The Guardian's Return by Old Pumpkin

Chapter 314

Julius and George finally understood what was going on. The village was engaged in stone quarrying, and the reason for their large population was due to the influx of workers coming here to work.

Nico then asked, "Whose decision was it to build this road? Was it Ethan Rivers?"

Julius shook his head. "No, it wasn't Ethan. He's been missing for some time now. It was Stephen Quinn's decision."

Hearing that, Nico was momentarily stunned before his heart raced with excitement. From that sentence alone, he picked up two major pieces of information. First, Ethan Rivers was still missing; second, Stephen Quinn had arrived! It meant he could finally put his plans into motion!

Many years ago, his older brother, Lars had made a fortune through pillaging, over- mining, and reckless deforestation. However, since they knew the nearby forests like the back of his hand, no one could catch him.

That was until Ethan Rivers showed up three years ago.

Three years ago, they had received news a few days in advance that Ethan Rivers was heading to Hill City to arrest Lars, the village chief at the time. Lars and some villagers decided to evade capture by hiding in the mountains.

all, he had assisted Lars in many of his operations. However, as Nico had never been fully involved in Lars' operations, Lars

had elderly parents to care for, and his wife and son could

Ethan's arrival, they managed to prepare ample supplies in advance and headed into the

with him, but on the first day of his arrival, he ordered the village to be locked down. No one was allowed to come or go.

search, only a handful were Ethan's men. The others were the fugitives' parents,

being Lars's brother, was among

we find

I'm

1/2

are prepared for the long haul, but your loved ones might not be able

out.

by, but seeing their loved ones dragged into the search was even more agonizing for them. After just two days, some among them were already

to keep those people in check through violence. However, on the third day, news spread that some fugitives'

down before fleeing the mountains to turn themselves in. Not only that, but they

getting Lars's location, Ethan did not head into the mountains