End of the Volume: Duke

The chestnut-haired knight's introduction left everyone silent for a moment.

He calmly sat astride his horse, letting everyone size him up without the slightest concern that dozens of mounted crossbows were still aimed at him.

Royal Guard?

Watchman?

Tales began observing the knight who claimed to be a watchman of the Royal Guard again, unconsciously comparing him to Sakrael:

He was not as imposing as Sakrael, nor did he have the stern, bitter expression of an Execution Knight. Instead, even in armor, Marius still looked refined and elegant—more like a spoiled young noble than an elite guard.

"Tomond Marius?"

A few seconds later, Deler's gaze sharpened as he chewed over the name.

Paul frowned from the side:

"Deler, this name..."

Deler nodded and said something to his Guard Team captain. Only then did the Ravens lower their threatening mounted crossbows.

The atmosphere eased somewhat.

But Deler did not seem to relax. He turned back and asked Tales:

"Do you know these people?"

Tales suppressed the urge to sigh.

Please, I just got back to the kingdom.

But the Prince still nodded.

"Let's go take a look."

He was about to urge his horse forward when Deler grabbed him by the arm.

"No, Tales."

Count Kloma's expression was solemn.

"If they're impostors, you shouldn't have any contact with them. If they're genuine, your position will be too awkward. Whether we let them leave or keep them here, nothing we say will be appropriate."

Tales narrowed his eyes as he looked into the other man's serious gaze.

"So?"

"I'll handle this." Deler spoke in a low voice and released the Prince's arm.

Earl of Wing Fortress turned to Marius.

"You claim to be a watchman of the Royal Guard."

"But as far as I know, the position of watchman has been vacant