An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2361
"Dr. Rhys, don't worry. Even if Number 12 loses, no one's going to blyou," Alicia said with a reassuring smile.
"Yeah, we're just here for the fun of it. Winning or losing doesn't really matter, "Aurora chimed in.
"That's a relief." Dustin nodded.
Gambling could remain harmless if one didn't bectoo engrossed in it. However, once addicted, it was easy to lose one's rationality. Therefore, it was wise to clarify matters beforehand to prevent unnecessary complications.
"Fenley, do you want to join us?” Alicia suddenly turned to Fenley beside her.
"No thanks. You guys go ahead. I'm not into it." Fenley smiled and shook his head. He was passionate about martial arts. Aside from training and fighting, nothing else piqued his interest.
"What about you, Dr. Rhys?" Alicia asked Dustin.
"I'll just watch the match," he declined politely. He knew that Abigail's role as the dealer could manipulate the outcome. Plus, those who placed their bets would eventually lose everything.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"Con, place your bets. The match is about to start," Abigail shouted as she urged more gamblers to place their bets.
When the referee in the battle ring announced the start of the match, the betting was officially closed.
"Go, Miles! You have to win and make our guild proud!" Ruby's voice echoed through the crowd. She cheered on Miles as he fought on the second battle ring.
Crystal and Dalen sat nearby. Their expressions were calm as they watched the match with minimal reaction. Upon hearing Ruby's voice, Dustin turned his head toward her direction. Dalen, sensing something, swiftly turned to Dustin and greeted him with a nod and a friendly smile.
Miles stood confidently in the center of the battle ring. His expression was serious as he gripped his sword with determination. He exuded an impressive and poised demeanor.
His opponent, a burly man named Atlas Brude, was quite the contrast. Standing six feet three inches tall and with a big, muscular build, he brandished two battle axes. His exposed, hairy chest gave him a resemblance more akin to a gorilla than a man.
On the contrary, Miles, though in good shape, looked slender next to Atlas' imposing figure.
"Hey kid, what's your name? I don't spare any nameless spirits under my axes." Atlas swung his two battle axes onto his shoulders with an arrogant stance.
"I'm Miles Young from Sword Union," Miles replied coolly.
"Oh? You're a Sword Union disciple?" Atlas raised an eyebrow, and his fighting spirit grew stronger.
He continued, "I've heard they only accept elites. All their disciples are tough martial artists capable of taking on 100 opponents. I wonder if those rumors are true." Atlas had heard about the Sword Union's reputation but hadn't expected to encounter one of their disciples so soon. If he could defeat Miles in the ring, it would add another impressive notch to his belt.
"Why don't you find out for yourself?" Miles slowly raised his sword and pointed it straight at him.
"Great! Today, I'll see just how skilled you Sword Union disciples really are!" Atlas sneered. Then, he charged forward like a human tank. Each step sent tremors through the battle ring.
"Take this!" He roared as he closed in and swung his axes down on Miles' shoulders with tremendous force. Given Atlas' strength, even a rhinoceros would be torn apart on impact.
Seeing the axes descending, Miles knew he couldn't take the attack head-on. So, he twisted his body and swiftly dodged the blow.
A loud explosion echoed through the arena. Two axes crashed down simultaneously onto the battle ring, which sent the sparks flying in all directions. The once-solid surface of the battle ring now bore two deep jagged marks.
"Go to hell!" Atlas wasted no tafter his initial strike missed. He swiftly transitioned into a sweeping motion instead.
His axes scraped along the ground for about 15 feet before slashing upwards at an angle. Miles was caught off guard with his astonishing speed.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"Hmm?" Miles' pupils constricted as he quickly raised his sword to block.
A resounding clash rang out as Atlas' axes forcefully struck against Miles' sword. Sparks flew from the impact, and the force of Atlas' blow sent Miles staggering back several steps. He barely managed to regain his balance.
Atlas' immense strength surprised Miles. His grip on the sword trembled involuntarily, and his knuckles throbbed from the sheer force of Atlas' strength, which far surpassed his expectations.
Since confronting Atlas head-on wouldn't work in his favor, his favor, Milesm knew he had to change his fighting strategy. "Heh... Looks like you Sword Union disciples aren't as impressive as I thought. You're weak. How disappointing!" Atlas shook his head and smiled mockingly.
