The spectators erupted into chaos at the sight before them. They never expected George to be so ruthless.Despite winning the match, he proceeded to stomp on Jermaine's head. This act was not only brutal but also showed a complete disregard for humanity."Damn it! This Giant is out of control! He didn't even leave Jermaine's body intact. This is unacceptable.""I can't stand this. If Jermaine hadn't held back, this Giant would be dead already. How dare he flaunt his arrogance?""His ruthless behavior will catch up to him eventually."The spectators' anger boiled over as they shouted curses at George.Life and death were accepted as part of the match in the battle ring. Generally, everyone accepted that outcome without much protest.However, the martial world valued leaving room for future encounters. If there was no deep-seated grudge, it was considered appropriate to determine the victor without resorting to complete annihilation.George had killed Jermaine to win the match, a
Contestant number four, Titus McAllister, was a burly figure in a black tank top. His muscles were like chiseled stone. A vicious scar ran from the corner of his eye to his mouth. It added a menacing edge to his imposing presence.On the other side, contestant number 29 was a strikingly handsome young man named Aldrian Lockwood. He appeared to be in his 20s, with long flowing hair and an azure steel sword in his hand. He looked suave and sophisticated, like a leading man from a classic romance.As Aldrian made his entrance, many female spectators erupted into cheers. His popularity was evident from their enthusiastic reaction. He greeted each cheer with a smile, signing autographs and posing for photos. His presence felt more like a celebrity at a fan meeting than a contestant in the ring.Titus said nothing. He watched Aldrian with a calm, unflinching gaze.After a while, Oron grew impatient. He stopped Aldrian's endless fan interactions and called for the match to begin.The m
Titus didn't finish off Aldrian after knocking him out. Instead, he stepped back and looked at Oron.Oron nodded and quickly announced the match's result.The spectators erupted into applause. They had watched the fight closely and saw that Aldrian's arrogance had led to his defeat.Instead of focusing on the fight, he flirted with his fans, which left him vulnerable. So, Titus seized the opportunity with relentless aggression.With their skills evenly matched, gaining the upper hand increased the chances of winning. Titus' approach was fierce and relentless. He focused solely on delivering powerful punches without worrying about defense, energy consumption, or flashy moves.Aldrian was forced to retreat and couldn't find any opportunity to counterattack. By the time he realized his dire situation and tried to use his ultimate move despite his injuries, it was already too late to turn the tide.At that point, he lacked the momentum and fighting spirit. Although he managed to exec
"Cut the crap. If you've got guts, come at me." Dustin raised one hand and made a challenging gesture."You've got a death wish, kid!" Bill's anger flared instantly.Just as he was about to attack, he recalled something and stopped. He glanced at Oron warily and forcefully restrained his rage. In a fit of impulsiveness earlier, Bill had been blasted nearly to death by Oron's Stormcraft. Although he was now in the battle ring, Oron hadn't signaled the start of the match. If Bill acted rashly, it would only allow Oron a reason to intervene. He knew better than to mess with Oron again."What's the matter? Afraid to make a move? Is that all you've got?" Dustin scoffed."You—" Bill bared his fangs, and his chest heaved with fury. He was visibly furious and resolved to torture Dustin once the match began."Are you ready?" Oron looked at them with a blank expression."I'm ready," Dustin replied with a nod."Ready," Bill snarled, glaring fiercely at Dustin."Good. The eighth match
"Kid, I'm going to turn you into a puddle of blood." After the Crimson Skullhead devoured Dustin, Bill's triumphant laughter echoed through the venue. It filled the air with a chilling, lingering sound."Alicia, will Dr. Rhys be okay?" Aurora's face was tense with worry.Vampires' abilities were mysterious and fearsome, especially their scarlet mist that could corrode human flesh. It was deadlier than any divine weapon. Without strong cultivation, it was nearly impossible to fend off."Calm down. Let's see how this plays out. I don't think he'll go down that easily." Alicia frowned, and her expression turned grim. Despite her words, her tightly clenched fists betrayed her anxiety.Grace observed the anxious Marshall sisters with a smile and chose not to comment. Considering Dustin's strength, she believed that even someone like Bill or a vampire of earl status couldn't challenge him.On the other side, Dalen looked at the anxious Wesley sisters beside him with a faint smile. He li
