Chapter 916

Jasper was startled and instinctively raised his arm to stop Willem’s advance.

Despite his efforts, the vast power gap between them rendered Jasper helpless against Willem’s relentless pressure. He could only watch in horror as Willem’s fangs inched closer to his neck.

Jasper panicked and urged, “What are you fools waiting for? Get in here and help!”

“Quick! Help the General!”

In an instant, the Glorian silver- armored guards, numbering in the hundreds, swiftly responded as if awakened from a deep slumber.

Some drew their bows, releasing a volley of arrows, while others advanced with spears raised, ready to strike.

The arrows were unleashed from bows.

Each carried an explosive force as it rained down on Willem without mercy.

In an instant, his back turned into a pin cushion, resembling the spines of a hedgehog. Blood stained his clothes, reflecting an eerie sheen in the moonlight.

“Isn’t a duel supposed to be fair? And you’re calling for reinforcements? Are Glorians so devoid of honor?” Willem turned and glared at the silver- armored guards.

“I agreed to duel with you, but I never said it had to be one-on-one!” Jasper seized the moment to break free.

Then, he boldly asserted, “My subordinates are under my command. They are willing to face whatever comes our way. It’s perfectly reasonable for them to engage you. I see no issue!”

“Outnumbering me, huh?” Willem sneered, his contempt evident.

For ages, he had been warned of the Glorians’ ruthless tactics and disregard for honor in pursuing victory. Today’s encounter only cemented those warnings into grim reality.

unabashed pride, Jasper retorted, “Who cares if we outnumber you? It’s a matter of pride for us Glorians to have strength in numbers!”

“Bailey, did you catch that?” Willem raised his head. His eyes fixed on Bailey.

“Mr. Jasper, you’ve already lost,”

Bailey urged, his brow furrowed. “Just apologize to Mr. Willem. So, we can put an end to this whole charade.”

Willem could have easily incapacitated Jasper with just one bite if nobody intervened.

“Why should I apologize? We had the upper hand. Why should we admit defeat?”Jasper challenged defiantly.

“A duel isn’t about outnumbering your opponent,” Bailey reminded, his tone icy.

“Hmph! Our strength in numbers is our skill. If this pale simian can’t handle it, he should gather more people to face us!” Jasper proclaimed.

“Mr. Jasper, I’m trying to uphold Glorian’s best interests. Don’t betray our principles,” Bailey cautioned.

“Mr. Bailey, your bias is showing. You know this pale simian can’t defeat us, so you’re obstructing us at every turn!” Jasper countered.

“Jasper Crest, are you sure you want to keep going?” Bailey’s expression darkened.

“Yes!” Jasper declared firmly. “Today, I’ll teach that pale simian a lesson he won’t forget!”

“Very well,” Bailey conceded, his tone edged with frustration. “I’ll give in to your demand. This duel has no bounds and no regulations. Survival rests solely on your skills. I won’t interfere.”

those words, the gravity of the situation became clear to everyone.

Bailey was the referee in the previous duel between Willem and Jasper. While his involvement wasn’t decisive, it ensured that neither combatant faced fatal consequences.

Initially, the confrontation was meant to be controlled to determine a clear winner. However, the stakes had now escalated to a fight for survival.

no rules as a guide, it had devolved into a battle of life or death, where victory depended solely on individual skills.

In such dire circumstances, Willem’s combat abilities would prove incredibly advantageous. As an immortal sustained by blood, he wasn’t worried about facing multiple opponents.

To him, they were merely prey, regardless of their numbers.

“Thanks, Mr. Bailey,” Jasper said with a triumphant chuckle. He was blissfully ignorant of the imminent danger lurking ahead.

The influential figures from various powerful nations watched in silence. They showed no interest in intervening as they were only there for the spectacle. After all, the outcome didn’t concern them.

“Heh… Looks like I’ll have a feast tonight!” Willem smirked wickedly.

His body quivered as each arrow lodged in his back dislodged and fell to the ground. His bloody wounds began to heal rapidly.

“Hmph! Not even all those arrows were enough to kill you. It seems like you’re quite a tough monster!” Jasper’s expression turned fierce as he narrowed his eyes at Willem.

Despite being pierced through the chest and riddled with arrows from behind, Willem appeared unscathed except for a few drops of blood. His resilience surpassed even that of a cockroach.

“Did no one tell you I’m immortal?” Willem said, his fingernails extending further.

“Ha! ‘Immortal’ my foot!” Jasper jeered.

He added, “I see right through you. You’re just a vampire with all your fancy powers and quick healing. I’ll take you down once I find your weak spot!”

Despite never encountering one himself, Jasper had heard plenty about Streuquan vampires. Witnessing Willem’s transformation into a bat and surviving a seemingly fatal wound only fueled his suspicions.

After all, vampires were notorious for their vulnerabilities-sunlight, fire, and silver objects. Fortunately, Jasper’s troops were armed with silver-tipped spears, perfect for dealing with such monsters.

“Oh really? Then come on. Give me your best shot!” Willem taunted, spreading his arms in mock invitation.

“Swap weapons!” Jasper commanded, tossing aside his golden spear in favor of a silver one. Armed with the gleaming silver weapon, he was confident he could defeat Willem unassisted.

“Listen up! Raise your spears and attack!” Jasper’s command echoed ‘through the chaos as he thrust his silver spear forward, signaling the advance.

“Charge!” echoed the cry as hundreds of silver-armored guards hallowed in unison. They brandished their weapons and surged toward Willem.

Each of these Glorian elite warriors was handpicked and honed to perfection in combat. Their synchronized charge resembled an unstoppable tidal wave.

“Come forth, my prey!” Willem laughed. His voice tinged with madness as he boldly advanced.

In a swift motion, he transformed into a mysterious red blood shadow, disappearing into the midst of the oncoming guards.

The battlefield instantly became a cacophony of screams, battle cries, and curses. Willem’s speed was such that the silver-armored guards couldn’t react in time.

The silver-armored guards barely caught sight of a blur of crimson before their limbs were severed or their heads rolled to the ground in the blink of an eye. Amidst the chaos, they couldn’t decipher Willem’s swift movements.

His strikes were swift, akin to a passing breeze. Their sturdy silver armor, designed to withstand swords and spears, proved as fragile as porcelain against his onslaught. A mere touch was enough to shatter it entirely.

They couldn’t land a blow on Willem, rendering their defense futile. Thus, the confrontation became utterly one- sided.

Willem was akin to a tiger amidst sheep, ruthlessly dispatching them all. Limbs littered the ground, and blood painted the area in gruesome hues.

“Form ranks! Protect yourselves!”

Jasper’s voice, laced with shock and fury, rang out as he desperately sought to stem the tide of slaughter.

Willem’s speed was beyond expectation. He was like a specter slipping through their grasp unpredictably.

Jasper realized his finest soldiers would be annihilated in less than ten minutes if they continued this fight. Under his frantic command, the silver-armored guards abandoned their reckless charges. Instead, they formed a tight defensive ring with shields raised.

However, their defense proved futile against overwhelming might.

Chapter 917

The silver-armored guards, though formidable, were no match for Willem’s relentless attack. Their efforts only briefly stalled his rampage as he continued to claim lives without pause.

Bodies accumulated rapidly, and the courtyard was stained with a chilling hue of red. Panic gripped the guards as they belatedly grasped the gravity of the threat.

Willem’s strength far surpassed their expectations. He wasn’t merely an ordinary vampire. To them, he reigned supreme among his kind, a true king of the night.

“Hey, bastard! Face me if you’ve got the guts!” Jasper’s voice echoed through the chaos. His words were filled with curses as he desperately tried to divert Willem’s attention.

He understood his pivotal role in stopping Willem’s rampage and preventing further bloodshed. If he could engage Willem alongside the efforts of his men, they could bring down this menace.

“Hmm?” The shout pierced through Willem’s fury, and he stopped.

In his hand was the head of a silver- armored guard. Willem’s pale face, smeared with blood, bore an ominous expression with fangs protruding from his mouth.

“Hey, asshole! Bullying the weak isn’t something to be proud of! Show some courage and face me fair and square!” Jasper taunted as he brandished his silver spear.

Willem chuckled and licked the blood from his lips. He smirked and said, “I was planning to deal with these meddling fools first and then deal with you later. But I won’t refuse if you’re eager to meet your end.”

“Bring it on! You think I’m scared of you?” Jasper’s expression hardened.

“I wonder what your blood tastes like,” Willem mused, dropping the severed head he held before disappearing in the blink of an eye. His speed was so fast for the naked eye to follow.

“What?” Jasper’s eyes widened in disbelief. His senses heightened, scanning the surroundings for any trace of Willem.

A sudden breeze whispered past him, raising the hairs on his neck. Reacting instinctively, he thrust his weapon backward. The silver spear found its mark, striking Willem’s chest and rendering him immobile.

A grin spread across Jasper’s face. “Heh You won’t be escaping this time!”

Silver, the bane of vampires, inflicted irreparable damage. It sapped their strength and robbed them of their regenerative powers. Once wounded, they were vulnerable to fire, their only fate reduced to ashes.

“You do have quick reflexes, but unfortunately… it’s no use.”

Willem lowered his head and looked at the silver spear impaling his chest. He advanced stoically, the wound pressing against the shaft without evoking a response. Blood trailed behind as the silver pierced through his back.

Jasper’s expression froze in shock, his heart racing in his chest. “Wait… what? “he stammered internally. “Aren’t ‘vampires supposed to be weak against silver? Why isn’t he affected at all? Have all those stories been misleading?

His voice trembled as his eyes widened in disbelief. “How… how can this be?”

“I’ve already told you,” Willem replied with a smirk, his gaze unwavering. ” I’m immortal.”

a swift motion, he raised his claws and lunged at Jasper.

Willem’s attack came swiftly, and its speed surprised Jasper.

A blur of movement, a flash of crimson, and suddenly, a chill crept up Jasper’s arms. He glanced down, only to find his arm guards cracked, and blood seeped out.

The clang of metal hitting the ground echoed as his spear fell, followed by the crisp sound of his arms hitting the floor.

“What?”

His eyes widened in shock as he gazed upon his severed limbs. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. With a surge of disbelief, he slowly lifted the two severed parts, blood spurting from the wounds, each drop adding to his agony.

“Ah!”

After a moment of silence, Jasper’s piercing scream shattered the calm. It echoed hauntingly like a ghostly wail.

Unlike Willem, who possessed immortality and limb-regeneration abilities, Jasper was completely defenseless. With his arms severed, he felt utterly helpless and useless.

Willem’s ominous chuckle filled the air. His figure, drenched in blood, resembled a demon emerging from the depths of hell.

Fear overwhelmed Jasper, and he collapsed to the ground. His legs scrambled backward in a desperate attempt to retreat, and his face contorted in sheer horror.