His earlier probing attacks had already revealed Mile's weaknesses. So, Atlas felt confident in winning the match.
"Strength isn't everything. A bull may be stronger than a tiger, but it still ends up as the tiger's prey," Miles retorted.
"Hmph! You think you're a tiger, but you're just a sickly cat? You're really overestimating yourself! Today, I'll teach you a lesson you won't forget! Take this!" Atlas lunged forward. His axes, one on the left and one on the right, swung like giant crab claws toward Miles's head.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2362
Atlas' attack cwith fierce momentum as he swung his axes with enough force to shatter stone.
Miles focused intently and chose to advance rather than retreat. He deftly ducked under Atlas' swinging axes, his hair barely missing their deadly arc.
As Atlas' axes missed their mark, Miles sword was already in motion.
A sharp clang echoed through the air. While taking advantage of his momentum, Miles' sword sliced fiercely across Atlas' chest and abdomen as he skimmed past him.
The blow shredded Atlas' attire and exposed the padded armor beneath, marked with a faint white streak.
"Hmm?" Miles frowned.
His sword strike had been cunningly angled, executed swiftly and accurately. He had anticipated it would incapacitate Atlas immediately. But to his surprise, Atlas' padded armor absorbed the critical blow.
"Kid, I hate to admit you've got skills," Atlas remarked. He looked down at his torn clothes with a serious expression.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comHe added, "If I hadn't been prepared, you might have hadthere. But you only get one sneak attack. From here on out, I'll crush you with my full strength!" He had initially underestimated Miles and didn't take him seriously. However, after Miles' cunning and precise strike, Atlas was now on high alert.
It becclear to him that Miles, a disciple of the Sword Union, was a formidable opponent. At that instant, Atlas knew he must go all out to ensure victory.
"Crush me? Ha! Let's see if you've got what it takes!" Miles raised his sword slowly and looked at his opponent sharply.
Despite Atlas' protective armor, Miles was confident his sword skills could triumph without a fatal strike. It just meant he'd have to put in a little more effort.
"Con!" Atlas roared as he charged forward again.
His hefty double axes felt weightless as he swung them relentlessly and unleashed a barrage of ax shadows at Miles. Sshadows were solid strikes fueled by true energy, while others were mere afterimages.
Miles narrowed his eyes. He swiftly wielded his sword to create a flurry of blade shadows around him. Each stroke created powerful gusts of wind that tousled his hair and fluttered his robes.
Miles' sword shadows matched Atlas's ax shadows in intensity without faltering. After a brief clash, the two collided fiercely.
The sound of metal clashing reverberated loudly through the air. In a split second, sparks erupted as two figures plunged into a fierce and relentless battle.
Atlas' attacks were heavy-handed and direct. His axes swung with overwhelming force that proved challenging to defend against.
In contrast, Miles relied on agility by executing precise, rapid strikes with evasive footwork.
They pushed their strengths to their limit to outmatch the other. It was a close and intense duel where neither seemed to gain the upper hand.
Despite their comparable cultivation levels, Miles held the edge in swordsmanship and combat skills.
However, Atlas fought cunningly. He relied on his protective gear to embrace a daring, full-throttle fighting approach.
Miles couldn't risk trading blows, so he was forced to relinquish chances for a definitive strike.
This prolonged match tested martial artists' abilities, stamina, and resolve. The winner could endure longer, as exhaustion meant an inevitable loss.
Two contestants fought fiercely inside the battle ring while the atmosphere outside was equally intense.
With heavy bets placed on Miles and Atlas, their victories and defeats carried immense weight for the gamblers. The outcwas pivotal for the gamblers' hopes and investments.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comThe crowd passionately cheered on their favorites, shouting until their faces turned red and their voices grew hoarse.
"Go, Number 12!" Alicia and Aurora, caught in the thrill of the moment, joined the exuberant cheers of the crowd. Initially hesitant, their voices quickly rose to match the enthusiastic roar surrounding them.
Fenley glanced at them and shook his head. He couldn't understand why they were so emotionally invested in a mere fight.
Dustin, sitting nearby, was equally unfazed. He calmly sipped his tea while watching the match.
