CHAPTER 28: Not That Stupid

Bero’s momentum collapses after the Mountain raid that killed the Uwiwan work crew and wrecked the scavenging operation. He and Mudt struggle back to Janloon and report to Soradiyo, who is furious and suspicious but keeps them at arm’s length. Smuggling grows riskier as clan patrols clamp down on the coast, forcing Soradiyo to split shipments by small fishing boats, work that leaves Bero resentful and demoralized.

A planned scavenge is canceled due to Green Bone patrols, then spring rains halt all mining for months. Soradiyo becomes evasive, hinting at new plans while offering no concrete work. Tension flares between Bero and Mudt over pursuing revenge on Maik Tar, but Bero later smooths things over, promising support despite privately dismissing the vendetta.

When Soradiyo finally meets them, he proposes a whispered-name assignment—an offensive strike in a “tiger’s lair” that requires removing their jade. Mudt shows interest, but Bero, recalling repeated near-fatal encounters with Green Bones and the fragility of his gains, refuses outright.

Bero demands safer work and insists he will not target Green Bones without jade. Soradiyo, scornful, ends the meeting and leaves, effectively freezing them out. Mudt is frustrated, and Bero’s choice prioritizes survival over volatile ambition, widening the gap between them and their barukan patron.