"I'm Quincy Douglas, the guardian of the Celestial Alliance!" declared the elderly man, standing with his hands clasped behind him."What? He's Quincy Douglas?""The Celestial Alliance is the top martial arts group in the martial world. It has ten guardians, each overseeing a specific region. Who would've thought we'd be lucky enough to meet Elder Douglas here today?""Elder Douglas has been the guardian of the Celestial Alliance for many years, holding a high-ranking position. With him here, those two Kimbokurats won't be causing much havoc!"Conversations buzzed among the crowd, with eyes showing particular reverence toward Quincy.While many hadn't seen Quincy in person before, they were familiar with his reputation. As one of the elite top ten guardians of the Celestial Alliance, Quincy was undeniably a significant presence in the martial world. Not only was he strong and experienced, but he also commanded great respect wherever he went."So, you're the elites of the Cele
"I'm the disciple of the Sword Union! Let me deal with that bastard!"Suddenly, a loud shout came from the crowd.It was Miles, who had just arrived at the scene. He had come for some fun but ended up witnessing a warrior from the Kimboku being all boastful. Being a passionate young man and a disciple of the Sword Union, he couldn't stand it anymore."Miles, that guy is pretty tough. Dealing with him won't be easy. Don't rush into things," Crystal, standing next to him, advised.Even though Miles was talented and had joined the Sword Union for a few years, he still lacked experience and finesse. While handling a Divine-level martial artist presented no issue for him, dealing with an elite would prove to be a more demanding task.He shrugged it off, saying, "Crystal, isn't he just a brat? What's so great about him? While my sword skills might not match up to yours, handling that brat is a breeze!"Miles jumped into the martial world not too long ago, full of big dreams. Now, wit
Given Glenn's exceptional track record, who would underestimate the Sword Union's disciples? So, when Miles courageously volunteered for the challenge, most people were confident."Miles, listen up! Be cautious, and don't make any hasty moves!" Crystal frowned with concern.This time, she took Miles and Ruby along to gain experience and see what talents Dragonmarsh had produced in recent years. As for attention-grabbing situations like this, Crystal personally didn't like them.As a Sword Union disciple, it was essential to focus on improving sword skills and character. Crystal knew that if they cared too much about getting famous quickly, they wouldn't get very far.Competition in the Sword Union was tough, and they didn't keep members who weren't useful. Failing the yearly assessment meant getting kicked out of the guild.Those who thought joining the Sword Union guaranteed a carefree life ended up as abandoned disciples."Crystal! I've got the arrow ready, and I gotta let it
"Damn! This brat is so full of himself, completely disrespecting the Sword Union disciple!""Son of a bitch! Blabbering away without even throwing a punch. Let's see how he handles it when he loses!""I can't take it anymore! Get me my sword!"Marco's arrogance and disrespect angered many, especially Miles, whose expression instantly turned dark. Being a Sword Union disciple meant the world to him, and usually, he earned respect wherever he went. Now, Marco had publicly embarrassed him and Miles couldn't bear it any longer.Miles declared aggressively, "Brat! I don't care who you think you are. Here, you play by my rules, whether you stand strong or surrender like a defeated warrior!"He added, "How dare you challenge us near the Sacred Wyrm Summit? Today, I'm going to teach you a lesson myself. You'll find out there's always someone stronger!"With that, he pulled out his sword, pointing it straight at Marco. His clothes rustled without wind, giving him a commanding and extrao
With a scornful look, Ruby retorted, "Hmph! Your feeble words suggest a lack of strength. Is that why you talk like that?"She added, "What's so great about that brat? Is he deserving of your admiration? I doubt Miles would lose to him!""You'll see as it unfolds." Dustin didn't bother explaining or arguing further. After all, it was all about raw strength in these stage duels. The stronger one would win."Hmph! Once Miles takes down that brat, let's see how you defend him!" Ruby exclaimed, frustrated.In a moment like this, everyone should be cheering for Miles, but Dustin not only showed no support but also made sarcastic remarks. It was truly infuriating."Look! They've started!" Dalen's words instantly grabbed everyone's attention.At that moment, Miles had already charged at Marco with his sword. With a flick of his wrist, his sword trembled, creating two blossoming flowers—one on the left and one on the right—thrusting toward Marco's arms.Marco's face remained blank as
"W-What?" Everyone was confused, staring at the unconscious Miles. Their eyes widened in shock because nobody expected this to happen.With just one swift slash, Marco sent Miles flying.Wasn't this too much? Just moments ago, Miles seemed to have the advantage. How did everything change so quickly? What had happened?"Did I... did I really see that? A Sword Union disciple taken down in just one move?""How is that even possible? Aren't Sword Union disciples supposed to be elites? How come they couldn't defend against a single attack?""No way! That brat can't be that strong!"After a short silence, chaos erupted throughout the entire scene.Initially, when Miles challenged Marco, everyone thought victory was assured. There were cheers and shouts of encouragement. However, the outcome was disappointing beyond imagination.The Sword Union disciple, who was highly anticipated, couldn't match up to Marco. It was embarrassing and disgraceful!"Wait, Miles lost? How is that even po