Their high level of cultivation and strong mindset made them ade them om remarkably resilient, which allowed F them to remain composed even amidst chaos. "Miles! Don't hold back and give it your all!" Ruby's voice rang out the loudest from the crowd. As a disciple of the Sword Union, she felt personally invested in the fight. His victory or defeat would affect the reputation of the guild and her own as well. Naturally, she had to cheer him on with all her might.
"Mr. Shade, who do you think is going to win?" Crystal asked solemnly, her gaze unwavering. With keen eyesight, she carefully observed every detail of Miles and Atlas 'match. She knew this was a tough fight for Miles.
"It's a tough call. Mr. Young has the upper hand in cultivation, but his strategy seems to be holding him back. Without the guts to go all-in, it won't be easy for him to defeat his opponent, "Dalen remarked casually while fanning himself with a folding fan.
Crystal nodded without saying a word. She knew Dalen was right-Miles needed to be willing to gamble everything to overchis opponent's control. Otherwise, the current situation was decidedly unfavorable for him.
X RULE #1
choose married women They have reason to keep things secret, as do you.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2363
"That's odd. Number 12 is clearly stronger than Number 34. So, why hasn't he won yet?" Aurora wondered as she watched the intense match in the battle ring.
"Because he's holding back,” Alicia replied.
She narrowed her eyes and continued, " Look closely at Number 34. His fighting style is ruthless and aggressive, as if he has nothing to lose.
"Even though Number 12 is stronger, he's struggling. As the saying goes, Fortune favors the brave."" Everything changed when a match in the battle ring escalated into a fight for survival. In standard bouts, martial artists often held back. Winning was great, but losing wasn't the end of the world. With that mindset, most wouldn't risk their lives.
However, the stakes were clear in a fight for survival-victory or death. Hence, martial artists would give their all to win the match.
Number 34, Atlas, fully embraced this mindset, while Number 12, Miles, hesitated and didn't unleash his full strength.
"At this rate, aren't we going to lose our bet on Number 12?" Aurora frowned.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comWhile betting was a casual pastime, nobody enjoyed losing, and she was no exception.
"It all depends on him,” Alicia said thoughtfully.
She added, "If he can muster his courage and give it his all before he runs out of energy, he has a good chance to win. But if he keeps holding back, he'll likely lose." "It seems raw strength alone won't suffice. He needs the courage to risk everything," Aurora remarked.
The crowd below the battle ring cheered wildly as the fight intensified.
Atlas grew more aggressive with each blow as he showcased his immense strength.
In contrast, Miles struggled to fend off Atlas' relentless assaults. He was clearly outmatched.
For a martial artist, hesitating and losing confidence can significantly weaken their performance. As Miles' confidence waned, Atlas' dominance becincreasingly overwhelming. He nearly pushed Miles into a corner.
"Is this the best the Sword Union disciple has? I overestimated you!" Atlas taunted between attacks. "Your weak skills won't save you. Surrender now if you want to live. Keep this up, and you're finished." When his relentless assault failed to secure a quick victory, Atlas resorted to verbal barbs to provoke Miles. Martial artist elders knew losing one's cool could lead to fatal mistakes. It could even turn the best techniques into clumsy moves.
Atlas was ready to exploit any opening and deliver a decisive blow to defeat Miles.
"What's the matter? Still planning to fight to the death? I'm giving you a chance to live. Losing toshould be an honor for you. Accept it and spare yourself the humiliation," Atlas continued to jeer.
Miles seethed with anger as his mind was consumed by fury. "Do you have a death wish?" At that moment, he finally lost his temper. Contrary to Atlas' expectations, Miles didn't lose his mind. Instead, his anger fueled his courage.
He shed all hesitation and restraint. His demeanor underwent a stark transformation as his attacks turned fiercely aggressive.
Facing Atlas' strategy of trading injuries, Miles disregarded caution and confronted him directly. If Atlas aimed for his head, Miles targeted his neck. If Atlas attacked his chest, Miles aimed for his skull.
Atlas had previously relied on his armor to absorb blows, but now Miles was fighting as if he had nothing to lose. He was even prepared to risk his life to defeat Atlas. This relentless aggression caught Atlas off guard and forced him into a defensive stance.
