Harem of the Dragon Lord Vol.5

Chapter 201

“What do you mean?” Ethan Blackthorn asked.

“I…” Celeste Starling only managed to get one word out before she trailed off, unable to continue.

“What in the world is going on?” Ethan Blackthorn asked, his voice stern.

Celeste Starling heard the anger in his tone and didn’t dare to remain silent any longer. She quickly explained, “When we parted ways, I hugged you, right? And you even told me that someone was secretly taking pictures of us.”

“And then?”

“Then that person posted the photos, and now they’re a trending topic.”

Ethan Blackthorn’s heart skipped a beat, and he took a deep breath. “What exactly happened?”

“The photos were posted online, and in less than half an hour, the internet exploded. Now, information about both of us is plastered everywhere. My team told me that someone has to be fanning the flames behind the scenes; otherwise, there’s no way it would have blown up like this.”

“Could it just be that you’re so famous that it naturally attracted a lot of attention from netizens?”

“Not this quickly!”

“Alright, I get it,” Ethan Blackthorn said grimly.

“Stinky Daddy, I’m so sorry. I really had no idea things would get this out of hand. Don’t worry, I’ve already had my team start working on taking down the trending topic. I promise this whole thing will disappear from the public eye without a trace!”

“Don’t rush to take it down. The priority is to find out who’s pushing this from behind the scenes and what their motive is.”

“Okay, Stinky Daddy, I get it. I’ll have my people look into it right away!”

“Don’t worry about it. I’ll have someone investigate. Have you arrived in Crownspire yet?”

“No, my flight was delayed. My agent called me right after, and that’s when I found out how big this had become,” Celeste Starling said, her voice filled with frustration.

“Alright, let’s leave it at that for now. I’ll contact you the moment I have any news.”

Celeste Starling obediently agreed, and they both hung up.

Ethan Blackthorn quickly replayed the conversation in his mind before dialing his third master, the Master of the Oracle Society. As the Master of the Oracle Society, he was the perfect person to investigate this matter.

His third master picked up almost immediately. “Well, kid, you’re famous now!” his master’s teasing voice came through the phone.

“Damn it, this is no time to gloat! Get to work and find out who’s responsible for this mess!”

His third master chuckled. “Kid, even if you hadn’t called, I was about to ring you about this very thing.”

“What? You’ve already found the person behind this?”

“I’m still investigating. They’ve made a powerful move and were clearly well-prepared. What I’m curious about, though, is how someone managed to take your picture with your level of cultivation.”

“Don’t even ask. I sensed them when it was happening.”

“You idiot. Why didn’t you stop them? Or at least destroy the photos they took?”

“You think I didn’t want to? I just didn’t have time!” Ethan Blackthorn said in frustration.

His third master let out a helpless laugh. “Ah, you kid. This incident itself isn’t a huge deal. I’m just worried about how your wife will react if she sees it. After all, the foundation of your relationship is already unstable. If Serena Blake sees those pictures, she’ll definitely resent you for it, and that’s the truly vicious part of this scheme.”

At his master’s words, an idea suddenly struck Ethan Blackthorn. Could Serena Blake be insisting on a divorce because she saw the trending topic?  The more he considered it, the more he was convinced that this had to be the reason.

“You old fox, you nailed it. My wife must have seen it. She’s already asked for a divorce.”

His third master burst into laughter. “Serves you right for being so careless! I’ve seen the photos. They’re crystal clear, and the poses are incredibly intimate. If I were Serena Blake, I’d be furious too. I’d divorce you in a heartbeat!”

“You’re a ruthless one, old man,” Ethan Blackthorn muttered before hanging up.

He stood up and walked out of the security office. He had to find Serena Blake. Whether or not this was the real reason she wanted a divorce, he had to explain things clearly. He couldn’t bear the thought of her being upset.

Just as he reached the door to Serena Blake’s office, it opened from the inside. Charles Langford appeared, his face beaming with delight. Given his current state, Ethan Blackthorn would have immediately suspected him of doing something to the two women if a quick glance inside the office hadn’t confirmed that both Serena Blake and Selene Vale were perfectly fine.

When Charles Langford saw Ethan Blackthorn, he gave him a genial and humble nod.

Ethan Blackthorn acknowledged him with a slight nod of his own before turning to enter the office.

The moment Serena Blake saw Ethan Blackthorn, the soft lines of her beautiful face hardened, turning instantly cold. Her peach-blossom eyes, in particular, held a bone-chilling frost, as if she were looking at an enemy.

Ethan Blackthorn’s heart sank. He realized she was deliberately drawing a line between them.

Selene Vale, however, showed no reaction, her expression as cold as ever. Upon seeing Ethan Blackthorn, she couldn’t stop herself from rolling her eyes before getting up and leaving the office.

The spacious room now held only Ethan Blackthorn and Serena Blake.

“I’ve already said everything I need to say. If you aren’t satisfied with the compensation, I can add another ten million. Ethan Blackthorn, that’s my absolute limit. If you still refuse the divorce, I will take legal action.” Her voice had reverted to the one he remembered from when they first met: cold and unforgiving.

Ethan Blackthorn, however, simply smiled. He sat down across from her, gazing at the woman who still made his heart race no matter how many times he looked at her. “Serena,” he said softly, “I can agree to the divorce, and I won’t take your money. But I have to explain a few things first.”

Serena Blake shook her head. “Ethan Blackthorn, there’s really no need. I’ve made up my mind, and I’m not just saying that.”

“Serena, I know I was wrong. But I honestly just went to the airport to see her off. We only shared a brief farewell hug, nothing more. I know this whole thing has hurt you, and frankly, I was a fool, but…”

Before he could finish, Serena Blake cut him off.

“It doesn’t matter. It really doesn’t,” she interrupted. “Ethan Blackthorn, I know it was just a hug. I know nothing else happened. But… but I can’t live like this anymore, do you understand? I can’t live my life stuck in the middle between you and other women!”

Serena Blake’s voice trembled, and her eyes turned crimson, welling up with tears.

Ethan Blackthorn faltered. He had a million things he wanted to say and had come here determined to win her back, full of confidence. But in that instant, all his energy drained away.

“Fine. Forget I said anything,” Ethan Blackthorn said, his expression dimming as he turned to leave. He couldn’t bear to make her cry, and he knew that if he said another word, she would break down completely.

Not long after Ethan Blackthorn left, Selene Vale returned to the office. Seeing Serena Blake’s red, swollen eyes, she let out a soft sigh.

“Ethan Blackthorn really does love you, you know.”

Serena Blake wiped her tears. “I know. The truth is, I like him too. But that’s exactly why I have to be so determined about this divorce.”

Selene Vale stared at Serena Blake, astonished. “Why?”

Serena Blake fell silent. After a while, her voice was incredibly low as she said, “When I first saw the news online, I was devastated. Truly, I was in agony; it felt as if my heart were being ripped to shreds. But then, I had a sudden realization!

“No matter how you look at it, Celeste Starling is better than me in every way. And she loves Ethan Blackthorn so much. If Ethan Blackthorn were with her, he would be incredibly happy. It’s not like being with me, where there’s just endless trouble!”

Selene Vale’s heart sank at her words. She continued, “Serena Blake, I know you mean well, but I don’t think this is what Ethan Blackthorn wants. I feel that more than anything you think  is good for him, he’d much rather just be with you!”

Serena Blake shook her head. “Selene, I understand what you mean. Honestly, at first, I also believed that love was enough. But so much has happened recently that made me realize how naïve I was. Love can’t put food on the table. Of course, I want to be with Ethan Blackthorn, preferably for the rest of my life, but reality won’t allow it. Do you know why Ethan Blackthorn asked you to protect me? It’s because I’m too much trouble. So much so that even I find myself a burden sometimes. Ethan Blackthorn is a genuinely good person, and I don’t want to see him suffer anymore. He deserves to be happier. It’s just… the one to give him that happiness isn’t me.”