Quincy paused, took a deep breath, and spoke with authority to the gathered crowd. "Our nation has always believed in winning with virtue."If we've decided on a duel, it must be an honorable one-on-one fight. Even if we win, it won't truly be a victory if it's not done fairly!"Upon hearing this, the commotion slowly began to calm. The crowd might disagree, but they understood the importance of fair play in this martial art contest between the two nations."Elder Douglas! You hold the highest status here. We all respect you. Choose a skilled martial artist to teach those two a lesson, and let Dragonmarsh rise in pride!""That's right! We can't take this lightly. We must give it our all this time!"Amidst the clamor, everyone urged Quincy to pick another martial artist for the challenge.Quincy nodded and looked at the crowd. He then thundered, "The opponent is strong, and we shouldn't take them lightly!"He added, "I've got a condition this time: only those who are at the advan
"Y-You—" Ruby's face turned bright red, angered by Laurel and Willow's words. Just as she was about to respond, there was a soft thud.Miles, who had just regained consciousness, collapsed on the ground again.Ruby was startled and shouted, "Miles!" She quickly squatted down and administered medicine, massaging pressure points in a rush.Dustin looked at Miles. Then, he casually flicked his fingers and inserted a silver needle into Miles' body. The mystical pure energy carried by the needle swiftly penetrated Miles' limbs and body, clearing his circulatory pathways.After a few seconds, Miles finally opened his eyes again. Though weak, he seemed to be fine."I didn't expect Mr. Rhys to be a skilled doctor. I'm impressed!" Dalen exclaimed with surprise.It was not easy to accurately hit pressure points to save a person, even though injuring someone with a flying needle wasn't difficult.Dustin casually mentioned, "It's just a small trick, not worth mentioning.""Thank you, Mr. R
"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
An hour later, Nathaniel quietly entered a private mansion wearing a disguise.Inside the living room, Tristan had already prepared tea and refreshments. He looked as if he had been waiting for a long time."Sorry to have kept you waiting, Tristan." Nathaniel took off his coat and walked forward with a smile."No need to apologize. I'm happy that you made the effort to arrange this. A few extra minutes are nothing, especially since it's rare for us to meet." Tristan gestured for him to sit while he poured two cups of tea and handed one to his brother.Nathaniel accepted the cup and discreetly set it aside. Whenever he was out, he was always cautious about food and drink—this wariness had become second nature."You asked to meet me on short notice. Is this about official matters or something personal?" Tristan took a sip from his cup and got straight to the point."Both," Nathaniel replied, still smiling."Oh?" Tristan raised an eyebrow. "Let's hear it, then.""Given how things
In another luxurious mansion in the Inner City, a female spy dressed in black, cloaked in a hood, was reporting the results of her investigation to Nathaniel."Your Highness, the Moseys have been particularly active recently and are rallying allies. Many of the eight great families and other influential factions have already allied with them. If left unchecked, they'll pose a serious threat to us," she said, kneeling with her head lowered slightly."So the Moseys are backing Matthias, huh?" Nathaniel sat quietly, his expression unreadable."The Moseys have grand ambitions. While they claim to support Prince Matthias, they're merely setting him up as a puppet to rise to power and expand their own influence," she revealed.She had been infiltrating the Moseys' mansion for years and had gained a deep understanding of their operations, from the smallest details to the key players.Though Seamus appeared as a benevolent philanthropist, it was all a façade. Behind closed doors, he was r
That night, two young men sat playing chess inside a secluded mansion in the Inner City. On the left was Anders, who had visited the Ballard estate earlier. Across from him sat Matthias, a broad-shouldered man dressed in richly adorned robes.The game was intense, with fast moves followed by moments of deep thought. About ten minutes later, Anders finally conceded defeat."Anders, you've really improved since we last played. You almost had me there," Matthias said, stroking his beard in mild surprise."You flatter me, Your Highness. My chess skills are nothing compared to yours. If you hadn't gone easy on me, I wouldn't have lasted half as long," Anders replied with a modest smile."You're as smooth with words as ever." Matthias let out a hearty laugh with a look of smug satisfaction. Winning was in his nature—whether in war or on the chessboard, defeat was not an option."Well, we've eaten, and we've played. Let's get to business." With a wave of his hand, he signaled his men t