Shattered Part III

"It seems unplanned, but you still showed up with two people, huh?" he said, his tone calm. "Should I feel honored that your side values me so highly?"

Straightening his back, Joke locked his rust-colored eyes on the enemy without a hint of concern. His defiant attitude made the man on the opposing side shrug casually.

"Don’t flatter yourself too much, Joker. Sure, your name has been tossed around a lot in our circles over the past few years, but you’re still far from being a primary target. A Royal Dragon master without a duty..." He grinned widely. "You just happen to have something I want, that’s all."

"...."

Joker didn’t respond. He simply exhaled softly and glanced at Eureasa by his side. Though her injuries weren’t severe, the wounds inflicted by their enemy were troubling. With her not at full strength, he wasn’t willing to take unnecessary risks. Raising his hand, he issued a firm command.

"Return for now, Eureasa."