“D-Don’t come any closer!” he pleaded desperately, his voice tinged with thinly veiled threats. “I’m a high- ranking general of Glorian! If you dare to kill me, Glorian will hunt you down and make you pay!”

“Really? I can’t wait to see how Glorian plans to retaliate,” Willem taunted.

His expression twisted with sadistic delight as he extended his tongue to lick the blood off his nails. “Your blood is delicious. I can’t wait to suck you dry!

“You… you dare!” Jasper’s voice trembled with panic. “If you dare kill me, Glorian will stop at nothing to hunt you down!”

“Food delivered right to my doorstep? That’s perfect.” Willem chuckled darkly. With eyes glowing a deeper red, he slowly advanced toward Jasper.

“You monster! Get away from me!” Jasper’s cries for help echoed as he backed away. “Someone! Quickly! Kill this monster!”

In response to Jasper’s distress, the remaining silver-armored guards abandoned their defensive formation. They dropped their shields and raised their spears as they charged toward Willem.

“Attack!” Their collective roar filled the air as they fearlessly charged.

“Ah, this is just perfect!” Willem laughed heartily. He licked his lips in anticipation of the feast before him.

Then, his body morphed into a swarm of bloodthirsty bats and descended upon the silver-armored guards like a dark cloud. The slaughter unfolded swiftly.

In less than three minutes, the ground was painted crimson with the blood of the fallen guards, not a single one left standing.

As the bats regrouped, Willem emerged again in his human form. He stood drenched in blood, and his presence was even more menacing than before.

“Now, it’s your turn,” Willem declared, fixing his intense stare on Jasper again.

Quaking with fear, Jasper abandoned all pretense of courage. “P-Please… spare me… I surrender!”

At that moment, he finally understood that Willem was indifferent to his pleas and empty threats.

Chapter 918

Willem was nothing but a bloodthirsty maniac.

“What’s the matter? Lost your nerve?” Willem taunted, his voice dripping with mockery.

He added, “I thought Glorian folks were tough. Weren’t you the ones who wanted to bully others? Weren’t you just boasting about taking me down? Come on, get back on your feet and face me!”

“I… I won’t fight anymore.” Jasper shook his head vigorously.

He continued, “It was my mistake. I offended you, and I’m sorry. Please, find it in your heart to forgive me.” With a gesture of submission, he dropped to his knees.

“Your apology means nothing now. You’re worthless, even if you manage to survive,” Willem jeered, edging closer with his nails bared and a menacing glint in his eyes.

“Mr. Bailey! Help me, please!” Jasper cried out, desperation evident in his voice and sweat trickling down his face. He knew pleading was futile, but Bailey was his only hope in a crowd of strangers.

“Mr. Jasper, I’ve repeatedly warned you, but you chose to ignore my advice. You even resorted to using numbers to intimidate others,” Bailey spoke coldly.

He added, “Now, I can’t help you anymore. You’ll have to deal with the consequences on your own.”

Bailey had tried to intervene when Jasper confronted Willem, but Jasper remained obstinate, worsening the situation further. Ultimately, Jasper brought the consequences upon himself.

“Mr. Bailey, I admit my mistake! I deeply regret it! I promise not to repeat it!” Jasper pleaded desperately.

He implored, “If you could save me, I’ll comply with your demands. The hundred thousand troops under my command will follow the orders of the Hall of Gods!”

“But if I die, you gain nothing!” Jasper argued hastily, trying to sway Bailey.

Yet, Bailey remained resolute and shook his head indifferently. “Your fate doesn’t alter the course of events. Your troops will rally behind a new leader. Still, nothing would change.”

“Bailey, you’re a heartless monster!” Jasper’s frustration erupted into a shout. “Are you just going to stand there and watch me die?”

Bailey said nothing and scanned the crowd. “What do you think? Any pleas for Mr. Jasper?”

A heavy silence filled the air, unbroken by any response. The influential figures representing different nations exchanged glances and chose not to intervene.

Jasper’s tardiness was the initial misstep. Even a genuine apology for his lateness might have been excusable. However, his subsequent behavior, steeped in arrogance and disrespect, exacerbated the situation.

What ensued was a degradation of the duel into a collective assault-a lamentable turn of events.

Jasper’s demeanor, a combination of incompetence and arrogance, rendered him unfit for collaboration or consideration. Thus, the consensus was clear-it wasn’t worth risking offending Blood Devil Willem over someone like Jasper.

“You… all of you!” Jasper’s voice quivered, but no one dared to respond. Anger surged within him, yet words failed to escape his lips.

a mocking laugh, Willem, now transformed into a menacing red shadow, taunted, “Seems like you’ve upset everyone. How about you become my meal, willingly?”

a swift motion, he lunged, his fangs bared and sank at Jasper’s neck.

A strangled cry escaped Jasper’s lips as he found himself immobilized, as though bound by an unseen force.

As Willem greedily drank his blood, Jasper’s once-plump form began to wither before their eyes. In just two minutes, Jasper’s flesh clung to the bone, and his features contorted into a ghastly visage.

hollowed cheeks, bulging eyes, and wrinkled skin, he resembled nothing short of a desiccated corpse. Finally, drained of every last drop of blood, Jasper’s lifeless body slumped to the ground. His eyes were forever frozen in a wide-eyed stare.

Jasper, the once-mighty general of Glorian, met his demise through a fatal encounter with the Blood Devil Willem, all because of his overbearing arrogance.

This tragic incident overshadowed what had begun as the gathering organized by the Hall of Gods.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, everyone. I’ll go and freshen up a bit.” Willem’s lips curled into a satisfied smirk after draining Jasper off his last breath.

He nodded to the assembled group before making his way to the restroom.

“Mr. Alessandro, could you find someone to clean up this mess?” Bailey glanced at Anthony.

“Sure,” Anthony agreed with a nod. A team of Kimboku warriors was assembled to commence the cleanup. They swiftly buried the bodies and scrubbed away the bloodstains, ensuring everything was neat and orderly.

Everyone present was a seasoned veteran and was accustomed to facing adversity. Thus, such a minor incident failed to elicit any surprise.

As the Kimboku warriors diligently worked to clear the area, Anthony led the group back to the living room.

Upon their return, Willem had changed into another set of fresh clothes. He reclaimed his seat with an air of satisfaction following a hearty meal.

“Everyone, I’ve gathered you here on behalf of the Hall of Gods to propose the formation of a Crusaders Alliance,” Bailey announced once everyone had settled in their seats.

He added, “Our target is Dragonmarsh. Over the years, each of us has felt the looming threat posed by this nation. If left unchecked, it could jeopardize the safety of our own lands.

“Hence, we cannot afford to remain passive. We must take action. And now, the time has come to seize the moment.

Bailey paused to gauge everyone’s reaction and continued, “Our Crusaders Alliance has two primary objectives.

“Firstly, to defeat Dragonmarsh’s emerging talents and emerge victorious in their Combat Tournament, thereby showcasing the prowess of our martial artists and weakening their nation. Secondly, we aim to seize Dragonmarsh’s treasure.”

“Treasure?”

The word sparked everyone’s interest.

While it was important to keep Dragonmarsh in check, getting everyone to work together wasn’t always easy without some personal incentive. But the mention of treasure changed the game.

the prospect of valuable loot, people might be more willing to take risks, even putting their lives on the line.

“Mr. Bailey, what exactly do you mean by treasure?” Anthony asked.

Bailey’s expression turned serious as he replied, “I’ve got some reliable intel that a hidden treasure trove is tucked away in the forbidden area behind Sacred Wyrm Summit.

“Lately, things have been getting pretty peculiar up there-nine lightning bolts in a row, then bam, the mountain cracks open, unveiling some mysterious loot.

“Despite Sacred Wrym Summit’s efforts to keep it under wraps and increase security, our spies managed to snag some useful clues.

“Now, if our Crusaders Alliance gets hold of this treasure, we’ll not only put a dent in Dragonmarsh’s dominance but also gear ourselves up for some serious strength boost!”

Everyone was stunned by the revelation.

“Heh… this sounds intriguing.” Willem chuckled. “There must be plenty of precious jewels hidden in Dragonmarsh’s treasure. I’m quite interested in those pretty things.”

“Now that we’ve found the treasure, we must snatch it away from Dragonmarsh. We can’t let those Dragonmarsh folks get away with it scot-free!” Vantian clenched his fist.

“I agree.” Batuul nodded. “Alabastria needs this treasure. No matter the cost, we’re getting our hands on it!”

“Sacred Wrym Summit has many formidable elites, especially the Ancient Sage Arion,” Anthony remarked thoughtfully. “He’s a legendary figure. Trying to snatch the treasure under their noses won’t be easy.”

He pondered further, “Arion has long held the title of Dragonmarsh’s top elite. Even our strongest Sword Sage, Luca from Kimboku, isn’t a match for him. Trying to seize the treasure in the presence of such a heavyweight will undoubtedly be very challenging.”

Bailey’s calm voice filled the room. “If this task were easy, I wouldn’t have called upon all of you. Each of you is among the best in the world. I have full faith in your abilities. Together, with our cooperation, success is inevitable.”

Anthony nodded, showing his support. “Mr. Bailey, whatever plans you have, we’re with you. Our family stands ready to follow your lead.”

The others echoed their agreement.

They knew the extent of Grizz Lord Bailey’s influence, especially since his ascension to God King in the Hall of Gods. His authority was absolute, and they respected it without question.

“Alright, everyone. Since you trust me, I’ll be honest with you.” Bailey spoke in a subdued tone, conveying his message with seriousness.

He continued, “The Combat Tournament at Sacred Wrym Summit kicks off in three days. For now, just lay low. When our champion clinches the victory, that’s our cue. Then, I’ll lay out the details for our next steps.”

Winning the tournament meant more than just glory. It was the alliance’s ticket to infiltrate the inner sanctum of Sacred Wrym Summit and uncover the secrets of the Ancient Sage’s treasures. This would streamline their coordination efforts and enhance the precision of their plan execution.

“Mr. Bailey, what happens if we don’t win?” Anthony asked tentatively.

“The team I’ve assembled consists of top talents from various nations. They’re as skilled as Dragonmarsh’s best martial artists. If we stick to my plan, our chances of winning are high,” Bailey replied confidently.

His tone shifted suddenly. “However, even if we fail to secure the championship, it won’t derail our entire plan. The treasure hunt will continue. We might just need a different approach.”

“What approach would that be?” Anthony inquired.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Alessandro. To ensure the smooth execution of the plan, I can’t reveal that yet,” Bailey replied, shaking his head.

Some things were better kept under wraps, not because he didn’t trust Anthony, but to avoid potential leaks.

“I understand.” Anthony nodded.

