A Showdown

There was no particular hostility or threat in the Sword Saint’s words or manner.

If anything, they carried the warmth of someone greeting an old friend.

Ivan instinctively knew.

He hadn’t been invited merely for a chat. He had no particular reason to think so, but he could feel it.

“Sounds good. I was getting bored anyway.”

Still, that wasn’t reason enough to turn down the offer.

Ivan had been interested in the man ever since they first met, too.

“That’s a relief. I was worried you might turn me down again.”

“Don’t worry. I’m not that rude.”

“...Well, let’s just say that’s about right.”...