534

The "Dragon Hunter," Mr. Bartolo, caught a glimpse of the prisoner carriage wrapped in black cloth, a flicker of contemplation crossing his turbid eyes.

As a top swordsman, his instincts warned him of an unusual aura of danger. He spoke bluntly, "Commander Bennett, I advise you to execute this fugitive immediately. It would be in your best interest. Otherwise, your journey may not be peaceful."

Commander Bennett's face showed difficulty as he replied, "I apologize, Mr. Bartolo... His Majesty the King has a secret decree; we must bring her back alive to the capital."

Although many of his men had died in the recent battle, they were royal knights, bound by absolute loyalty to the royal family. Thus, even if they were all to die in battle, they felt they could not disobey the King's orders.