"Holy crap! Has this kid lost it?" Atlas' eyes widened in shock. He quickly switched from offense to defense.
He had intended to expose Miles' weakness by provoking him, but his strategy backfired. He had triggered Miles' reckless onslaught that forced him into full defense mode.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comAtlas' armor protected most of his vital areas, but Miles' relentless strikes targeted his neck and head. Atlas just wanted to win the fight and not gamble with his life. However, Miles' all-or- nothing assault left him feeling utterly bewildered.
Miles' eyes blazed with fury as he roared, "Is that everything you got? Let's do this. Worst case scenario, we both go down!"
His attacks were fierce and relentless, with no regard for defense.
regop On the contrary Atlas kept retreating and struggled to fend off Miles' onslaught. Miles had always been stronger than Atlas, but fear of injury had held him back. Now, anger had stripped away his hesitation.
Determined to prove himself and uphold the Sword Union's honor, he fought with all his might. Gradually, he began to turn the tide of the match.
"Damn it! You're insane!" Atlas shouted. "Referee, I quit! I surrender!" He was terrified by Miles' ferocity. He knew he couldn't win.
Terrified by Miles' ferocity and knowing he couldn't win, he promptly jumped out of the battle ring and conceded defeat. He understood that persisting in the fight would endanger his life against Miles' relentless aggression.
RULE #1
choose married women They have reason to keep things secret, as do you.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2364
Atlas conceded defeat decisively. However, even after he jumped out of the battle ring, the enraged Miles pursued him with his sword. He looked like he was out for blood.
"Hey! What are you doing? I already surrendered! What else do you want?" Atlas cried out in fear as he dodged each vicious strike.
He hadn't expected Miles to go berserk. Miles was fighting with a relentless fury as if he were willing to go down with him. If he had known, he wouldn't have provoked Miles earlier.
Atlas' pleas fell on deaf ears as Miles' sword continued its relentless assault. Each blow aimed at Atlas' throat.
Upon seeing Atlas in danger, the referee finally stepped in. With a swift movement, he effortlessly caught Miles sword between two fingers.
"Contestant Number 34 has conceded. The match is over. No fighting outside the battle ring," the referee said calmly. His commanding voice snapped Miles out of his rage.
Miles' anger gradually faded as he regained his composure. "Sorry, I got carried away." He quickly sheathed his sword and apologized.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comYet, he was astonished that the referee had effortlessly stopped his powerful thrust with just two fingers.
This unassuming referee was clearly a hidden expert. It was a reminder not to underestimate the monks of Sacred Wyrm Summit.
"Damn it! How did I end up fighting a psycho like you? This isn't fun anymore. I'm out," Atlas cursed and quickly stormed off.
"The winner is contestant number 12," the referee announced loudly.
The crowd immediately burst into cheers. Those who had bet on Miles rejoiced and celebrated their victory.
"We did it. Miles won!" Ruby shouted as she jumped up in excitement.
Miles' victory wasn't just a personal triumph. It was also a source of pride for the Sword Union. As a guild member, preserving honor was paramount, and he had certainly upheld their reputation in the match.
"I never expected Mr. Young to be so brave. This calls for celebration," Dalen remarked with a smile and fanned himself.
He had always believed that if Miles fought bravely, victory was within reach. It all hinged on whether Miles dared to risk everything. His sudden surge of strength had certainly impressed Dalen.
In the martial world, one couldn't expect to go far without the courage to risk it all.
"Miles has finally broken through his limits. From now on, his mindset and skills will soar to new heights." Crystal, typically stoic, smiled warmly. She was proud of Miles' victory.
"Number 12 really pulled it off! I thought he was going to lose, but in a surprising twist, he won. That's impressive," Alicia cheered from the stands.
She had placed her bet on Miles, so she had been rooting for him to win. Despite the rollercoaster match, it ended on a high note.
"Fortune favors the brave. Once he went all out, it completely turned the match around," Aurora agreed with a nod.
While skill mattered, courage was equally important. She had definitely gained svaluable insights that day. "f*ck! What the hell? Number 34 was all aggressive earlier in the match and now he's chickened out? What a coward!" "Ugh! If I knew this was going to happen, I wouldn't have bet on him. I'm broke now." "Screw this! Givemy money back!" In every match, there were winners and losers. Those who had placed their bets correctly celebrated in joy, while those who hadn't cursed their luck and regretted their choices. Once the match result was announced, it was final and immutable.
