Miles eagerly explained, "Don't let the thin yellow paper fool you because it holds immense power. Once it latches onto someone, they'll feel like they're being crushed by a massive boulder. "As long as this talisman remains intact, that person won't be able to move a muscle for the rest of their life!""Wow, really that incredible?" Ruby widened her eyes in astonishment."Absolutely! Though I've only heard of it and never seen one. After all, there are very few who can wield the Summit Shift Divine Talisman," Miles said."Should we help?" Ruby asked."If even Mr. Rhys can't budge it, our efforts would be in vain. Let's just wait and see." Crystal shook her head.They hadn't reached grandmaster level, so they weren't qualified for this kind of confrontation."Mr. Rhys, how about letting the two of us give it a try?" Laurel and Willow stepped forward, offering themselves up for the task.Wary of the potential for deception, they decided to take the initiative and offer to go
"Let's try again!"The Sacred Wrym Summit disciple's words failed to dissuade Laurel and Willow.The sisters exchanged glances before unsheathing their swords. With swift motions, they targeted the Summit Shift Divine Talisman on Predator's back.Despite their persistent efforts, they quickly realized that removing the talisman was impossible. Thus, they redirected their efforts toward destroying it.After all, it was just a talisman. They were confident that breaking it wouldn't be any more challenging than shattering darksteel.When Laurel and Willow's swords struck the talisman, it instantly ignited with a brilliant burst of yellow light.A powerful shockwave erupted in a flash and shattered the swords upon impact. The sheer force of the blast sent the sisters flying backward, causing them to cough up blood.Stunned and bewildered, they exchanged incredulous looks. They hadn't expected that such an ordinary-looking talisman could withstand their attacks.It was truly unbelie
"Huh? How is this possible?""Weren't we just saying that the Summit Shift Divine Talisman couldn't be removed? How did he tear it off like it was nothing?""Well, that's unexpected! What exactly did he do?"Everyone was dumbfounded as their eyes fixed on the talisman in Dustin's hand.The Summit Shift Divine Talisman of Sacred Wrym Summit was revered for invincibility. Its strength was likened to a mountain, seemingly impervious to human efforts. Any endeavor to forcibly remove it was typically met with severe backlash. It was a lesson Laurel and Willow had painfully learned from their previous attempts.Yet, Dustin effortlessly tearing the talisman off went against all expectations. It was truly baffling.Ruby asked, "Wait, what just happened? It was torn off just like that? Looks like the Summit Shift Divine Talisman you mentioned wasn't that impressive." She was bewildered. She had believed in the talisman's invincibility, but now, her faith seemed misplaced.Dalen's mou
The overnight uproar was soon forgotten in the light of day.The following morning, Sacred Wrym Summit hummed with activity as people thronged in.It was the much-awaited day—the official kickoff of the Combat Tournament.Participants and onlookers flooded the area. They were eager to witness something truly remarkable.This unprecedented event had become the talk of the martial world. It attracted representatives from all major sects and guilds.Even those not participating in the tournament found themselves drawn to the excitement.Because everyone knew this was a rare chance to witness extraordinary talent, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not to be missed.The Combat Tournament at Sacred Wrym Summit lasted five days. During the initial three days, Groups C and B participants would compete. Following several rounds of elimination, the standout fighters earned their ticket to join Group A. They would then confront the group's brightest talents.By the fourth day, the tourna
"Speaking of which, those disciples from the Esoteric Sword Sect are really worth paying attention to," Miles mused.He rubbed his chin and looked at the three figures in black robes. "Their sword mastery technique is both mysterious and powerful. "Beheading enemies from miles away is child's play for them. And challenging opponents above their level? That's just routine. "If only I could learn their technique, I reckon I could make a name for myself in the martial world."Crystal chimed in, "The sword mastery technique is their best-kept secret. It was never shared outside their sect. Our elder once tried to exchange it with three of our top secrets, but they refused." She sighed and shook her head.The Sword Union was unwaveringly dedicated to anything sword-related. Whether it was renowned blades, ancient sword manuals, intricate techniques, or swordsmanship principles, they would spare no expense in obtaining them."I happen to know a thing or two about sword mastery te
As Dustin and the others chatted, a commotion suddenly erupted nearby. The bustling crowd swiftly scattered. They immediately cleared a wide path as if something dreadful was approaching.Then, a stunningly beautiful woman, accompanied by several mysterious figures in white robes, entered the tournament arena. Her white hair and eyes gave her an otherworldly appearance, and her demeanor exuded a chilling authority.Within a 30-foot radius, no one dared to approach her willingly. Their faces betrayed a mix of reverence and fear, as if they were avoiding a venomous serpent.Yet, when Dustin saw the white-haired woman, he couldn't help but pause momentarily. He was surprised as he hadn't expected to encounter a familiar face."Hmm, that's strange. That woman looks pretty, but why's everyone acting so scared around her?" Ruby scratched her head in confusion."Yes, she's beautiful. But take a closer look at the emblem on her clothes. She's from the Mystic Arts Order," Dalen pointed
