As soon as the hostage was switched, a cold silence filled the reception room. Caron gulped as he eyed Mason, the Sixth Prince's bodyguard. He recognized the man from his previous life. Mason was a knight of remarkable talent.0

This could be the end for me, Caron thought as he felt the weight of the situation. From 7-Star onward, the gap in power compared to 6-Star was immense. Reaching 7-Star was a feat achievable only by those who broke through the limits of 6-Star, and even that one-rank difference represented overwhelming strength. And above even 7-Star knights were 8-Star knights, who could crush even the strongest with ease.0

"I told you not to act rashly," Guillotine muttered in his mind. "It took so long to be freed, and now I might be sealed away again. I really hope my next owner will think a bit more."0

Despite those grim words, Guillotine's deadly aura flared up. The sword knew that with the Prince's life now in their hands, this was the only way to navigate the dire situation.0

"Hello, Caron Leston. Sorry for the late introduction. My name is Revelio. You can call me Revel or just Rio if you'd like," the Prince said cheerfully, smiling as if he wasn't the one with a sword to his throat. His voice was upbeat, showing no concern for the blade aimed at his neck.0

"Mind if I ask you something, Your Highness?" Caron began, trying to mask his nerves.0

"Hey, drop the formalities. I'm not that uptight, you know? We're outside the palace, so let's just be friends. I'm eighteen years old, but honestly,...0