Serena Blake said all this in one breath, as if trying to pour her entire heart out for Selene Vale to see. Selene Vale didn’t know how to persuade her.

But Serena Blake went on, “I once heard a song with a beautiful lyric. It basically says, ‘I love you so, so much, and that’s why I’m willing to let you go, to let you fly toward greater happiness.’ Back then, I thought lyrics like that were ridiculous. If you really love someone, how could you ever let them leave? But now… now I finally understand what it means. If you truly and deeply love someone, you’d be willing to do just that!”

As she spoke, Serena Blake managed a smile, but large tears suddenly began to fall like pearls from a broken string.

Selene Vale felt a sudden, overwhelming urge to hug her. She stood, walked over to Serena Blake, and wrapped her arms around her.

After Ethan Blackthorn left the bar, his mood plunged into the depths of despair. He had never felt so dejected in his entire life.

He had thought that if he just explained things clearly to Serena Blake, apologized properly, and coaxed her a little, he could change her mind about the divorce. But who could have guessed she had already resolved to go through with it. This is truly despairing.

The bar was as packed as ever, with a queue snaking several hundred meters down the street. It was clear Serena Blake’s bar had become a massive success.

Ethan Blackthorn turned and headed for the security room.

Just as he pushed the door open, he saw Mia Sterling and Elliot Langford drinking and chatting together. They seemed to be getting along quite well.

Mia Sterling was smiling flirtatiously. The moment she saw Ethan Blackthorn, she shot him a coquettish glance. “You stink… you stinking Ethan Blackthorn, where have you been?”

“Why are you two here?” Ethan Blackthorn asked in return.

Mia Sterling pouted playfully. “Because I missed you!”

“Alright, stop running over to my place all the time,” Ethan Blackthorn said, suppressing his dejection. “If you want to drink, go to the bar. This isn’t a place for drinking.”

Mia Sterling hadn’t done anything wrong, so of course, Ethan Blackthorn couldn’t take his anger out on her.

Mia Sterling, however, was exceptionally sharp. She immediately sensed Ethan Blackthorn was in a bad mood. Just as she was about to speak, Elliot Langford, who was sitting beside her, shot to his feet.

He was angry. Genuinely angry.

He felt that Ethan Blackthorn was going too far. Ever since they met him at the hotel, Mia Sterling had been nothing but friendly. Yet, Ethan Blackthorn had repeatedly disrespected her. It would be one thing to just slight her, but he was also rude. Elliot Langford couldn’t stand it anymore.

Of course, a more important reason was that Elliot Langford sensed Mia Sterling might have a soft spot for this beggar before him. Whether it was out of male pride or some other reason, Elliot Langford could no longer remain seated.

“Friend, there’s no need to be so barbed with your words,” Elliot Langford said, his tone casual but edged. “Mei’er condescended to come find you for a drink. I’d say that’s an honor for you. Why must you act so high and mighty?”

Even a fool could tell he was annoyed.

Ethan Blackthorn was amused by this. Here I am, being as approachable as can be, and someone dares to accuse me of acting superior.

Just as Ethan Blackthorn was about to speak, Mia Sterling’s voice cut in coldly, “Elliot Langford, you’re overstepping!”

She was clearly displeased. Mia Sterling knew Elliot Langford liked her. He had never confessed, but she could feel it. She had, however, told him subtly on more than one occasion that he wasn’t her type. For all these years, she had only ever considered him a friend.

But now, this friend had crossed a line. And Mia Sterling was not happy.

Indeed, Ethan Blackthorn was her untouchable weak spot.

Elliot Langford froze. He thought Mia Sterling would be grateful to him for admonishing the beggar who had disrespected her. He never dreamed she would rebuke him so harshly for a stinking beggar.

“Mei’er, I just thought he…”

Mia Sterling cut him off. “You thought? Do I need you to think for me? What, you think because you’re a master on the Human Emperor List and a student of the Dragon Lord, you can just criticize others with impunity? You call him high and mighty, but aren’t you the one putting on such airs right now!”

Elliot Langford’s face flushed crimson. Swallowing his anger, he said in a low voice, “Fine. I spoke out of turn.”

“You certainly did. That’s enough for today. You can go now. Don’t disturb my conversation with Ethan Blackthorn,” Mia Sterling said, effectively kicking him out.

She hadn’t wanted to have dinner with him in the first place, and now his careless words sealed it. Mia Sterling no longer wanted to continue drinking with him; she didn’t even want to be his friend anymore.

Elliot Langford felt utterly humiliated. Profoundly humiliated.

He was, after all, a ranked master on the Human Emperor List and a student of the Dragon Lord. Yet Mia Sterling had shown him such complete disrespect.

Yes, he liked Mia Sterling, but faced with such a blatant disregard for his dignity, he finally snapped. He felt she was trampling on his pride.

For Elliot Langford, dignity was more important than life itself.

He shot to his feet. With a cold sneer, he said, “Mia Sterling, I’ll give you one chance to rephrase that. Otherwise, don’t blame me for getting rough. Don’t think you can humiliate me just because your Sterling Family is powerful. Don’t forget, I am a student of the Dragon Lord!”

PFFT.

Ethan Blackthorn snorted with laughter.

Chapter 202

Ethan Blackthorn certainly wanted to laugh.

Indeed, making it onto the Dragon Emperor List was an exciting affair. After all, of the more than one billion people in the nation, only ten managed to get on it. But to boast about it in front of me, the Dragon Lord… that’s just low-class.

Ethan Blackthorn’s disdainful laugh made Elliot Langford feel a deep sense of humiliation once again, especially since he was being ridiculed in front of Mia Sterling. He felt as if Ethan Blackthorn had just trampled his dignity underfoot.

He looked at Ethan Blackthorn with uncontrollable anger.

“You filthy beggar, what the hell are you laughing at?”

Ethan Blackthorn let out a cold laugh. “Of course I’m laughing at your stupidity!”

Those words were like gasoline poured over Elliot Langford’s heart, causing him to instantly explode with rage.

“Damn it! You dare laugh at me? Are you looking for death?”

Just as Ethan Blackthorn was about to speak, Mia Sterling cut in. “Elliot Langford, our friendship ends here. Please leave!”

Mia Sterling’s attitude toward Ethan Blackthorn had already enraged Elliot Langford. Now, after hearing her words, he was even more furious, on the verge of exploding.

“Damn it, Mia Sterling, you’ve got some nerve! I’ve spent all these years fawning over you like a lovesick fool, and now you treat me like this for some filthy beggar? Fine, friendship be damned! Today, I’m going to teach you two pieces of trash a lesson and show you the consequences of offending me!” Elliot Langford roared, nearly hysterical.

An icy frost had unknowingly settled over Mia Sterling’s foxy face. She looked at Elliot Langford with a cold gaze.

“Fine, teach us a lesson? You just try and touch us today. Don’t think you can do whatever you want just because you’re the Dragon Lord’s student. I’m putting it all on the line right now: if you dare lay a single finger on Ethan Blackthorn, the Sterling Family will make you pay a price in blood, even if it means bankrupting ourselves!”

Mia Sterling’s demeanor had completely changed from her usual seductive tone, becoming incredibly domineering. Moreover, her eyes were no longer watery but had become piercingly sharp.

Elliot Langford scoffed disdainfully. “Mia Sterling, I know your Sterling Family is a member of The Apex Nine. But don’t forget, I am the Dragon Lord’s student. In front of the Dragon Lord, The Apex Nine is nothing!”

“Then you’re welcome to try!” Mia Sterling retorted with determination.

Elliot Langford’s laughter grew more ferocious. “Oh, does that sting? Since you care so much about this filthy beggar, even willing to make an enemy of me for his sake, how about this? Let me have my way with you for one night, and I’ll spare this filthy beggar!”

“Get lost!” Mia Sterling bellowed, seething with rage.