"Wait... am I seeing things? The Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order is actually in another man's arms?""They say she's ruthless, cold-blooded, but she doesn't seem quite like the rumors.""Who is that guy? How could he make the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order fall for him? Is he some big shot?"The sudden turn of events sparked whispers and finger-pointing among the onlookers.They never expected the notorious Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order to have such an innocent and adorable side. At that moment, she looked just like any ordinary woman.If it weren't for the several guardians of the Mystic Arts Order standing behind Abigail, they would have doubted her identity."Hmm?"Abigail's behavior startled Dustin just as much as it did the rest of the crowd. After all, he had completely changed his appearance with his disguise, looking nothing like his usual self. He couldn't help but wonder how Abigail had managed to recognize him at a glance."Sir, what's
"Your reputation precedes you, Grand Sorceress. Meeting you today confirms it." Crystal nodded respectfully, her demeanor composed and full of respect."You're too kind, Ms. Wesley," Abigail replied with a gentle nod."Uh… Greetings, Grand Sorceress," Miles stammered, visibly nervous as he hastily nodded."You're friends with Mr. Dustin, so you're my friend too. No need to be so formal." Abigail's warm smile was devoid of any trace of arrogance."I'm Ruby Wesley, pleased to meet you!" Ruby exclaimed eagerly and extended her hand.Abigail wasn't just the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order but also ranked second on the Legendary List. Hence, Ruby felt honored to be acquainted with someone of her caliber."Pleasure's mine." Abigail smiled as she shook Ruby's hand. However, this simple act caused Crystal and Miles's expressions to change.After all, rumors circulated that Abigail was filled with parasitic poison. Any physical contact with her was perceived as potentially lif
Under the watchful eyes of the audience, Dustin and Glenn stepped onto the battle ring. They stood about 30 feet apart, and their eyes locked across the distance. Their gazes met like sparks, and they could feel the weight of the other's stare."Are you Logan?" Glenn asked, breaking the silence.He had heard the rumors about this dark horse before stepping into the ring, but now that he was facing him, he wasn't sure."Who I am doesn't matter. What matters is who wins this fight." Dustin didn't confirm or deny it, but his words left Glenn with no doubt.Both men were at the top of the Legendary List and held equal rank on the Champ-Tier List. Until they fought, no one could say who was the stronger of the two."I heard you're Seth's disciple, so I'm really looking forward to this." Glenn's gaze sharpened.Many years ago, his mentor, Cyrus, was defeated by Seth. That loss had always haunted Cyrus ever since. Now, with the disciples of both men about to face off, Glenn was determin
"Since Madam Penelope has spoken, I’ll follow her lead," Alloy said with a smile. "What about Mr. Hadley and Sage Foyer?""I'm in if you want to make a bet," Cyrus replied coolly."It's not every day we get an opportunity like this. Let me stir things up a bit." Kaden nodded with a grin.Once the three had agreed, Penelope waved for Abigail to come over.Soon, Abigail approached them with a wide grin. "Esteemed guests, I hear you want to bet. The current odds are—bet on Dustin to win, and you'll get 1.6 times your stake. Bet on Glenn, and it's only 0.4."She continued, "And no worries—if you win, I'll exchange your winnings for celestial stones." Abigail smiled brightly, and the other parties' eyes gleamed with the unmistakable shine of greed.Many had already placed their bets with her. Though she couldn't control the match's outcome, she knew how to adjust the odds to her advantage. Over time, that could turn into a huge fortune."I'm betting on Glenn to win." Cyrus quickly
"We're ready for the ultimate showdown of this tournament. The winner will be crowned the Combat Tournament Champion. Now, let's welcome both contestants to the ring." Oron's voice thundered as he stepped onto the battle ring.There was thunderous applause and cheers from the audience.The long-awaited showdown was finally at hand. Today's outcome wasn't just about personal glory, but it would also decide the future of the martial world.If Glenn triumphed and claimed the crown, the Sword Union would rise as the undisputed guild. The Celestial Alliance and the Mystic Arts Order would have no choice but to bow to their supremacy.But if Dustin won, it would be even more sensational. A dark horse, without any guild affiliation, defeating the elite disciples of the major guild—such a story would send shockwaves through the martial world.Once that happened, every major guild would fight tooth and nail to claim him. It would spark a fierce battle for dominance."Dr. Rhys! Good luck!"
