Sinner

Marina's blade was cold, especially when its tip was pressed against her throat.

After that forced, bloody battle between Starfaller and The Dead Crow, in which all three sides had ultimately played every card in their hands, Tales could feel his improvement: his reactions in actual combat were better, his movements were faster, and his Ending Power flowed more freely.

But...

Tales unwillingly watched Ricky's indifferent expression and effortless bearing, his neck forced to move along with the other man's blade.

Damn it.

From the Prince's sudden outburst to Ricky's successful counter, the exchange between them had lasted only a single move. The astonishing reversal had taken less than two seconds.

Kuaishang and Dean, who had been covering Tales, were firmly pinned to the ground by multiple opponents, unable to move, their faces twisted with pain. Many of the Mercenaries still held battle-ready stances, staring in astonishment at the situation's instant reversal.

"Obviously, someone needs to teach our Prince when not to do certain things." Clay gave a disdainful snort from the side and returned the lightning-fast Dark Light to its sheath.

"I told you," former Baron Russell said unhappily, having regained his composure after the sudden shock, as he looked at the Swords of Calamity around him. "This Prince is troublesome..."

Fuse frowned as he watched Tales's failed counterattack. "Restless little fellow, aren't you?"

"Bastard..." Gritting her teeth, her face flushed red, Marina walked forward with her single sword in hand, preparing to capture the reckless Prince and teach him a lesson while she was at it.

But at that moment.

Smack!

The Prince suddenly rolled over without a care, extending his right arm and firmly seizing the enemy's sword hand.

Ricky's expression shifted slightly as he watched Tales, not without surprise.

Even Marina halted in her tracks.

"Hey,