Once the War Mobilization Order was issued, all knights holding titles had to unconditionally obey Redcastle's deployment and take to the battlefield.
Whatever one gained, one was bound to lose something in return. This was an eternal truth.
A title was a knight's highest pursuit. With a title came wealth, status, power, and everything else. But at the same time, a title was also a knight's greatest restraint. To preserve their wealth, status, and power, they had to give their all to uphold this system.
When the Shadowflame Grand Duchy was in danger, every noble bore an inescapable responsibility.
Russell did not complain about anyone. He would not blame Grand Duke Kunsitan for issuing the War Mobilization Order, nor would he blame Baron Roman for conscripting him to the battlefield, because he had gained far too much from the Shadowflame Grand Duchy and the Guangguang River Valley.
Of course.
The more important reason was that he had already prepared a way out for himself.
"Polly, my Battle Qi Chain is almost complete. No, more accurately, I've already succeeded several times. Once I practice for a few more days and fully master the Battle Qi Chain, we'll form our contract!" Russell fed Unicorn Polly in the small courtyard.
"A contract, Russell? Are we going to become one? That seems a little fast, but... I'm willing."
A strange murmur sounded beside Russell's ear.
There was no doubt that this was Unicorn Polly's Phantom Beast Whisper.
A bead of sweat slid down Russell's forehead. He really wanted to criticize Unicorn Polly and tell her to watch her wording so she would not cause misunderstandings.
But after thinking it over, he decided to let it go and smiled. "As long as you're willing. Just wait for me!"
Russell kept practicing until the banquet began.