“Now, all you need to do is gather your strength and await my command. When the time comes, we’ll launch a full-scale attack on Dragonmarsh!” Bailey declared, rising from his seat and raising his glass.

“Cheers! Here’s to a successful cooperation within our Crusaders Alliance!” he exclaimed.

Everyone stood up and clinked their glasses together before drinking. The Sacred Wyrm Summit faced a looming crisis as five nations joined forces to form an alliance.

Chapter 919

In the lively ambiance of Breezy Tavern, Dustin was immersed in a cheerful gathering with Quincy and other people. The occasion was a party organized by Quincy in honor of Dustin’s victory over Marco in honor of the Celestial Alliance.

Dustin’s remarkable feat spread like wildfire throughout Sacred Wrym Summit. It even drew the attention of many curious and aspiring talents.

Dustin’s intervention in defeating Marco had averted potential humiliation for martial artists across Dragonmarsh. Thus, it was no surprise that numerous individuals were eager to meet the emerging hero.

“Here’s to your bright future and continued success, Dustin!” Quincy exclaimed, lifting his glass in a toast.

As the night wore on and the drinks flowed freely, even Dustin succumbed to the pleasant haze of merriment.

“Thank you, Elder Douglas,” Dustin replied warmly. He raised his glass with a smile without any hint of submission.

“Dustin, have you truly ruled out joining our Celestial Alliance?” Quincy changed the subject abruptly.

He added, “Given your talent, joining us would provide access to top-notch resources and guidance. I bet that surpassing Fenley in the future isn’t an unrealistic goal.”

He had persistently invited Dustin throughout the gathering, but each time, Dustin declined. Yet, Quincy couldn’t shake off the desire to make one more attempt. After all, rare talent like Dustin’s shouldn’t be dismissed lightly.

“I’m grateful for your kindness, but I still prefer to forge my own path. Also, I have no desire to align myself with any sects, so I must respectfully decline.” Dustin shook his head.

“Ah, I see. What a shame,” Quincy lamented.

Despite repeated invitations falling on deaf ears, it was evident that Dustin remained unmoved by the allure of the Celestial Alliance’s prestige.

Sitting across from Quincy, Crystal unexpectedly chimed in, “The Celestial Alliance has rules and restrictions, which can be somewhat restrictive.”

She added, “But the Sword Union is different. We don’t have those kinds of constraints. It’s all about following your own path. Why not consider joining us?”

Like Quincy, she admired Dustin and hoped he would join the Sword Union.

Quincy blinked in surprise at Crystal’s sudden interjection, his brow furrowed in confusion. He hadn’t anticipated such a direct recruitment pitch, especially one that seemed to critique the Celestial Alliance indirectly.

“Ms. Wesley, I appreciate the offer, but I’m firm in my stance. I’m not keen on joining any sects,” Dustin replied, shaking his head.

While observing the exchange quietly, Ruby couldn’t help but interject with a hint of frustration. She pouted and said, “Hey! It’s not every day that the Sword Union opens its doors to recruit new members. Think about it before turning down such a rare opportunity!”

Crystal, usually distant and not one for extending invitations, had surprised everyone with her proactive offer to Dustin. It was a rare moment of warmth from her, and his lack of appreciation disappointed Ruby.

“Ruby, mind your manners!” Crystal scolded and shot a stern glance at her sister.

Witnessing Dustin’s triumph over Marco was clear evidence of his grandmaster martial artist status. With such talent, even if unreachable for recruitment, warranted respect, not antagonism.

Ruby responded with a dismissive huff and fell into a sullen silence as she sipped her drink.

“Alright, everyone, it’s getting late. Let’s wrap up with one final drink before calling it a night. Tomorrow’s the Combat Tournament registration, so let’s not dilly-dally,” Dalen announced with a smile, rising from his seat.

“Cheers!”

Everyone raised their glasses in response.

After a delicious meal and warm goodbyes, the group prepared to leave for the night. With their glasses raised one last time and a toast shared, Dustin guided Quincy and his friends out.

Outside the tavern, the streets were already deserted. The rain had begun to fall from the sky, accompanied by a biting wind that chilled the bones and sobered up the tipsy group.

“Hey, guys, look… Who’s that?” Miles suddenly pointed toward the street up ahead.

Everyone turned to see a figure approaching through the rain. It was a man draped in a raincoat and a straw hat with a knife in his hands. His head was bowed against the downpour, and his features were obscured in the darkness, casting an air of mystery.

Crystal’s alertness kicked in immediately. “I can feel danger emanating from him. Stay alert, everyone.” Her beautiful eyes narrowed as she instinctively tightened her grip on the sword hilt.

The approaching figure’s ominous demeanor left no doubt that he wasn’t there with friendly intentions.

As he advanced, his footsteps echoed in the puddles, creating a rhythmic sound accompanied by water splashes.

Soon, the man stood before them. Then, he slowly raised his head, revealing a pair of icy eyes, and asked, ” Who among you goes by the name Dustin?”

“Hmm?” Dustin narrowed his eyes as he scrutinized the unfamiliar man before him. His lack of recognition struck him as odd.

He wondered if this stranger was a hired assassin from Kimboku.

“Who are you?” Dalen asked.

The man in the raincoat didn’t respond. His eyes wandered as he asked, “Who is Dustin? Come forward now!”

Dustin stepped forward and said, ” That’s me. And who might you be?”

“Aldric Lang,” he stated coldly.

“Aldric? I’ve never heard of you.” Dustin shook his head.

“That’s okay. You’ll remember this name soon enough and tremble in fear! “Aldric said proudly.

Dustin squinted slightly. “Are you here to kill me?”

“I’ve come to challenge you,” Aldric stated with unwavering resolve, calm yet determined. “You defeated Marco, claiming the glory that rightfully belonged to me. But now, I’ll reclaim it for myself.”

Dustin stood there, stunned by Aldric’s declaration. It dawned on him that Aldric’s desire was simply for fame.

“Hey! Are you out of your mind?” Miles interrupted, his voice filled with annoyance. He added, “He defeated Marco to honor our nation. What’s your problem? Are you deliberately causing trouble?”

“I wasn’t talking to you. Get lost!” Aldric replied bluntly.

Miles bristled with anger. “Hey, kid! Who do you think you are? How dare you act so arrogantly here? You want to challenge Dustin, huh? Fine! Face my sword first!”

As a disciple of the Sword Union, he wasn’t intimidated by someone like Aldric.

“You asked for it!” Aldric snorted coldly. Without another word, he drew his blade. With no warning, a sharp blade aura sliced toward Miles like lightning.

a swiftness that was almost impossible to track, Aldric’s blade sliced through the air, leaving only a fleeting glimpse of its sharp edge. Everywhere it went, raindrops evaporated instantly, creating a void in its wake.

Miles’s eyes narrowed as he swiftly raised his sword to defend himself.

The clash echoed through the air. Aldric’s blow landed heavily against Miles’s blade. It sent Miles stumbling backward, and his grip wavered for a moment.

“That power…” Miles’ expression turned grave.

Aldric’s last attack had been unexpectedly strong. Miles might have been seriously injured if he hadn’t reacted in time.

Aldric sheathed his blade decisively, his expression cold as he spoke. “You’re no match for me. Move aside,” he said firmly, showing no concern for Miles’ presence.

Miles, undeterred, raised his sword defiantly. “Hmph! Don’t get too cocky, “he retorted.

He added, “I’m a disciple of the Sword Union. Maybe I’m not as gifted as Dustin, but I’m no ordinary fighter. And you? You’re just a nobody who dares to start trouble!”

Strength alone didn’t guarantee victory. Some individuals possessed natural strength but lacked true prowess in combat.

“If all Sword Union disciples were like you, it would be truly disappointing,” Aldric remarked, shaking his head in disappointment.

fury burning inside him, Miles advanced and brandished his sword. ” Such arrogance! How dare you look down on the Sword Union! I’ll show you the consequence of your disrespect!

His attack was swift and precise, carrying a fierce intensity. The blade trembled slightly, hinting at its deadly potential.

“You’ve overestimated yourself!” Aldric scoffed as he unsheathed his long blade with a cold glare.

A surge of blade aura burst forth and enveloped Miles like a sudden avalanche. He instinctively stopped his attack and raised his sword to block.

He swung his weapon repeatedly to fend off the relentless blade aura. But with every block, he was pushed back, and his movements became more frantic as he fought to keep up.

“Get lost!” Aldric’s voice pierced the air as he swiftly closed in and kicked Miles’s abdomen.

Miles cried out in pain as he was sent flying several feet away. He crashed heavily onto the ground like a limp ragdoll.

“Miles!” Ruby’s expression changed as she rushed to his aid.

“Ugh!” Miles groaned as he forced himself upright, but his stomach roiled with nausea. Suddenly, he lurched forward, expelling the remnants of his meal in a messy splatter. In that instant, he looked quite disheveled.

Aldric’s expression remained icy as he looked at Miles with contempt. “Can’t even withstand a single hit!”

Miles’s anger flared, and he retorted, ” You’re taking advantage of my injury!

If I were at full strength, a mere amateur like you wouldn’t stand a chance against me!”

Earlier that day, he had faced Marco in a fierce battle, enduring serious injuries that weakened him to just 70% of his usual strength. Thus, accepting defeat at the hands of Aldric proved hard to swallow.

Aldric’s sneer deepened as he remarked, “Skill speaks for itself. Making excuses and refusing to acknowledge defeat-what future do you envision for yourself?”

“You” Miles found himself at a loss for words. The discomfort in his stomach worsened, and it caused him to retch involuntarily again.

Aldric brushed off Miles, considering him unimportant, and focused on Dustin.

“Your turn!” he declared, dismissing Miles as a minor figure. His real challenge lay with Dustin, the one who had defeated Marco.

“I have no interest in the pointless duel. If you’re here for fame, there’s no need to fight. I concede,” Dustin responded casually.

There were just too many people caught up in the ruthless pursuit of fame. They fought relentlessly, solely for the sake of recognition.

Chapter 920

Driving away one challenger would only invite others to take their place. Hence, this would only create an unending cycle.

Dustin disliked pointless duels and chose to yield rather than be pulled into endless fights. He was willing to forgo the glory of defeating Marco if it meant avoiding continuous conflict.

Aldric’s demeanor soured. “Do you take me for a beggar?”

His tone chilled. “For me to win, it must be an honest victory, with you admitting defeat unequivocally. There can be no room for uncertainty!”

His pursuit of fame spurred him on and fueled his determination to achieve victory solely through merit. As a swordsman, he took great pride in this endeavor.

“What if I decline the duel?” Dustin asked.

Aldric’s face contorted into a menacing expression. “If you don’t make a move, then I’ll kill everyone around you. Let’s test your resolve then!”

