As dusk fell, Dustin stood before the alchemy furnace in the tavern's kitchen. With mystical pure energy, he meticulously controlled the fire's temperature.Grace worked efficiently and gathered all the precious herbs within just an hour. She even arranged for a top-quality alchemy furnace to be delivered.Following ancient methods, he began crafting the tablet to dispel Alicia's witchcraft.Witchcraft was similar to parasitic poison, but it was even more mysterious and unpredictable. Fortunately, Dustin had considerable knowledge of witchcraft and an extensive understanding of secret techniques. So, concocting the antidote presented no challenge for him.Suddenly, Grace entered the kitchen and said solemnly, "We have a crisis. I've received word that Alicia's condition has suddenly worsened, and she's on the brink of death. We must leave now.""Her condition has worsened? How did this happen?" He frowned and continued, "I'd already contained the voodoo in Alicia's body with the
At the Celestial Alliance's Lakeshore Villa, Alicia lay unconscious on the bed. Her breathing was growing weaker by the minute. Aurora and Brian were pacing anxiously by her side while Kenan, drenched in sweat, worked frantically.Kenan was using his Styx Passage technique to prolong Alicia's life, but it was barely making a difference. It could only delay her death, but it couldn't improve her condition. If Alicia died, he knew his own life might be forfeit as well."How is she, Dr. Quake? How is Alicia doing?" Brian couldn't hold back his worry as he saw Kenan struggling."I'm doing my best… I'm still trying…" Kenan replied, wiping his brow. He was so nervous that his hands trembled.If the patient were from an ordinary household, he could just say he did his best and move on. But Aurora had made it clear that if Alicia didn't survive, neither would he. The pressure was intense, and fear was a constant companion. All he could do was try his hardest to keep Alicia alive a l
After Brian stepped back, Dustin stepped forward to start treating Alicia. Because of Kenan's misdiagnosis and treatment, the voodoo had spread throughout her body.The tablet Dustin had just crafted wasn't enough to remove the voodoo. He also needed to use silver needles to draw it out first.However, the voodoo was like a spirit and would evade detection, making it challenging to extract with needles alone.The best plan was for Dustin to use himself as bait. He had to absorb the voodoo from Alicia's body into his own. It was risky, but there was no other choice. To save her, he had to give it a shot.He told Grace, "I'll use silver needles to gather the voodoo energy in one spot on Alicia's body later. "Then, I'll use my hands to draw most of it into my own body. The whole process has to go perfectly, so I need you to watch over me and make sure nobody interrupts."He looked back at Grace to stress how serious he was. Among everyone there, she was the only one he truly truste
Aurora paced anxiously while Brian and Kenan whispered to each other. She wanted to ask questions but held back, worried it might distract Dustin and interfere with Alicia's treatment.At that moment, Grace stood silently by Dustin's side and acted as his guardian.As time passed, Alicia looked visibly uncomfortable and began sweating profusely. The black mist gradually surrounded her, and it soon enveloped Dustin.Time dragged on until he finally opened his eyes and took a deep breath. A vortex of true energy swirled in his mouth as he absorbed the surrounding black mist. His complexion shifted from pale to flushed, and he frowned deeply.Dustin absorbed most of the voodoo from Alicia's body. Despite his strong cultivation and incredible resilience, he still felt the strain. Afterward, he placed his palms on her back.She suddenly raised her head and spat out a mouthful of black blood before collapsing onto the bed."Alicia!" Brian's expression changed as he rushed to check on h
As the two poisons battled fiercely within Alicia, blood trickled from her nose, and her body convulsed slightly.Dustin kept his hand on her back as he continuously channeled mystical pure energy into her. Her circulatory pathways were damaged and repaired repeatedly in this process, which lasted about half an hour.Eventually, the poisons were neutralized. Her body calmed, her expression relaxed, and the nosebleed stopped.Though still pale, her steady pulse and smooth breathing indicated she was out of danger. Only then did Dustin slowly remove his hand and end the treatment."The voodoo in Alicia's body has been cleared. She's stable now, but she needs to rest and avoid strenuous activity," Dustin said as he rose to his feet. He looked tired, drenched in sweat."Alicia… Is she really okay?" Aurora's eyes widened with a mix of nervousness and hope."Why don't you check for yourself?" he said, his words brief. Dustin slumped onto a chair and gulped down the tea. No matter how
"Allow me to clarify something. Your approval isn't necessary, nor is your gratitude," Dustin stated calmly. He continued, "Also, in matters of healing and saving lives, your interference is unwelcome. If you don't agree, feel free to demonstrate the capabilities of the Celestial Alliance disciples."A cold glint flashed in his eyes as he spoke. He wasn't typically one to engage in conflict, but Brian's persistent provocations had tested his patience. Dustin was confident he could handle Brian despite his waning true energy reserves."Oh, did I hit a nerve? Is that why you're so worked up? I knew you were a fraud!" Brian sneered.He added, "Trying to deceive us? Well, kid, you've messed with the wrong faction. Today, you'll learn just how unforgiving we can be."With that warning, he made a sudden move and grabbed Dustin's throat."Stop it!" Aurora's expression paled as she attempted to step in, but it was too late. Brian's strength overwhelmed her, and his unexpected attack o
