Chapter 486: Dealt a Blow for the Fourth Time

Why did Garrett seek to target Rydal?

Part of it stemmed from the loss of face he had suffered at Rydal’s hands back in Shore City, but the greater part was undoubtedly a desire for vengeance against Ronin’s insolent attitude toward him.

Though it was imprudent for him to move directly against Ronin, Rydal was merely a retainer—possessed of decent martial skill, yes, but lacking any intricate background. Garrett could easily find any pretext to vent his spite upon Rydal, while simultaneously delivering a sharp warning to Ronin, reminding the man of his proper place.

As for any potential retaliation, he harbored no real concern.

He would not lightly cross Ronin, and by that same token, he was confident Ronin would not lightly cross him.

Rydal cast his gaze over the four men surrounding him. He knew only that Garrett was a Silver Moon Knight; the capabilities of the remaining three remained a mystery, though as commanders stationed on the border, their strength could hardly be lacking.

"Your Highness, if you truly believe that force is required to resolve this matter, then I have nothing left to say. If it is your wish that I cease to resist, then I am afraid I cannot comply with that either."

Rydal's tone rang with unwavering resolve and courage as he drew the longsword from his hip, pointing its tip toward the earth. "However, there is a word of warning I must give you all in advance: if you truly intend to wage this battle, do not blame me if you are harmed."

"Arrogant fool!"

Utterly incensed by Rydal's defiance, Garrett violently unsheathed his own blade and bellowed, "Seize this insubordinate dog!"

Swif! Swif! Swif!

Accpanied by the sharp whistling of tearing air, four figures charged from four directions, converging upon Rydal simultaneously.

Though they refrained from delivering fatal blows and avoided vital areas, blades possessed no eyes, and in the heat of combat, who could perfectly measure their strength?

Standing tall and erect, Rydal chose to proceed with utmost caution, given that his foes' true strengths were yet unknown.

Yet he, too, was barred from resolving this clash with lethal force, for he had to consider Ronin's delicate position.

If he were to slay or maim several commanders before the war with the enemy nation had even commenced, it would leave Ronin in an impossible situation.

As the distance between the factions closed with terrifying speed, the very air seemed to solidify.

The battle qi radiating from the five men condensed into near-tangible armor, clashing and vibrating against one another, turning the surrounding atmosphere deathly grim.

The guards and knights stationed nearby immediately fled to a safe distance upon witnessing the spectacle; should one draw too close to a battle between such titans, a single stray shockwave could easily cost them their lives.

"Two Meteor-tier, one Silver Moon-tier, and Garrett himself at the Silver Moon-tier."

Judging their might from the sheer pressure they exerted, Rydal shifted his weight. In a flash, he appeared before one of the Meteor Knights like a phantom, delivering a heavy fist straight into the man's breastplate.

With a thunderous impact, the Meteor Knight was sent flying like a kite

Garrett roared, "All knights, heed my command!"

In an instant, the knights who had surrounded them let out cries of fury. They did not know Redar's identity, thinking instead that an enemy had charged into their headquarters.

Yet, even if they knew who Redar was, they would still obey Garrett's orders.

Redar surveyed the surroundings.

If these were all enemies, spirit riders, he would have already unleashed slaughter.

But this was Redpine Fort, the kingdom's army.

To escalate the situation further would only stir greater trouble, and ultimately, Rony would bear the consequences.

Redar furrowed his brow tightly. At this point, to prevent the situation from escalating, he could only seek a chance to retreat first. (End of chapter.)