“Great! I’ve been waiting a long time for this.”Scott broke out in a wide smile.“We have to return the favor, don’t we?” Gareth smiled cunningly and said, “If they can be brazen enough to challenge Bactria’s dignity and secretly enter Camland to kill Basalt’s chief instructor, we should kill their Spy Elite as well!“You know what to do without more explanation from me, right?”“Absolutely. I’ll ensure everyone else knows that I’ve severed ties with Bactria,” Scott said as he scratched his head and smiled.…At Bactria’s immigration, dozens of huge men in suits were respectfully welcoming someone. Many people passing by could not help staring at them.It was soon before an old man in cloth robes walked down a ship. He took a deep breath of the air and said, “I’m back, Bactria.”A middle-aged man in training clothes stood out among the men in suits to welcome him. He lowered his stature and said, “I’m Jasper Shelman from the Martial Arts Alliance. Welcome, Mr. Harrigan!“We’
While the public was still talking about the appointment ceremony, an unexpected guest turned up at Basalt's base.Chase met Harlow, the Green Dragon’s deputy chief instructor, who had returned. He asked directly, “What are you doing here again?”He had already given the Green Dragon a lot of leeway by sparing Harlow’s life the last time. If Harlow had not learned his lesson and continued stepping on Chase’s toes, Chase would not mind being the bad guy again!If that happened, even Green Dragon would not be able to do anything about it.Harlow replied humbly, “Chief Instructor Collins, what happened last time was entirely my fault. I was the one who didn’t find out the facts before offending you. I apologize for what I did once more.“But this time, I’m here to pass you a message from the Dragon Envoy.”It was clear that this was because of Basalt’s appointment ceremony.The internal members of Basalt were not the only ones filled with respect for Chase. Even Harlow respected hi
“You’re right, Mr. Harrigan.”Jasper acted just like a loyal lapdog.If there were other members of the Martial Arts Alliance around, they would never believe that someone so superior and arrogant would ever look that way.“Come, let’s go in!”Wilfred gave the order and walked into the luxurious villa.Warning alarms rang inside the villa as two strange men barged in.Dozens of bodyguards appeared and surrounded Wilfred and Jasper.The lead bodyguard looked at the two men they were surrounding.He knew that they were no ordinary men when he saw no fear on their faces. He asked, “Who are you both? Why did you barge into the Coopers’ residence?”Both men ignored him.Jasper was not in a hurry to attack the bodyguards. He sneered and said, “Where is the patriarch of the Coopers? Get him to come out here to receive his death!”“How dare you? Who do you think you are? How dare you ask our patriarch to receive his death? Where do you think you are? This is the home of the most inf
After Wilfred and Jasper left, Bianca asked worriedly, “What should we do, Grandpa?”She had no idea what the Coopers should do in such a circumstance.If they told Chase about Wilfred’s challenge to a duel, there would be a fight between them.Chase was too young, and Bianca felt that it would be difficult for him to defeat an experienced veteran like Wilfred.However, if they did not tell Chase about this, the Coopers would be in danger.Bianca could not help suggesting, “Let’s run away, Grandpa.”“Sigh, silly girl. Where could we escape to? Even if we do manage to run away, what will happen to the rest of the Coopers?”William sighed.It was not easy for the Coopers to finally get to the top of South River City’s hierarchy, and it was all thanks to Chase. They were now the most influential family in South River City, but they were immediately threatened by an enemy like Wilfred.William knew very well even when others did not.Those two men had left, but they had made an i
The chief instructor probably only had something to say about just one issue!Chase had given them a show of power the last time they were gathered together this way.Before that, they had gathered when Thomas was still alive.After all, the Four Heavenly Kings obeyed no one before Chase was appointed as the chief instructor of Basalt.“I have no idea why we’re gathered. You’re asking the wrong person.”Inferno gave the person next to him a look.The Four Heavenly Kings were not the only ones in the office. Finn and Iris were present as well.It was clear that Inferno was referring to those two.The others might not be aware, but Inferno knew that both of them were there because the chief instructor was better acquainted with them.Finn and Iris were bewildered to see all of the Four Heavenly Kings present in the office. They had no idea what was going on.Iris suddenly thought of something and asked carefully, “Could this be because of the rumor going around yesterday?”“Wh
The Mystic Sun Technique!This was indeed the Nine Heavens Mystic Sun Technique that the old man had passed down to Chase. The marvel of the Nine Heavens Mystic Sun Technique lay in its ability to absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth for one's own use.Of course, what Chase brought out was not the complete Nine Heavens Mystic Sun Technique but merely a very small part of it. It could even be a sub-technique, which nonetheless could absorb spiritual energy for its user.What was a sub-technique?Anyone who practiced the Mystic Sun Technique, no matter how advanced their realm, their fate and life were all determined by Chase.If Chase wished for it, those who practiced the Mystic Sun Technique could be turned into puppets in the blink of an eye.This was the domineering aspect of the Nine Heavens Mystic Sun Technique.The old man once said that if he wished to train his own people, then the Mystic Sun Technique was an option.It not only allowed for rapid improvement
