Synopsis

The chapter begins with the Deputy Consul planning a strategy with his secretary, hinting at a ruthless approach. He then captures and tortures corrupt officials, revealing the extent of their crimes before executing them. Despite the expectation of leniency, the Deputy Consul displays their mutilated bodies publicly, highlighting the severe consequences of corruption and defying local power structures. This act sends a clear message, establishing his absolute authority and foreshadowing a major shift in the city's power dynamics.