"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