Dustin furrowed his brow at the threat. He thought, “This man knows no bounds. Seems there’s no escaping this confrontation today.”

“Alright, since you’re so eager, I’ll play with you,” he said with a grin, accepting the umbrella Laurel offered and stepping into the rain.

The steady downpour drummed against the umbrella, creating a soothing sound.

“Where’s your weapon?” Aldric asked.

“I don’t need one to deal with you,” Dustin replied calmly.

“Such arrogance!” Aldric exclaimed. He unsheathed his blade and swiftly lunged at Dustin. But then, a thunderous roar filled the air. A massive blade aura emerged, stretching over 30 feet, its destructive power aimed squarely at Dustin.

The rain seemed to shy away from its path, scattering in fear, while the ground quivered beneath its force.

“Wow! Is he using the Bloodfiery Rampage technique? That’s the signature move of the Bloodfiery Legion!” Dalen exclaimed, astonished by the display.

Crystal frowned upon hearing that. ” The Bloodfiery Legion?”

She possessed some knowledge of the Bloodfiery Legion, a secretive sect renowned for its elite members. Despite their small numbers, each disciple was formidable.

What set them apart was their fierce combat skills. They thrived on challenges, often taking on elites from different sects.

Their technique, the Bloodfiery Rampage, fueled their strength through continuous battle. They earned the moniker “Bloodfiery madmen” due to their fearless approach to combat, showing little concern for their own well-being.

One standout figure among them was Kendricks, ranked eighth on the Legendary List.

“Interesting,” Dustin said calmly as he observed the imposing blade aura closing in on him. With a slight grin, he lifted his hand and swiftly countered with a palm strike.

A burst of shadow erupted as it collided forcefully with the blade aura.

An explosion echoed through the air as the shadow palm dissipated, shattering the blade aura into fragments and scattering energy waves that sent water splashing in all directions.

“Check out my blade!” Aldric exclaimed as he lunged forward with the speed of a cheetah.

His sword struck the ground, leaving sparks in its wake as he approached his target. He swung his blade diagonally, unleashing a fierce attack.

The air trembled with echoes that filled the moment with intensity.

The blade’s aura wrapped around the weapon, bearing down on Dustin as if it weighed a thousand pounds.

Dustin reacted quickly, smoothly sidestepping the incoming strike as he moved back a few paces. As he retreated, a water droplet fell from the edge of his umbrella.

a flick of his fingers, the droplet transformed into a sword. It zipped forward with remarkable speed, piercing Aldric’s shoulder and spraying blood.

Aldric grunted as his arm trembled in pain. His attack stopped abruptly, replaced by a look of shock and horror that swept across his face.

Aldric grunted and staggered. The force of the impact almost caused him to lose hold of his blade.

He looked down at his shoulder and saw a bloody hole, feeling the warmth of blood seeping through his raincoat. The rain mixed with the blood as it trickled down, creating a chilling sight.

A water droplet turned into a sword that effortlessly breached his defenses, showcasing Dustin’s unexpected strength. It was more than Aldric had bargained for.

“Nice shot!” Miles cheered after seeing Aldric wounded. He felt his pride was redeemed after the previous humiliation.

“Hmph! You’re tough, but one strike from Dustin, and you’re reeling. Looks like the so-called tough disciples of the Bloodfiery Legion aren’t living up to their reputation.” Ruby scoffed, her tone laced with mockery.

“Ruby, don’t underestimate those Bloodfiery Legion members,” Dalen cautioned, his gaze steady.

He continued, “Once they’re in the thick of battle, they only get tougher, especially when wounded. They’ll push their martial arts skills to the brink and flip the tables on you.”

“Mr. Shade’s right,” Crystal added gravely. “I can sense Aldric’s energy surging.”

Members of the Bloodfiery Legion were relentless fighters. Hence, surrender wasn’t in their vocabulary.

“Great job! You’ve really got me fired up,” Aldric declared.

Ignoring his injured shoulder, he swiftly grabbed a red tablet and gulped it down. Immediately, a surge of wild energy erupted, scattering the raindrops around him.

His eyes blazed with intensity, his muscles bulged, his veins throbbed, and his bones shifted with audible cracks. He stood taller and exuded an even more intimidating presence.

“Now, I’ll show you the full might of the Bloodfiery Legion!” Aldric announced. With a deep breath, he clutched his blade tightly to his chest.

Slowly, his crimson eyes closed. Then mist, glowing with a fiery hue, began to envelop him, swirling around his form like a scarlet whirlwind.

“Behold the Bloodfiery Rampage technique-First Stance: the Demon’s Slash!” Aldric’s eyes snapped open, and his body was enveloped in a crimson glow. He soared into the air like an eagle, pausing briefly before bringing his blade down heavily toward Dustin.

A loud roar filled the sky. A crimson blade aura sliced through the rain with immense force, bearing down on Dustin.

Undaunted, Dustin stood firm as he spun the umbrella in his hand.

Like bullets, countless water droplets shot through the air, relentlessly pelting Aldric’s crimson blade aura.

The collision of water droplets and blade aura echoed like firecrackers- each impact creating miniature explosions.

Gradually, under the relentless assault of water, the blade aura began to fragment, dissolving into ethereal wisps before it could fully descend.

Without hesitation, Aldric unleashed his next move, the “Bloodfiery Rampage technique-Second Stance: the Demon’s Bane!”

A swift horizontal slash followed, more aggressive and rapid than the last. Like a sinister blood moon, the crimson blade aura released a chilling energy. It even parted the dense rain curtain as it surged forward.

Facing Aldric’s onslaught, Dustin stood firm and raised his hand. Instantly, the rain in front of him converged, forming a massive shield that securely protected him.

As the crimson blade aura collided with the makeshift barrier, it unleashed a thunderous roar. The blade aura exploded upon impact, leaving a deep mark on the shield. However, the shield quickly repaired itself and regained its original form.

Undeterred, Aldric pressed on with his assault, unleashing the “Bloodfiery Rampage technique-Third Stance: the Immortal’s Demise!”

Chapter 921

“Bloodfiery Rampage technique- Fourth stance: the Godslayer!”

“Bloodfiery Rampage technique- Ultimate stance: the Skyfire!”

Aldric’s voice boomed, echoing through the area as he declared his stances one by one. With every swing of his blade, he showcased the culmination of his lifelong training.

He understood that Dustin posed the greatest challenge he had ever faced. To have any hope of victory, Aldric resolved not to hold back. Each strike he delivered was imbued with a fierce intensity that sent waves of destructive force toward Dustin.

The spectators, gripped by fear, could feel the sheer force emanating from Aldric’s attacks, even from afar.

His strength was undeniable as each swing carried an unstoppable momentum that seemed to shake the ground. It was evident to all watching that only a genius like Dustin could match him.

Despite the fierce onslaught, Dustin remained composed. “Your technique shows promise but lacks finesse,” he remarked with a faint smile. He pointed his finger at Aldric like a sword from afar.

Suddenly, a radiant white sword aura burst forth from Dustin’s fingertip. This aura, thin as a strand of hair, paled in comparison to Aldric’s imposing blade aura. It was like comparing a firefly’s light to the full moon’s brilliance-simply incomparable.

Yet, despite its size, Dustin’s sword aura effortlessly pierced through Aldric’s defenses. Each clash resounded with explosive force as Aldric’s blade aura crumbled upon impact, resembling porcelain shattering beneath a heavy blow.

Aldric’s expression changed as his composure slipped away entirely. He hadn’t expected Dustin to counter his all-out assault.

Defeat surged over him like a tidal wave, impossible to deny at that moment. As the last of his blade auras dissipated into nothingness, Dustin’s sword aura surged forward with unrelenting momentum as it aimed straight at Aldric.

Aldric’s eyes widened, and he raised his blade instinctively, bracing for impact. The collision between the two auras erupted into a deafening explosion, unleashing a formidable force.

Aldric was hurled backward, tumbling over 30 feet before crashing onto the ground with a heavy thud. He coughed out blood, and his face drained of color as he struggled to stand.

His sword, too, was sent flying, its metallic ring piercing the air as it embedded itself in the sodden earth, sending ripples across the rain- drenched landscape.

Across from him, Dustin stood unperturbed beneath his umbrella, his demeanor calm and collected. His attire remained pristine, untouched by the persistent rain.

In stark contrast, Aldric’s straw hat lay discarded, his raincoat torn, leaving him soaked and bedraggled, resembling a drowned rat.

Aldric muttered in disbelief and dismay, “How could this be? Did I really lose?” He grappled with the defeat, his emotions shifting between despair and uncertainty.

Despite years of intense martial arts training, achieving mastery felt futile after such a thorough loss to Dustin, a seemingly ordinary martial artist not even listed among the Legends.

Doubt consumed Aldric as he reflected on his inadequacy.

How could he challenge his brother, Kendricks, if he couldn’t surpass Dustin? How could he hope to establish a legacy in a world that now appeared vast and indifferent?

Aldric’s gaze flickered from his blade, embedded in the sodden earth, to Dustin’s calm form.

Suddenly, a wave of defeat washed over him. He had nurtured lofty ambitions of shining brightly, of making a mark at the Sacred Wrym Summit Combat Tournament. And now, it struck him hard that he had overestimated his abilities.

He understood that many others surpassed him in skill in this vast world. Despite his earnest endeavors, his modest talents and inflated ego proved futile.

The current outcome embodied this harsh truth. Despite pouring his heart into it, he couldn’t land a single strike on Dustin, who effortlessly outmatched him.

This sobering realization left him struggling for composure, lost in the whirlpool of his emotions.

After a brief silence, Aldric relented, ” Okay, you win. I admit defeat.” He struggled to speak, the weight of his admission evident in his voice.

Dustin responded calmly, “Your skills are impressive. Among your peers, you’re certainly exceptional.”

Aldric had just showcased the prowess of a grandmaster martial artist, a remarkable achievement considering his age. It spoke volumes of his cultivation skill. Yet, it was clear that he and Dustin were not evenly matched.

“Win or lose, I always accept the outcome with grace. But remember that I’ll return to challenge you again!” Aldric turned and left without sparing a glance at his blade.

Even though he lost, his fighting spirit stayed strong. He was determined to train harder and surpass Dustin as quickly as possible.

“That guy might come off as cocky, but you can’t deny his skills. The way he handled that blade gives me chills,” Ruby confessed, still feeling a bit jittery.

Despite her disdain for Aldric’s attitude, she had to admit his prowess. In a showdown, even Spearhawk Vincent might find himself outmatched.

“Aldric undoubtedly has talent, but, unfortunately, he encountered Dustin. Despite his abilities, he is simply outmatched.” Miles sighed.

“I guess you could say he lost with dignity,” Crystal agreed, nodding in approval.