Dustin's words left Aurora feeling conflicted. While she had faith in his medical expertise, concern for Alicia's health lingered.It was a classic dilemma of prioritizing caution over potential regret. What if Alicia remained unconscious? What would their next move be?"Aurora, I brought Dr. Rhys here, and I trusted him. Right now, Alicia needs rest. Forcing her awake won't help," Grace advised sincerely."Hmph! You two are obviously working together, of course, you'd say that!" Brian continued to stoke the fire. He continued, "Aurora, don't listen to their smooth talk. Your sister waking up is the only real solution. Everything else is just empty talk!""Exactly. A patient's condition can change suddenly. Just because things seem stable doesn't guarantee they'll stay that way. Lives are on the line, and we need to proceed cautiously," Kenan added as he echoed his support for Brian.Kenan was a renowned doctor in the martial world. He felt his pride sting as a newcomer took ove
Brian's face displayed confusion and embarrassment as Alicia stirred awake. Although her regaining consciousness surprised him, the bruise on his ego stung him even more. The way Dustin and Grace eyed him only made him feel more like a fool. Now that Alicia was awake, everything he had done before seemed like a farce, and he had never felt so humiliated. At that moment, his hatred toward Dustin and Grace reached its peak. "Alicia, how are you feeling? Do you feel any discomfort?" Aurora asked, leaning in with concern."My head's throbbing…" Alicia grimaced and massaged her temples. Then, she asked, "Why am I here? What happened?"She felt disoriented. Her mind was shrouded in fog, and she had no memory of what had happened, which left her utterly bewildered."You were poisoned and in critical condition. Faith and Dr. Rhys came to your aid just in time, or you might not have made it," Aurora recounted the harrowing experience.Upon hearing that, Alicia's gaze shifted to Grace
Dustin had boarded the plane back to Oakvale. His trip to Sacred Wrym Summit had been full of ups and downs. From the Combat Tournament to the invasion of the Hall of Gods, his journey had been perilous. Thankfully, the outcome was favorable. He had won the championship at the tournament, acquired three Dracan essences, and ultimately foiled the Hall of Gods' plan. In every way, the mission had been nearly flawless.After bidding farewell to his newfound allies, Dustin joined Grace on the return flight. Four of the five Dracan essences had already been gathered, leaving only one remaining. According to Grace, the last essence had been located, and the person holding it was in Oakvale. Though their identity was still unknown, she suspected it was most likely one of the three princes.With the position of heir to the throne still uncertain, the three princes were all eager to secure their power. Whoever obtained the Dracan essence would be blessed with fortune and have a higher c
The chaos of the night quickly settled.By morning, as the first light of dawn broke across the horizon, Sacred Wrym Summit had regained its usual tranquility. Yet, the bloodstains across the ground and the wreckage of buildings stood as grim reminders of the previous night's violence.The military forces summoned by Grace had already taken the Hall of Gods' prisoners into custody.Rumors spread like wildfire, fueling gossip throughout the martial world as all the major guilds watched with keen interest. After all, very few in history had ever dared to challenge Sacred Wrym Summit, and a bold invasion aimed at destroying it was nothing short of unprecedented.The outcome was clear to all who bore witness. After many years, the world had come to recognize the true terror of Arion. He was no mere mortal—he was almost a godlike figure.…Inside the Hall of Gods' headquarters in Streuqua, the core members were gathered, seated in two rows on either side of the grand hall.On the thr
After dealing with the Hall of Gods' elite fighters, Arion disappeared in a blur. When he reappeared, he was hovering above the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit.The scene at the entrance to the forbidden ground was one of utter carnage. Bodies lay strewn across the ground, and rivers of blood flowed freely. All members of the Hall of Gods, including Hank, lay motionless on the ground.Dustin and Willard, both covered in blood and exuding killing intent, had fought fiercely. After a long, grueling fight, they succeeded in defending the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit. They had thwarted the Hall of Gods' plan to destroy the Dracan force.At that instant, Dustin seemed to sense something and suddenly looked up. Through the mist and darkness, he pinpointed Arion's figure hovering above. Arion smiled faintly and nodded at Dustin before disappearing again.Crossing several mountains in mere seconds, Arion arrived above the Sacred Wrym Summit's grand hall. Below, the discipl