Elliot Langford’s expression darkened as he stared at her. “You were offered a chance to save face, but you refused it. Since that’s how it is, don’t blame me for being ruthless!”

As he finished speaking, Ethan Blackthorn, who had been silent all this time, suddenly smiled.

“Mia Sterling, you should leave first,” Ethan Blackthorn said with a smile.

“I won’t!” the young woman said stubbornly.

She knew Ethan Blackthorn was telling her to leave because he didn’t want Elliot Langford to use her as leverage. But how could she possibly leave at a time like this? Even though Elliot Langford had turned on her, she wasn’t afraid of him. Besides, she felt that if she stayed by Ethan Blackthorn’s side and Elliot Langford dared to make a move, she could protect him. She refused to believe Elliot Langford would actually dare to touch her.

“Don’t worry. I’m asking you to leave not because I’m afraid he’ll use you to threaten me, but because I don’t want you to get splattered with blood.”

PFFT.

Elliot Langford reacted as if he had just heard the most hilarious joke in the world and burst out laughing, laughing so hard that tears came to his eyes.

A filthy beggar dared to say something so audacious. He really was an idiot.

Mia Sterling didn’t laugh. She knew Ethan Blackthorn was only saying this to protect her.

“Ethan Blackthorn, no matter what you say, I’m not leaving. I will stand with you today!”

Ethan Blackthorn was at a bit of a loss. It wasn’t that he was afraid of Mia Sterling discovering his identity as the Dragon Lord. The real reason was that he was planning to go on a killing spree—a bit of house cleaning, so to speak. There was bound to be bloodshed. This girl was just an ordinary person. She would definitely be traumatized if she witnessed such a scene.

Just as he was wondering how to persuade her to leave, Ethan Blackthorn thought of Selene Vale.

Selene Vale had an impressive cultivation base, a fact Mia Sterling was aware of.

“Mia Sterling, I appreciate the sentiment, but this isn’t the time for that. Go find Selene Vale,” Ethan Blackthorn said, feigning displeasure.

Mia Sterling instantly understood his intention. She gave Ethan Blackthorn a worried glance and then said, “Okay, I’ll go right now!”

The moment she spoke, Elliot Langford let out a cold laugh.

“What, going to find reinforcements?”

“That’s right! And let me tell you, Selene Vale’s cultivation is heaven-defying. Killing someone like you would be easier than crushing an ant. If you’re scared, then scram!”

Elliot Langford was once again amused, his laugh turning sinister.

“Fine. Do me a favor and hurry back with this so-called heaven-defying expert. I’d love to see just how heaven-defying he really is,” Elliot Langford said with utter disdain.

Mia Sterling shot him a vicious glare before turning and leaving the security room.

Soon, only Ethan Blackthorn and Elliot Langford were left in the large room.

Ethan Blackthorn took a sip of tea.

“Kneel,” he said slowly and deliberately.

“Damn it, what the hell did you say?”

Ethan Blackthorn placed his teacup on the table, his gaze suddenly sharpening as he looked at Elliot Langford. An overwhelming, intimidating pressure washed over the room.

Elliot Langford’s heart skipped a beat.

Ethan Blackthorn ignored his shock and continued, “If I had known back then what a piece of trash you were, I never would have let you on the Dragon Emperor List, no matter how talented or powerful you were. Luckily, I can correct that mistake today.”

Elliot Langford was stunned for a moment, then burst out laughing again.

“You filthy beggar, what the hell are you talking about? You think you’re the Dragon Lord?”

“Who knows? Maybe I am,” Ethan Blackthorn retorted with a cold smile.

PFFT.

Elliot Langford laughed again, so hard he almost doubled over.

A filthy beggar had the audacity to claim he was the Dragon Lord. He was truly asking for death.

But as he laughed, Elliot Langford’s eyes suddenly became extremely sharp, his gaze like a blade aimed at Ethan Blackthorn.

“A maggot like you dares to impersonate the Dragon Lord?” he said in a chilling tone. “Today, I’ll let you taste what it means to court death!”

With that, Elliot Langford pounced toward Ethan Blackthorn.

Elliot Langford moved swiftly, a true master of the Martial King Level. But alas, his opponent today was Ethan Blackthorn.

Even though ninety percent of his cultivation was temporarily stored within Serena Blake’s dantian, Ethan Blackthorn was still a master of the Divine Ascendant Realm. Dealing with Elliot Langford was easier than crushing an ant.

Soon, Elliot Langford lunged at Ethan Blackthorn, who stood motionless.

He really wanted to see how this trash was going to court death.

Elliot Langford’s iron fist, carrying terrifying momentum, aimed a heavy blow at Ethan Blackthorn’s head.

Elliot Langford had calculated well. Today, he intended to teach the filthy beggar before him a harsh, bloody lesson. He would show Mia Sterling who the real man worthy of her was.

Ethan Blackthorn chuckled coldly. Just as Elliot Langford’s fist was about to strike his head like lightning, Ethan Blackthorn made his move. No, it was a kick.

The kick struck Elliot Langford’s chest like a bolt of lightning.

BANG!

A muffled thud broke the silence of the security room. Before Elliot Langford could even react, his whole body was sent flying. He slammed hard against a nearby wall, which seemed to tremble from the impact before his body crumpled to the ground.

Elliot Langford felt like he was going to die. Every inch of him ached, especially the spot where Ethan Blackthorn had kicked him. It hurt so much it felt like it was about to explode. He lay there like a dead dog, his pupils dilated and his breathing feeble.

After a minute or two on the ground, Elliot Langford finally felt like he had come back to life. His gaze immediately shot toward Ethan Blackthorn, his earlier arrogance completely replaced by shock. He looked at Ethan Blackthorn in utter disbelief, his lips moving as if to say something, but no words came out.

Ethan Blackthorn walked over to Elliot Langford, looking down on him as if he were a pile of trash.

“Who… who exactly are you?” Elliot Langford asked, his voice as feeble as his breath.

Ethan Blackthorn didn’t answer his question directly. Instead, he said coldly, “Elliot Langford of Silverton City. Though young, he is exceptionally gifted, cautious in his actions, and of upright character. Worthy of a place on the list!”

BOOM!

Elliot Langford’s mind went blank. If facing Ethan Blackthorn’s monstrous cultivation had only shocked him, now he was utterly dumbfounded. No, not just dumbfounded—he was scared witless. Truly and utterly petrified.

Indeed, what Ethan Blackthorn had just recited was the exact evaluation written for him by the Dragon Lord when he first ascended the Dragon Emperor List. Only two people in the entire world knew of this evaluation: Elliot Langford himself, and of course, the Dragon Lord.

This meant that Ethan Blackthorn was truly the Dragon Lord.

Elliot Langford was stunned. Utterly stunned. No, it was more than shock—it was panic. A deep, primal fear radiated from the very depths of his soul.

I actually dared to disrespect the Dragon Lord.

As this thought flashed through his mind, Elliot Langford’s face turned deathly pale. His body began to tremble, and he tried to stammer out something but didn’t know how to start. A pleading look filled his eyes. The thought of standing up vanished, and he collapsed back onto his knees.

Just then, a knock came from the door.

“Captain, what do you need me to do?”

It was Derek Vance’s voice. It seemed he had sensed what had happened inside the security room.

Ethan Blackthorn spoke indifferently, “Come in.”

The door was pushed open, and Derek Vance quickly stepped inside. He wasn’t the least bit surprised by the scene before him; after all, he knew just how heaven-defying Ethan Blackthorn’s cultivation was.

“Hide him away,” Ethan Blackthorn said casually.

To be honest, Ethan Blackthorn wanted to deal with Elliot Langford right then and there. But Mia Sterling had already gone to find Selene Vale, and Serena Blake might come over too. If they saw him handling Elliot Langford, they would obviously be frightened. So, Ethan Blackthorn decided to hide him first and take care of him later.

“Captain, shall I kill him?” Derek Vance asked in a deep voice.