If Aldric was talented, then Dustin was on another level entirely. Whatever he tried, Dustin effortlessly countered. They were simply not on equal footing.

She began to wonder if Dustin was hiding his true identity. With his talent, he should be on the Legendary List, a figure of widespread admiration.

“Crystal, Miles, what’s gotten into you? You just shared dinner, but now you’re talking like Dustin’s biggest fans,” Ruby remarked with a pout, seemingly disgruntled.

Though she acknowledged Dustin’s strength, her previous clashes with him left her skeptical.1

“Mr. Rhys is undeniably the ideal candidate, regardless of his physical prowess or moral fiber,” Crystal asserted. “We must acknowledge and honor the potential of promising individuals like him.”

“Yeah,” Miles agreed, his head bobbing with enthusiasm.

He added, “Meeting someone as gifted as Dustin is like stumbling upon a gem. With his talent, he’s sure to shine at the tournament. We’re lucky to have crossed paths with him. We shouldn’t let this opportunity pass us by!

“Building relationships today is like sowing seeds for tomorrow. One will never know that the kindness we’re exchanging now could prove invaluable when we least anticipate it.”

“Hmph! Sucking up to others? Not my style!” Ruby rolled her eyes with an air of nonchalance. She refused to compromise her principles just to gain favor with someone.

“Ruby, you’re still too young to understand.” He sighed deeply. “The martial world isn’t just about fighting. It’s also about relationships. Making friends can benefit us in the long run.”

“Friendship isn’t just about getting something out of it. It’s about finding common ground. Without that connection, all the chatter is pointless, “she countered.

“Forget about what I just said,” Miles said, shaking his head. “You’ll get it eventually.” He decided not to push the conversation any further.

Aldric’s challenge posed no real obstacle, as everyone anticipated Dustin’s victory. After exchanging brief pleasantries, they went their separate ways.

Dustin retired to his room at the tavern, settling in for the night without giving the day’s events a second thought.

As the rain poured down relentlessly, Aldric walked alone along the deserted street. His clothes were soaked, and his appearance was somewhat disheveled, giving him a battered look.

Chapter 922

As Aldric wandered the streets, lost in contemplation, his mind was consumed by memories of his earlier duel with Dustin. Each replay brought a stark realization-the gap in their abilities was insurmountable.

Despite his relentless efforts, victory over Dustin seemed an elusive dream. No matter how many times he envisioned it, the outcome of their duel remained a bitter defeat.

As Aldric wandered through the winding streets, lost in his thoughts, the steady beat of his footsteps danced with the gentle splashes of water in the puddles. Amidst his contemplation, a feeling of unease crept over him.

Suddenly, he stopped and spotted a dark figure emerging at the far end of the road. Dressed in dark attire and carrying a long sword, the mysterious figure exuded an air of foreboding.

Even the rain seemed to avoid touching it, veering away as if repelled by an unseen force, leaving its attire miraculously dry.

Aldric’s concern deepened as he confronted the mysterious figure, his brow furrowing. An eerie chill ran down his spine. “Who are you?” he asked.

The figure stayed calm, showing no emotion as it spoke. “I’m here for your life.”

“My life?” Aldric scoffed. “Think you can take me on?”

“We’ll see,” the figure retorted, steadily inching closer.

“Hmph! Ignorant fool! Finally, I can vent all this pent-up rage, and you’re about to taste its wrath!” Aldric’s hand darted down and scooped rainwater from the ground.

In an instant, the water coalesced into a sharp blade in his hand. With the finesse of a grandmaster martial artist, anything could become a lethal weapon in his hands.

“Bastard! Prepare to meet your end!” Aldric bellowed as he charged forward with his makeshift water blade.

The figure said nothing, but their sword carved a path through the sodden earth as it gained momentum.

“Behold the Bloodfiery Rampage technique-First Stance: the Demon’s Slash!”

Aldric wasted no time to unleash his signature move. Leaping forward with a fierce determination, he gripped his blade firmly with both hands, ready to strike.

Yet, just as his blade descended, the mysterious figure retaliated with their own technique. “Prepare for the Galactic Rift!”

a tap of their foot, they shot upward like a shooting star.

The two dashed through the air, meeting briefly before touching the ground, standing back-to-back. No earth-shattering blasts or overwhelming forces ensued. Their swift fight concluded almost as soon as it started, as they parted ways with a single strike.

The figure landed, swiftly sheathing their sword before leaving.

“Hey, who the hell are you?” Aldric shouted.

The figure didn’t bother to glance back and retorted, “You’re not worthy to know my name.”

And with that, the figure disappeared into the night.

As soon as the mysterious figure departed, Aldric’s water blade shattered in his grasp, and his head rolled from his shoulders, leaving him bewildered.

In his final moment, he hadn’t expected the figure’s sword to move so swiftly. Its speed caught him off guard, rendering him defenseless.

The following morning, Dustin was deep in meditation and practice. Suddenly, a sharp knock broke his concentration. He opened the door to find Dalen, Miles, Crystal, and Ruby standing outside.

“Dustin, something happened last night!” Miles exclaimed urgently, barely waiting for the door to open fully.

Perplexed, Dustin asked, “What’s going on?”

He found it unusual to see them all assembled at his doorstep at such an early hour with troubled expressions.

“Aldric’s dead! He was beheaded last night!” Miles burst out, revealing the shocking news.

“Aldric?” Dustin was stunned. “The swordsman who dueled me just yesterday?”

“Yeah, that’s the one!” Miles nodded vigorously. “They found his body this morning, headless. It seems like he was taken out with just one clean strike!”

“One strike?” Dustin raised an eyebrow, puzzled. “But Aldric was no amateur with a sword. Who could have had the skill to kill him so effortlessly?”

“Well…” Miles hesitated, uncertain how to continue.

Dalen interjected, “Dustin, rumors are circulating outside linking Aldric’s demise to you.”

Dustin raised his eyebrows in surprise and pointed at himself. “Me?” he exclaimed.

He continued, “Are you kidding? After last night’s encounter with him, I returned to the tavern to rest. I haven’t stepped out since then. How could I possibly have killed him?”

“We also don’t believe it was you, but rumors spread like wildfire. Many have already pegged you as Aldric’s murderer.” Dalen sighed.

“Yeah, last night you managed to defeat him. Plenty of people saw it. And since you were the last person to face him, you’re the main suspect now,” Miles added, his tone serious.

While Dustin hadn’t wielded a sword, his movements mirrored sword techniques. With Aldric’s formidable strength, it was no wonder people were suspicious.

“Aldric’s death has nothing to do with me. I won’t let the gossip get to me. Let them talk. I’ve got nothing to hide,” Dustin said nonchalantly.

Considering Aldric’s penchant for conflict, it could be someone seeking vengeance unrelated to Dustin.

“Dustin, you need to understand the gravity of the situation,” Dalen said, his expression grave.

He went on, “Aldric wasn’t just anybody. He had the full backing of the Bloodfiery Legion. Now that he’s dead, they’ll stop at nothing to find the one responsible. They’re a relentless bunch and won’t hesitate to seek revenge.”

The Bloodfiery Legion members were known for their ferocity and unity. Any attack against them would surely invite swift and merciless retaliation.

“So, you’re saying I’ve gotten into a serious mess?” Dustin asked, feeling confused.

Last night, he never intended to confront Aldric. It was Aldric who challenged him for a duel. And now, unfairly accused of Aldric’s death, Dustin realized he was in a precarious situation.

“Listen up, this isn’t something to take lightly. In my opinion, you must be prepared. Try to avoid getting into trouble for as much time as you can. There’s no reason to put yourself in danger against those lunatics,” Dalen advised.

Chapter 923

“If the Bloodfiery Legion wants to talk, sure, I’m open to it. But even if they don’t, I’m not backing off,” Dustin remarked nonchalantly.

He was consistent in his demeanor, whether facing the Bloodfiery Legion, the Sword Union, or the Celestial Alliance. He was indifferent about potentially offending any of them.

“Dustin, I know you’re strong, but remember, there’s always someone stronger. You can’t just go charging ahead without thinking!” Dalen cautioned, his tone sincere.

He continued, “Did you know Kendricks is Aldric’s brother? He’s ranked eighth on the Legendary List and already at Sacred Wrym Summit. When he learns about his brother’s death, he’ll definitely seek revenge!”

The Legendary List featured individuals of remarkable prowess. Each one was capable of dominating any situation.

While Dustin was impressive, Kendricks, ranked eighth on the list, surpassed him. If Kendricks sought vengeance, Dustin’s chances of success seem bleak.

“Yeah, Dustin!” It’s better to live to fight another day. You can lay low until the Bloodfiery Legion tracks down the real culprit. No harm in waiting it out,” Miles chimed in, trying to persuade him.

He could tell that Dustin, despite his skills, didn’t have many reliable allies. That fact made him vulnerable to manipulation.

“The Combat Tournament at Sacred Wrym Summit kicks off in two days. Can I really afford to cower away now?”

Dustin asked, dismissing the idea.

“But what if Kendricks decides to seek vengeance?” Dalen’s concern was evident in his furrowed brow.

“When trouble comes, we’ll face it head -on, and we’ll adapt to any challenges that come our way,” Dustin replied.

“Hey, why won’t you listen?” Ruby couldn’t help but speak up.

She went on, “We’re just trying to look out for you. Can’t you see? Being stubborn won’t help. You have only one life. What if you end up in trouble with the Bloodfiery Legion? That’d be a huge loss!”

Dodging the obvious dangers was easy, but defending against the unseen ones proved tougher.

Dustin’s path would be dangerous when the Bloodfiery Legion marked him as a target. Despite his skills, he was still mortal and vulnerable. Any slip in alertness could spell disaster.

“The Bloodfiery Legion can’t kill me, and I won’t unjustly take the blame for someone else, ” Dustin stated firmly. Where’s Aldric’s body? I want to see the scene for myself.”

Ruby couldn’t believe her ears. “What? You still want to go there?”

voice rose with disbelief. “Are you kidding? The Bloodfiery Legion is collecting Aldric’s body. If you go there now, you’ll be walking into their trap!”

She shook her head in disbelief. Was Dustin truly considering this?

Even those with a modicum of sense would do everything to avoid such a dangerous situation. Yet here he was, refusing to hide and marching straight into danger. It seemed beyond foolish to her.

But Dustin remained resolute. ” Whether it’s luck or misfortune, hiding won’t change anything,” he explained earnestly.

He added, “If I went into hiding, it’ll only make me look guilty. It’s better to confront the situation head-on and resolve this as soon as possible.”

“Hey! Why are you so stubborn?” Ruby exclaimed with frustration etched on her face.

Before Ruby could continue, Crystal interjected as she raised her hand to stop her sister. “I believe Mr. Rhys has a point. Avoiding the situation will only make things worse. It’s better to be honest and clear up any misunderstandings. That’s the only way to resolve the issue.”

