Chapter 10: A Duel of Personal Vendetta

Draxel felt a sudden flare of annoyance. He had originally planned to wake the man for a conversation, but now, he opted for a more direct approach. With a sharp ‘snap,’ Draxel swiftly drew his Germanic longsword, decapitating the man in a single, fluid motion.

The dawn of the third day arrived.

The sun ascended as always, bathing the continent in its warmth and majesty.

However, today was likely to be an exception for the usually infallible Noyan Tu Lu, accustomed to his plans always succeeding.

Approaching noon, Noyan Tu Lu’s arrogance reached new heights. He ordered his men to bring Draxel’s group from the prison, emphasizing they be careful. Damaging his soon-to-be slaves would diminish their value, an error he would not overlook.

He rode leisurely to the village center, directing the village chief to assemble all villagers to witness this pivotal moment.

Safiya, Owens, and the others, after enduring the oppressive darkness of the grimy prison, found the sunlight almost blinding. Despite looking visibly worn, Safiya’s concerns lay elsewhere.

“Owens, do you think Draxel managed to capture the fugitive?”

“My faith in our lord is unwavering. He will prevail,” Owens affirmed.

His steadfast loyalty and knightly spirit, transparent and honorable, reassured Safiya, solidifying her belief in Draxel’s success.

As the final minute ticked down to their agreed time, a familiar silhouette emerged in the near distance of Xiko Village, a severed head dripping blood at his waist.

“Noyan Tu Lu, come and verify the merchandise,” Draxel spoke, his words laced with a blend of self-assurance and calm.

Noyan Tu Lu’s face was clouded with displeasure, his brows knitted as if under a dense overcast. His eyes, swollen like ice pucks, emitted a frosty glare. His lips quivered, struggling to form words.

Observing the Y-shaped scar on the cheek of the head, Noyan Tu Lu was nearly certain it was the head of the fugitive Brad, exactly as described in the bounty notice – unquestionably authentic.

This head was worth a whole 2000 Denars.

“Excellent, Count. This is Brad’s head, indeed. You’ve succeeded, and I acknowledge it. Now, you can… you can take your forces and safely leave. I wish to see no more of you.”

Noyan Tu Lu had appraised Draxel’s troops; the few ordinary soldiers were perhaps worth only 200-300 Denars. But Safiya, vibrant and astute, had clearly demonstrated her martial capability to the battle-hardened Noyan Tu Lu.

The callouses from her archery, the absence of string marks on her hands indicating meticulous care, all pointed to her being an exceptional bowman.

Noyan Tu Lu saw her as an invaluable asset; a little training, and she’d be a one-woman army on the battlefield.

Missing out on her acquisition, Noyan Tu Lu was filled with bitter regret.

While Draxel was engaged in warm inquiries about the health and spirits of Safiya, Owens, and the others, Noyan Tu Lu’s rage once again found its outlet in the innocent, defenseless villagers.

He lashed out once more, mercilessly whipping the nearby villagers, bellowing, “You wretched rabble, continue your tax payments from last time!”

In that instant, Draxel, who was nearby, erupted in fury. “You promised not to harass the villagers. This is your territory, don’t you have any humanity?”

“Ha, Count, this is my territory, and my word is law. I vowed no violence before your return, not after.”

Despite knowing he was outmatched in combat, Draxel steadfastly issued a challenge for a one-on-one duel with Noyan Tu Lu.

“Noyan Tu Lu, I challenge you to a personal duel with real swords! This is a matter of private grudge, not of our kingdoms.”

“Draxel, what right do you have to challenge me? But fine, I’m a magnanimous man. If I win, however, you must leave Safiya to me.”

“This fight is between us, Safiya has nothing to do with it. Are you going to refuse? How cowardly. If you refuse this duel here in Xiko Village, your reputation will be in ruins.”

This taunt effectively goaded Noyan Tu Lu. Refusing would mean losing face on his own lands. The tale would swiftly spread, and he would be ridiculed for his timidity.

It wouldn’t just be a personal embarrassment, it could sully the Khergit Khanate’s name. Even Khan Sanjar, the Khergit leader, might retaliate by stripping Noyan Tu Lu of his lands in anger.

“Fine, Count. I accept your challenge for an unconditional one-on-one duel.”

Safiya was deeply worried. “Draxel, you’re being too rash. He’s a formidable and merciless warrior from the plains. You…”

“Don’t worry, Safiya. Without taking a risk, how can we know who will emerge victorious?”

Draxel, internally praying, hoped for a boost from the system.

[Recall the prairie wolf meat you acquired? It can significantly enhance your combat strength for a short period.]

Draxel, realizing he hadn’t yet utilized this boon, eagerly checked the item’s details in his backpack.

[Prairie Wolf Meat: Increases your strength, agility, and weapon proficiency by 30% in your next battle.]

After using it, Draxel felt a surge of extraordinary power coursing through him, feeling more vibrant and energetic than ever before.

[Assessment: In your current state, even at my prime, I’d avoid confrontation.]

With a knowing smile, Draxel felt like he was in his moment of glory, surpassing even the most renowned heroes. Grateful to the system, he challenged Noyan Tu Lu, “Let’s have our duel in the heart of Xiko Village.”

Soon, Noyan Tu Lu, Draxel’s group, and the villagers formed a perfect circle, enclosing them in a human wall. All eyes were on the duel, awaiting its fair and just conclusion.

As for how it would end, no one could tell…