The battle ring was a whirlwind of changing fortunes. What seemed like a certain victory one moment could turn into sudden defeat the next. It was this unpredictability that made the match so captivating.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comAs applause filled the arena, Miles returned to his seat. He was visibly exhausted as he gasped for breath.
His impressive performance had already started to earn him recognition. He could rise to fif he kept winning and made it into Group A.
After Miles' match ended, the next round began. The an. The referee called up contestants number 5 and 19. Contestant number 5 was a priest. He was clad in a tattered robe adorned with a circlet and rosary beads around his neck. In addition to his attire, he also wielded a blade.
He was an ascetic priest. These special beings rigorously trained their minds and bodies through asceticism. Despite their rarity, they were known for their incredible strength.
They could endure unimaginable pain and suffering. Plus, they could remain calm and unfazed even under extrtorture or the threat of death. Their extraordinary willpower surpassed that of ordinary people and had reached an awe-inspiring level.
Ascetic priests usually shunned fand fortune. Instead, they focused solely on practicing asceticism. Therefore, it cas a surprise when one of them appeared at the tournament. Soon, whispers began to ripple through the crowd.
RULE #1 choose married women They have reason to keep things secret, as do you.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2365
"What's going on? Isn't that man supposed to be an ascetic priest? What is he doing at a Combat Tournament?" "They say ascetic priests aren't interested in power or wealth. Yet, here he is, stepping into the battle ring. It's really strange." "Wait! I know him. He's the renegade among the ascetic priests, Thaddeus Savier." "What? Father Savier? Are you talking about the sguy who slaughtered an entire family in a fit of rage eight years ago?" The mention of Thaddeus' ncaused a stir in the crowd. There were only a few ascetic priests in the world, and he stood out distinctly among them.
No one knew what had happened. But rumors circulated that he had allegedly slain 17 members of the guildmaster's family from the Sable Order in one night eight years ago.
Since then, Thaddeus had forsaken his vows entirely. He indulged in all sorts of vices-drinking, women, and money.
His temper was notoriously explosive. Plus, he was quick to resort to violence at the slightest provocation. Due to his background in asceticism and formidable strength, hardly anyone dared to confront him.
Thaddeus entered the battle ring to win the tournament and establish his reputation. Once inside, he paid no mind to appearances. He casually took a swig from the flask at his waist and savored every drop.
Soon after, a handsome, refined young man with a folding fan entered the battle ring. His movements were deliberate and composed, with the number 19 tag hanging from his waist.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comAs Dustin looked closely at the handsyoung man, he raised an eyebrow with interest. He quickly recognized Dalen, who possessed a beauty that rivaled most women.
Dalen not only had very striking looks but also had a profound cultivation skill that kept everyone guessing. As the successor of the Shadow Citadel, Dalen had been deliberately kept out of the public eye. Therefore, when he entered the battle ring at Sacred Wyrm Summit, he intended to seize the opportunity to make a memorable impression.
"Wow, Number 19 is such a hottie! I'm totally crushing on him." "He's definitely handsome. It would be amazing to marry someone like him." "Oh no! I think I'm in love." Dalen's presence caused a stir among the female spectators in the stands. Their eyes seemed to sparkle as they couldn't tear themselves away from him.
Sdaring ones even edged closer to the battle ring to express their admiration. At that instant, any sense of restraint or decorum was thrown out the window.
When a man was exceptionally handsome, he didn't need to make much effort. A smile or a glance could easily captivate numerous women. That was the allure of good looks.
"Hmph! What's the point of being handsome? He's just a pretty boy toy. A real man speaks with strength." "You're right. Look at his skinny arms and legs. Where's the strength in that? If there's a fight, he'll probably end up with a black eye." "f*ck! How dare he flirt with my girlfriend! He's probably not even good in bed!" Dalen's good looks attracted countless women and aroused plenty of jealousy among men. It was a mixed blessing for him.
"Alicia, do you know who contestant number 19 is?" Aurora asked excitedly. "He's really handsome." As a woman, she couldn't help but appreciate his good looks. She wasn't infatuated with Dalen, but she just admired his allure.
