“You—" Just as Sebastian was about to give him an earful, a roar suddenly sounded.When he turned around, Ryan had already pounced on him.Ryan was using his hands and legs to run at lightning speed. With every push off the ground, his nails would scrape and leave deep marks on the ground.His nails were as sharp as steel blades."Someone! Save me! Don't let this monster get close to me!" Sebastian's expression turned horrified.As Sebastian was injured too badly, he didn't even have the strength to stand up. He could only manage to drag his battered body backward."What are you waiting for? Move!" Sebastian turned around and shouted at Dustin.However, Dustin didn't move at all. He only looked at Sebastian silently."Dustin, don't act recklessly. Sebastian can't die here!" Jackson was a bit anxious."It's none of my business." Dustin remained unfazed."Fine. Looks like I need to make a move!" Jackson shook his head helplessly after seeing Dustin being stubborn.Thus, Jackso
Sebastian's head fell to the ground and rolled like a ball. Then, it came to a stop at the feet of the Emberson Steel's disciples.Sebastian's widened eyes were filled with shock, disbelief, and bewilderment.Until his death, Sebastian never expected he wouldn't meet his end at Ryan's hands but would instead have his head severed by Dustin.Sebastian wondered why this would happen.Sebastian was the well-known Deadly Spear and was Yannick's disciple. With such a background, Sebastian's future was bright.Sebastian had gone to Deathlands to look for treasure, improve his cultivation level and reputation,He had it all. Thus, his life was supposed to be smooth sailing and the object of envy for everyone.He couldn't understand why he would be defeated in such a small village.Sebastian wanted to scream that he couldn't accept his fate. However, he couldn't utter a word.His brilliant life flashed through his head like a revolving lamp.From a young age, Sebastian was gifted and
Aidan felt unhappy after Dustin rejected him so many times. However, Aidan was also a proud individual. Thus, Aidan wouldn't continue to pester him.Aidan was sure Dustin would give in when he was on the brink of death."Don't just stand there. You guys should go and help Jackson." Dustin looked toward the few Emberson Steel's disciples and reminded them.At this moment, Jackson was engaged in a back-and-forth battle with the frenzied Ryan.However, Jackson's speed and strength were noticeably depleting as he used his energy. On the other hand, Ryan showed no signs of fatigue and continued to fight in full force.If they continued to fight like that, Jackson would soon lose."Quick! We should go and help Jackson!" The few Emberson Steel's disciples exchanged glances. After drawing their sword, they rushed forward."Wait! Use this!" At that moment, Grace tossed a golden rope to one of the disciples.The golden rope was unusually sturdy. It looked special from how it emitted a gl
The sudden explosion caught everyone off guard.Especially when the energy wave hit, many martial artists were thrown into disarray. Instantly, moans sounded throughout.Thankfully, Jackson and the others managed to get away. Otherwise, they would be heavily injured if they were close to the explosion spot.When the dust settled, everyone found that the village head's house had been destroyed. The ground was filled with debris and wreckage.Meanwhile, Ryan had disappeared along with the tree. The only thing left was the Draken Rope lying on the ground.Plus, the ground was covered with black crystals that scattered around like cobblestones.Dustin saw that those crystals shot out of Ryan's body after he exploded.The smell of the crystals signified that it was made from blood. A normal human's blood was usually in liquid form, but Ryan's blood had become crystals before he died.It was an abnormal phenomenon.Dustin always thought he was quite knowledgeable. However, everythin
Aidan's expression was thrilled. Without a care for his image, he immediately picked it up.All of these were precious crystals worth billions of dollars! It would be a good choice no matter if the person decided to sell or keep it."Eclipse spiritstone? This is actually an eclipse spiritstone?""Guys, quick! Let's grab them!"At this moment, many people recognized the black crystal on the floor and quickly snatched it.Although some didn't know what was happening, they also joined in after seeing everyone grabbing it."I saw this eclipse spiritstone first! Give it to me!""No way! It belongs to me now that it's in my hands. Let's fight if you're not content!""Fuck off! I'll kill anyone who dares to snatch with me!"A place with interests would always create war.After knowing the eclipse spiritstone's value, everyone started to seize it. They were following the law of the jungle precisely.The capable ones could get a few more pieces, while the weaker ones could only obtai
"Ms. Linsor, did those two steal your eclipse spiritstone? I'll go and get it back for you right now!"After noticing what had happened, Jackson was prepared to make a move.If it weren't for Grace's Draken Drope, Jackson wouldn't have defeated Ryan. In fact, Jackson might even be killed by him."Jackson, there's no need to go after him! I gave them the crystals myself. I don't really need it," Grace quickly called out and explained after seeing Jackson ready to chase after them.Jackson was stunned. He stopped in his tracks, turned around, and asked in confusion, "What? Those are eclipse spiritstones. "It's extremely precious to us martial artists! It can increase your cultivation level. Even if you don't need it, you can still sell it for an exorbitant price.""I don't need money." Grace smiled faintly."Well …" Jackson didn't know what to say.Jackson had almost forgotten how rich Grace was. After all, she even had the Draken Rope.Thus, it was normal for her not to pay a
