System: Build My Own Territory Chapter 968 - 287: You Want Them to Survive?

Any approaching danger to Master Lynn must be repelled or slain.

Tyrone, who had been contemplating with his head bowed, naturally overheard Lynn’s instruction.

A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.

Lynn happened to notice the surprise that flashed within Tyrone’s gaze.

He spoke in a level tone: "Tyrone Ramirez, do not even consider attempting anything."

"Because... even without any restraints, you are still no match for me."

Hearing Lynn’s words, which were filled with confidence, Tyrone couldn’t help but cast a glance at him.

Their eyes met for an instant.

Just for two seconds.

Tyrone quickly lowered his gaze again.

He understood that even though there had been no physical clash or any contest to determine a victor, Lynn’s confident and resolute gaze had already made it clear that Lynn was not speaking lightly.

A low voice emerged from him.

"Everything is as my Lord commands."

Lynn paid no mind to Tyrone’s words and directly posed a question.

"Tyrone Ramirez, I need to gauge your understanding of your present circumstances."

Tyrone knitted his brows, a look of confusion on his face. "My Lord, I believe my current situation is quite evident, is it not?"

Lynn stated sternly: "Tyrone Ramirez, I require answers, not further questions!"

Noticing the shift in Lynn's tone, Tyrone's brow furrowed further.

However.

This time, he refrained from questioning and instead provided an answer.

"My current status is that of your Lordship's captive."

"To ensure my survival, I must pledge my allegiance and offer my strength to you, my Lord!"

Lynn looked directly at Tyrone and declared: "Incorrect!"

Upon hearing this, Tyrone's confusion intensified.

Seeing that Lynn was clearly awaiting his continued response,

Tyrone began to ponder.

After a few moments of thought.

He looked towards Lynn and ventured a guess: "A citizen of the territory?"

Lynn affirmed: "Precisely!"

"Even though you were previously taken captive and sold to me by slave traders from elsewhere."

"I have already stated that the moment you stepped foot into my territory, you became citizens of my domain!"

Hearing Lynn's confirmation and looking into his unwavering eyes, Tyrone fell silent.

Lynn proceeded: "However, whether you were former captives or prisoners, you must work to earn your sustenance and shelter."

"And the 'respect' you continually demand from me!"

Lynn's tone shifted once more. "That is not as you claim."

"Simply having been part of the Iron Guards of Pan Yan City does not automatically grant you respect!"

Tyrone remained silent but, almost involuntarily, nodded in agreement.

He perceived the truth in it.

What the Lord had said was accurate.

Lynn crossed his arms and looked directly at Tyrone, continuing his address.

"I am aware that a few captives have stirred up some minor disturbances during this period."

"But I also know that it was you who diligently worked to appease them, to suppress their unrest..."

Tyrone, who had been quiet, finally broke his silence.

He quickly addressed Lynn: "I apologize, my Lord."

"They were once soldiers, accustomed to the discipline of training and combat, and find it difficult to adjust to this current peaceful life..."

"But I, Tyrone Ramirez, assure you, I will not permit them to do anything that could harm your territory..."

Lynn fixed his gaze on Tyrone, as if interrogating him: "And how do you provide this assurance?"

Tyrone's response faltered: "I..."

For a moment, he was at a loss for words.

Lynn pressed on: "Even when you gave the order for them to surrender, to prevent a needless sacrifice as the walls were breached, did they express gratitude?"

Tyrone fell silent once more.

"Even though you were attempting to preserve their lives, did they acknowledge the commands you issued?"

Tyrone remained speechless.

Lynn continued his line of questioning: "If, one day, they were to unite, seize this territory, and eliminate me, their Lord."

"Could you, with your strength alone, stop seven hundred and ninety-nine soldiers?"

Tyrone shook his head, answering: "No."

Lynn's voice suddenly escalated, posing the question again: "Then how can you possibly assure it?"

Tyrone's expression grew grave.

After a few seconds.

He slightly parted his lips and spoke to Lynn: "I... simply wish for them to live..."

Lynn immediately interjected, finishing his sentence.

"Tyrone Ramirez, lift your head and look at me!"

Caught off guard by Lynn’s abrupt change in tone, Tyrone raised his head in bewilderment.

"You wish for them to live? No problem! I am granting you an opportunity!"

"The peasants who were sold to this place must exert themselves and labor if they wish to receive food, shelter, and respect."

"But you captives... in terms of agricultural and handicraft work, you do not even surpass those peasants!"

"I require you to reorganize all the captives and transform them back into soldiers!"

"I shall provide you with armor and weaponry, as well as ample food and lodging within the military barracks."

Having been captured and sold after experiencing defeat,

A hint of lingering sadness surfaced in Tyrone’s eyes, yet it was mingled with surprise.

Were it not for Lynn’s words echoing persistently in his ears and mind,

He might have believed he was dreaming.

Lynn continued: "However, one aspect has been altered."

"Your loyalty now belongs not to the Portlands Empire, nor to the former Imperial Prince Weituo,"

"But to me, Lynn Blake!"

"And to this flourishing territory, now home to over twenty thousand souls!"