“Just knock him out for now.”

Frankly, the reason Ethan Blackthorn didn’t have him killed immediately wasn’t fear of trouble. It was because this piece of trash was, after all, a member of the Dragon Emperor List. In a way, he could be considered one of his students.

Derek Vance nodded. He stepped forward and dragged Elliot Langford into the small room within the security office. This room was a simple resting place for guards on night duty, just large enough to fit a single bed. Without wasting words, Derek Vance struck Elliot Langford on the back of the head, and he instantly passed out. Derek Vance then hid him under the bed.

After taking care of everything, Derek Vance came out of the resting room. Just as he was about to speak, Ethan Blackthorn suddenly said, “Come on, punch me!”

Derek Vance froze, his eyes bulging like a cow’s. “C-Captain, what kind of joke is this?”

“Less nonsense. Do it now!” Ethan Blackthorn commanded in a low voice. The volume was soft, but it carried a terrifying, murderous aura.

Startled into a shiver, Derek Vance quickly threw a punch toward Ethan Blackthorn’s arm.

“Aim here,” Ethan Blackthorn said, pointing to his heart. “And put some force into it!”

Derek Vance stared at Ethan Blackthorn, even more shocked. He couldn’t understand why his captain wanted him to attack. But Ethan Blackthorn’s words were orders—commands that brooked no rebuttal or doubt.

He dared not dawdle. He threw a punch directly at Ethan Blackthorn’s heart.

BANG!

A deafening sound erupted inside the security room. Ethan Blackthorn stood unflinchingly in place, but Derek Vance was sent flying backward as if struck by an immense force. He slammed hard against the wall before coming to a stop.

This was only because Derek Vance’s cultivation wasn’t particularly high. If it had been Selene Vale striking Ethan Blackthorn with his full power, he would have likely been blasted straight through the wall. After all, the stronger the force of the attack on Ethan Blackthorn, the stronger the rebound.

Having crashed hard to the ground, Derek Vance stared at Ethan Blackthorn, his expression a mixture of shock and terror. He couldn’t understand it. He was the one who attacked Ethan Blackthorn, so why was he the one injured, and so severely at that?

Derek Vance felt his qi and blood churning violently inside him, causing excruciating pain. He forced himself to stand and took several deep breaths, which finally eased the agony somewhat.

Just as Derek Vance was about to speak, Ethan Blackthorn suddenly flopped to the ground. He lowered his voice and spoke rapidly, “Play along with me!”

Chapter 203

Derek Vance stared at Ethan Blackthorn in bewilderment.

“Captain, you… what do you want me to act out?”

“It’s simple. Just play along with me. Now, pretend that I’m severely injured and you’re terrified!”

Derek Vance was stunned once again. He still didn’t understand why Ethan Blackthorn wanted to put on such a show.

But he would soon find out.

Just as Derek Vance put on a terrified expression and began supporting Ethan Blackthorn, the door to the security room was pushed open. Serena Blake then rushed in, followed closely by Selene Vale and Mia Sterling.

The three young women were all shocked by the scene. Serena Blake, in particular, froze on the spot. She saw Ethan Blackthorn’s pale face and his weakened state. It was obvious he was injured. The sight made her mind explode.

Without a second thought, she threw herself in front of Ethan Blackthorn, her hands trembling as she tried to help him up.

Ethan Blackthorn offered Serena Blake a pitiful smile. “My love, I’m sorry for making you worry!”

His voice was weak, so faint it was barely a whisper.

Serena Blake’s eyes immediately turned red. Before she could even speak, large teardrops began to fall. They traced paths down her fair cheeks, making her look both tragically beautiful and utterly desperate.

“Ethan Blackthorn, don’t scare me! What… what on earth happened?” Serena Blake asked, her voice trembling with a panic she had never felt before.

Yes, Serena Blake was panicking. It felt as if a huge piece of her heart had been torn away. She had convinced herself that her firm decision to divorce Ethan Blackthorn was for his own happiness. But at this moment, she finally realized the truth.

I was just deceiving myself.

Just the sight of him injured made her this frightened. If he really married another woman, I probably wouldn’t be able to go on living.

“It’s… it’s nothing. Just a small injury. You… don’t worry. I… I’ll be alright!” Ethan Blackthorn’s performance was heartfelt and convincing, as if he had truly suffered a grave wound and was on the verge of death.

Mia Sterling was in no less of a panic than Serena Blake. She was not only frantic but also consumed by a profound sense of guilt. She knew perfectly well that Elliot Langford was the one who had harmed Ethan Blackthorn. If she hadn’t brought Elliot Langford to the bar, how could this have happened?

At that moment, Mia Sterling’s heart was filled not only with guilt but also with a towering rage. She vowed to make Elliot Langford pay a bloody price.

Compared to the panic of Serena Blake and Mia Sterling, Selene Vale appeared much calmer. Although she had also been startled by Ethan Blackthorn’s pitiful state and was filled with concern, she quickly sensed that something was amiss. Ethan Blackthorn’s condition looked terrible and his breathing was weak, but the weakness seemed feigned. After all, Selene Vale was a cultivator of the highest caliber; she could tell if it was an act with a single glance.

Thus, the quick-witted woman realized Ethan Blackthorn was faking. As soon as she did, the corners of her mouth lifted involuntarily. This damn scoundrel is so full of tricks!  she cursed inwardly.

Of course, Selene Vale knew exactly why Ethan Blackthorn was putting on such a performance. It was because Serena Blake wanted to divorce him. He was clearly doing this to make Serena Blake worry, hoping to change her mind.

Just then, Mia Sterling suddenly choked out, “Serena, I’m so sorry! This is all my fault. If it weren’t for me, Ethan Blackthorn wouldn’t be so badly hurt!”

Serena Blake’s expression hardened. Her previously frantic eyes instantly became sharp as she shot a piercing glare at Mia Sterling. Then, she turned to Selene Vale and said, “Selene, call 911!”

Selene Vale didn’t respond immediately. Instead, her gaze shifted to Ethan Blackthorn, silently asking for his instructions. She knew he was only pretending, and a trip to the hospital would expose the entire charade.

Ethan Blackthorn gave a subtle shake of his head. “Selene, Mia, Derek, you three should go out for a bit. I want to have a word with my wife alone!”

His words were an undeniable command to the three of them. Since Selene Vale and Derek Vance were in on the act, they stood up and headed for the door.

Mia Sterling, however, didn’t move. She was genuinely worried about Ethan Blackthorn. Unlike Selene Vale, she didn’t possess world-class cultivation and couldn’t see through his performance.

“Mia, you… you should go out, too,” Ethan Blackthorn said with feigned difficulty.

“I… I… I…” Mia Sterling stammered, so overwhelmed with worry that she couldn’t form a complete sentence. She didn’t want to leave. Her heart was torn between crushing guilt and overwhelming concern, but she didn’t dare disobey Ethan Blackthorn. After a moment’s hesitation, she reluctantly left the security room.

Soon, only Ethan Blackthorn and Serena Blake remained in the spacious room.

Without a second thought, Serena Blake sank to the floor and pulled Ethan Blackthorn into her embrace. Her bloodshot eyes were fixed on him as he extended a trembling right hand, reaching with immense difficulty toward her captivating face.

Seeing this, Serena Blake quickly grabbed his hand and pressed it against her cheek.

“My love, I’m sorry. I made you worry!”

Fresh tears streamed down Serena Blake’s face, but she paid them no mind. Crying, she shook her head, her lips moving as if she wanted to say something, but no words came out. She had so much to tell him. She wanted to tell him how much pain she was in, how much she truly liked him. She even wanted to admit she had been wrong. But at this moment, she couldn’t utter a single word. An unprecedented wave of panic washed over her, leaving her trembling, suffocated, and desperate.

Ethan Blackthorn wiped away her tears and managed a difficult smile. “My love, don’t cry. I’m… I’m okay!”

