"Sorry, I had no intention of sparring with you. My mission was already complete, and as for a duel, no need."
Brian had no intention of letting Wilmot off so easily. Having finally encountered a strong opponent besides Gajef, he was unwilling to miss this opportunity.
For this, Brian used his ever-reliable tactic: provocation.
"Why not? Is it because I'm too strong, and you're afraid?" Brian looked at Wilmot with slight smugness, radiating confidence from head to toe.
"Mr. Brian, is this how you conduct yourself now? How barbaric..."
"So, will you fight or not?" Brian asked, convinced he had succeeded.
Wilmot lightly brushed his collar. "While I can understand your excitement, I must decline your proposal."
"Nani? What are you running from?" Brian demanded darkly, pointing his sword at Wilmot.
"Mr. Brian, you seem to have misunderstood something. You wanting to duel me is merely your wish. That does not mean I am willing to fight you. Do you understand now?"
"My, my. If you don't wish to, Wilmot, how about this lady plays with him instead?"
Wilmot nodded. "Since Miss Shalltear is so interested, I have no objections."
Wilmot was also very curious about Shalltear's identity. She was clearly a vampire, and a very powerful one at that. He could not afford to lower his guard against such a powerful stranger. He needed to investigate Shalltear's strength as thoroughly as possible, ensuring it remained within Chang'an City's range of control.
This was the perfect opportunity. Brian's strength was already among the very best humans had to offer, so he should be able to probe at least part of Shalltear's capabilities.
"Wilmot, what do you mean by this? Having a woman deal with me—is that an insult?" Brian's brows sank, his face filled with displeasure. As a swordsman as