"H-Hold on! I-I surrender!" Abigail said urgently. With the sword inches away from her throat, she decisively raised both hands in a gesture of surrender.She didn't expect herself to win the match. Her goal was simply to take this opportunity to test Dustin's strength and also gauge her own progress. But now, it was clear that there was still a sizable gap between them."You've done well. In a few more years, I might not even be able to keep up with you." Dustin smiled and lowered his Celestial Blade. His words weren't flattery; he genuinely saw potential in Abigail.The dark Phoenix flames carried a corrosive power that even his mystical pure energy couldn't resist. In other words, Abigail's black flames were the bane of any martial artist.Her journey in the martial world was still short—barely two years. She hadn't unlocked the full potential of her Phoenix bloodline yet. But with more training and experience, the sky was the limit for her."Don't try to console me, Sir. I'm n
With a resounding bang, the golden light erupted with a burst of terrifying energy wave. In an instant, the earth trembled, and fierce winds whipped through the air.Dustin and his sword were sent flying several yards. After landing, he stumbled back several steps before finally steadying himself.He looked up and saw that Abigail's body was now covered in a layer of golden armor, though he couldn't tell when it had happened. The armor glowed brightly, and it made her look imposing and striking.It was clearly a divine artifact.The Mystic Arts Order had been around for centuries, with deep roots and countless treasures. As the Grand Sorceress, Abigail would obviously have several divine artifacts for protection.Dustin wasn't surprised, but the armor's counterforce caught him off guard. Not only did it protect her, but it also had offensive capabilities.When his sword struck the armor earlier, the blow didn't leave a scratch. Instead, the armor absorbed the hit and sent the for
Dustin raised his hand as the black feathers rained down on him. A white energy shield flared into existence to form a wall before him.The feathers slammed into the shield and sent ripples across its surface but failed to break through. However, the black flames on the feathers spread across the shield and burned through its energy at a visible pace. In the blink of an eye, the once impenetrable barrier cracked open and left a gaping hole.Dustin couldn't hide his surprise. His mystical pure energy was far stronger than the average grandmaster's internal energy in offense and defense. It was meant to be impenetrable. He hadn't anticipated it couldn't hold up against Abigail's phoenix flame.Seeing the raw strength of her bloodline, he knew he couldn't afford to take any chances. As the black flames spread, he swiftly waved his hand to summon a furious gust of wind that sent the feathers and flames flying."Glaring Wings!" Abigail wasn't done yet. She quickly formed hand seals and
Abigail moved with lightning speed, and her figure weaved in and out like a shadow. Her swift movements left a blur of afterimages that was hard for anyone watching to keep up.On the contrary, Dustin stood still without making any movement."Fallen Fist!"After closing in, she unleashed a flurry of strikes—dozens of black palm shadows slamming toward his body, and each one was like a bullet aimed at its target.Abigail practiced a unique martial art, and it was imbued with voodoo-like properties that could kill anyone who made contact with her. But Dustin's body was immune to all poisons, so it was a perfect counter to her deadly attack.As the shadow palms closed in, he remained unshaken and thrust his palm forward.A fierce gust of wind surged and ripped through the air with unrelenting force. It collided with the black palm shadows.Abigail's black palm shadows exploded on impact and disintegrated into thick clouds of dark mist that quickly spread. Within moments, the mist e
The whole arena suddenly fell dead silent. Everyone stared blankly, and not a soul dared to breathe. Alloy shot to his feet in the main spectator seats, and his face was tense with worry. Yet, he didn't dare make a sound. He feared it might startle Glenn into making a mistake that could cost Fenley's life.After all, Fenley represented the future of the Celestial Alliance. Alloy had invested all his effort into Fenley, and he provided him with endless resources. If Fenley were to die in the match, it would deal a devastating blow to the entire guild.While Alloy was gripped with worry, Cyrus and Penelope cheered silently. They secretly hoped Glenn's sword would strike Fenley. If that happened, the Celestial Alliance would take at least a decade to regain its former glory.Fenley's body stiffened as he stared at the Fang Master hovering inches from him. A shiver ran through his spine as goosebumps prickled his skin. Sweat trickled down his face, and each drop hit the ground with a
"Glenn had only seven swords in the past. I didn't expect that in just one year, two more divine swords would recognize him as their master. This punk is much better than I was back then," Cyrus remarked. He stroked his chin with a look of surprise and approval. He had always believed in Glenn's potential, but Glenn's performance had still exceeded his expectations.After all, the more swords Glenn wielded, the stronger he became. He had already topped the Legendary List with just seven swords. Now, with nine, his strength had grown even more overwhelming."He truly is the Chosen One." Even Kaden couldn't help but sigh.The nine divine swords recognized their master and responded with ease. Glenn's talent and cultivation were leagues ahead of his peers.Every generation brought forth new talent, and the old had no choice but to step aside for the new generation. Compared to their time, today's youth were on another level—monsters in their own right."Now, this is going to be int