Despite his words, his voice grew even weaker, as if he were about to bid farewell to the world at any second. This only made Serena Blake cry harder.

“My love, can I ask you something?” Ethan Blackthorn asked weakly.

Serena Blake nodded vigorously. “Say it,” she sobbed. “I’ll agree to anything!”

“Can… can we not get divorced? I… I don’t want to divorce you!”

Serena Blake nodded again. “We won’t! Don’t worry, I won’t divorce you. When you get better, I want to have lots and lots of children with you. We’ll definitely grow old together!”

Ethan Blackthorn was ecstatic. He had to pinch himself hard to suppress the urge to laugh.

“My love, I… I have one more thing!”

“You… you can say it!”

“Can… can you kiss me? I…”

Before he could finish, Serena Blake’s soft lips pressed against his.

An ecstatic sensation washed over him. Ethan Blackthorn felt as if his soul was about to leave his body. Serena Blake kissed him while crying, as though it were their last kiss.

Initially, Ethan Blackthorn feigned weakness, but Serena Blake’s kisses became almost too much for him to bear. He began to respond, even extending his tongue.

Serena Blake’s delicate body trembled, her peach-blossom eyes widening even further. She instinctively pushed Ethan Blackthorn away, staring at him in shock.

Seeing her reaction, Ethan Blackthorn’s heart raced. Damn it, I’ve given myself away!

As the thought flashed through his mind, Ethan Blackthorn quickly feigned weakness again. Serena Blake stared at him for a while, but seeing that he still appeared extremely weak, she dismissed her suspicions. To be honest, however, Serena Blake truly hoped Ethan Blackthorn wasn’t hurt and that everything he had done was just a deception.

Just then, the door to the security room was pushed open, and Magnus Vale strode in. He was startled by the scene before him, especially Ethan Blackthorn’s fragile appearance.

“Miss Blake, what happened to Ethan Blackthorn?”

“He’s been injured!” Serena Blake said gravely.

Magnus Vale looked at Ethan Blackthorn. “Miss Blake, it just so happens that I’ve learned some medical skills. How about I treat Ethan Blackthorn?”

Serena Blake was taken aback. She turned her head sharply to look at Magnus Vale. “Are… are you serious?”

Magnus Vale nodded.

Serena Blake was overjoyed. She was truly happy. She had thought Ethan Blackthorn was about to be taken from her, but things had unexpectedly taken a surprising turn. She looked at Magnus Vale excitedly. “Then, please, hurry and save my husband! As long as you can cure him, I will be eternally grateful to you!”

“Miss Blake, you’re too kind. I owe my job at this bar to Ethan Blackthorn, so it’s only right that I save him. However, I can’t make any promises. I can only try my best.”

Serena Blake nodded repeatedly. “Mr. Vale, please begin!”

Magnus Vale nodded. “Miss Blake, please step outside for a moment. After all, my medical skills cannot be displayed for others to see.”

“I understand. I’ll leave right now.”

Serena Blake quickly wiped away her tears and gave Ethan Blackthorn one last look full of deep affection. Then, she reluctantly left the security room.

The moment the door closed, Ethan Blackthorn sat up.

“You’re a bit early,” Ethan Blackthorn said, slightly annoyed. He had been hoping to trick Serena Blake into giving him a few more kisses, but this old man had suddenly barged in.

Indeed, Magnus Vale was also part of the act Ethan Blackthorn had arranged. While having Derek Vance play along earlier, Ethan Blackthorn had sent a message to Magnus Vale.

Faced with Ethan Blackthorn’s complaint, Magnus Vale looked at him with a hint of trepidation. “Dragon Lord, my apologies. I… I thought it was about time.”

Ethan Blackthorn waved his hand. “I’m not blaming you. I’m just a little frustrated. If you’d come in a bit later, I could have coaxed a few more kisses out of my wife.”

Magnus Vale looked at Ethan Blackthorn, not knowing whether to laugh or cry. He had been worried that he’d come in too early and ruined some grand plan.

“Are the new arrivals from the martial arts circles under surveillance?” Ethan Blackthorn asked.

Magnus Vale nodded. “They have all been placed under surveillance. A few particularly dangerous ones have already been quietly taken care of.”

“Excellent work.”

Magnus Vale smiled. “Dragon Lord, you flatter me. It’s merely my duty.”

Outside the security room, Serena Blake paced back and forth. She was genuinely worried about Ethan Blackthorn. After all, she had never witnessed Magnus Vale’s medical skills and had no idea if he could truly save him. Selene Vale couldn’t bear to see her so anxious and offered some comfort. “Don’t worry, Ethan Blackthorn will be all right.”

Serena Blake glanced at Selene Vale gratefully but said nothing. A few words of comfort were not enough to ease her frantic heart. Only seeing Ethan Blackthorn safe and sound with her own eyes would finally put her mind at rest.

Mia Sterling was also deeply worried. But unlike Serena Blake, her emotions were a mix of guilt and anger. She felt immense guilt toward Ethan Blackthorn and a boundless rage toward Elliot Langford. She had already called her father, Sterling patriarch, and explained the entire situation, vowing to get justice for Ethan Blackthorn even if she had to pay for it in blood.

When the Sterling patriarch heard that Ethan Blackthorn was injured, he was utterly shocked. He hurriedly reported the matter to the helmsman of the nation’s number one financial consortium, who was also Ethan Blackthorn’s fourth master. Fortunately, after hearing the report, his fourth master knew Ethan Blackthorn was just putting on an act. After all, he was the Dragon Lord. How could he possibly be injured by his own student? If that were the case, the entire nation would be thrown into turmoil.

After the group had stood outside the security room for more than ten minutes, each lost in their own thoughts, the door finally opened. Magnus Vale walked out.

“Mr. Vale, how is he?” Serena Blake asked hurriedly.

“When I take action, there are never any problems,” Magnus Vale said with a smile.

Serena Blake’s heart pounded. “Does that mean… Ethan Blackthorn is all right?”

Magnus Vale nodded.

Serena Blake didn’t spare another moment to talk to Magnus Vale and quickly rushed into the security room.

Hearing that Ethan Blackthorn was fine, Mia Sterling was also thrilled and was about to follow Serena Blake inside, but Selene Vale held her back.

“Let Serena talk with Ethan Blackthorn first,” Selene Vale said gently. Although she knew Ethan Blackthorn had orchestrated this entire drama just to fool Serena Blake, she was willing to help him.

Mia Sterling nodded and obediently stopped.

Ethan Blackthorn was sitting on a chair. His complexion was much rosier, and he looked considerably recovered, at least not as frail as before.

Serena Blake was so moved she felt like crying again. Without a second thought, she threw herself into Ethan Blackthorn’s arms. As she held him, feeling his warmth for real, her tears flowed uncontrollably.

Seeing her cry so heartbrokenly, Ethan Blackthorn suddenly felt a pang of guilt. If he had known Serena Blake would be this upset, he wouldn’t have put on this act.

He hugged her tightly. “Honey, I’m sorry for making you worry.”

Serena Blake shook her head vigorously, choking back sobs. “Ethan Blackthorn, don’t say that. It’s not your fault. The one who’s wrong is the person who hurt you. Don’t worry, I’ll get justice for you, even if it costs me everything!”

“You’re so good to me, honey. Thank you,” Ethan Blackthorn said softly.

Serena Blake’s heart melted, and she held him even tighter. At that moment, she felt that “a false alarm” was the most wonderful phrase in the world. Feeling the warmth of Ethan Blackthorn’s body, she silently vowed to herself that she would never bring up divorce with him again. Not unless he no longer wanted her.

After they had embraced for what felt like an eternity, Ethan Blackthorn suddenly said, “Honey, I still want a kiss!”

Yes, he wanted to kiss her. Desperately.

Serena Blake’s face instantly flushed crimson. “No.”

“But I want one!”