Ryan had already mutated just now. Thus, it wasn't hard to believe that the eclipse spiritstone was his flesh and blood."Even if the eclipse spiritstones were formed by Ryan's blood and flesh, what's the problem with it? Why did you say I cannot live more than three days?" Jackson asked again."The eclipse spiritstone has already been contaminated. You've seen Ryan's condition just now. He suddenly became crazy, lost his sanity, and mutated. "The eclipse spiritstones were formed by his blood and flesh when this happened. Do you think it's safe?" Dustin explained seriously."Dustin, this is your mere speculation. I'm afraid you can't convince others about something as serious as this. Do you have any evidence?" Jackson asked.The members of the Embersteel Order had picked up eight sizable eclipse spiritstones. Thus, it could be said they would have a handsome profit.If the eclipse spiritstones couldn't be used, they would be facing huge losses.Thus, Jackson couldn't accept su
"How … How could this happen?" Seeing the black mist in Dustin's hands, everyone was stunned.The eclipse spiritstone was fine just moments ago. Yet, its spiritual energy had been devoured in just a second!Everyone was stunned that a dark energy that was thinner than a hair could be so powerful."I didn't expect this thing to be so terrifying. How eye-opening!" Jackson gulped, feeling a bit scared.Thankfully, Dustin had warned them in time. Otherwise, there would be trouble if he absorbed the spiritual energy along with the dark energy in the eclipse spiritstone.Once the dark energy exploded, Jackson would probably have the same fate as Ryan."It's just as I thought. This thing is quite ferocious."As Dustin exerted more and more force, the dark energy surrounded by the energy barrier became ferocious. It surged and thrashed wildly, relentlessly slamming into the energy barrier to try and break free.They could faintly hear roars that resembled a beast's growls.It was ob
Austin smiled brightly as he ushered Jovian into the meeting room with surprising enthusiasm.Jovian looked confused and somewhat unprepared. Before entering, he had already imagined many possible scenarios for their meeting. He had mentally prepared for a range of reactions from Austin—whether he would be ignored, faced with cold indifference, or dealt with arrogance. He was ready for any of those. After all, the rumors about Austin painted him as a "hellraiser" who did whatever he pleased.But, to his surprise, Austin didn't give him any trouble at all. Instead, he was giving him a warm reception, which left him utterly confused.Something felt off. He couldn't make sense of Austin's sudden warmth, and he had no idea what game he was playing."Bring the tea!" After inviting Jovian to sit, Austin gestured for the attendant to serve the tea. The drink was a rare specialty from West Lucozia, a premium elixir tea not sold to the public but reserved for high-ranking officials. Its
After stepping into the castle, Boston felt a knot in his stomach. He had been here before, but only for official matters.He was always escorted by guards or attendants, but this time, Austin himself had led him inside. Boston felt both honored and somewhat overwhelmed. Since when had he earned such treatment?Austin had brushed off higher-ranking officials, so why was he showing him so much attention? Was it because his shiny bald head made him stand out? He had no answers, only a growing curiosity as he followed Austin into the meeting room. "Sit." After Austin sat at the head of the table, he raised his hand and gestured for Boston to do the same."No… no need. I'll just stand." Boston smiled awkwardly."Just sit down. Why are you so nervous? I won't bite," Austin said in a dismissive tone. "Y-Yes, Your Highness." Boston didn't dare refuse again and obediently took a seat. He was six feet three inches tall, yet he looked like a startled rabbit. He sat up straight and didn't
When the castle's gate swung open, every eye turned toward the entrance. Under the watchful gaze of the crowd, Austin strode out with his two guards. His posture exuded confidence and authority."Your Highness!"The gathered officials instantly rushed forward to greet him. Grins spread across their faces as if they couldn't wait to please him. Whether it was Huxley, Percival, or Warrick, all wore the same ingratiating expression.After all, Austin was the infamous hellraiser. Though he had reined himself over the past two years, his past reputation still loomed over them.At least Rufus could be reasoned with. But Austin? He was a wild card—utterly unpredictable, like a ticking time bomb. Every last one of them had suffered his wrath before.Percival approached with a flattering smile. "Your Highness, you finally come out. I have something important to discuss with you. If you'd be so kind as to listen—"Before he could finish his sentence, he was dismissed by Austin, who found h
"Get lost! I'm not in the mood for anything right now. If you want to eat, go on your own." Warrick snapped, looking annoyed."I'm not going either," Percival refused flatly. "I'm on a health regimen these days—only tea, no alcohol.""Fine. If you're going to wait, then keep waiting. I won't be sticking around." Huxley forced a smile and acted like he was about to leave.But as he turned, he almost bumped into Boston, who was approaching from the other direction."Sorry, Sir Thatcher! I hope I didn't startle you." Since he was surrounded by so many high-ranking officials, Boston was already on edge. He had momentarily spaced out and almost caused a mishap by running into Huxley, which left him flustered and a bit tongue-tied.Unlike the other generals, Boston didn't come from an influential background or have any powerful connections. He had worked his way up from the bottom, and the last thing he wanted was to offend Huxley and risk losing everything he had fought so hard for.
