After Rejection, she crawled to my feet for forgiveness

Escorts from the president of Eldrida

Noticing how their cars were covered with snow, it meant these men had been waiting for him all night. Bethany was at the corner, mouth widened in shock. She never knew Norman had connections outside of Valkoria.

Although Norman suspected their visit was more than just to escort him, so he asked. “Just to escort me?”

The leader of the men sweat, he stammered. “And also…to ask for your pardon for what our soldiers did yesterday. It was against the law, and we greatly apologize.” He said, bowing his head lower.

The men came to two reasons, to apologize and to make sure Norman wasn't very angry, and wasn't planning to attack Eldrida. The entire Eldrida force isn't ready for an enemy like the Executioner. He could single handedly wipe them out if he wanted to.

Stacey's mouth dropped open, she was shocked in utter disbelief. Norman had disfigured seven of the Eldrida’s soldier's legs. And yet they still came to apologize against his wrath?

“It's okay, as long as your soldiers won't repeat such action again.” Norman said strictly.

The men all sighed in relief. They just escaped the wrath of the Executioner.

“Be rest assured Executioner. This wouldn't happen ever again, the soldiers who committed such crimes are already in prison.”

Norman nodded at the men, as he proceeded to enter one of the cars, this would save him more time. “I'm going to the mountains.” He instructed.

The cars moved in unison, some at the front others at the back with Norman's car in the middle. Bethany was also sitting with him.

Few minutes later, the car arrived at the mountains, and Norman stepped out. “You all can wait here, I'm going in alone.”

Norman trudged up the mountain, through the knee-deep snow, his boots crunching against the frozen crystals, the chilled air sharp with each breath.

He neared the summit where his mentor's grave stood, marked only by a single stone. Up here, untouched by the world below, it felt as if time had paused, leaving only the wind and the silent snowfall.

He finally reached the grave and knelt, brushing fresh snow off the stone’s rough surface. "It’s done," he said, his voice low but steady. "I kept my promise to you. Valkoria is at peace."

The wind howled around him, but he barely felt it, his gaze fixed on the stone. He thought of his mentor’s unwavering guidance, the countless battles fought together. His master had taught him everything he knew. And his last wish was for Norman to remain good, and bring peace to Valkoria.

"I'm tired," he admitted, almost to himself. "And I think... I think I’ve done enough.”

Norman had fulfilled that promise, for two years he had done what many would find difficult to do in a time of ten years.

He had transformed Valkoria to a safe place, and he planned on doing more. But—the greediness of one woman could lead the nation to jeopardy. If they don't value his hard work, then it’s only best to let them handle things for themselves.

A snow-laden branch above him cracked under the weight, scattering flakes around the grave. Norman closed his eyes, hoping that somehow, his mentor could hear him—that maybe now, they could both find the rest they had earned.

Adam returned to the foot of the mountain where the convo and Bethany were still waiting for him. He walked directly to Bethany. “I'm done, take me to prison.” He said calmly.

A wave of emotions washed over Bethany, she didn't know how to react, she only nodded with her head lowering deep.

As they drove past the remote community, all the residents stood at the road, waving at Norman.

“Goodbye our hero”

“Thanks for coming Executioner.”

“There would never be anyone like you.

They all cheered, chanting his name. Meanwhile one of the statements struck Bethany to the heart like a dagger.

“There would never be anyone like him.” Norman's role in Valkoria was irreplaceable, and she was worried about the consequences this would bring in the future.

—---

Meanwhile, at the Ryder Villa, Lana, Lucas, and Henry were celebrating their recent success. Henry had covered the bill at Grand Heavens with ease, solidifying Lucas’s confidence in him. Lucas was now convinced Henry was far more capable than Norman could ever be.

“I can’t believe how smooth everything went,” Lucas said, raising his glass. “Our family joining forces with the Havords—it’s finally happening. Henry, you’ll do ten times better than that incompetent fool, Norman.”

“He’s probably locked up with all the criminals he put away. I’d bet they’re giving him a ‘warm welcome’ right now.”

Lana laughed wholeheartedly “By now, they’re probably lining up to take their turn,” she said with a grin. “He’s probably crippled by now, and praying for an escape.”

They laughed, sipping their drinks. It was common knowledge that Norman had a lot of enemies, not just normal criminals but powerful underground organization bosses, which he had all put behind bars. His tenure as the acting Mayor really bagged him a lot of enemies than friends. So they were sure he'd be dead meat by now.

Henry smirked, leaning back in his chair. “You flatter me, but I’ll take it. Valkoria deserves a real leader, someone who can actually bring change.”

“Exactly!” Lana added enthusiastically. “People are tired of Norman’s excuses. They need someone who can deliver, someone they can look up to. And that’s you, Henry.”

Lucas nodded approvingly. “You have what it takes, Mr. Havord. Once you’re in charge, this city will thrive like never before. It’s about time Valkoria gets a mayor who knows how to get things done.”

Henry raised his glass. “Here’s to turning Valkoria into the paradise it was always meant to be.”

“To the future mayor of Valkoria!” Lana exclaimed, clinking her glass with theirs, her face beaming with pride. “I can’t wait to see Norman’s face when he realizes he’s outclassed.”

Lana and Lucas laughed, meanwhile Henry grinned, he had his own plans.