"Whoa! What the heck is that? It's so hideous.""They say vampires are handsome men and beautiful women, but it's all just a facade. Once they show their true form, they become total beasts.""If I'm not mistaken, that must be the vampire's third form. It greatly enhances their physical abilities, which makes them faster and stronger. Number Eight is in danger now."The spectators murmured among themselves as they watched Bill transform into a beast-like creature.Most vampires had attractive appearances that could deceive anyone. But when vampires sacrificed their looks and became grotesque, their combat abilities greatly enhanced. At this stage, they were the most terrifying existence."It looks like Mr. Wolfe is genuinely enraged. He has tapped into his noble bloodline and awakened the third form while disregarding his appearance. This is the final form of a vampire." Jeremiah narrowed his eyes and smiled faintly.He knew better than anyone the sheer power of the vampire's thi
The spectators were stunned as they stared at Bill sprawling on the ground with blood pouring from his mouth. They were speechless, and their eyes widened in shock.Everything happened in a blink—from Bill's aggressive charge to the shattering blow to his heart that had left him mortally wounded. It was a whirlwind of chaos that left everyone dumbstruck.The match had ended before anyone had a chance to process it. The outcome was so unexpected that it left the entire venue in stunned silence."Am I seeing this right? Dr. Rhys won?" Aurora's eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at the battle ring.Just moments ago, she was worried that Bill would kill Dustin. To her surprise, the tables had turned.Dustin was calm, while Bill was on the brink and coughing up blood. The sudden reversal felt almost surreal."One move… and he destroyed him?" Alicia was equally astonished. She knew Dustin was strong, but she hadn't anticipated this level of strength.After his transformation, Bil
The scene was lively below the stage but different on the battle ring. The arrogant and domineering Bill was sprawled on the ground, spewing blood. His face was deathly pale, and his eyes widened in sheer terror as if he had seen a ghost.He couldn't believe he would be defeated even after awakening his bloodline and transforming into the third form. He wondered what Dustin had done.It seemed like a simple touch had drained his strength and torn through his chest. Throughout the entire fight, he hadn't sensed any energy fluctuations from Dustin."No! This can't be happening. I'm from the noble bloodline. So, how can I lose to a mere human martial artist? It's impossible!" Bill's mind screamed in disbelief. He couldn't accept the crushing reality.He gritted his teeth and summoned his bloodline power again. Scarlet mist oozed from his wounds as it gradually flowed into the gaping hole. As the blood energy revitalized him, the shape of a heart began to reform, with the surroundi
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,
"Gentlemen, I've done my part and had my tea already. I still have things to take care of, so I'll leave now. Farewell!" Jovian said.When no one responded, he didn't say another word. He nodded respectfully, stood up, and exited the room.When the door opened, Warrick's face darkened, and his hand instinctively moved toward the hilt of his sword. But before he could act, Huxley gently touched his arm and shook his head.Jovian noticed something was off and paused at the doorway before stepping out.Boston, who was standing by the door, let out a quiet sigh of relief as he watched Jovian leave without a scratch. His relief was short-lived, though, when he saw the grim expressions on the faces of the three men inside.It was clear that the meeting hadn't gone well. Fortunately, nothing too serious had happened. Otherwise, Boston would have much explaining to do to both sides."Why did you stop me? That arrogant brat clearly doesn't respect us. He'll think we're pushovers if we don
