The two sides faced each other on the plains as their flags fluttered in the wind.0

The king of humans and the lord of Alaste slowly approached each other on horseback.0

“Greetings, Your Highness.”0

“It’s been a while, Count of Alaste.”0

The king was a young, handsome man with blonde hair and blue eyes and had the air of an aristocrat.0

Of course, he was more than just an aristocrat, he was on the brink of becoming an emperor.0

“It’s a fine day. Regardless of today’s outcome, we shall accept it gracefully in reverence to the gods,” said the king.0

“Thank you. It puts my mind at ease to hear Your Highness say so.”0

The king furrowed his eyebrows, but the lord of Alaste’s expression remained unchanged.0

“You seem confident. Is Galadin in good health?”0

“He remains as hearty as ever. Would you like to see him?”0

“It’s fine. If I wanted to gaze upon the faces of old men, I would just look at my ministers.”0

Their eyes locked in an unyielding gaze.0

The Count of Alaste returned the king’s stern look with unwavering confidence.0

“Very well…” The king twisted his lips into a wry smile. “When the sun reaches its zenith, let the duel begin. I will advise Adantadore to control his strength, considering Galadin’s advanced age.”0

“We very much appreciate your consideration, but…”0

“But?”0

“Galadin will not be participating in the duel today.”0

“What?”0

The king scrutinized the lord’s face with suspicion. “Then, who will?”0

“You will see for yourself when the sun is at its zenith.”0

“…”0

The king was puzzled by the lord’s carefree attitude. He frowned upon the lord’s attitude but was also confused about who the mysterious warrior could be.0

“Very well. We’ll see,” replied the king contemptuously.0

The two then turned their horses around and returned to their camps.0

The lord of Alaste immediately sought out Crockta who was waiting in a tent behind the camp. The lord’s face was stiff with tension, but he couldn’t help but grin at the sight inside the tent.0

Crockta...0