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
"Alicia, the person you're seeking is a highly skilled mystic artist with formidable powers and used cunning methods. You need to be careful," Grace warned."Don't worry. The Celestial Alliance has extensive surveillance and a team of elite fighters. Once we find his whereabouts, we'll mobilize and capture him. He won't slip away," Aurora assured confidently."You've already saved my life, Faith. So, you don't need to stress about capturing the perpetrator," Alicia said with a smile."Looks like I've been worrying too much." Grace nodded, acknowledging their abilities. The Celestial Alliance wasn't to be underestimated. Once they gathered their elite fighters, capturing a mystic artist should be relatively easy. Even the Hall of Gods wouldn't dare to confront them head-on in Dragonmarsh."Dr. Rhys, you saved my life. I should properly thank you. What can I do to repay you?" Alicia asked.She disliked being indebted to anyone. But since Dustin had saved her, she felt obligated to
"We set the criteria, and they can be changed at any time. Considering Dr. Rhys' exceptional talent, we should give him special attention," Alicia asserted firmly."Exactly!" Aurora chimed in. "Dr. Rhys not only has remarkable medical skills but also saved Alicia's life. Offering him a consultancy position is the least we can do."At first, she had reservations about Dustin and doubted his abilities due to his age. However, her perspective changed after he cured Alicia. A young doctor with skills surpassing even Kenan's was a valuable asset anywhere."Alicia, Aurora! Rules are in place for a reason. If we start bending them for one person, how can our faction maintain its credibility?" Brian argued. He added, "Moreover, only the elders and the guildmaster have the authority to appoint a consultant. Neither you nor I have the power to make that decision.""My dad values talent. If he knew about Dr. Rhys' abilities, he would certainly support us," Alicia insisted.Though the Cel
When Brian approached, the Celestial Alliance disciples quickly stepped aside to make way for him.As the chief senior disciple, his strength was undeniable. In his 30s, he was already a grandmaster martial artist and held in high esteem within the Celestial Alliance. If not for Fenley's exceptional talents, Brian might've been considered for the position of the guildmaster's successor."Hmph! They're nothing but clowns and unworthy of my attention." With a halberd in hand, Brian strode past the crowdHis expression was cold, and he said arrogantly, "Listen up! I don't care who you are or what you want. Trespassing on our territory is a serious offense."I'm giving you the chance to surrender. If you don't, you have only yourselves to blame for what happens next."The assassins' leader made a silent hand gesture in response. Then, the assassins surrounded Brian and looked at him with deadly intent."Protect Brian!" The disciples of the Celestial Alliance were about to intervene
At that moment, Percival truly panicked. Earlier, he had only worried about being implicated. But now, faced with such a serious accusation, he was completely caught off guard."Hmph! The evidence is irrefutable, and you still dare deny it? Do you want me to torture the truth out of you?" Austin barked."Your Highness, I'm innocent!" Percival was so terrified he was on the verge of tears. He raised his hand and swore, "If I had anything to do with Jovian's death, may I be damned for eternity.""If swearing oaths proved innocence, we wouldn't need an enforcement team," Austin said coldly. "Out of respect for your years of service to West Lucozia, I'll give you a chance to come clean and receive a lighter sentence. Tell the truth now, or I'll throw you into Grimhold Keep."At the mention of Grimhold Keep, Percival began to shake uncontrollably. Tears and snot ran down his face as he wailed, "Your Highness, I swear I didn't do anything. Who's the bastard making up these accusations?
Ten minutes later, Warrick was escorted out of Room A1 again.Axel's demeanor had completely changed since their first meeting, and he had become unusually warm."Sir Prescott, Lord Austin has concluded the investigation. It turns out this matter has nothing to do with you. We made a mistake earlier, and I apologize for any offense caused." He smiled apologetically and spoke with a humble tone."Hm?" Seeing the fawning expression on Axel's face, Warrick raised an eyebrow and looked surprised. Just moments ago, the two sides had been at each other's throats. What had caused such a sudden change?"Did you really investigate it thoroughly?" Warrick asked tentatively."Of course! According to our findings, Jovian's disappearance was the result of a personal vendetta from his enemies in Oakvale," Axel said with a straight face.He continued, "He was a tyrant and always stirring up trouble everywhere he went. He got what was coming to him. Lord Austin only launched the investigation
"After you, Sir Prescott." With one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, Axel's other hand gestured toward the door."Hmph!" Warrick shot a cold glance at Axel's subtle movement and then turned to leave the meeting room.Even if Austin had his suspicions, Warrick knew he couldn't do anything to him without concrete evidence.Axel escorted Warrick back to Room A1. After closing the door, he went to Room A2 and led Huxley to the meeting room."Your Highness, it is my privilege to stand before you." Huxley entered the meeting room with a respectful salute."Mr. Thatcher, please take a seat." Austin's face remained neutral as he gestured for Huxley to sit, then motioned for Axel to pour him a cup of tea."Do you know why I've summoned you here today?" Austin spoke calmly, and his words carried the same probing tone as earlier."Is it about Jovian's disappearance?" Huxley asked in return."Oh? It seems you're quick on the uptake." Austin raised an eyebrow. "In that case, g