“But Crystal! Those Bloodfiery Legion fanatics are unpredictable! If Dustin can’t clarify things, they might just resort to violence on the spot!” Ruby’s worry heightened.

Crystal reassured her, “Relax, Ruby. We’re at Sacred Wyrm Summit, not their turf. They can’t just kill innocents here. And with us, disciples of the Sword Union, vouching for Mr. Rhys, they wouldn’t dare to act recklessly.”

Thoughts swim in Ruby’s head. If the Sword Union stepped in to clear Dustin’s name, the Bloodfiery Legion would have no choice but to abide by their judgment.

“Alright! Since Dustin is prepared to confront this, we’ll support him through it!” Miles proclaimed boldly, making a sweeping gesture as if ready to lay down his life.

It was their chance to strengthen their bond with Dustin. By helping him, they could solidify their friendship. In times to come, Dustin would likely return the favor if they ever found themselves in a bind.

Dustin and a few others exited the tavern after making the decision. They headed straight to the site of the murder. The location where Aldric met his demise lay just a short mile from the tavern.

Dustin and his companions setting a brisk pace, they swiftly arrived at the scene. Surrounding the area, a sizable crowd of onlookers had gathered alongside a group of Bloodfiery Legion disciples working to clear the space.

At their helm stood a man dressed in green, his complexion pale and his gaze sharp. Despite appearing around 30 years old, he bore a broken blade on his back with an icy presence.

This man was Kendricks, ranked eighth on the Legendary List.

He was examining Aldric’s body. His expression was inscrutable, yet his eyes revealed a simmering anger.

Despite their usual lack of conversation, their bond as siblings from the same sect ran deep. With Aldric’s beheading, Kendricks, as the older brother, harbored a profound sense of resentment.

“Who’s responsible for this? Who could’ve done such a thing?” Kendricks ‘voice boomed with anger as he gathered the remains of his brother’s body.

“From what witnesses say, Aldric was in a scuffle last night. I bet that someone is likely the culprit,” one of the Bloodfiery Legion disciples reported.

“And who might that be?” Kendricks inquired, his voice tight with rage.

“Our investigation leads to a man named Dustin. He bested Marco, a Kimboku warrior, yesterday, gaining quite a reputation,” the Bloodfiery Legion disciples elaborated.

“Dustin?” Kendricks’ tone turned stern as he narrowed his eyes slightly.” Mobilize everyone. Bring him to me now. If he resists, kill him immediately.

“Yes!” The Bloodfiery Legion disciples nodded in unison.

Just as they prepared to depart, a voice rang out amidst the crowd.

“No need to search anymore. I’m already here.” Dustin calmly pushed through the crowd, maintaining an unruffled expression.

All eyes swiftly fixated on him.

“Hmm?” Kendricks turned around with hostility etched on his face. “What did you say?”

“I’m the one you seek,” Dustin responded truthfully.

“Did you kill my brother, Aldric?” Kendricks’ tone was low and ominous.

“If I denied it, would you believe me?” Dustin countered evenly.

“I only trust the dead,” Kendricks replied coldly.

his words, the Bloodfiery Legion disciples drew their swords, poised for action. After their shared experiences, Kendricks needed only a glance to convey his orders, and they understood exactly what was expected.

“Wait!” Dalen interjected, sensing the tension escalating.

Stepping forward, he raised his voice, attempting to defuse the situation.” Let’s not rush into things here. There seems to be a misunderstanding.”

A disciple from the Bloodfiery Legion fired back, “And who are you to intervene? You think you can just waltz in and meddle with Bloodfiery Legion’s business?”

Dalen countered calmly, “Listen, there’s a principle at play. ‘Where there’s a debt, there’s a debtor.’ Dustin isn’t responsible for Aldric’s death. The true culprit lurks elsewhere, and I can vouch for that.”

Echoes of support joined his words.

“That’s right! We can vouch for him, too!” Crystal, Ruby, Miles, Laurel, and Willow stepped up alongside Dalen, their voices united.

But skepticism prevailed among the Bloodfiery Legion disciples. “Bah! You’re all working together. Aldric’s death is surely linked to your involvement!”

tensions mounting, one of the disciples suggested, “Kendricks, shouldn’t we just catch them?”

The clamor of voices underscored the discord, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

“Capture them.”a

Chapter 924

Kendricks acted swiftly as he issued a clear command. He was determined not to let Aldric’s death be in vain. So, he ordered anyone suspected to be questioned without delay.

“Get moving!”

The Bloodfiery Legion disciples obeyed without hesitation. They charged forward and caused onlookers to scatter in fear.

“Who dares?” Miles exclaimed.

He drew his sword and stepped forward with a fierce shout, “We are disciples of the Sword Union. If you Bloodfiery Legion folks dare to cause trouble, you’re challenging the entire Sword Union. Can you handle the consequences?”

those words, the Bloodfiery Legion disciples immediately froze in their tracks. Their apprehension was evident as they looked around.

They might disregard ordinary sects, but the Sword Union held a different status. As one of the three major sects in Dragonmarsh, its power and reputation far surpassed that of the Bloodfiery Legion. Thus, they wouldn’t openly confront the Sword Union unless absolutely necessary.

“Being disciples of the Sword Union doesn’t exempt you from the consequences of killing. It’s only fair. You’re responsible for my brother’s death, and you need to answer for it,” Kendricks stated coldly. His hand inched toward the hilt of his sword as he spoke.

Despite the Sword Union’s reputation, Kendricks was not intimated. He felt a deep-seated need for justice after Aldric’s demise.

Crystal’s response was measured and somber, “The death of your brother is shrouded in mystery. If we were truly responsible, would we be so reckless as to confront you today?”

“Perhaps you’re aiming to cast yourself as the victim, hoping to absolve any blame,” Kendricks speculated.

Ruby couldn’t hold back her frustration. “Hey, can you use your brain for a second? We have no grudge against your brother, so why would we want to kill him? Who would willingly invite trouble for no reason?”

Even to a child, it was clear that this wasn’t a simple situation. Jumping to violence without understanding was just plain reckless.

Kendricks, despite his aggression, knew better than to act foolishly. His sudden silence spoke volumes.

The circumstances surrounding Aldric’s death raised eyebrows. But without concrete evidence, Dustin remained the prime suspect. Naturally, Kendricks couldn’t dismiss the matter.

“If you Bloodfiery Legion folks don’t trust us, you can investigate yourselves to see what happened last night. Finding the culprit might not be easy, but proving my innocence should be simple enough,” Dustin spoke up again.

After the duel last night, Dustin retreated to the tavern and remained there without venturing out. The tavern staff can confirm this without a doubt. Should the Bloodfiery Legion inquire, they would find consistent testimony.

“I don’t want to debate this with you here,” Kendricks stated with a cold edge to his voice.

He added, “Nothing simply materializes out of thin air. Given this kid is the prime suspect, I must interrogate him thoroughly.”

Dustin chuckled in response. “Let’s get this straight. I’m not here because I’m scared of you but because I won’t stand for false accusations. I’ve said my piece. Whether you believe me or not is up to you. But are you qualified to interrogate me?”

His words ignited a sudden uproar in the area. No one anticipated his audacity in addressing Kendricks so brazenly.

Kendricks was a formidable figure, acknowledged on the Legendary List, a pinnacle of strength. To challenge someone of his stature seemed akin to courting death.

“This kid’s got the nerves! Daring to provoke Kendricks? He must think he’s invincible!”

“A fresh face brings boldness! He seems oblivious to Kendricks’ might!”

“Dustin may have bested Marco, but Kendricks is on a different level!”

Onlookers marveled at Dustin’s courage.

Those on the Legendary List were once- in-a-generation prodigies, surpassing ordinary talents by leaps and bounds. Though skilled, Dustin paled in comparison to Kendricks. Their levels weren’t even comparable. Dustin’s actions were akin to throwing eggs at a rock.

“Hey! Are you crazy? We agreed to sort out the trouble, and now you’re only making it worse!” Ruby exploded after hearing Dustin’s words.

They had put a lot of effort into helping Dustin with his problem, but now he seemed completely indifferent. Despite everyone’s efforts, he was adamant about not giving in to Kendricks and even seemed prepared to face him directly.

Dustin’s actions left her feeling frustrated. She also realized that if Kendricks got upset, they wouldn’t stand a chance against him.

“Hey, kid! Do you have any idea who you’re talking to?” Kendricks narrowed his eyes with a hint of menace creeping into his gaze. He had expected boldness, but Dustin’s audacity caught him off guard.

“I know who you are. But I want to reiterate that Aldric’s death isn’t on me, regardless of what you think,” Dustin replied calmly, showing no signs of backing down.

“Okay, fine!” Kendricks suddenly chuckled, his smile sending shivers.

He glanced at Crystal and the others as he spoke. “I admire your guts, kid. For the sake of the Sword Union, I’m willing to offer you a chance. If you can take one strike from me and live, I’ll let you go. How’s that?”

Dustin was just a nobody. He wasn’t much of a concern to Kendricks, but those Sword Union disciples complicated things.

After all, Kendricks’ offer was a way out for them all, a chance to avoid things getting uglier. But if they insisted on causing trouble, he wouldn’t hold back.

“Are you sure you could finish me with just one strike?” Dustin asked.

“Confidence comes from strength. When dealing with scum like you, a single strike is all it takes,” Kendricks retorted coldly.

“Alright, let’s see what you’ve got,” Dustin smirked.

“Dustin, be careful! Kendricks is no pushover,” Dalen whispered behind him.

Miles advised, “Yeah, Dustin! Those Legendary List guys are no joke. You can’t take them lightly.’

He added, “Anyway, give it your all, and don’t hold back. Just endure that one strike.”

Dustin was facing Kendricks in a direct showdown, and his chances were slim. However, if he could withstand just one blow from Kendricks, there might be a chance to make it through.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got this,” Dustin reassured with a slight nod.

He didn’t bat an eye at Kendricks or the whole Bloodfiery Legion. Even if Kendricks ranked eighth on the Legendary List, Dustin remained unrivaled at the summit. With sheer ranking alone, he could effortlessly outmatch any challenger.

“Good luck!” Crystal’s words were brief.

Kendricks’ concession to just one strike demonstrated his respect for the Sword Union. Now, the weight of the situation rested on Dustin’s shoulders. If he could withstand Kendricks’ blow, the crisis would be averted. However, failure would cost him his life.

In the martial world, rules existed, but strength ultimately prevailed. The one with the stronger fist held sway, while those without powerful allies had no recourse to justice.

“Fine, I’ve had enough of this. Sort it out on your own!” Ruby muttered in annoyance before moving aside.

She had already given all the warnings she could. Dustin always seemed to find trouble, and there was little she could do to prevent it.

