Crockta laughed, “There’s no point in listening further. Go.”0

The knights obliged and turned their horses around.0

They knew fully well that they could never stop Crockta. He was an absolute powerhouse who had defeated Adantadore. Unless they brought an army, they couldn’t stop him.0

“Crockta-nim, I witnessed the duel as well,” said the knight who seemed to hold the highest position. I respect your skills, and I mean this most sincerely...”0

He glanced at the residents. He, too, was aware of the sentiments of those leaving the South. However, one couldn't defy the will of the emperor.0

“Please refrain from opposing His Majesty. The best decision for you is to join the empire. His Majesty will promise you wealth and honor.”0

Crockta looked at him. The knight was sincere. Crockta smiled bitterly. People judged the world from their own perspectives. Although Crockta appreciated his concern, he lamented the knight’s ignorance. They could never be on the same side.0

Perhaps someday, they would meet again on the battlefield and one of them would die. Nonetheless, this was not the time.0

With a strange sense of irony and remorse, Crockta said to the knight, “My honor is different from yours.”0

It was a stern refusal.0

The knight nodded. Then, as he looked at the residents, he said, “Don't think that you'll be safe afterward just because...0