Chapter 170

I slowly lifted my head and found The Chief Elder glaring at me, his eyes blazing with anger.

"What a joke," he sneered. "This is just your Johnson family fooling themselves. The Dragon Eye Dagger rightfully belongs to me."

I chuckled softly, unfazed by his fury. "Relax, Chief Elder. No need to get all worked up over a casual remark."

His face turned even redder, clearly not appreciating my nonchalance. He took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure.

"I have other matters to attend to. If you'll excuse me, I'll be on my way," I said, standing up to leave.

"Do you think you can just walk out of here?" he snapped, his eyes narrowing dangerously.

I met his gaze calmly. "Didn't you already search me? Did you find the Dragon Eye Dagger?"

A flicker of surprise crossed his face, but he quickly masked it. He hadn't expected me to know about his discreet search.

"Hand over the Dragon Eye Dagger, and you can leave," he demanded, his voice leaving no room for argument.

I spread my hands, feigning innocence. "If I had the Dragon Eye Dagger, why would I use it to injure myself?"

"Then where is the dagger?" he pressed, urgency creeping into his voice.

I shook my head. "Do you know where these injuries came from?"

He snorted, dripping with sarcasm. "You must have conspired with Dorothy. These injuries are definitely self-inflicted."

I laughed coldly. "If you only believe your own assumptions, why bother asking me?"

His anger was palpable, but he needed to find the dagger. "Then tell me, how did you get these injuries?"

"Someone from the Johnson family did this while I was there. They used a strange, very sharp dagger. I was no match for them," I replied.

He squinted, skeptical. "Internal conflict."

I nodded, my voice tinged with bitterness. "You know our family always has an Emerald Matron in every generation. I was in love with the current Emerald Matron; we grew up together."

"But because of her role, she was destined to live a lonely life, waiting for a non-existent Verdant Guardian."

He nodded, indicating he knew about this.

"I tried to take her away, but she conspired with the family to capture me. If I hadn't fought desperately, I wouldn't be alive now." I punched a nearby pillar, the dull thud echoing in the room.

I looked at The Chief Elder. Even if I didn't say it, he knew my injuries were severe.

"If it weren't for Dorothy, I would've died. She took care of me so well during those days, it really warmed my heart," I said, my voice thick with emotion.

"So, if you let me be with Dorothy, I'll tell you where the Dragon Eye Dagger is," I offered.

The Chief Elder stroked his chin, pondering. "Dorothy's marriage isn't something I can easily meddle with."

I looked at him, feigning shock. "You can't handle something like that?"

Seeing my reaction, he added, "But if you tell me where the Dragon Eye Dagger is, I can help you get a chance."

I squinted at him, my voice turning icy. "In that case, go to the Johnson family and get it yourself!"

He tried to trick me, but I wasn't falling for it.

I turned to leave, but he blocked my way with his hand.

"What now?" I asked, my patience wearing thin.

He withdrew his hand, clenching his fists. After a long pause, he said, "I don't know if what you said is true, but don't tell anyone about our conversation today."

His voice was low, carrying a clear warning.

He slowly moved his arm, clearing the way.

I said nothing more and walked out the door. It was clear I had won this round.

And I wasn't worried about him harming me; he still needed me to find the Dragon Eye Dagger. I was the only one who knew where it was.

Following the path down the hill, I stood at the foot of the mountain, looking at the neatly arranged houses before me. I was momentarily stunned, as I had no idea where Dorothy lived.

Just as I was at a loss, I saw a tall, imposing figure walking ahead.

"Excuse me, sir," I called out loudly.

When the person turned around, I was almost scared out of my wits. It wasn't a man, but a woman with a rugged appearance.

"Who are you calling sir? I'm a lady," she said, turning around with some displeasure.

Realizing my mistake, I quickly apologized, "Sorry, ma'am. My mistake."

She snorted, pouting, clearly displeased.

"You seem kind-hearted. Could you tell me where Dorothy lives?" I asked, trying to flatter her.

I almost wanted to slap myself for being so insincere, but it seemed to work. She blushed, covering her face, and said coyly, "You're quite the sweet-talker. I guess I can help you."

With that, she started to skip ahead, leading the way.

I quickly waved my hand, "No need to trouble yourself. Just telling me where she lives is enough."

But she insisted on leading the way.

In the end, I had no choice but to follow her.

As we walked, she chatted enthusiastically, "It's no trouble. I was just taking a walk anyway."

She even tried to link arms with me, but I quickly dodged, "I have someone I like."

"Is that so?" She looked at me, not taking offense.

She continued chatting warmly and leading the way.

I answered her questions, but my mind was preoccupied. The people in this village were indeed very friendly, but I was more worried that this woman's enthusiasm might bring me more trouble.

As we walked, I observed the surroundings, trying to memorize the route in case I needed to find my way out on my own.