“How about when we get home tonight? There’s still so much to deal with at the bar,” she protested sweetly. Knowing that Ethan Blackthorn was fine, her heart had finally, completely relaxed.

“Fine!” Ethan Blackthorn said with a beaming smile.

Chapter 204

After soothing Serena Blake, she had to return to work. After all, it was the bar’s busiest time, and Selene Vale naturally accompanied her.

The moment Serena Blake left, Mia Sterling entered the security room. Without hesitation, she threw herself into Ethan Blackthorn’s arms and burst into tears.

Her worry for Ethan Blackthorn was no less than Serena Blake’s. Moreover, Mia Sterling carried a burden Serena Blake did not: guilt. She was convinced she had almost gotten Ethan Blackthorn killed. After all, she was the one who had brought Elliot Langford to the bar.

Her sobs were heartbreaking. Ethan Blackthorn quickly said, “Alright, stop crying. If anyone hears you, they’ll think I’m bullying you.”

Mia Sterling obediently stopped crying immediately. However, though she wasn’t wailing anymore, she continued to choke back sobs.

After some time, her emotions gradually stabilized.

“Ethan Blackthorn, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry,” she said. “If I had known he was that kind of person, I would have died before bringing him here.”

“It’s okay, it’s all in the past,” Ethan Blackthorn consoled her. “Besides, I’m standing right here in one piece, aren’t I?”

But his reassurances didn’t alleviate the guilt in Mia Sterling’s heart. Instead, they only amplified her urge to cry. Because of me, Ethan Blackthorn nearly died.  The thought was unbearable; Mia Sterling couldn’t forgive herself.

Facing Ethan Blackthorn’s attempt at comfort, Mia Sterling suddenly swore an oath. “Ethan Blackthorn, don’t worry! I will get revenge for what happened today, even if I have to pay for it with my blood!”

“I believe you,” Ethan Blackthorn said, placating her. “But everything’s fine now, so you should go back out.” He wanted her to leave because he still had to deal with Elliot Langford.

Mia Sterling looked at Ethan Blackthorn with teary eyes, reluctant to leave.

“Go on,” Ethan Blackthorn said, his tone hardening.

Mia Sterling quickly nodded. She gave Ethan Blackthorn one last, deep look before turning and leaving the security room.

She had barely left when Derek Vance walked in.

“Bring him out,” Ethan Blackthorn said gravely.

Derek Vance went into the break room and, moments later, dragged Elliot Langford out. Elliot Langford was still unconscious.

Ethan Blackthorn summoned the Xuantian Needle. With a flick of his wrist, the needle shot forward and embedded itself between Elliot Langford’s eyebrows.

A moment later, Elliot Langford’s eyes fluttered open.

Although he had only been unconscious for a short while, Elliot Langford hadn’t forgotten what had happened. Upon seeing Ethan Blackthorn again, Elliot Langford, who was already lying on the floor, shuddered and scrambled to his knees.

“Dragon Lord, I-I was wrong! I truly know I was wrong! I’ll never dare to court death again! Please, spare me!” Elliot Langford stammered.

Standing to the side, Derek Vance shuddered violently, his eyes bulging like a bull’s. Dragon… Dragon Lord? Ethan Blackthorn is the Dragon Lord?  Even though Derek Vance had long suspected Ethan Blackthorn’s background was extraordinary, learning his true identity still hit him like a thunderbolt. He never would have dreamed… Ethan Blackthorn is the Dragon Lord. The most brutally powerful man of this era. No, not just power… His wealth is enough to rival an entire nation.

As the realization dawned, a fear he had never before experienced took root in Derek Vance’s heart, sending a chill straight down his spine. At that moment, he felt a profound sense of relief that he was one of Ethan Blackthorn’s men, not his enemy.

Hearing Elliot Langford’s plea, Ethan Blackthorn let out a disdainful sneer.

“When I selected you for the Dragon Emperor List, I thought you had some integrity,” he said. “I see now it was all an act. Elliot Langford, if you were in my position, what would you do with someone like you?”

The memory of his previous attitude toward Ethan Blackthorn flashed through his mind. Elliot Langford’s face turned ashen; he knew he was out of chances. When he realized this, he began to weep. Frustration, guilt, self-blame, regret, and self-loathing crashed down on him all at once. His face was deathly pale, completely drained of color.

He knelt there on the ground for a long moment before wiping the tears from his eyes.

“Dragon Lord, I know I was wrong. Rest assured, from now on, I will disappear from this world completely!”

“Not enough,” Ethan Blackthorn said solemnly.

Elliot Langford was an expert on the Dragon Emperor List and held the title of Ethan Blackthorn’s student. Yet, after showing such profound disrespect, he thought he could just find a place to hide and that would resolve everything. Where in the world could he find a deal that good?

The words “not enough” made Elliot Langford shudder violently again. He suddenly understood what Ethan Blackthorn meant.

Elliot Langford respectfully kowtowed three times to Ethan Blackthorn. Then, he raised a hand, aiming to strike the crown of his own head. He was attempting suicide.

But just as his palm was about to connect, Ethan Blackthorn moved like lightning. He appeared behind Elliot Langford like a ghost and lightly tapped a vertebra in his neck.

The next second, a heart-boring agony shot through Elliot Langford’s entire body. He collapsed to the ground, completely motionless. His eyes were utterly dead.

Ethan Blackthorn didn’t spare him another glance.

“Do you hate me?” Ethan Blackthorn asked indifferently.

Elliot Langford was stunned for a moment, then shook his head with all his might.

“No. Everything that happened today was my own doing. You did nothing wrong. I’ve been getting arrogant lately, unable to see my own heart clearly!”

“It’s good that you know,” Ethan Blackthorn said. “Today, I’ve crippled your cultivation. From now on, you will no longer walk the path of a martial artist. Live as an ordinary man.”

A single sentence sealed Elliot Langford’s fate.

Elliot Langford slowly nodded. “Thank you, Dragon Lord, for this judgment. I will live well as an ordinary person. I will never set foot in the martial world again, nor will I ever use your name to swindle and deceive others.”

“You may go,” Ethan Blackthorn said, his back already turned.

Elliot Langford struggled to his feet. He braced himself and gave Ethan Blackthorn a deep bow, then staggered toward the exit.

No one noticed that Ethan Blackthorn’s eyes had begun to redden.

Indeed, Ethan Blackthorn felt awful. After all, Elliot Langford was, in a sense, his student. Seeing him meet such a fate, how could Ethan Blackthorn feel good about it? But he had chosen this path himself. There was no one else to blame.

Even though Elliot Langford was his student, Ethan Blackthorn was not a man who could tolerate deceit. He knew that if he didn’t deal with Elliot Langford today, his arrogance would only grow more rampant. That was something Ethan Blackthorn could not allow. He hadn’t selected him for the Dragon Emperor List just so he could abuse his status and throw his weight around.

Now, only Ethan Blackthorn and Derek Vance remained in the large security room.

Derek Vance desperately wanted to say something, but he didn’t know where to start. He was still reeling from the shock of discovering Ethan Blackthorn’s identity.

Just then, a knock came from the door of the security room.

“Come in!” Ethan Blackthorn said in a deep voice.

The door swung open. Ethan Blackthorn turned his head to see an exceptionally innocent-looking girl standing poised in the doorway.

Who else could it be but Yara Vance?

Yara Vance stood gracefully at the entrance of the security room, dressed in a flowing white gown. A faint light shone upon her, illuminating the shy smile on her face and making her appear like a captivating sprite.

Ethan Blackthorn smiled the moment he caught sight of her. He was just about to agree to Derek Vance’s request to have a good talk with Yara Vance. After all, she had recently been thinking about entering the entertainment industry.

