They Hated Me in My First Life, But Now I Have the Love System

Chapter 338: Someone Betrayed Us… But Who?

“Are we really just going to stand here and let him betray us like that?” Karen asked, her voice sharp, angry.

The others didn’t respond. The weight of the situation was too much for words.

The guard led John through the dim halls of the castle, his footsteps echoing off the cold stone floor. Tension hung in the air like a storm cloud ready to break. After a short wait at the grand entrance, the doors to the throne room creaked open.

“Your Highness,” the guard announced with a bow, “this prisoner claims to have valuable information.”

King Eglon sat lazily on his golden throne, drumming his fingers on the armrest. His eyes sharpened with interest. “I see,” he said, his voice smooth but laced with threat. “So, how useful is this little secret of yours? And what do you want in return?”

John stood tall, hiding the guilt storming inside him. He locked eyes with the king for a few seconds, then answered steadily, “I know about a much bigger plan. One that none of your spies and cameras have caught. Bigger than just this rescue mission, something that could ruin you if it succeeds.”

King Eglon leaned forward, intrigued. “Go on.”

“I want freedom,” John said firmly. “Mine… and the others’. All of us.”

King Eglon burst into a laugh, low and mocking. “Freedom?” He shook his head, smiling coldly. “You’re asking for too much. What, you expect me to leave my dear brother and his family alive so they can be used as banners to rally rebellion?”

He rose from his throne and took a few slow steps toward John. “At best, I can spare you, the girl, and the other boy. But the royals? Their blood threatens my crown.”

He narrowed his eyes. “That’s the deal. Take it or walk back to your cell. If this so called ‘big plan’ of yours turns out to be as useless as your friends’ bravery, then you’ll all rot together. Except the prince and princess of course.”

John’s throat tightened. He knew this was a devil’s bargain, but the devil was listening. And the others didn’t know what he was planning next…

gritted his teeth. “Deal.

Eglon’s smile

“How do I know you’ll keep your end

raised an eyebrow, amused. “I am a king.

scoffed. “I doubt you’re that kind

said, his tone turning icy, “even if I signed a contract in blood, I could still break it. This is about trust, dear boy. You either take the risk or

A long silence passed.

John exhaled slowly. “Fine.”

his hand.

down. While we kept your attention, dozens of soldiers were to be smuggled into Purlit. Once inside, they’ll blend into the city, waiting for the right

King Eglon’s smile faded.

skin prickle.

had said something almost identical. But when Eglon countered with proof that only five people

the same story again,

it a bluff? Or… was something being hidden under his

slightly, his fingers tapping the armrest of the throne in

had spoken with false confidence, almost boasting

Abuchi… hadn’t

who had lost the only

to him now

Eglon thought, If there really was an army, why didn’t Abuchi double down? Why didn’t he

selling felt like a recycled lie. A last

Soft at first. Then