After leaving Shadowflame Volcano, Russell was soon appointed by the Elder Council as Knight Deputy of the Dragon Blood Knights, meaning deputy commander.
However, it was only a nominal post. As a Wyvern Knight and Dragon Domain Lord, he could not possibly personally command a group of Phantom Beast Knights and Great Knights in battle. Like Count Merlin, who served as commander, his purpose was to safeguard the Dragon Blood Knights.
The extraordinary hierarchy of Dragon Sleep Continent had such vast gaps between ranks that, when facing Riding Blue Skin or even Snow Giants, the Knight Order would have no room to perform.
They could only adopt a strategy of matching kings against kings and soldiers against soldiers.
"When the Dragon Blood Knights begin patrolling the border, I will use the Shadow Guard to notify you." On the long bridge causeway of Red Castle, Count Merlin stood side by side with Russell.
The Shadow Guard was a special Phantom Beast Knight squad of Red Castle. Their contracted Phantom Beasts were all Phantom Swifts. Phantom Swifts were not skilled in combat, but their flight speed was formidable. Their endurance was somewhat lacking, however, making them better suited for short-distance message delivery.
At least within the Shadowflame Grand Duchy, Phantom Swifts were barely sufficient.
"Alright," Russell replied.
He could not stay at Red Castle waiting for the Dragon Blood Knights to act. That would waste far too much time, and his territory still needed his overall command.
At this moment.
Among the procession traveling along the long bridge causeway, his cousin Mel turned around from atop his warhorse and waved at Count Merlin and Russell.
Count Merlin remained unmoved, while Russell waved back.
Then he said, "I hope Cousin can accomplish his mission in the Scorching Torrent Kingdom and secure the kingdom's