"Emerald Legion, riot-control operation!"
After receiving the Duke's order, Knight Seychelles shouted loudly.
"First squad, clear the area first. Drive out all participants blocking the way! Second squad, surround the announcer's platform. The one in black armor below is a tough opponent—leave him to me! Third squad, go straight onto the platform and deal with the one claiming to be the Duke's relative. Don't go easy on him! Squads Four through Eight, isolate the crowd and hunt down his accomplices. Be prepared to draw blood, no matter the cost!"
The Emerald soldiers beneath the stands answered in unison, their voices perfectly ordered. This made the guards protecting Tales extremely tense. Wyatt anxiously surveyed the surroundings, trying to find a gap between the troop formations.
"No, Jann, wait!"
In her desperation, Shilai tried to stop him. "If you make such a show of force and blow this matter out of proportion, you'll only prove Federico's accusation—"
"What right do you have to speak?"
Jann spun around instantly. His gaze was cold as it shifted between Tales and Shilai.
"All these years, the only thing you've ever been good at is running away from home!"
Shilai faltered.
But Jann ignored her from then on. He merely stared at Federico in the distance and reminded Seychelles with a cold snort:
"Remember, Seychelles, if the criminal resists..."
"Yes, my lord. I will show no mercy." Seychelles solemnly repeated the Duke's order and strode toward his troops.
However, a hand suddenly landed on Seychelles's shoulder, bringing his momentum to a complete halt.
"Trust me, Old Friend." Cassian appeared behind Seychelles, worry written across his face. "For Emerald City's sake, this isn't the right time for you to prove your loyalty."
The fully equipped Emerald soldiers saw this and hesitantly looked at one another.
Shilai and