"He doesn't look familiar. I've never seen him before." Alicia shook her head.
Like Aurora, she was also mesmerized by his beauty. Alicia knew that if Dalen were a woman, her fifth place on the Beauty Ranking list would likely drop a few spots.
"He is Dalen Shade, the successor of Shadow Citadel," Grace interjected. Her intelligence network was extensive, including anyone with strength and potential.
"The successor of Shadow Citadel?" Alicia and Aurora exchanged glances.
Their curiosity was piqued.
The Shadow Citadel was a mysterious guild that straddled the moral divide between good and evil. While not as influential as the Celestial Alliance, they wield significant power in their domain.
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However, their reputation leaves much to be desired. They were primarily involved in shady dealings, ve with many members working as assassins. Their experts could also be hired as bodyguards at the right price. Despite their tarnished image, no one doubted their strength. They thrive in a ruthless world where only the most skilled survive.
"Here we have the successor of Shadow Citadel up against a powerful ascetic priest. Who do you think we should bet on?" Aurora couldn't help but ask. Since winning her bet on Miles, she started to enjoy the thrill of gambling.
"The successor of Shadow Citadel sure is handsome. But looks don't win battles. You need real strength. My bet's on the ascetic priest, Number 5," Alicia replied thoughtfully.
In a beauty contest, Dalen might outshine Thaddeus easily. But in the ring, Thaddeus was the more formidable one.
"I think Number 19 has better odds of winning," Dustin suddenly said.
His words instantly grabbed everyone's attention.
RULE #1 choose married women They have reason to keep things secret, as do you.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2366
"Number 19?" Alicia looked at Dustin with a puzzled expression. “Dr. Rhys, why do you think he can win?" Aurora commented, "Number 5 is the ascetic priest. Even though they're evenly matched, he seems almost unbeatable. Number 19 may be the successor of Shadow Citadel, but he seems inexperienced. In every aspect, he's clearly no match for Number 5." Despite Dalen's handsappearance, he paled in comparison to Thaddeus in strength. They couldn't understand why Dustin's opinion differed so much from theirs.
"I know Number 19. Despite his gentle appearance, he's quite skilled. He shouldn't have much trouble defeating that ascetic priest," Dustin replied casually.
"Really?" Alicia raised an eyebrow in surprise. She hadn't anticipated Dustin knowing Dalen, let alone being so confident in his assessment.
"In that case, let's bet on him," she decided without hesitation.
Regardless of whether Dustin was truthful or accurate in his assessment, Alicia felt compelled to respect his opinion. Even if she ended up losing, she wouldn't complain. After all, earning his favor meant more to her than losing a few celestial stones.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"Dr. Rhys has a lot of faith in Number 19, so he must be strong. Let's bet on him." Aurora quickly understood Alicia's intent and voiced her support.
"If that's the case, countin too." Grace joined in enthusiastically. Soon, the three women bet all their celestial stones on Dalen to show their trust in Dustin.
Their bold move didn't go unnoticed among the nearby gamblers. Despite their striking beauty, many considered them naive for betting everything on Dalen. They knew it was risky, especially with Thaddeus holding overwhelming odds in the match.
Even a grandmaster martial artist would find it daunting to defeat Thaddeus. Therefore, betting on Dalen seemed like throwing money away. The wise choice was clearly to bet on Thaddeus.
Miles, driven by his gambling urges, couldn't help but ask, "Crystal, should we bet on Mr. Shade or the ascetic priest?" He typically relied on his own judgment and rarely sought advice. However, after making several bad choices, he endured crushing defeats and accumulated debts.
Crystal was known for making insightful predictions that proved consistently accurate. Miled had to reluctantly acknowledge her skill since he had no other viable options.
"Even though we should support Mr. Shade, doesn't the ascetic priest have a better chance of winning? Logically, Number 5 would be our best bet." Ruby rubbed her chin thoughtfully.
"The ascetic priest is strong, but Mr. Shade isn't your average opponent. I still can't quite gauge his abilities. If you're placing bets, my money would be on him," Crystal said.
Miles asked tentatively, “Crystal, are you supporting Mr. Shade out of obligation?" "Do you honestly think I'd do something like that?” she retorted sternly.
