The Duel on Place was the first of numerous battles between the Dark Army and the Manly Militia, and set the standard for the conflict to come. Following his rejection by Vergamin, Brock Rockford vowed revenge against the assassin. He challenged Vergamin to a duel, one that he accepted. Having set the time and place for the duel, Brock then took steps to ensure that he would win the battle. While he was confident in his own abilities and skills, he also wanted to make sure that there would be no risks. Realizing that he was outmatched, Brock fled, swearing vengeance as he went.