The moment the Marines rushed into the tavern, Tsugikuni Yoriichi's attention was fixed on the door.
Issho, seated beside the gambling table, seemed to sense something as well. He tilted his head slightly toward the entrance, one hand gripping his cane tightly.
The Marines who burst into the tavern clearly had no time to concern themselves with anyone else. In their eyes, there was only one person who needed to be dealt with!
"Haah!"
A young Marine was the first to charge at Sheep Herder Kappei. He swung his long sword straight at Kappei's chest, but just as the blade was about to strike him—
Kappei, having completed his beast transformation, reacted much faster. He kicked up the gambling table before him, sending it flying straight into the Marine. One corner of the table slammed heavily into the Marine's chest and sent him flying.
Bellemere was startled by the sudden turn of events. She swiftly pulled a short dagger from her clothes, lunged forward to Kappei's feet, and thrust the blade directly at his calf.
However, the imagined spray of blood never appeared.
The instant the dagger's tip struck Kappei's skin, it was like stabbing an iron plate. Not only did it fail to harm Kappei, it did not even pierce his skin.
Kappei's black-bristled hide was even tougher than that of a real wild boar!
Kappei, who had been ambushed, seemed to notice it at that moment. He lowered his head slightly, his bristle-covered face breaking into a broad smile at Bellemere before his large hand reached for her throat.
Bellemere was caught before she could dodge. Seeing Bellemere seized, the Marines charging at Kappei stopped as well. They only dared to surround him, not daring to make any other move.
Seeing the Marines who had rushed into the