He waved his hand and pointed at the seven people behind him before straightening up. “Among the various nations, there are many powerful figures coveting the legitimate rule of Central State. Besides the four lords, there are still many others eyeing us greedily. If Your Highness truly wishes to help us revitalize Central State, then I, David Wood, can swear an oath here and now to assist Your Highness in achieving great things!” As he spoke, he suddenly dropped to his knees, touching his forehead to the ground. “For the long-cherished wish in my heart, I have long since put life and death aside. If gods stand in my way, I’ll slay gods; if demons block me, I’ll slay demons! As long as we can accomplish great things, even if Your Highness resents me for a lifetime, I will accept it willingly!” He bowed deeply to the ground, so deeply that no one could see his expression.

Henry Linton almost instinctively sensed a surge of danger. Though he had yet to find his footing, he had witnessed and heard of countless palace intrigues and power struggles, so how could he easily trust David Wood's words? He could tell that it was precisely his performance before King Hua Jiang Li and the ministers, as well as the resolve he had just shown, that made this dangerous man take him seriously. Nervously searching through all his memories and experiences, he replied almost subconsciously, “David Wood, saying such things now is nothing but empty talk. Now that I have set foot on this path, there is no reason to turn back. Even if I neglect my duties, do you think the minions of the four lords will let me go?”

He saw David Wood's back move slightly and knew the other was at least somewhat satisfied with this answer. However, Henry Linton also understood that the two of them had already formed a grudge in their earlier confrontation. If he pretended to let everything go, it would only make him seem even more scheming. “But you kidnapped my parents, used force to threaten me, and the seventy-two lives lost at Zhao Village must also be counted on your head. I, Henry Linton, distinguish clearly between kindness and enmity. These matters will definitely be settled with you in the future!” He slammed his hand hard on the armrest and sprang to his feet, his face flushed red, his eyes blazing with boundless anger. At this moment, he completely forgot he was only acting; his fists were already clenching with a cracking sound.

The seven envoys almost simultaneously let out a sigh of relief. Although Henry Linton's performance far exceeded their expectations, his words alone showed he was still just a child. They glanced at David Wood, who was still bowing on the ground, and then slowly knelt as well. “Your Highness, we can vouch that every word Mr. Wood said is true. As long as Your Highness does your utmost to win the submission of the nations to the king’s way, after it is accomplished, we are willing to give our lives for those innocent villagers who died!” one of them declared, bowing heavily, and the others quickly echoed in agreement. In that instant, they seemed to forget that Henry Linton was just an impostor, their eyes full of hope. Yet how much sincerity was in those words, no one could say for sure.

Chapter 9: The Deal

Samuel Linton and his wife had been under house arrest in the Yiyou Palace on the south side of the Qinzun Hall for six whole days. Although they wore fine silk garments and their hair was neatly combed, their faces were as pale as death. Ever since they had been brought to this luxurious yet prison-like palace, neither had slept a single peaceful night; even when faced with fine wine and delicacies, they found no taste in them. Having seen their son covered in blood with their own eyes that day, how could they possibly be at ease? So even though David Wood promised that Henry Linton would be safe and sound, they still spent each day in anxious waiting, as if it were a year.

The The Linton Couple were not an ordinary hunter’s family. Although Samuel Linton had never studied, he had traveled among the nations in his youth and made a name for himself with his bow and arrows, until he met Charles King. Charles King was the illegitimate daughter of a wealthy family, but after her father’s death, she was driven out and nearly ended up on the streets, only to be rescued by Samuel Linton. The two fell in love at first sight and settled in Zhao Village, but life only grew harder, and the light faded from Charles King’s face. Even so, their experience was far beyond that of ordinary villagers. Just from the speech and manners of the attendants serving them, they knew that what they were witnessing was no ordinary affair.

The palace doors creaked open softly, but the The Linton Couple no longer had the heart to investigate. These days, apart from the trusted attendants and maids sent by David Wood, only David Wood and his seven companions would occasionally come to check on them and ask about Henry Linton. Over time, they no longer dared hope to see their son soon, only praying in secret that Henry Linton would be safe.

“Father, Mother!” The The Linton Couple, still lost in thought, finally heard a familiar voice and instantly turned their heads, eyes wide with disbelief. “钧如!” As soon as they called out, Henry Linton rushed forward and grabbed their arms. Although Henry Linton knew their warmth and affection were meant for the original owner of this body, he couldn’t help but feel a deep attachment. For someone who had been all but abandoned by his parents in his previous life, familial love was the rarest thing of all—and his only support.