When Derek Vance saw his sister, however, his heart sank. It wasn’t that he wasn’t happy to see her. Rather, he was thinking about the fact that she liked Ethan Blackthorn. Even without knowing Ethan Blackthorn’s true identity, Derek Vance had felt his sister was somewhat unworthy of him. Now that he knew the truth, he felt it even more keenly. She simply wasn’t good enough for Ethan Blackthorn. Even if Ethan Blackthorn were single, she still wouldn’t be a match for him—not to mention the fact that he was already married. Yes, his current concern was that his sister would only fall deeper and deeper, and in the end, she would be the one to suffer. He resolved to have a serious talk with her when they got home that evening and extinguish that little flame in her heart once and for all.

“Yara, what brings you here?” Ethan Blackthorn asked with a smile.

Yara Vance smiled shyly in return. “Brother Ethan, I wasn’t busy, so I thought I’d come see you and my brother!”

Ethan Blackthorn nodded. “You’ve come at the right time. There’s something I wanted to talk to you about!”

Yara Vance’s beautiful eyes lit up. “Brother Ethan, what do you want to talk about?”

Just as Ethan Blackthorn was about to speak, Derek Vance interjected, “Captain, I’ll get back to work!”

Ethan Blackthorn nodded.

Derek Vance rose and walked toward the exit. As he passed his sister, his brow furrowed slightly. He said in a low voice, “Yara, have a good chat with the Captain. Don’t be difficult.”

Yara Vance obediently nodded.

After watching Derek Vance leave, Ethan Blackthorn said to Yara Vance, “Have a seat.”

She obediently sat down on a nearby chair.

“Want some water?” Ethan Blackthorn asked.

Yara Vance shook her head. “I’m not thirsty, Brother Ethan. Please, don’t go to any trouble.”

“Alright, then let’s just chat.”

Yara Vance nodded obediently.

Ethan Blackthorn smiled at her and asked, “How was Celeste Starling’s concert?”

“It was great! I really liked it! Thank you, Brother Ethan!” Yara Vance said with excitement.

It seemed she genuinely loved it. Otherwise, her eyes wouldn’t have lit up with such excitement at the mention of Celeste Starling’s concert.

“You’re welcome. I’m glad you liked it,” Ethan Blackthorn said with a smile.

Yara Vance nodded.

“Do you still want to be a star?” Ethan Blackthorn continued with a smile.

A shy blush suddenly colored Yara Vance’s pretty face. After a moment of silence, she nodded again, this time with great seriousness.

“Yes. It’s all I’ve been dreaming about these past few days!”

Her words made Ethan Blackthorn chuckle. “Actually, Yara, I’ll support you no matter what you choose to do, but…”

A jolt went through Yara Vance’s heart. “Brother Ethan, but what?”

“It’s just… do you understand the entertainment industry?” Ethan Blackthorn countered.

Yara Vance shook her head.

“Do you know that the entertainment industry is just a marketplace for fame and fortune? It’s a giant dye vat, and it causes many people to lose their way until they become completely unrecognizable.”

Yara Vance fell silent. A hint of red appeared in her captivating eyes, and it looked like she was about to cry.

Ethan Blackthorn, however, continued, “Of course, I’m not saying this to dampen your enthusiasm. My stance remains the same—I will support whatever you choose to do. But I have to tell you some things in advance. You’re in college right now, which is a relatively simple environment, but the entertainment industry is different. To put it harshly, it’s a place that devours people whole. Don’t just look at Celeste Starling, all glamorous and adored by millions; her journey hasn’t been easy at all, and that’s even with her family’s incredibly powerful background. In fact, it isn’t just Celeste Starling. Once people enter that circle, many of them find they are no longer in control of their own lives.”

Yara Vance’s eyes grew even redder, and it looked as if she might burst into tears at any moment.

Ethan Blackthorn couldn’t tell if his words had scared her or if she was just a bit too sensitive. In any case, she was on the verge of tears.

“Yara, don’t be afraid,” Ethan Blackthorn added. “I’m not saying all this to frighten you or make you give up on your dream. I just want to tell you the truth about the entertainment industry. Now, tell me your thoughts.”

Yara Vance remained silent.

Ethan Blackthorn wasn’t in a hurry and began to sip his tea leisurely.

After a moment, Yara Vance suddenly looked up at him. “Brother Ethan, thank you for your kindness and for telling me all this, but I still want to enter that world.”

Ethan Blackthorn nodded. He had known Yara Vance for a while now. She might seem gentle and weak, but deep down, she was an extremely resolute person. In other words, she wouldn’t easily change her mind about something she had decided on.

“Yara, I support you. But I have to ask, why are you so set on joining this industry?”

“Because I want my brother to have a better life,” Yara Vance said seriously. “He’s sacrificed so much for me, and I want to do something for him in return.”

“And what is your definition of a ‘better life’?” Ethan Blackthorn asked. “Fine clothes and exquisite food? Riding in luxury cars? Or being held in high esteem, admired and pursued by countless people wherever you go?”

Yara Vance looked at Ethan Blackthorn with earnest eyes. “No, none of those,” she said, just as earnestly. “I just want to earn some money so my brother doesn’t have to work so hard.”

Ethan Blackthorn fell silent. You couldn’t call her materialistic. After all, she had experienced true poverty, and there’s nothing shameful about wanting to earn money.

“What if,” Ethan Blackthorn began, “and this is a hypothetical, what if you suddenly received a huge sum of money, so much that you could never spend it all? Would you still want to enter the entertainment industry?”

Yes, if she would just say she didn’t want to enter the entertainment industry, he would give her a sum of money so large she would be set for life.

But Yara Vance shook her head. “Brother Ethan, I think even if I suddenly received a fortune, I would still want to join the entertainment industry.”

Ethan Blackthorn watched her with great interest. He had a feeling she had just lied to him. She claimed she wanted to enter the industry to make money and ease her brother’s burden, but she still insisted on it even when offered a fortune. That meant it obviously wasn’t about the money. So, what was the real reason?

Ethan Blackthorn smiled. “Yara, there’s no one else here. Tell me honestly, why do you really want to get into showbiz?”

Yara Vance fell silent again. However, a tempting blush had crept onto her fair cheeks.

A moment later, she took a deep breath and looked up, meeting Ethan Blackthorn’s gaze directly.

“Brother Ethan,” she began, looking him straight in the eye, “since we’re being so honest, I won’t hide it from you anymore. I like you. I want to enter the entertainment industry because of you.”

Chapter 205

BOOM!!!

Ethan Blackthorn felt as if he had been struck by lightning, and he froze on the spot. He stared at Yara Vance, completely dumbfounded. He stared at the pure and charming girl before him.

Yes, Ethan Blackthorn had never dreamed that Yara Vance would actually like him, nor had he ever imagined that she would confess her feelings.

It took a full minute for Ethan Blackthorn to come back to his senses. Even so, he still felt bewildered. He couldn’t believe what he had just heard. My clothes are so shabby, and my face hasn’t even returned to my true appearance. How could she possibly like me?

But Yara Vance spoke with such certainty that Ethan Blackthorn had no choice but to believe her.

“Yara, this… this isn’t something you can joke about!” Ethan Blackthorn stammered.

Thinking Ethan Blackthorn didn’t believe her, the girl grew anxious.

She hurriedly said, “Brother Ethan, I’m not lying to you! I… I really like you. Growing up, no boy has ever treated me as well as you have, and no boy has ever stood up to protect me so recklessly when I was in danger.”

“But Yara, I’m married. My wife is Serena Blake, and to be honest, I love her very much.”

These words made Yara Vance’s heart sink. Although it was a fact she had long known, hearing Ethan Blackthorn say it himself still filled her with sadness.

However, Yara Vance was no longer a child. She forced a smile and said, “Brother Ethan, I know you’re married, and I know you love Serena. It’s okay. I just wanted to tell you what’s in my heart!”

This girl wasn’t like Mia Sterling and Celeste Starling, who were brazenly declaring their intention to become his concubines. Ethan Blackthorn breathed a sigh of relief.

