Chapter 38.5: Prey? Hunter? |
......
Looking at Jonas before her, Liliana lightly covered her mouth and let out a soft laugh: "Is sister that beautiful?"
Her voice was gentle with a hint of teasing, yet a barely perceptible surprise flashed through her eyes.
Though her expression remained relaxed, even somewhat alluring, a trace of astonishment welled up deep inside.
For the first time, her ability had failed—she couldn't peer into the desires within this young man's heart.
Jonas's gaze swept over Liliana before glancing at the information his system provided, his lips curling slightly: "Indeed beautiful. There might not be anyone in this entire region who could compare to you."
Liliana froze momentarily at these words.
The young man opposite her had deep, penetrating eyes.
They gave her the strange sensation of facing a hunter.
She inwardly chuckled, finding the thought somewhat amusing.
How could someone of his age be a "hunter"?
Still, he was rather good-looking.
With a graceful sway of her waist, she elegantly pulled a chair closer to Jonas.
Tilting her head slightly upward to meet his gaze, her eyes carried a hint of provocation.
Her right hand lightly brushed against Jonas's back, fingertips registering warmth, her breath carrying a faint scent of wine as her voice softened:
"Which territory do you hail from? You're not bad-looking~"
Jonas smiled faintly, amusement glinting in his eyes.
Suddenly, he reached out and firmly grasped Liliana's hand in one decisive motion.
His voice lowered: "My name is Jonas.
And I find you quite interesting, Miss Liliana."
"You...you're Jonas?" Liliana's voice carried surprise.
No sooner had she spoken than Jonas abruptly yanked her forward.
The forceful motion made her body lurch uncontrollably, her chest bumping against the table's edge.
"Ah—" She instinctively gasped, brows furrowing slightly as a pained expression flickered across her face.
The blond man's unyielding demeanor combined with the dull ache in her chest stirred unfamiliar ripples within her.
"Let...let go!"
Liliana tried to break free.
But Jonas merely smiled: "Don't worry, Miss Liliana. I'll come find you later."
An S-rank talent with such skills—he wouldn't let this opportunity slip away.
And her personality traits were rather intriguing.
Having said this, Jonas gradually released his grip, the restraining force vanishing abruptly.
Liliana staggered, steadying herself against the table as she regarded the man's meaningful smile.
Complex emotions swirled in her eyes.
She suddenly regretted provoking this man.
The lingering warmth on her fingertips mingled with the dull pain in her chest, evoking peculiar sensations she couldn't quite name.
.......
Soon enough, Kodaga Jonson arrived at the head of the round table.
After surveying the room, his gaze finally settled on Jonas.
"From the Regin Family—this must be Young Master Jonas, I presume?"
Jonas nodded: "Indeed."
"Well done. Worthy of someone under my command."
Jonas didn't respond, merely observing his surroundings.
He'd already investigated the situation beforehand—numerous swordsmen and mages were positioned to control everyone at this meeting at a moment's notice.
The lord definitely had ulterior motives.
But given his current strength, he could afford to play along.
Upon hearing Jonas's acknowledgment, the room erupted in murmurs.
Every leader couldn't help but glance over, surprised by how young this Jonas appeared.
Was this really the man who had led a mere few thousand troops to decimate the feared Destiny Army that made nobles tremble?
...
Kodaga Jonson got straight to the point: "Everyone else is acquainted, so I won't bother with introductions.
The current situation is clear to all.
With the Destiny Army pressing at our borders, we must unite all available forces. Therefore, I expect you to merge your troops under Tars City's command.
No more fighting separately.
As for Young Master Jonas—given your outstanding performance,
I wish to appoint you as Tars City's chief retainer.
This is an honor for you."
....