Chapter 925

“Anyone who doesn’t want to end up six feet under, clear out! Don’t blame me if you get caught in the crossfire and push daisies!”

that warning, the Bloodfiery Legion disciples cleared the area, preparing for the impending duel.

They were all too familiar with the bone -chilling might of Kendricks. His blade aura alone could claim lives.

As shouts erupted, the spectators scattered. Only Dustin and Kendricks stood within 300 feet apart, facing each other.

One stood proudly as the eighth- ranked legend, a powerhouse in his own right. The other had recently defeated Marco, a rising star in their domain.

Excitement surged as news of the impending duel spread. It even attracted numerous martial artists eager to witness the outcome firsthand.

“Everyone, what’s your take on Dustin’s chances against Kendricks’s blade?”

“I’m not so sure! Kendricks is eighth on the Legendary List. He’s formidable. If he’s daring enough to issue the challenge, he must be confident in his victory!”

“You’re right! I remember seeing Kendricks wield his sword once, and let me tell you, it was mind-blowing. Dustin doesn’t stand a chance.”

“I’m not so sure. I saw Dustin defeat Marco yesterday, and he’s surprisingly strong.”

“Dustin doesn’t stand a chance against Kendricks. I mean, come on, they’re not even in the same league! Kendricks’s spot on the Legendary List speaks volumes. Dustin? He’s nowhere near that level!”

Excitement filled the air as the spectators chattered eagerly, anticipating the fight. Many were confident in Kendricks’ victory, while a few still held onto hope for Dustin’s resilience against his opponent’s skillful blade.

“What are you waiting for? Draw your sword.”

Dustin stood with his hands behind his back, calmly observing Kendricks before him. His expression remained steady, unwavering.

Kendricks scanned Dustin, noting the absence of a weapon, and asked, ” Planning to face my blade empty- handed?”

Dustin shrugged. “Why not?”

His casual response made Kendricks frown, his demeanor turning icy. “Kid, are you trying to provoke me? I’ll make sure you regret it!”

“Enough talk, let’s get on with it. I’ve got things to do and no time to waste on you,” Dustin urged.

Once again, his daring words ignited the crowd’s enthusiasm.

They thought that Dustin didn’t know his limit. Despite facing someone as formidable as Kendricks, he boldly stepped forward, oblivious to the danger ahead.

Kendricks chuckled with anger, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Kid, you’re quite cocky, aren’t you? But mark my words. Soon, you’ll learn the cost of such arrogance.”

a deliberate motion, he withdrew the weapon strapped to his back. It was a simple black blade, its edges worn and chipped, hardly more than an inch long, resembling an ordinary dagger.

However, appearances were deceiving, for this unremarkable blade had been his faithful companion, guiding him to countless victories without ever knowing defeat.

“Keep your eyes peeled! This blow is going to be the end of you!” Kendricks tightened his grip on the hilt with one hand while steadying the blade with the other.

After a brief pause, he lunged forward with lightning speed. “City Crusher!”

As he charged forward, he paused briefly to draw a deep breath. With a mighty swing, his black blade sliced through the air with ferocity.

Instantly, a menacing crescent-shaped blade aura burst forth, pulsating with a destructive energy capable of annihilating everything in its path.

It surged relentlessly toward Dustin, spanning over 30 feet long. This towering force resembled an unstoppable giant’s blade, poised to cleave through anything in its path.

Wherever the blade aura passed through, the ground shook as if the air was distorted. A huge pressure began to envelope the entire place.

The onlookers could feel the pressure on them. It was as if a huge stone had landed on their shoulders. Those who were weak even had trouble breathing, their legs trembling.

“What a powerful slash! Was that the power of a person ranked eighth on the Legendary List? That was eye-opening!

“That slash was astounding! No one could possibly take that! Dustin’s in big trouble!”

“Poor guy. He shouldn’t have offended Kendricks. He’s so dead.”

Everyone was overwhelmed by Kendricks’ slash.

They could feel the sharpness of the blade aura as well as its tremendous power just by the look of it. Many of them thought that Dustin was as good as dead.

“Dustin! Show them what you got! You must withstand that pressure!” Dalen gripped his lighter tightly, tensing up.

He knew Dustin had high potential, but this was Kendricks, ranked eighth on the Legendary List, they were talking about.

Even a genius was no match for such a monstrous opponent.

No one dared to say that they could withstand Kendricks’ blade.

Even Quincy Douglas, a powerful grandmaster martial artist and the guardian of Celestial Alliance, was no match for Kendricks, either.

“Not bad,” said Dustin as he stared at the blade aura heading toward him. Then, he reached out and clenched his fist in the air.

Ruby’s sword, which was about a mile away, came from its sheath and flew right into Dustin’s hand.

“Huh?” Ruby was startled as she looked at the sheath in her hand.

“Lend it to me for a while,” Dustin said.

He swung the sword, and a crescent- shaped white sword aura was released. It headed straight to Kendricks’ black blade aura in a flash.

The sword aura was a radiant shade of white, in stark contrast to the ominous black blade aura.

Based on their appearances, Kendricks’ blade aura seemed greater and stronger. Dustin’s sword aura might be smaller, but it seemed more impenetrable.

The two auras collided violently against each other and let out a loud bang. It was so loud that it shook the ground.

The collision created a tempestuous shock wave, releasing an explosive surge. The overwhelming surge was unstoppable, like a hurricane. Wherever it passed, it blasted sand and rocks, creating dust haze everywhere.

All obstacles were bulldozed. The trees and flowers on the street were all broken into half, one after another. Even the stone bricks paved on the ground were overturned.

The onlookers, who were about a mile away, could feel the strong wind gusting toward them.

The gust was so strong that it pushed them back forcefully. They could barely open their eyes, even when they were covering their faces with their hands.

A few unlucky onlookers were hit by stones. They looked pathetic and miserable.

“What a terrifying aura wave! Luckily, we’re far away, or else we might end up crippled or even dead!”

“That’s crazy! I almost got killed by the gust of a battle!”

“Can anyone see what’s going on in there? Did Dustin block Kendricks’s blade aura or not?”

The crowd was discussing frantically, squinting to look.

Chapter 926

The onlookers were astonished by the powerful surge, but they also wondered if Kendricks had successfully taken Dustin down with just one slash.

After all, Kendricks was ranked eighth on the Legendary List. He was capable of breaking a mountain with a single slash.

It was almost impossible to withstand his slash.

“Crystal, can you see? How is it? Is Dustin dead?”

Ruby tried to take a peek at the battleground while blocking the wind with her hand. Her stomach was in knots.

Although she and Dustin were at odds, it didn’t mean that she hated him or wanted him dead.

“I can’t see clearly. Let’s wait a little longer.”

Crystal stared into the distance, trying to see what was happening in the dust haze.

The crash of the auras was so strong that it caused a massive dust haze within a mile radius. No one could see clearly.

A moment later, the dust haze lifted. Everything was back to normal again. The figures on the battleground were visible to the audience again.

Kendricks, who stood there silently with his black blade in his hand, seemed gloomy and solemn. Yet, he still had that intimidating aura on him.

On the other hand, Dustin stood calmly and casually. There was not a single dust on him, let alone visible wounds. The onlookers turned silent for a while before bursting into an uproar.

“Damn! Did Dustin actually block Kendricks’ blade aura? Seriously?”

“Am I seeing it right? That guy is standing there alive and without a scratch!”

“Awesome! That guy defeated Kendricks’ one-hit kill. He’s a legend!”

Who would have thought Dustin would remain unharmed under Kendricks’ ferocious attack?

Many of them had thought Dustin was as good as dead when he agreed to battle Kendricks.

Some had assumed that Dustin would survive but with severe injuries. However, never in a million years did they expect him to be alive and unharmed!

Everyone was shocked by the outcome.

Dustin had successfully withstood Kendricks’ lethal attack without any harm.

How outrageous!

“Your skill isn’t half-bad. Way better than your brother’s,” Dustin said calmly.

“You’re not half bad yourself. Not many people can withstand my slash without harm,” Kendricks said coldly as he glanced at him.

Compared to his previous disdain and arrogance, Kendricks was taking Dustin more seriously now.

He had intended to avenge his brother, so he had used almost 80% of his power on that slash. He thought it was enough to kill Dustin, but Dustin managed to block it.

Apparently, Dustin was no weaker than him.

“According to our deal, I’ve won. I hope you’ll keep your promise,” Dustin said coolly.

“I’m a man of my word. Since you’ve taken my hit, I’ll let you go this time, but…”

Kendricks suddenly shouted, “My brother shall not die in vain! If I find out that you’re the real murderer, the disciples of Bloodfiery Legion shall hunt you down!”

He promised not to kill Dustin, but it didn’t mean that the Bloodfiery Legion wouldn’t seek revenge for the murderer.

“Again, I’ve nothing to do with your brother’s death. If Bloodfiery Legion insists on holding me accountable for it, I won’t hold back,” Dustin replied coldly.

He didn’t want any trouble, but it didn’t mean he was afraid to handle it.

It would be great if they could solve this peacefully. But if that was impossible, he would have no choice but to resort to violence.

“I’ll look into this matter thoroughly. We shall find out whether you’re the murderer or not sooner or later,” said Kendricks before he turned and left.

Although he was still unsure who was the murderer, he had ruled Dustin out.

He had a hunch that Dustin was not the murderer.

Kendricks left with the disciples of Bloodfiery Legion.

Everything was back to normal, at least for now. Once again, Dustin’s unexpected performance became the center of attention.

He had gained some reputation for defeating Marco Alessandro. Now, his reputation grew stronger after he withstood Kendricks’s slash without harm.

Dustin had earned a place in Sacred Wrym Summit, where all the strongest warriors were gathered, with only two battles.

“Thanks for the sword.” Dustin turned and raised his hand with the sword. The sword flew out of his hand and returned to Ruby’s sheath.

Everyone was amazed.

“Dustin! Congratulations!” Miles walked toward Dustin with a smile. ” That was a beautiful strike! To think you could block Kendricks’ blade aura with a sword aura! Fancy that!”

Miles might sound a bit flattering, but he meant what he said. No ordinary warrior could take Kendricks’ attack head-on.1

“Hmph! Good thing my sword is still intact.” Ruby raised her chin as she acknowledged Dustin’s skill for the first time.

She thought Dustin was gone for good when Kendricks released the blade aura. Imagine her surprise when he could block that slash with just a sword. He was amazing!

“Dustin, you’re sure full of surprises! That was eye-opening.” Dalen smiled so beautifully that he looked even more alluring than usual.

Dustin’s spectacular performance had proven that he had an eye for extraordinary warriors. And he was right about Dustin!

“Thanks to Ms. Wesley’s sword, or I might not be able to take that slash,” Dustin said humbly.