“Alright, I understand, Yara. Thank you for your feelings, but they’re doomed to go nowhere. You’re still young and so beautiful. You’ll definitely meet a boy who only has eyes for you!”

Yara Vance, however, shook her head, a sorrowful smile on her face.

“Some say it’s best not to meet someone too amazing when you’re young. I never really understood that saying before. But, Brother Ethan, after meeting you, I suddenly know exactly what it means. Don’t worry, I won’t ruin your marriage with Serena. I just want to silently like you. That’s enough for me. As for anything else, I don’t care, nor do I want to.”

Ethan Blackthorn’s heart sank. My worst fear has come to pass.  He thought this girl was just experiencing the first stirrings of love, that she just had a crush on him because he helped her a few times. But he never expected her to set her heart on him so completely, to the point where she was no longer interacting with other men. From the sound of it, she intended to devote herself to him for life.

Ethan Blackthorn suddenly felt a wave of depression.

Mia Sterling and Celeste Starling like me and clamor about being my concubines, but that’s because they know my background, and their families are pushing them to do it. There’s an element of performance in their actions. But Yara Vance is different. This girl might have genuinely fallen for me.

“Yara, listen to me. If you’re thinking of entering the entertainment industry for my sake, I can tell you right now that it’s completely unnecessary. That’s the first thing. Second, you’re still young and don’t really know what ‘liking’ someone truly means. How about this? Let’s let things take their natural course. If you want to like me, I won’t stop you—I couldn’t even if I tried. But don’t be so quick to reject the boys who like you. If you can, give them a chance to get to know you. Maybe after spending some time together, you’ll discover that one of them is a much better match for you!”

This was the best solution Ethan Blackthorn could devise. If this had been anyone else, he could have just chewed them out to snap them back to their senses. But this was Derek Vance’s sister, and to Ethan Blackthorn, Derek Vance was his brother.

“Brother Ethan, you don’t have to persuade me. I’m going to enter the entertainment industry, and I’m going to keep liking you!”

“That’s not it. You said you wanted to enter the entertainment industry for me. I want to know, what exactly do you hope to achieve for my sake by doing that?”

“I want to stand on a higher stage. I want to work hard to become worthy of you!” Yara Vance said softly.

“But even if you became a star like Celeste Starling, I still couldn’t possibly divorce my wife!”

“That’s okay. As long as you can see me, that’s enough!”

Ethan Blackthorn was depressed. Utterly and completely depressed. He knew this girl was stubborn.

“Alright, fine. Let’s talk about you entering the entertainment industry first. What’s your plan?”

“I heard there are a lot of talent shows these days. I could audition for one!”

“What talents do you have?” Ethan Blackthorn asked.

“I’m a pretty good singer, and I also studied dance for a while when I was little!”

Seeing how resolute Yara Vance was, Ethan Blackthorn sighed helplessly.

“Fine. If you’re determined to walk this path, I can help you. How about this? You go back for now. Once I get everything sorted out on my end, I’ll contact you.”

Yara Vance was instantly thrilled. She gave Ethan Blackthorn a deep bow.

“Brother Ethan, thank you! Thank you so much!”

Ethan Blackthorn waved his hand. “It’s getting late. You should go find your brother and have him take you home.”

Yara Vance nodded obediently. She gave Ethan Blackthorn a sweet smile, then turned and left the security room.

Ethan Blackthorn sat slumped in his chair, his expression gloomy as Yara Vance’s words replayed in his mind. After a long while, he sighed helplessly.

Forget it. If the girl is determined to beat her head against a wall, I’ll just have to help her.

With this thought, he called Xander Steele, who answered instantly.

“Boss, what are your instructions?”

“Here’s the deal: establish an entertainment company as quickly as possible.”

“Boss, are you venturing into the entertainment industry?”

“I don’t have time for that. A friend’s sister wants to get into the business, and I can’t just stand by and do nothing!”

“Understood, Boss. Don’t worry, I’ll have someone handle it right away!”

“Mmm. This person is very important to me, like a sister. Make sure you do a good job. You’d better have a word with the influential figures in the industry so that no one bullies her.”

“Boss, is it Yara Vance?”

As expected of someone from the Oracle Society, Xander Steele was well-informed.

“That’s right, it’s her.”

Xander Steele chuckled. “Boss, she’s actually a great fit for the entertainment industry. With a face like that, she could become a star on looks alone!”

“Let’s not get into that. Just do as I said.”

“Understood!”

Ethan Blackthorn hung up and immediately dialed another number. This call was for his Grandmaster. The old man answered quickly.

“Speak!”

“Issue a Dragon Lord’s decree for me. Remove Elliot Langford from his ninth-place position on the Dragon Emperor List and replace him with Derek Vance from Silverton City.”

With Derek Vance’s cultivation, replacing Elliot Langford would be effortless.

“Got it.”

The Grandmaster hung up.

After handling these matters, Ethan Blackthorn took a short break before getting up and leaving the security room.

It was past ten o’clock at night, the bar’s busiest time. The line of people queuing at the door had grown even longer, and a dozen security guards were working frantically.

Ethan Blackthorn turned and entered the bar. He was about to look for Serena Blake when an arrogant voice reached his ears.

“Damn it, Serena Blake! Are you fucking disrespecting me? Let me tell you, I’m from the Crimson Blade Hall! If you don’t drink this cup today, you’re looking down on me. If that’s the case, don’t blame me for being ruthless!”

An extraordinarily arrogant voice reached Ethan Blackthorn’s ears. He instinctively looked toward the sound.

In a booth on the bar’s first floor sat five or six young men. The one speaking was dressed in fine clothes, his eyes greedily sweeping over Serena Blake’s body. The others all wore similarly lecherous expressions.

Serena Blake’s face showed a hint of anger, but beneath it was a much deeper fear. Ethan Blackthorn understood her reaction perfectly. After all, the men had already announced their backing: they were from the Crimson Blade Hall.

The Crimson Blade Hall was one of the four great sects of the nation. Both their power and their standing in the martial world were incredibly high. It was only natural for Serena Blake to be afraid.

But Ethan Blackthorn was already seething with rage.

Dammit, do they think I don’t exist? How dare they humiliate my wife like this. I’m lucky I saw this. Otherwise, God knows how much she would have had to endure.

Ethan Blackthorn strode quickly toward them.

When Serena Blake saw him, a look of grievance flashed in her eyes. Ethan Blackthorn felt both angry and heartbroken.

“Honey, what’s going on?” Ethan Blackthorn asked gently.

Serena Blake said sullenly, “These men are insisting I drink with them. I’ve already told them clearly that I don’t drink, but they won’t take no for an answer!”

Of course, she was frustrated. It was her bar, but there was no rule saying the owner had to drink with the customers, was there?

I really want to kill these scumbags right now. But the first floor is packed with people, and besides, Serena Blake is here. If I were to kill them now…

Ethan Blackthorn chuckled and said, “Leave it to me. Selene, take her back to the office first!”

Selene Vale nodded. Frankly, even if Ethan Blackthorn hadn’t appeared, she wouldn’t have allowed Serena Blake to be bullied. So far, the men had only been verbally abusive and hadn’t gotten physical. If they had dared to so much as pull on Serena Blake, Selene Vale would not have hesitated to cripple them.

Serena Blake, however, did not leave immediately. Instead, she looked at Ethan Blackthorn with worried eyes.

Yes, she was genuinely worried about him. Of course, she hoped he could resolve the situation smoothly. He was her husband, after all, and she wanted to be able to rely on him. But she knew that Ethan Blackthorn was clearly out of his depth here. These men were from the Crimson Blade Hall. If Ethan Blackthorn truly provoked them, it would likely invite a terrible disaster. She definitely didn’t want that to happen.

“Darling, let me handle this,” she said softly.

Ethan Blackthorn fondly pinched her delicate cheek. “Don’t worry. It’s a small matter, I can handle it.”

“But…”

Ethan Blackthorn cut her off. “Honey, be good and go back to the office.”