fleeing the scenedirectly at a moment during the clash with the Crimson Eagles. These actions reportedly led to the death of your captain. Do you understand the severity of this charge?
Bullshit! He was bleeding out on the floor before I even started to run! I jabbed a finger at Tristan. Because that psycho stabbed him in the back! a gasp from the crowd. The constables eyes widened.
You dare to level such a serious accusation against your superior?
I aint lying. Thats what fucking happened.
Tristan shook his head and sighed, Such a waste of time. Of course, the first thing Luca does is to deny responsibility, but to go so far as to accuse me of killing him?! I know youre a filthy coward, but thats low, even for you. If it werent for you, Captain Till would still be alive. Where is your shame? FineIf we must. I call my first witness, he gestured to one of my squad members. A bulky guy with bleached hair and a long nose. He lumbered up and bowed his head. Please tell the constable what you saw.
Tristan told Luca to defend the captain. I turn aroundand the captains leaking on the floor. Fucked up and gasping. Meanwhile, the runt is pushing out the exit! I ground my teeth, taking every bit of my willpower not to walk up and punch the lying fuck.
Its worse, Im afraid this horrible subordinate has a history of self-serving interests and ineptitudeplease, Ramson, tell us what you witnessed Luca do at the gambling den a few days prior. Tristan said.
I noticed that the constable didnt interrupt; wasnt this his fucking investigation?
Cheated a game ran by our boys. Lied to the lieutenant. So we punished him.
Tristan nodded, and the constable stroked his chin. And how would you describe his overall presence in the squad? Tristan asked.
Useless, narcissistic, and unreliable.
I believe that is enough. The constable said. Tristan looked at him with a small smile.
Are you sure? I have more men willing to testify if youd like.
The constable slowly shook his head. I felt a tangible weight in the air as the constables eyes latched on me. My Soul Seed resonated, this guy was a cultivator. Someone with a high level. My tongue felt like leadkeeping me from protesting.
That wont be necessary. For brevity, Ill assume their testimony rings similar. Ive already asked a few pointed questions ahead of his arrival. Further theatrics arent needed. Luca. His eyes snapped to me. We shall not be pressing into this matter of cheating at our gambling den, as it appears your lieutenant already dished out punishment. However, now is your one chance to explain your act of cowardice which directly lead to the death of Captain Till; may the Immortals whisper his name to the heavens.
At this he took a sad look at the shrinethe eyes leaving me felt like taking a thousand-pound weight off my back.
I cleared my throat, trying to gather myself together. Tristan Tristan killed the Captain. I ran because I was afraid hed do the same to me. They lied for him. Hes a fucking psychoand frankly, I cant even blame them for lying. Id be afraid to say anything else too. I ran since I thought hed come shank me next, and Im sure they think the same too.
The pressure cut me off from any further words as the constables intent hardened. His face grew red, and I found it hard to stand properly.
Tristan Marsh is a man in good standing. Before you say anything dumber, I will it clear the second reason Im here, and why Ive asked the other captains to attend; by the will of the Viceroy, Tristan Marsh is officially appointed as the Captain of the Fourth Division. Motherfucker. Our blooming war with the Crimson Eagles requires strong leaders to push for our revenge and territory. Tristan has shown himself capable over the last few months. There is no room for dissonance in our ranks, and war is no place for a coward. Eyes riddled with pure disgust lingered on me. Ive heard enough. By my ruling, this useless bag of trash is to be exiled.
Blood left my face. This was bad, real bad. Being exiled without a pardon meant both me and my family were free game for any of these fucks to go after. The dangerous glint in Tristans expression told me he knew that very well.
Before my judgment is carried out, per our traditions, I now offer the rite to challenge my ruling. If any captain holds dispute, speak now or hold your peace. The constable declared, scanning the crowd and lingering on the present captains.