"Of course not,” Miles replied with an awkward smile. “If you're betting on Mr. Shade, count us in.” With those words, he glanced at Ruby.
"Let's give it a shot," Ruby said and nodded.
Each took a handful of celestial stones and placed their bets on Dalen. Their stakes were modest so that any potential loss wouldn't sting too much.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comTheir hesitant gestures revealed their uncertainty about Dalen's abilities. Crystal influenced their decision more than their confidence. After all, they hadn't witnessed Dalen in action often enough to gauge his true strength.
"Con, everyone. The match is about to begin. Get your bets in now," Abigail shouted. A few hired helpers joined her to amp up the excitement in the crowd.
"I'm betting on Number 5, Father Savier." too, Number 5." "Get out of the way! I'm going all in. No way a boy toy can beat the ascetic priest.
The gamblers rushed to place their bets. Thaddeus was the undeniable favorite with only a handful betting on Dalen. Surprisingly, many young women placed their bets on Dalen, even though they knew he was likely to lose. They enthusiastically supported him and were willing to accept the result. It was a testament to the irresistible appeal of good looks.
"Are the contestants ready?" The referee stepped between Dalen and Thaddeus. He waited for their nods before raising his hand and sharply dropping it.
"Let the match begin!"
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2367
After the referee signaled the start of the round, the crowd was cheering and rallying enthusiastically. Most were rooting for Thaddeus due to his formidable strength and put off by Dalen's appearance.
"Kid, you should just give up now," Thaddeus said while sipping his drink. " Otherwise, you're going to end up with broken limbs once the fight starts." He didn't take Dalen, a guy in his 20s, seriously at all. Thaddeus' goal was to defeat the top contenders in Group A. To him, the elites in Group B were just stepping stones.
"Father Savier, isn't it inappropriate for a priest to enter a battle ring against younger opponents?" Dalen smiled and lightly waved his folding fan.
"What's wrong with that?" Thaddeus countered. "Priests are human too, with the semotions and desires as anyone else. Those you see claiming to be above it all are just hypocrites.
"Sure, they act pious, but who knows what they're up to in private? At least I'm honest about my desires. Like they say, 'live life to the fullest."" "I don't agree with your view." Dalen shook his head and smiled. "Weren't you once a devoted priest before you broke your vows?" Thaddeus, an ascetic priest, had endured rigorous physical and spiritual training. Only a major provocation could shake his steadfast faith.
He scoffed. "The past is behind me, and now I see things clearly. I used to be naive and too trusting, which led to unnecessary suffering.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"Now I have awakened to this realization. I'm living comfortably and enjoying life. Life is short. So, why endure hardship when we can enjoy wealth and comfort? Doesn't it seem foolish to choose otherwise?" "It seems you have forsaken asceticism for a different path." Dalen was unfazed.
"True. I'm no longer an ascetic priest. But my skills are as sharp as ever. If you insist on suffering, I won't hesitate to oblige," Thaddeus replied coldly.
"In that case, I'm ready to learn from you today," Dalen said respectfully.
"Hmph! Have it your way!" Thaddeus raised his flask, took a swig, and spat a mouthful of liquor in Dalen's direction.
Suddenly, flames erupted from the liquor. It swirled like a living creature and transformed into a flaming red dragon that charged at Dalen.
Dalen smiled faintly. He didn't dodge or flinch. Instead, he calmly raised his folding fan and waved it toward the flaming dragon.
A powerful gust of wind burst forth. It sliced through the air with razor-sharp blades that tore the flaming dragon into pieces. The scattered flames vanished without a trace.
Their first clash ended in a draw, with neither gaining the upper hand.
"Hmm?" Thaddeus raised an eyebrow in surprise as he watched Dalen neutralize the flaming dragon he had unleashed. He begrudgingly acknowledged Dalen's skill.
"Again!" Thaddeus declared defiantly. He took another swig of his liquor, then spewed another blast at Dalen.
But unlike the fldragon earlier, this spray transformed into a swirling icy fog that swept toward Dalen. The temperature plummeted sharply, and it froze everything in its path.
"Oh? Now this is getting interesting," Dalen remarked. He was intrigued by the unusual blend of fire and ice.
