Lord of the Time: I Can Reincarnate Infinitely

Chapter 218 218 Fear

In the opulent halls of Black Tower Manor, a round table hosted three Dukes, three Marquises, and a handful of Viscounts. The air was heavy with an air of authority, and each noble sat with an aura of influence.

Duke Martin, a middle-aged man with a salt-and-pepper beard, took the lead in the conversation. Beside him, Duke Reginald, a robust man with a stern expression, nodded as the discussion unfolded. Duke Martin spoke, "Gentlemen, the matter at hand is crucial. We have a potential threat in our midst, and we must address it promptly."

Seated across the table was Duke Harrington, an elderly noble with a regal air. To his left, Marquis Montague, a wiry man with sharp features, listened intently. On the other side sat Marquis Bartholomew, a portly figure with a jovial demeanor.

Duke Martin continued, "His name is Johan, a Destiny who has made significant strides in a short span. He wields the shadow path, and our sources suggest he may become a considerable force."

Duke Reginald interjected, "I've heard reports of his proficiency in using the abilities of shadow path. A unique skill set, indeed. But should we view him as a threat, or can we exploit his abilities for our benefit?"

Duke Harrington, tapping his cane, chimed in, "We must assess the risk he poses. Is he a potential ally or a ticking time bomb waiting to disrupt our delicate balance?"

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Marquis Montague, studying the papers before him, added, "His prowess in the shadow path is a double-edged sword. It grants him an advantage, but it also makes him unpredictable. We must consider whether we can control such an element."

Duke Martin surveyed the room before raising the crucial question, "Shall we eliminate him? Or can we manipulate his talents for our gain? The balance of power is at stake."

Duke Martin finally spoke, his voice carrying the weight of authority, "We shall monitor this Johan closely. For now, let us refrain from drastic measures. If his actions align with our interests, we may find a use for him. However, should he prove to be a threat, we shall not hesitate to eliminate him."

Duke Martin shifted his gaze toward the expansive table where Dukes Reginald and Harrington, along with Marquis Montague, Marquis Bartholomew, and the Viscounts, deliberated on the matter of Johan and the shadow path. A heavy air of uncertainty permeated the room as the nobles exchanged cautious glances.

Duke Martin, his features etched with a mix of contemplation and concern, spoke with a measured tone, "Considering the gravity of this situation, it might be prudent to seek the opinion of the King. His guidance could provide clarity on how to handle this matter."

The mere mention of the word "King" hung in the air like an unspoken dread. The atmosphere in the room froze, and an unspoken tension settled among the assembled nobles. The King, a tyrant, the strongest man, and commanding a powerful army, cast a shadow over every discussion.

Viscount Ashton, usually confident and assertive, visibly hesitated. Marquis Bartholomew's stern expression faltered for a moment, betraying a flicker of anxiety. Even Dukes Reginald and Harrington exchanged uneasy glances, aware of the implications of involving the King in what seemed like a localized issue.

The room remained silent, with subtle cues of reluctance and fear etched on each noble's face. Body language spoke louder than words as an unspoken consensus formed among them—the King was an option they were reluctant to consider.

Breaking the stillness, Viscount Bolton, his voice tinged with caution, finally spoke, "Duke Martin, involving the King in such a matter might be excessive. It could draw unnecessary attention to our internal affairs. Surely, we can resolve this issue among ourselves."

Duke Martin, sensing the collective apprehension, weighed the arguments. The prospect of invoking the King's judgment loomed over them, a decision fraught with implications. After a moment of contemplation, he nodded slowly, conceding to the prevailing sentiment.

"Very well," Duke Martin conceded, "We shall handle this matter within our jurisdiction. The King need not be burdened with such a minor concern. Let us proceed with our deliberations and monitor Johan's actions closely."

The room's atmosphere eased slightly, a collective sigh of relief barely audible. The unspoken fear of involving the King had been temporarily averted. The nobles resumed their discussion,