“If the Bloodfiery Legion wants to talk, sure, I’m open to it. But even if they don’t, I’m not backing off,” Dustin remarked nonchalantly.
He was consistent in his demeanor, whether facing the Bloodfiery Legion, the Sword Union, or the Celestial Alliance. He was indifferent about potentially offending any of them.
“Dustin, I know you’re strong, but remember, there’s always someone stronger. You can’t just go charging ahead without thinking!” Dalen cautioned, his tone sincere.
He continued, “Did you know Kendricks is Aldric’s brother? He’s ranked eighth on the Legendary List and already at Sacred Wrym Summit. When he learns about his brother’s death, he’ll definitely seek revenge!”
The Legendary List featured individuals of remarkable prowess. Each one was capable of dominating any situation.
While Dustin was impressive, Kendricks, ranked eighth on the list, surpassed him. If Kendricks sought vengeance, Dustin’s chances of success seem bleak.
“Yeah, Dustin!” It’s better to live to fight another day. You can lay low until the Bloodfiery Legion tracks down the real culprit. No harm in waiting it out,” Miles chimed in, trying to persuade him.
He could tell that Dustin, despite his skills, didn’t have many reliable allies. That fact made him vulnerable to manipulation.
“The Combat Tournament at Sacred Wrym Summit kicks off in two days. Can I really afford to cower away now?”
Dustin asked, dismissing the idea.
“But what if Kendricks decides to seek vengeance?” Dalen’s concern was evident in his furrowed brow.
“When trouble comes, we’ll face it head -on, and we’ll adapt to any challenges that come our way,” Dustin replied.
“Hey, why won’t you listen?” Ruby couldn’t help but speak up.
She went on, “We’re just trying to look out for you. Can’t you see? Being stubborn won’t help. You have only one life. What if you end up in trouble with the Bloodfiery Legion? That’d be a huge loss!”
Dodging the obvious dangers was easy, but defending against the unseen ones proved tougher.
Dustin’s path would be dangerous when the Bloodfiery Legion marked him as a target. Despite his skills, he was still mortal and vulnerable. Any slip in alertness could spell disaster.
“The Bloodfiery Legion can’t kill me, and I won’t unjustly take the blame for someone else, ” Dustin stated firmly. Where’s Aldric’s body? I want to see the scene for myself.”
Ruby couldn’t believe her ears. “What? You still want to go there?”
Her voice rose with disbelief. “Are you kidding? The Bloodfiery Legion is collecting Aldric’s body. If you go there now, you’ll be walking into their trap!”
She shook her head in disbelief. Was Dustin truly considering this?
Even those with a modicum of sense would do everything to avoid such a dangerous situation. Yet here he was, refusing to hide and marching straight into danger. It seemed beyond foolish to her.
But Dustin remained resolute. ” Whether it’s luck or misfortune, hiding won’t change anything,” he explained earnestly.
He added, “If I went into hiding, it’ll only make me look guilty. It’s better to confront the situation head-on and resolve this as soon as possible.”
“Hey! Why are you so stubborn?” Ruby exclaimed with frustration etched on her face.
Before Ruby could continue, Crystal interjected as she raised her hand to stop her sister. “I believe Mr. Rhys has a point. Avoiding the situation will only make things worse. It’s better to be honest and clear up any misunderstandings. That’s the only way to resolve the issue.”
“But Crystal! Those Bloodfiery Legion fanatics are unpredictable! If Dustin can’t clarify things, they might just resort to violence on the spot!” Ruby’s worry heightened.
Crystal reassured her, “Relax, Ruby. We’re at Sacred Wyrm Summit, not their turf. They can’t just kill innocents here. And with us, disciples of the Sword Union, vouching for Mr. Rhys, they wouldn’t dare to act recklessly.”
Thoughts swim in Ruby’s head. If the Sword Union stepped in to clear Dustin’s name, the Bloodfiery Legion would have no choice but to abide by their judgment.
“Alright! Since Dustin is prepared to confront this, we’ll support him through it!” Miles proclaimed boldly, making a sweeping gesture as if ready to lay down his life.
It was their chance to strengthen their bond with Dustin. By helping him, they could solidify their friendship. In times to come, Dustin would likely return the favor if they ever found themselves in a bind.