The Regressed Mercenary’s Machinations

At first glance, Marquis Falkenheim looked like an ordinary middle-aged man. But those who knew his ruthless nature would never judge him by appearances alone.

Receiving Count Swipel’s gifts and message, Falkenheim let out a twisted smile.

“He’s an amusing one. Since he can’t handle it on his own, he’s trying to borrow my power.”

One of his retainers cautiously spoke.

“Should we just wipe them all out?”

“No. Julien’s Mercenary Corps has quite the talent. I should bring them under my command.”

“What kind of offer should we make?”

“If they want territory, give Swipel a small portion of the left wing. As for avenging Count Crest, wiping out Count Swipel, Baron Nodehill, and Baron Raks should be enough.”

“What if they refuse?”

“Refuse? Refuse my army?”

Marquis Falkenheim raised an eyebrow as if the very idea was ridiculous.

He was one of the most powerful figures in the kingdom—who would dare reject his offer?

But his reports did mention that they had even turned down Count Crest’s mistress, which suggested they weren’t as easily manipulated as most mercenaries.

He needed to prepare a contingency plan, just in case.

“If they refuse… then support Count Swipel’s knights and kill them as he wishes. Once we take over Swipel’s lands, we’ll divide the spoils among the vassals who prove themselves.”

“Understood.”

Count Swipel had thought himself clever, but Falkenheim had never intended to spare him.

If a vassal wavered, he had to be made an example of. Maintaining power meant eliminating the weak links.

Julien’s Mercenary Corps had killed Count Crest, but they were just hired soldiers. Accepting them into his ranks wouldn’t tarnish his reputation.

But nobles were different.

Baron Nodehill, Baron Raks, and Count Swipel had to die.@@novelbin@@

Technically, Count Swipel had suggested sparing himself, but Falkenheim had no reason to comply.

“To think he dared make such an insolent proposal… he’s already committed a crime worthy of death.”

If Swipel truly wanted to survive, he should have come to me in person, offered everything he had, and begged for his life.

That was how Marquis Falkenheim saw it.