The battle aura of the three great swordsmen surged forth, and their three gleaming longswords slashed toward Byrd. The three were already quite strong, and with their long-standing tacit cooperation, they almost completely sealed off Byrd's angles of attack, while also creating opportunities for the Sealer and the Mage.

“This is more like the way you fight!”

Byrd's battle aura burst out violently. Gavin Clark didn’t know the exact level, but one thing was certain: Byrd was more than twice as strong as the three swordsmen. However, it was five against one, plus the apprentice of some Archmage and a Sealer—he might be in trouble...

The three swordsmen were very steady, clearly not unknown figures. Their tactics were seasoned and focused on encirclement rather than reckless assault. Their triangular offensive was formidable, but Byrd, relying on his powerful battle aura, was able to steadily suppress the three. His swordsmanship was orthodox and meticulous... Why would someone like this join the Skeleton Warband?

“Byrd, the only reason we’re holding back is out of respect for who you used to be. A lot has happened, but for the last time—don’t force me!” Blanche Bennett shouted loudly. Her magic was almost ready. With an Archmage as her mentor, considerable talent, and excellent equipment, most people would only run when they saw her.

“Miss Blanche Bennett, there’s no need for more words. Let’s make our move!” said the Sealer, taking out two cards, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

The five of them had been working together for some time, all experts, so their teamwork came easily. Suddenly, the three swordsmen launched a joint assault, opening up space for the Sealer—whoosh... whoosh...

Two cards shot out, and in midair, two magical beasts appeared. The two beasts fought with utter disregard for their own lives—something ordinary comrades could never do, since everyone wants to survive. But magical beasts, being controlled, not only had powerful combat abilities, but most importantly, they could make any sacrifice for victory.

Under the Sealer’s control, the two magical beasts could even coordinate to a certain extent. Their frenzied attacks made Byrd somewhat wary. He wasn’t using his full strength, since the Mage hadn’t acted yet. The apprentice of a top expert was not to be underestimated—most of his injuries were thanks to this girl.

Even in the Skeleton Warband, there were people you didn’t want to provoke. Undoubtedly, Archmage Douglas was one of them. Although his personal strength was formidable, the Skeleton Warband wasn’t afraid of him—their leader ranked even higher. But Douglas had extensive connections and was an old friend of Solama XII of the Water Empire. Offending two top experts and a great empire at the same time—this was not good business.

Gavin Clark sat on the side, sipping his homemade liquor. Little Black had a bottle too. Honestly, watching a fight while drinking felt pretty good. This Byrd really suited his taste. As for the Skeleton Warband—what did that have to do with him? After all he’d been through, Gavin Clark cared little for so-called moral standards. People needed their own values.

The Mage made her move. The ground began to congeal, and giant claws suddenly shot out—precise and well-controlled, showing her solid fundamentals. She didn’t use attack spells. With a Sealer and swordsmen present, a Mage who could restrain the enemy well could actually be more lethal. Blindly attacking would only cause friendly fire.

Byrd's expression grew serious. Relying on his battle aura, he withstood the attacks of the two magical beasts and three swordsmen with ease, but he knew this was just the beginning. He suddenly exerted force with his feet, his battle aura dispersing the mire. The attacks around him grew fiercer, and some of his just-healed wounds began to reopen. He couldn’t delay any longer.

“Roar...”

With a furious shout, he struck a greatsword head-on, slashing horizontally. One magical beast’s head was smashed to pieces. Then, with an explosive elbow, he sent the other flying. Such force caused a momentary delay, but Byrd's movement and combat experience were exceptional. He charged forward without pause, then flipped backward, narrowly dodging two swords, but was still stabbed by the third swordsman.

However, this kind of cut was no big deal. Most of Byrd's wounds were of this type. But this attack had cost the enemy both magical beasts. Seeing things go badly, Blanche Bennett prepared to unleash her Fire Dragon Spell, but was stopped by the Sealer beside her.

Gavin Clark sniffed the air and slowly stood up—they were using poison.

“Heh, Mr. Byrd, your strength is already close to that of a Sword Saint. We had no choice but to resort to this. If you’re willing to cooperate, we’re still willing to spare your life.” One of the swordsmen spoke, but his tone had completely changed. This man was truly difficult to deal with. Even with the five of them, they couldn’t take him down. Several adventuring parties had already been wiped out along the way. It was true—every member of the Skeleton Warband was incredibly strong. It looked like this honor would go to them.

Byrd said nothing. He casually gouged out the flesh from his wound, not even frowning. “Don’t bother with these childish mind games. Today, it’s either you die, or I do!”

Byrd was truly enraged. He’d planned to hold back, but now there was no need!

“Heh, Mr. Byrd, this is Bone-Clinging Corpse Poison. It’s useless to resist!”

“What’s going on!” Blanche Bennett shouted angrily. Clearly, the other four all knew, but had kept it from her.

The Sealer’s dagger was already pressed against Blanche Bennett, and the situation had taken a dramatic turn.