When the dust finally settled, Arion was the only one left standing.Bailey, Willem, Anthony, Batuul, the three elite assassins from Eskus, and several gods from the Hall of Gods were either dead or gravely injured.Willem's body had been blasted into countless pieces. Each fragment wriggled on the ground as it struggled to piece together. Batuul fared even worse. He was utterly obliterated, leaving no trace behind, not even ashes. On the contrary, Bailey and the three Eskus assassins had both their arms severed and were gravely wounded. Though Anthony's limbs were still intact, his crushed internal organs left him coughing up blood. The backlash from the demonic blade had also taken a devastating toll on his body. He now appeared decades older, his face gaunt and hollow, his hair gray. His frail frame made him look like a man standing at death's door."H-How is this possible? No… this can't be happening!" Bailey's expression was a mixture of shock and disbelief as he stared a
Arion's sudden appearance caught everyone off guard. They stared, wide-eyed and slack-jawed. What was going on? Wasn't Arion already dead? How could he be standing there in front of them? Could it be a ghost?They exchanged baffled looks, and their faces were filled with disbelief. They couldn't make sense of it. How could Arion possibly be alive? It was beyond their comprehension."You… you're not dead?" No one was more shocked than Willem. After all his effort, he had finally found the chance to bite into Arion's neck and drain every drop of his blood.He was certain Arion had died—there was no way he could have survived. But if Arion was dead, who was this person standing before them?"Everyone, calm down!" Bailey spoke up. "Arion's body is still over there. This person must be an imposter."At his words, everyone turned to look at the corpse lying nearby.Bailey was right. The body was still there, and there was no way Arion could still be alive. So, the person in front o
As the Snow Maiden attacked, Batuul's illusory Elephantine stirred into action. With a mighty roar, it charged forward and slammed into Arion. Its tusks, sharp as spears, aimed directly at his chest.Caught in the swirling snow, Arion couldn't avoid the attack and quickly invoked the Glow Incantation to shield himself. The tusks collided with the barrier in a deafening crash. The impact sent Arion flying, and the golden light surrounding him shattered like glass. Clearly, the illusory Elephantine's strength had far exceeded the Glow Incantation's limits.As Arion was tossed into the air, the three-headed, six-armed Chimera Wrath seized its moment. With six different weapons in hand, it launched a relentless assault.Arion swung his sword to block but was driven further back with each blow. With no solid footing in midair, his agility was useless against the onslaught.After several exchanges, one of the Chimera's weapons struck Arion squarely in the chest, sending him crashing to
After a prolonged battle, Anthony and the others finally realized the gravity of the situation.Arion wasn't just a sword master but also had unpredictable agility. No matter how they attacked, they couldn't even land a single hit. On top of that, his sword was a constant threat.If this deadlock continued, the situation would only worsen. So, when Bailey spoke, they knew it was time for decisive action, and there was no turning back. It was either kill or be killed.At that moment, Anthony, who had been holding back, finally decided to use his ultimate technique. He bit his finger and smeared the blood across his blade. His lips moved quickly as if whispering an incantation."Snow Maiden, arise!" As soon as the words left his mouth, he swung his sword. A white figure shot out and hovered in the air. It was a woman with fair skin and mesmerizing beauty. Her long hair cascaded like a waterfall, her dress was as white as snow, and her eyes had a sinister gleam.The moment she appe
"How many tricks does this old geezer have?"The impact of the divine talisman explosion left everyone both shocked and enraged. No one had expected that Arion would still manage to unleash such a powerful supreme divine power even after the Glow Incantation was broken and the lightning strikes failed to cause any harm.The impact of the thousands of divine talismans exploding at once was terrifying. Only the strongest fighters—Willem, Bailey, and Batuul—could withstand it. The rest of the group was severely injured. At that moment, they finally realized the terrifying strength of Dragonmarsh's strongest man."Impressive," Willem said, landing smoothly after being thrown back. His withered skin was now covered in cracks, and blood oozed from it.Most of the shockwave from the explosion had hit him directly. Despite his impressive defense, he still took some damage. However, these injuries were nothing to him. His wounds had already healed within a few seconds, as if nothing had hap
Willem's wings, black as night with a metallic sheen, erupted from his back. Fully extended, they stretched over 30 feet. With a gentle flap, a storm of wind and eerie howls swept through the air. The sheer force was intimidating to behold.His appearance had also undergone a drastic transformation. Willem's once-handsome face was now gaunt, his skin wrinkled, and his cheekbones jutted out. Fangs protruded from his mouth, and two sharp horns sprouted from his head. He had grown taller, but his body was unnaturally thin, with his ribs and sternum visible beneath his skin. From a distance, he looked like a towering, monstrous skeleton. It was an unsettling sight that sent a chill down anyone's spine.This was Willem's ultimate form. After the transformation, his speed, strength, defense, and reflexes were greatly enhanced. His thirst for blood grew even more intense, turning him into a bloodthirsty demon.The gods, who had expressed dissatisfaction moments ago, now stood paralyzed