Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2559

Swordhaven Keep stretched for thousands of acres, its terrain rugged and dangerous. It sat right at the edge of Holtrien's border, where the nation met foreign territory. Beyond the border, you would enter the dangerous wilderness of enemy lands.

Though the military had stationed units in the Eastern Stronghold, the defense of Holtrien's entire eastern front relied heavily on the might of Swordhaven Keep. Most families or factions did not have the power or qualification to hold such a post, but Swordhaven Keep did.

Every head of Swordhaven Keep had been a top-tier martial powerhouse, the kind whose name alone commanded fear and respect. The current master, Alfredo, was rumored to have mastered the Keep's most powerful sword technique.

Now, warriors across the world regarded him as the Sword Saint, the undisputed master of swordsmanship.

And since the sword was known as the deadliest of all weapons, no one in their right mind would ever doubt Alfredo's strength. Anyone who did was either a fool or completely out of touch with reality.

When Andrew and Sheena stepped out of the airport, they headed straight for Swordhaven Keep. From afar, they could see the towering black walls stretched along the border like a massive beast crouched in the distance.

Andrew said calmly, "I came here once years ago. Almost ten years have passed, and it still looks exactly the same."

Sheena replied, "Swordhaven Keep and the Topsfield family are practically a kingdom of their own. Saying they rule over the entire eastern region isn't an exaggeration. Aside from the Topsfield family's core territory, the surrounding lands are also under their control. That's why, even in peacetime, the family has always been the biggest headache for Chetvine's high officials."

Andrew chuckled. "Can't blame them. If I had territory and power like Swordhaven Keep, I'd be all arrogant too."

Sheena pointed ahead. "We're here. Should we stay inside Swordhaven Keep or find a place outside the city?"

Andrew said bluntly, "Of course, we're staying inside. The moment we set foot in town, the Topsfield family will know anyway, so there's no point hiding. Alfredo doesn't seem like the type who enjoys subtle games."

Jericho's smile did not fade. "Whether you like it or not, your status is still a fact. And I must say, in the past 50 years, no one's ever dared challenge my father. You're making history."

Sheena's lips curved into a sharp smirk. "That's because the eastern region's spine was broken under the Topsfield family's sword long ago. But I'm not from the east; I'm from Chetvine, from the Lloyd family. And we Lloyds love doing what others think is impossible."

Jericho's demeanor was calm and graceful; no matter how sharp Sheena's words were, he did not take offense. "I've heard tales about your fiery temperament, Ms. Lloyd. Seeing you in person, I realize the rumors didn't even do you justice."

He chuckled softly. "You must be exhausted after your trip. Please, allow me to show you to your quarters. Oh, and this gentleman is…"

He turned to Andrew, flashing an apologetic smile. "My apologies, I didn't catch your name."