The enforcement team worked with remarkable efficiency. Within an hour, Huxley, Warrick, and Percival had been brought back to the castle.Per Austin's instructions, Axel made sure the three met briefly upon arrival, though they were given no opportunity to speak to one another. Afterward, they were taken to separate rooms and were guarded individually.Due to their status, the enforcement team treated them with respect, offering them tea and wine. However, they weren't allowed to leave their rooms and had to wait for Austin to summon them.Warrick was confined to Room A1, Huxley to Room A2, and Percival to Room A3. Their rooms were right next to each other, separated only by thin walls. If they stepped out, they would see one another, but none of them knew how close they were.This, of course, was all part of Austin's plan. He knew that extracting the truth from these three cunning foxes would require unconventional tactics.…Inside Room A1, Warrick sat calmly, sipping his te
"Hm?"Even Warrick frowned at the news.The royal enforcement team was rarely mobilized. When they did, it was always for something monumental. The question was, did a minor figure like Jovian Ballard really warrant such attention from Austin?"Mr. Thatcher, are you sure the royal enforcement team has been mobilized? And it's because of Jovian?" Warrick asked skeptically."Of course I'm sure," Huxley replied with a grave expression. "I've just received orders from above. The enforcement team captain will be taking over my duties temporarily. From now on, they'll have full control over the city's defense and investigative operations.""That's strange. Why would Lord Austin go to such lengths for someone so insignificant?" Warrick was confused, his brow furrowing.According to his intel, this was the first time Jovian and Austin had even met. Even if they had crossed paths before, it shouldn't have been enough to justify deploying the enforcement team.It seemed Warrick had undere
The next morning, after breakfast at the West Lucozian castle, Austin tried calling Jovian. However, his calls went unanswered. After several attempts, he still couldn't get through."Huh?" Austin was puzzled. They had made plans the previous day to head to Oakvale that day. Why was Jovian suddenly unreachable? Had he stood Austin up?After thinking it over, he found that unlikely. He and Jovian had gotten along well and even called each other brothers. On top of that, they had promised to travel together and watch out for one another.If Jovian had an urgent matter that required him to leave West Lucozia, he would have at least given Austin a heads-up. Jovian wouldn't just disappear without a word."Could something have happened to him?" Austin's unease grew. He quickly summoned his trusted aide. "Go find out where Jovian is. Report back to me as soon as you have any information.""Yes, Your Highness," the aide replied before hurrying off.Austin poured himself a cup of tea
A dull sound echoed through the air.Jovian's body shuddered. Blood streamed from his eyes, ears, and nose as he crumpled to the ground, lifeless. He was dead. After fighting to his last breath, he had chosen the only honorable way out.The scene had left even the assassins, who were no strangers to bloodshed, momentarily stunned. Taking one's own life so decisively wasn't something just anyone could do. Even the lowest of creatures had the instinct to cling to life, let alone a human being."This guy… He's ruthless," Ronan muttered, and his face darkened.Warrick had given strict orders to capture Jovian alive, but now he was dead. Now, Ronan had no way to deliver. If he had known it would come to this, he would have personally intervened to kill Jovian first."What now, boss?" one of the assassins asked."Clean up the scene," Ronan ordered. "I'll take the body back myself." With that, he hoisted Jovian's body onto his shoulder, tossed it into the vehicle, and drove off.…W
The sounds of battle echoed under the streetlights. Shouts of pain mixed with the clash of weapons could be heard. Five figures were locked in a deadly struggle, and blood splattered across the ground.The fight raged for nearly half an hour until the noise gradually subsided. The five figures lay motionless in pools of blood.Under the dim glow of the streetlights, three of the black-clad assassins were confirmed dead. One's neck was snapped, another's chest pierced, and the last had bled out from a fatal wound.Jovian and Boston were in no better condition.Boston was soaked in blood. His body was riddled with deep cuts, some so severe they exposed the bone beneath.Jovian wasn't much better. His abdomen and shoulder were slashed. His right arm had been severed, and he was left in a pitiful state.Boston coughed. After taking down the last assassin, he collapsed to the ground. He gasped for air as blood poured from his mouth. His chest and abdomen were torn open, and his orga
"Jovian, listen to me. West Lucozia's trouble runs deep. You won't be able to handle it. You need to get out of there," Boston urged.When Jovian remained silent, Boston couldn't hide his growing concern. After all, they were comrades, and he didn't want to see his friend die on the street."You're right. I'm not afraid if they come at me head-on. What worries me is if they come at me from behind."After hesitating for a moment, Jovian nodded. "Alright, Boston. Take me back to the hotel. I'll pack my things.""Now that's more like it." Boston sighed in relief. "As they say, there's always a chance as long as you're alive. The most important thing is to stay safe.""Thanks, man. I'll buy you a drink next time." Jovian smiled.Without Boston's constant advice, Jovian might have taken a chance. But if things went south, he'd regret it too late.Back at the hotel, Jovian wasted no time. He packed quickly, then hopped into Boston's car to head to the airport. With the burden lifted,