Having successfully made an example of one to warn the others, Hudson observed a notable shift in the gazes of those around him. There was more awe, but a touch less familiarity.
For a general, building prestige is an inevitable step. If the army was not teeming with influential nobles and the situation not so complex, he would not have tolerated them for over half a year before taking action.
What seemed to be only a moment of indiscretion on Duke Pias's part, in fact, was the result of a plan targeting him, which had been in the works for half a year.
Since Hudson began serving as the chief commander of the Kingdom Army, he had been hinting to Duke Pias of his intent for retribution.
The unknown always breeds anxiety. Duke Pias had been prepared for imminent payback, yet it never seemed to come, and thus his mind was tortured.
Despite his strong will, after being tormented for months, even his resolve crumbled. However, the Duke had failed to recognize his own breakdown.