After parting ways with Boston, Jovian checked into a nearby hotel to await the good news. Boston wasted no time. After changing into a fresh set of clothes, he headed to the castle to deliver a letter of introduction. But when he arrived, he was stunned by what he saw.The gates of the West Lucozian monarchy had already gathered quite a few people, and among them were several figures he immediately recognized. These included Huxley Thatcher, the Commander of the Militia; Warrick Prescott, the Major General of the State Guard; and Percival Wentworth, the Chancellor of the National Academy.These three were first-ranking officials. In West Lucozia, they were nothing short of kingmakers who wielded immense power and influence. Warrick, in particular, was two ranks above Boston. Hence, he felt the need to be cautious in his presence and was eager not to make a bad impression.Alongside these three prominent figures, several second- and third-ranking officials also stood in line at
The following morning, Jovian stood at the entrance of West Lucozia Airport, wearing a sharp suit.Before the trip, he had contacted his comrade with whom he had fought side by side in the military. After earning military merit and with the Ballard family's influence, he was fortunate enough to stay in Oakvale and secure a decent position.His comrade, on the other hand, had moved to West Lucozia to carve out a life for himself. Years of hard work had paid off—he was now a third-rank general with considerable power, influence, and a strong network of connections. Jovian's meeting with the Prince of West Lucozia would depend entirely on his comrade's connections.Just then, the roar of an engine cut through the air as a military jeep pulled up beside him. The window rolled down, and the first thing that came into view was a bald head gleaming in the sunlight like a lightbulb. The glare nearly blinded him.Under that shiny dome was a face that looked ordinary at first glance. But w
"Grandfather, I understand why you sent Uncle Jonathan and Uncle Jensen to the Spanner and Fallon families to gather information," Natasha began. "But West Lucozia is thousands of miles away."She shook her head slightly. "They've always stayed out of the government's political matters. Sending Uncle Jovian there wouldn't achieve anything. He'd likely just be turned away." Oakvale and West Lucozia were worlds apart. The fight for the Oakvale throne didn't really affect the West Lucozian monarchy. Both sides had long adhered to an unspoken agreement to avoid meddling in each other's affairs."I know, but it'll be different this time. The royal throne is at stake, and every faction will do whatever it takes to secure West Lucozia's support. If the West Lucozian monarchy picks a side, the balance we've maintained for years will collapse. That's why I need to be ready for whatever happens," Simon replied.It would be best if the West Lucozian monarchy stayed out of the political strug
At the Ballard estate, Dustin was warmly welcomed to stay after dinner. This was the first time Natasha had brought her boyfriend home, so the Ballards made a big deal of it.Simon personally accompanied the young couple and invited them to the study to chat over tea. With his sharp eye, Simon could tell Dustin was no ordinary martial artist. His manners, speech, and broad knowledge set him apart from most people."Dustin, I fully support your relationship with Natasha. Your background or status doesn't matter. What matters most is that you two are happy together." Simon paused and said earnestly, "I want you to understand that she's been pampered all her life and hasn't faced much hardship. Now that she's with you, I hope you'll take good care of her.""Don't worry, Mr. Ballard. I would never let her down," Dustin replied sincerely.Though they had known each other for some time and hadn't yet taken their relationship to the next level, they had already made their feelings clear
After hearing Nathaniel's words, Tristan's expression darkened. His brow furrowed as he sank into deep thought.It seemed he had underestimated the situation. He had assumed it was just a simple rivalry between brothers; he hadn't anticipated Seamus seizing the chance to further his own agenda.Seamus already wielded considerable influence. Under the guise of supporting Matthias' ascension to the throne, he had been forming alliances and recruiting talents. His influence had grown to rival the royal family's.If Seamus really supported Matthias' ascension, he'd overshadow the king, and no one would be able to stop him. The worst-case scenario would be Seamus using Matthias as a puppet to overthrow the House of Linsor."Nathaniel, is everything you said true?" Tristan frowned."Absolutely. Every word," Nathaniel replied solemnly. "Of course, if you don't believe me, you can send someone to investigate.""I believe you. But… taking down Seamus won't be easy. Do you have a plan?" Tr