Chase knew what was on everyone's minds, and after giving a few instructions, he sent them all to seclude themselves for training.Now, only Iris and Finn were left behind.Seeing that the Four Heavenly Kings had left to enter seclusion and that Chase had only kept the two of them behind, Finn was unable to contain his impatience.He immediately asked, "Boss, can we also practice the Mystic Sun Technique?"Watching Finn's eager demeanor, Chase could not help but laugh softly. He had forgotten about Finn's impatient nature.He vividly remembered that it was Finn's impulsive character that led him to agree to become the chief instructor of Basalt.That passion for their country, and that loyalty to Bactria!Chase composed himself and said solemnly, "Finn, Iris, I can teach you more advanced skills, but the cost is becoming my disciples. Are you two willing to accept that?"Chase intended to nurture them.Unlike the Four Heavenly Kings and the Eight Guardians, Finn and Iris were
"Chase, can't you just wait a moment? If I don't dress up nicely, how am I going to make the other women back off? Just so you know, in Camland, you’re now the hot commodity that all the young ladies from wealthy families are vying for!"Myra's voice came from inside the room."Myra, you know me better than anyone else. Plus, if you don't come out soon, the restaurant I booked will close!"Only in front of his family would Chase act like the sweet, obedient younger brother."Alright, I'm coming."The door opened, and Myra walked out.Myra, who was very graceful to begin with, was second to none compared to any top celebrity after dressing up.She was usually clad in military attire, which lent her an air of valor. Yet she was now wearing a dress, and it completely transformed her demeanor into one that could be described as enchanting.Even Chase could not help but stare in awe upon seeing her. "Myra, you look like a fairy." Perhaps it was because she saw Chase making his mar
"Fine! As long as you spare my life, I swear eternal loyalty to you. I'll serve as your slave or servant if that's what it takes!" Luis declared without hesitation. He knew too well that if he refused, death would be his only outcome.Luis was not afraid of dying—he simply could not accept defeat. A lifetime of prestige was ruined in an instant."I, Luis Hawkins, swear to the heavens that I'll submit to Chase Collins and never betray him. Should I break this oath, I vow to meet a terrible end!" Luis raised his hand and spoke in a firm, resolute tone.Chase scoffed, his expression tinged with disdain. He had no intention of believing Luis, and the mockery in his eyes was evident. "Luis, you think I don't see through your games? Do you think I'm unaware that you're merely stalling for time?""H-How do you know that?" Luis narrowed his eyes, a murderous glint flashing within them.Chase chuckled coldly. "Luis, I've dealt with countless schemers and liars. Your petty tricks? They don'
"You can try," Chase said with a faint smile."You…" Luis was consumed with rage.Suddenly, a pitch-black spear shot out from the side. It was aimed directly at Chase.Chase's expression shifted. With a light tap of his toes on the ground, he leaped back several yards, creating distance between himself and the attacker."I see the Hawkinses really are cunning!" Chase's gaze turned icy. "But since you're so desperate to die, I'll gladly oblige."Sword energy erupted, sharp and unforgiving. A single flash pierced through the head of a guard."Y-You're breaking your word!" Luis roared, his face turning an ashen shade.He had planned to use the family members as leverage against Chase, but instead, Chase had struck preemptively."I won't lay a single finger on your family," Chase said coldly. "But as for the others... Don't blame me for what's about to happen."He stared at Luis, his expression devoid of emotion. "Do you really think I care about the Hawkinses' wealth? To me, your
Luis was utterly stunned upon hearing Chase's words. He had never imagined Chase's appetite would be so insatiable. He wanted the entirety of the Hawkins family's assets!"Mr. Collins, pardon me for being frank, but if it's money you want, the Hawkinses are not lacking in that. I can offer you five times the amount you desire," Luis said, attempting to negotiate.Chase chuckled. "Mr. Luis, you've misunderstood. Money means nothing to me." He then added while shaking his head, "I'm after more than just your resources. What truly interests me is the Hawkinses' forging techniques. Surrender those, and I might spare your life.""The forging techniques?!" Luis's eyes widened with disbelief. "Impossible! Absolutely impossible! The Hawkinses' ancestral rules strictly forbid passing those techniques to outsiders. We can only offer you finished products!"The forging techniques were a legacy painstakingly developed by generations of the Hawkinses' forebears. They were the family's lifeblo
