The unexpected arrival of the Torrent Dragon disrupted Count Merlin's plan for the Dragon Blood Knights to patrol the borders. He had to return to the kingdom to welcome the Torrent Dragon.
"Russell, escort the Dragon Blood Knights back to the Poplar Desert to rest for now. I need to go to Red Castle and prepare a welcoming ceremony."
"Please go ahead, Grandfather."
"Although the Torrent Dragon's arrival will surely force Snow Giant Da into hiding, you must still remain vigilant."
"Yes."
Two days later, the Dragon Blood Knights returned to the Poplar Desert and no longer needed Russell's escort.
So, at Huyang Castle, Baron Gevidas forcibly kept him there and warmly entertained him for the night. Early the next morning, he rode Black Oil Dragon Rosai to Red Castle.
His status was now distinguished, and he passed through Red Castle's outer fortress without obstruction, landing directly in Count Merlin's private Small Castle.
Only then did he discover that Marquis Arno was there as well.
"Lord Russell." Ever since Marquis Arno had witnessed Russell's Ultimate: Sword of Thunder, he had become increasingly cordial toward him.
"Lord Arno." One did not slap a smiling face, so Russell returned the greeting with a smile.
"Russell, you're back. Have the Dragon Blood Knights been settled?" Count Merlin gestured for Russell to take a seat.
"They have."
"Mm." Count Merlin nodded, then said, "Lord Arno has come today as the Torrent Dragon's envoy to discuss necessary matters with me and negotiate how our two nations will jointly defend against Snow Giant Da."
"Indeed," Marquis Arno said. "Snow Giant Da's actions have already drawn His Majesty the King's attention. Thus, the Torrent Dragon has been specially dispatched to assist the Shadowflame Dragon and help the Shadowflame Grand Duchy resist Snow Giant Da."
Russell narrowed his