"Gentlemen, you certainly have a refined sense of humor." Jovian took another sip of tea. "But I'm not exactly a brave man. I startle easily, so I'd appreciate it if you kept the jokes to a minimum.""Of course." Huxley smiled and nodded. "Just some lighthearted banter to break the ice. If we've offended you, I apologize on behalf of Mr. Prescott. Please don't take it to heart."Jovian's expression eased slightly at that.Since he had the nerve to attend this trap-laden dinner, he wasn't afraid of a few threats. He wouldn't mind sharing information with them if they were willing to have a proper conversation.But they had tried to strong-arm him. Their words were laced with veiled threats and demands as if he were someone they could push around.Naturally, that didn't sit well with him. He just didn't let it show—for now."There's no need for an apology. If there's nothing else, I'll be on my way," Jovian said flatly. He stood to leave and felt that continuing this conversation w
"Well… some things are better left unsaid, but I believe you understand what I'm getting at," Percival said gravely."I'm afraid I don't, Mr. Wentworth. You'll have to forgive my ignorance." Jovian's tone was measured and composed."You…" Percival's expression darkened.Judging by Jovian's demeanor when he first arrived, Percival had assumed that he was someone who knew how to read between the lines. Yet now, he was feigning ignorance, making it clear that he wasn't taking Percival seriously."Enough, Mr. Wentworth. Let me handle this."Warrick took over the conversation and got straight to the point. "Jovian, right? Let's not waste time. We know why you're here. The only question is—what have you found out?""And what kind of information are you referring to, Sir Prescott?" Jovian asked.Warrick slammed a palm onto the table, and his face darkened. "Don't play dumb with me, brat. I don't have time for games. If you don't start talking, don't blame me if I stop showing the Balla
After making up his mind, Jovian no longer hesitated. He instructed the driver to make a U-turn and head straight to the meeting place.The meeting location was in a restaurant not far from the castle. It was only a ten-minute drive from where they had turned back.When Jovian and Boston walked inside, they found the place nearly empty. There were no guests in sight, just a few receptionists. It looked like the restaurant had been cleared out just for them."Sir, please follow me. Sir Prescott is waiting for you upstairs," the restaurant owner personally greeted them and led them to a private room on the second floor.Warrick, Huxley, and Percival were leisurely drinking tea inside the room. The three chatted and laughed, but their conversation stopped the moment Jovian and Boston entered. All three turned their attention to Jovian.They were quite curious about him. He had been privately invited by Austin and even stayed for dinner at the castle. It was a privilege none of them h
"An outsider? Who is it?" Percival asked urgently. "Could it be that assistant general who came in at noon?"Warrick frowned. "I've looked into that man. No background, no connections—just an old hand in the military. Been around forever, knows the ropes, but has no real pull.""It's not him—it's someone connected to him." Huxley lowered his voice. "Remember what Sir Austin said at noon? When he summoned that assistant general, he specifically mentioned the Ballard family.""The Ballard family?" Percival looked surprised. "You mean the Ballards from Oakvale? Are you saying they've already beaten us to it and met with the prince?""The prince hasn't met with them, but according to my intel, this man, Jovian Ballard, spent two hours chatting with Sir Austin today. They talked and laughed like old acquaintances. Sir Austin even invited him to stay for dinner at the castle." Huxley's face darkened. He continued, "Look, the Ballards sent someone at a time like this. They're obviously
After a brief discussion in the meeting room, Austin invited Jovian to tour the West Lucozia castle.The castle was enormous, equipped with imaginable facilities. Unfamiliar visitors could easily get lost in its vastness.Jovian prided himself on being well-traveled, yet as he toured the castle, even he couldn't hide his astonishment. Unlike the ostentatious displays of wealth seen in luxurious estates, this castle could only be described as grand, majestic, and awe-inspiring. Everything in his line of sight conveyed a sense of grandeur and majesty.What stunned Jovian the most was the House of Heroes inside the West Lucozia castle. The structure was nine stories high and looked like an ancient monument.The walls were lined with memorials of fallen soldiers. The place was packed with thousands of tablets, each engraved with the hero's name and a detailed account of their life stories for future generations to honor and remember.The Ballard family had a family tree that record