On the stage, Isabella's eyes sparkled with excitement as she observed the fight."Incredible strength! That final strike was nearly at the level of a Post-Advanced Martial Artist," she remarked.Beside her, Sirius's eyes widened in astonishment. "Post-Advanced Martial Artist?"While Sirius wasn't a martial artist himself, his family employed many, and he was familiar with the term. The Post-Advanced Martial Artist stage was a realm attainable only through relentless training and cultivation. It was a true testament to a martial artist's dedication and skill.Reaching this post-stage level signified a significant transformation, a qualitative leap in a martial artist's abilities.The Monroe family had poured vast resources into their search, yet they had been unable to secure a Post-Advanced Martial Artist for their own protection. Rumor had it that the leader of Stanva City's underworld held this prestigious title, but as the Monroe family operated within legitimate business circ

"But no matter what, you took the brunt of that force. It hurts, doesn't it?"As if to confirm Kendrick's words, Frederick paled and coughed up a mouthful of blood.His expertise as a miracle doctor allowed him to instantly assess the severe internal damage he had sustained.Vivianne witnessed Frederick's unwavering stance and felt tears welling up in her eyes. She realized he had taken the brunt of the attack to protect her and her father. She wanted to check on him, but the pain from even the residual force of the blow left her unable to move.Kendrick glanced at the clock on the cruise ship, then addressed Frederick with a hint of urgency."Young man, I acknowledge your youth and dedication to your training. Retreat now, and I'll spare your life."Having noticed Kendrick's subtle glance, Frederick quickly deduced the reason behind his sudden offer.He wiped the blood from his lips with his sleeve. "You want me to step aside because you fear I'll delay you, correct? This sec

With a burst of energy, Scarlett lunged to rescue Frederick,However, Scarlett was no match against Kendrick. Kendrick effortlessly swatted her aside with a backhand strike. Scarlett crumpled to the ground, a dark bruise blossoming on her face.Seeing that every troublemaker was now incapacitated, Kendrick turned his attention back to Vivianne.Frederick was lying on the ground and glanced at the battered Scarlett nearby. Then, seeing Kendrick approaching Vivianne, he used his broken limbs to inch toward her, leaving a trail of blood.However, he was no match for Kendrick's speed. As Frederick felt his strength waning and his eyelids growing heavy, his vision darkened. He slowly closed his eyes.Isabella hadn't expected such chaos at the auction. The crowd felt pity for Frederick."Alas, wealth and talent mean nothing in the face of brute force.""He's finally dead, no more suffering.""What a shame, such a vibrant flower-like Vivianne will wither too."In the darkness,

Seeing Kendrick finally defeated, Vivianne excitedly patted Frederick's shoulder."You were incredible! You saved us!"But as Frederick turned, his eyes were dark and menacing.A chill ran down Vivianne's spine. This was not the Frederick she knew."Frederick, what's wrong? Don't scare me," she asked.Tears streamed down her face as she reached out to touch him. His skin was icy cold. As her tears fell on his face, his eyes softened, their usual warmth returning.Frederick whispered, "Vivianne, are you alright?"As Frederick's eyes cleared, Vivianne wiped away her tears, a smile returning to her face. "I'm alright, Frederick. Thanks to you."Frederick managed a weak smile before his eyes fluttered closed, and he slumped to the ground.Panic-stricken, Vivianne knelt beside him, shaking him and calling his name. Suddenly, the sound of approaching speedboats cut through the tension. A group of men boarded the ship, their leader a young man who surveyed the chaotic scene with wi

"Absorb it all! I shall devour you when you are full," the sinister voice whispered within Frederick's mind.Having wiped the blood from Frederick's hands, Baxter once again reached for Frederick's ring. But the moment he touched it, a searing pain shot through his hand, forcing him to recoil."Damn it!" he cursed, shaking his hand in pain. "This thing is cursed!"His frustration turned into rage. Baxter drew a knife with a menacing grin. "I'll just take the hand with it!"Vivianne witnessed this brutality and jumped to her feet.Her voice filled with righteous fury as she spoke, "Damn you! You can't just rob him like this!"Baxter scoffed and his eyes filled with disdain. "I can do whatever I please. Who's going to stop me in this insignificant town?" A voice cut through the tension. "I will." Baxter turned to see Isabella standing tall on the stage, her eyes narrowed in defiance.She said coldly, "You are well aware of the Smith family's auction rules. This ring was purc