"Young man—no, Mr. Collins—please, let's talk this through. There's no need for violence," Luis pleaded. His dignity as the head of the Hawkins family had all but vanished. The Hawkinses had been a cornerstone of Bactria, influencing its entire power structure. Now, however, Luis saw that everything could change with Chase. He needed to bring Chase to their side no matter what it took.After all, Chase's talent was extraordinary, and his potential for growth was limitless. If the Hawkinses could recruit him, they would gain a formidable martial arts saint. They could elevate their standing to unprecedented heights.Luis said, his face stretching into a fawning smile, "Mr. Collins, on behalf of the Hawkinses, I'm willing to compensate you with any resources you need. I can even offer you an entire mine to aid your refining pursuits.""You think I need your resources?" Chase scoffed, his tone dripping with mockery. "And from the Hawkinses? I doubt you can provide anything worthwhile
"What… What's happening? Why are these swords flying on their own? Such powerful sword energy! Are these... black iron swords?!"Everyone was stunned, their eyes wide with shock. The event unfolded so abruptly that none of the Hawkinses' guards could react in time.In an instant, countless black iron swords tore through the air, forming a dense cloud that surged toward the guards like a tidal wave."This is bad!" Luis roared in fury. "Block them!"A massive surge of energy exploded from him, forming a white fist aura that smashed into the incoming sword energy."Hmph! A mere insect of a martial arts saint dares to intercept my black iron swords? You people are courting death!" Chase sneered.With a wave of his right hand, the swarm of black iron swords merged into a single massive blade that slashed down toward Luis.A terrifying sword light split the air. Luis hastily countered with a punch, but it was not enough to escape unscathed. A gruesome gash tore across his chest, blood
"Reckless fools," Chase muttered coldly.He raised his hand and struck out, unleashing a golden palm strike that swept through the air like a tidal wave, enveloping a radius of dozens of feet. Everything in its path was utterly destroyed.The golden imprint descended, shattering every weapon it touched. Bones snapped, flesh tore, and blood splattered in all directions. The power of a single strike crushed everything in its wake."Run for your lives!""No…""Help me!"Agonized screams echoed through the air as bodies fell lifelessly to the ground.Luis' face turned ashen at the sight. He involuntarily stepped back while trembling. "You… Who are you?!"Chase did not bother to respond. Without sparing Luis another glance, he strode toward the Hawkinses' grand estate.It was a sprawling complex of magnificent architecture that exuded opulence and grandeur.Inside, the family members were already alerted to the attack. They had gathered in the main hall, and they whispered nervous
Despite his exhaustion, Zion pressed on as he was convinced that Chase would eventually falter."Seventh Form!" he roared, unleashing a blade strike that seemed to split the heavens and earth.Yet even as the towering blade descended, Chase remained unmoved. With hands clasped behind his back, he stood still and made no effort to dodge or block the attack.An arm fell to the ground, blood splattering everywhere.Zion's eyes widened in utter disbelief as he stared at the scene. His most powerful strike had severed an arm, but it was not Chase's."T-This can't be… H-How is this possible?" he stammered. Zion looked lost, unable to accept the reality before him."It doesn't make sense! How could you withstand my blade? This defies logic!" he muttered, his voice tinged with confusion and despair."You're just too weak," Chase replied calmly while casting a cold glance at Zion.Flicking his finger, Chase sent a pill into his mouth. The pill dissolved instantly, replenishing his deple
In an instant, a group of guards rushed forward to help the elderly man to his feet."Sir, are you all right?" they asked with concern.The old man clutched his swollen face while coughing up blood. His complexion was pale, and his breathing had turned weak. "This man's strength is extraordinary—likely at the late stage of the martial arts saint level. We can't defeat him. Summon the Council of Elders immediately!""Yes, sir!" The guards promptly obeyed and withdrew."You little brat! How dare you launch a sneak attack?!" Zion Hawkins, the second son of the Hawkinses, spat with venom as he glared at Chase."Save your words. If you hate me that much, then come at me," Chase replied indifferently.Zion, a mid-stage martial arts saint, stood flanked by more than ten early-stage martial arts saints and another dozen at mid-stage.Such a force could dominate most of Bactria, but to Chase, it was laughable at best."Arrogant fool! Prepare to die!""Raging Blade, Ninth Form!" Zion ro
Chase strolled toward the massive stone monument, his gaze fixed on the four bold words carved into it. "The Hawkinses' Secret Sect? Perhaps today is the day this name vanishes.""Hmm?" Chase suddenly paused, sensing two powerful auras converging from different directions."As expected of the Secret Sect—full of hidden talents," he muttered while shaking his head lightly. He did not appear surprised; he had already anticipated this scenario before arriving.The ground trembled violently, followed by a chorus of furious roars echoing through the air.From deep within Hawkins Residence, Chase sensed a massive number of disciples pouring out from a grand hall. These disciples, all of them martial arts legends or higher, radiated intense killing intent.Together, they were a formidable force capable of annihilating smaller sects and clans. Yet even their combined might could not withstand a single punch from Chase. Within moments, their resistance crumbled, leaving corpses strewn acro