Petyr looked at Augustus and snorted. "Augustus, I have always known you have a death wish. But remember this, you are still not my match. With your level of strength, I would've torn you apart long ago if not for your family's protection. That Holtrien man is no pushover. I've already fought him, and he's incredibly strong!"

He continued, "If he were just some weakling, do you think you would have a chance to spout nonsense in front of me? I would've killed him already and drained him dry. But an opponent that powerful? The City of Hope has no reason to provoke him. On the contrary, choosing cooperation is the smartest move.

"He's already agreed to help me transport a shipment through the wilderness, and in return, I won't hold him accountable for what he did here in the City of Hope."

Uriah frowned. "You're letting a Holtrien man help you transport goods through the wilderness? Are you sure he's reliable?"

The red gleam in Petyr's eyes flickered. "Among the foreigners, the Easton