In fact, he could take Kendricks’ attack with his bare hands, but that would be too terrifying to the audience, so he borrowed Ruby’s sword to cover his skills.

Since the Combat Tournament had not begun, there might still be some powerful warriors hiding somewhere.

Extensive attention might attract unnecessary trouble. Hence, he preferred to lay low, if possible.

“You’re right about that!” Ruby raised her head and said proudly, “In fact, my sword’s made of grimsteel. It’s way more solid than Kendricks’ tattered blade. You’re alive because you borrowed my sword!”

Kendricks used an ordinary blade, whereas Dustin used a sword made of grimsteel. Thus, Dustin did have a better advantage in terms of weapons.

“Face it, Ruby. We all know Mr. Rhys is alive because of his excellent skills, not your sword,” Crystal chimed in, bursting her bubble without mercy.

Then, she said to Dustin, “Mr. Rhys, even though you’ve resolved the crisis, I’m afraid we haven’t seen the last of the Bloodfiery Legion yet. Someone might frame you so that you and the Bloodfiery Legion will fight each other to the death!”

“I’m well aware of that. Though I’m not afraid of Bloodfiery Legion, I’m not taking the blame for something I didn’t do. If someone tends to frame me, I won’t sit back and wait for it.”

Dustin then threw a meaningful glance at Laurel and Willow.

The two understood his order immediately. They nodded and left.

Grace’s power and intelligence, she must know what had happened around Sacred Wrym Summit.

Dustin believed he would find out what was going on in no time.

“Dalen! Help, Dalen! Something terrible happened!”

Chapter 927

A stout man ran to them hurriedly. He was Terra Shade, the head of the Evil Quintet of Shadow Citadel.

Terra appeared disheveled and was covered in wounds, looking rather pathetic compared to his previous dignified appearance.

“Terra? What happened to you?” Dalen looked at him from head to toe and frowned. He had a bad feeling about this.

“Dalen, you must avenge us! My brothers and sisters… the four of them were all murdered!” Terra fell to his knees with a thud and started bawling like a baby.

It was a heartbreaking sight.

“Murdered?” Dalen furrowed his brows and asked, “What happened? Why were they murdered? Have they offended someone powerful?”

The Evil Quintet of Shadow Citadel was well known in the martial world. Each of them had their own unique skills.

If the five of them worked together, ordinary grandmaster martial artists might not be able to take them down.

Apparently, the murderer was not any ordinary warrior since the four of them were killed and Terra was severely injured.

“Dalen! We have followed your orders since we entered Sacred Wrym Summit. We behaved ourselves and didn’t cause any trouble! I don’t know why someone would want to kill us!” Terra cried.

They might be domineering, but they were aware that Sacred Wrym Summit was no place to run wild. Thus, they had been keeping their noses clean.

Never in a million years did he expect a swordman would kill his brothers and sister while they were drinking the previous night.

He managed to escape because he used his invisible breath technique to feign death.

“Who’s the murderer? Where’s he from?” asked Dalen in a low tone. Although Evil Quintet was infamous, they were still the disciples of Shadow Citadel. As the successor to Shadow Citadel, Dalen certainly could not sit this one out.

“I’ve no idea who it is. The murderer was dressed in black and wore a mask. He had a three-foot-long sword. He started killing the moment we saw him. He didn’t even say a word!”

Terra couldn’t help but shiver. Then he said with a horrified expression, “His movement was fast. I’ve never seen anyone swing a sword as fast as him.

“My brothers and sisters were all dismembered in just the blink of an eye! If I hadn’t faked my death, I might be dead by now!”

“A person dressed in black and with a mask? Instant kill with a sword?”

Dalen realized something. He turned to Dustin and asked, “Dustin, doesn’t that remind you of someone?”

“Are you saying… the one who murdered the disciples of Shadow Citadel is the same person who murdered Aldric Lang?” Dustin got what he meant.

“We don’t know for sure, but that’s probably the case!” Dalen nodded.

Both mysterious murderers used a sword and were equally skillful. On top of that, both incidents had happened the previous night when it was raining.

It could not be a coincidence. The murderer was most probably the same person.

“If that’s the case, we’ve got some serious problems on hand.”

Dustin narrowed his eyes as he said, “If the murderer is seeking revenge, that would be understandable. But if he has other agendas, I’m afraid he would continue to kill.”

He sensed something was brewing since his duel with Marco the previous day.

“Exceptional warriors murdered before the Combat Tournament of Sacred Wrym Summit… Something smells fishy.”

Dalen ordered with a serious expression, “Terra, gather our people and start investigating. Find out who the killer is, then report to me at once!”

“Yes, sir!” Terra said and left hurriedly. Something was definitely brewing.

It was dusk, and in a private room of Poise Brothel, Dustin and the others gathered to listen to Terra’s report.

Although the murderer was still at large, Terra had found out something through his investigation.

“Dalen, based on our Shadow Citadel’s intelligence report, I’ve found something out,” Terra began.

He continued, “Someone saw the killer last night. According to the witness, the killer was skinny, and his face was hideous. There’s also a black mark on his forehead.

“I’ve hired an artist to draw a portrait of the killer based on the witness’s description. Here it is.”

Terra took a portrait out from his pocket and handed it to Dalen carefully.

Dalen looked at the portrait and frowned.

The person in the portrait was indeed hideous, skinny, and bony. There was a palm-sized black mark on his left forehead, which looked like snake skin.

His creepy appearance was hard to ignore, let alone forget.

“You sure this is the murderer?” Dalen asked, puzzled. He knew almost all the swordsmen in the martial world. Yet, he had never seen nor heard of such a person before. The man just came out of nowhere.

“I’m quite sure.” Terra nodded and said, “I took a glimpse at the murderer. Although I couldn’t see his face under the mask, I did see the black mark on his forehead. It matches the witness’s description.”

“Dustin, Ms. Wesley, have any of you seen this man before?”

Dalen placed the portrait on the table so everyone could take a good look.

“I’ll never forget such an ugly face if I’ve seen one,” Ruby said.

“I don’t think I’ve seen this person before.” Crystal shook her head.

Crystal had a good memory, so she would recognize him immediately if she had seen the man.

“Something’s weird about this guy… but where?”

Miles stared at the portrait while rubbing his chin, trying to figure out what was wrong.

“If the artist drew the details correctly, this man is either a genius or a lunatic!”

Dustin pointed at the portrait and said seriously, “Look, his shoulder is higher than the other. His left hand is longer than his right. He’s a bit hunched too.

It seems like he was born with defects.

“Despite that, he managed to master sword technique and even killed warriors of grandmaster level. It takes more than just determination to achieve that!”

“Oh, yeah! That’s it! I knew something was wrong with this guy. He has uneven hands!” Miles finally realized.

“Born with defects?”

Everyone exchanged glances. Their expressions became more serious.

There were three kinds of martial artists in the world.

First were the geniuses, who could master any technique within a short period of time. Second were ordinary people, who could master a technique after a long training. And the third, the untalented crowd, who could barely complete the training, let alone mastering a technique.

As long as the martial arts geniuses kept on training, they would eventually become masters.

Ordinary martial artists could achieve martial arts geniuses’ standards only if they trained a hundred times harder than the geniuses.

As for the untalented crowd, like the one shown in the portrait…

Technically, they were not capable of practicing swordsmanship.

Chapter 928

Even if these untalented people insisted on practicing swordsmanship, there would be huge obstacles along the way.

Yet, they had found an exception.

Despite his deformity, this man’s sword technique had surpassed many martial arts geniuses.

How unbelievable!

This man was out of the ordinary. There might be thousands of martial arts geniuses in the world, but there was only one untalented martial artist who overshadowed the geniuses!

No one could imagine what the man had gone through in order to achieve his current state.

“Looks like we have a tough fight ahead.”

Dalen took a sip of tea. Then, he glanced at Terra and asked, “Anything else besides the killer’s portrait?”

“Yes, according to our investigation, the killer killed seven people last night!

Terra’s words surprised everyone.

“Seven? Who were they?” Dalen raised his brows.

“Aside from Aldric Lang of Bloodfiery Legion and four of Evil Quintet, Spearhawk Vincent of Celestial Alliance was murdered too,” reported Terra.

“What? Vincent is dead?” Ruby was so shocked that she jumped out of the chair.

She always wanted to meet Vincent, who was said to be a noble, honest, and extremely talented young man.

But it was too late now. She never thought he would be murdered before she could meet him.

Ruby couldn’t believe that this was happening.

“Messing with Bloodfiery Legion, Shadow Citadel, and Celestial Alliance in one night? This killer’s sure got a lot of nerves!” Miles sighed.

Vincent was the rising star of the Celestial Alliance. Now that he was murdered, the Celestial Alliance wouldn’t let go of the murderer that easily.

“Why did this man mess with so many major sects at one time? He’s risking his own life.” Crystal frowned, puzzled.

The victims were from different places and different sects. They didn’t seem connected.

Theoretically speaking, the killer was not seeking revenge.

If so, what could he possibly gain from all this?

“There’s only six victims, including Vincent. Who’s the last one?” Dalen suddenly asked.

“The last one was Simpson Danton of Sacred Wrym Summit, Kaden Foyer’s best student.” Terra sounded extremely serious.

“Damn!” cursed Miles. “Did I hear it right? That guy didn’t just kill a member of Sacred Wrym Summit. He killed Kaden Foyer’s best student?”

After Arion Foyer took over Sacred Wrym Summit, no one dared to mess with it, let alone kill a senior disciple!

This killer, who suddenly came out of nowhere, had beard the lion in his den!

“Who exactly is this guy? How dare he mess with Sacred Wrym Summit!”

Ruby was outraged.

“I think this is no longer our concern. Sacred Wrym Summit would surely hunt the murderer down. No matter how skillful the murderer is, he’s destined to die in the hands of Sacred Wrym Summit,” said Crystal coolly.

No one in the martial world dared to challenge Sacred Wrym Summit. This man was as good as dead.

“Agree. However, the murderer might continue to kill before Sacred Wrym Summit catches him.”

“Seven people died. All of them were excellent disciples of major sects,” Dustin said, narrowing his eyes.

“If I’m guessing correctly, this murderer is trying to get rid of all the martial arts geniuses in Dragonmarsh. And this Combat Tournament is his hunting ground!”

“What?” When they heard Dustin’s analysis, they found it hard to believe.

The idea that someone wanted to kill all of Dragonmarsh’s martial artists, regardless if the person could succeed, was scary enough. Only a maniac would think of something like that.

Crazy people like them were the most fearsome.

“Terra, did all of those people that were killed sign up for the Combat Tournament?” Dalen couldn’t help asking.

Terra nodded. “That’s right. Although they come from all sorts of sects, they h