As the icy fog closed in, he remained still. With a wave of his folding fan, he unleashed a powerful gust of wind. A surge of raw energy burst forth, accompanied by a tornado that crashed into the fog.
Crackling sounds echoed through the air like popped corn.
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The icy fog crystallized into tiny ice shards that rained like hailstones onto the ground below in mere seconds, the icy fog dissipated m entirely. It left behind scattered fragments of ice in its wake. "Impossible!" Thaddeus frowned in frustration as his attacks failed again.
The skills he had just displayed were more than enough to deal with most divine martial artists. Yet, Dalen proved a different challenge. He effortlessly neutralized Thaddeus's every move. It was perplexing.
"Father Savier, resorting to such tactics seems disrespectful for an ascetic priest. If we're to spar, demonstrate your true skills." Dalen smiled faintly as he casually waved his folding fan.
His confident and elegant demeanor caused a group of women in the stand to scream excitedly.
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An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2368
"Wow! He's so charming. He really embodies the saying, 'Like a gem among men, unmatched in the world."" "Not only is he handsome, but he's also a great fighter. I'm in love." "Go, Honey! You're the best." Every move Dalen made stirred waves of excitement among the crowd. Young women were completely captivated. Their eyes gleamed with admiration as they watched him in action.
If Dalen were just a pretty face, it wouldn't matter much. But his effortless deflection of Thaddeus' attacks twice demonstrated his formidable skill.
His striking good looks and exceptional talent naturally drew the attention of the women in the stands.
"Screw that! He just lucked out dodging a few moves. What's the big deal? He's just trying to show off." "He looks like a sissy but doesn't seem to have any real skills. Once Father Savier got serious, he'd crush him in seconds!" "Go, Father Savier! Take down this boy toy." The male spectators grumbled discontentedly, unlike the female fans. They questioned the worth of Dalen's good looks. To them, strength mattered most.
They wanted him to demonstrate his worth by defeating Thaddeus rather than just striking poses, which they found irritating.
"Kid, looks like you've got sskills after all. You handled my 'ice and fire' combo quite nicely. Perhaps I underestimated you." Thaddeus narrowed his eyes.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"Father Savier, being careless isn't a good habit. Even though I'm a newcomer, I'm no pushover. Let's see what you've got. I'm eager to find out," Dalen replied.
"You want to see my moves? I'm not sure you're ready to handle it." Thaddeus shook his head.
"Oh? So, you're confident of an easy win?" Dalen smirked.
"I'm going to make a move. If you can handle it, I'll show you what I'm really capable of," Thaddeus said calmly. "Fine. Go ahead." Dalen folded his fan and gestured with his hand.
"Kid, watch closely." Thaddeus drew a deep breath. His muscles swelled, and veins bulged under his skin. Suddenly, a brilliant golden light burst forth from his body and enveloped him completely. He seemed almost mythical as he radiated a magnificent power that swept through the arena.
Sspectators near the battle ring felt an unsettling heaviness in their chests as though burdened by a massive weight.
At that moment, Thaddeus was bathed in a brilliant golden light. The light quickly transformed into a towering, 90-foot-tall figure of an Angry Ironfist. He slowly raised his hand, and the massive figure mirrored his gesture perfectly.
"Fenley, what move is this? It seems familiar," Alicia couldn't help but ask as she watched.
"This is the Zen ultimate technique called Zenith Skill," Fenley explained." When mastered, it enhances defense and boosts strength significantly. The unique aspect of Zenith Skill is its ability to synergize with other martial arts techniques to produce unexpected effects." "Really?" She raised her eyebrow in surprise.
"I think Father Savier is just warming up with his Zenith Skill. The real attack is still to come," Fenley said, watching the two figures on the battle ring with keen interest.
"That handsguy looks like he's in trouble." Alicia couldn't help but worry. She didn't want to see someone so attractive get hurt.
"Zenith Skill? This is interesting," Dalen remarked impassively as he swayed his folding fan.
Among the 36 ultimate techniques of Zen, the Zenith Skill held considerable renown in the martial world. Yet, Dalen sensed it didn't reveal its true power when used alone. He surmised that Thaddeus likely had other moves up his sleeve.
“Palm of Justice!” Thaddeus roared after gathering his strength.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comHe raised his hand and slammed it down fiercely toward Dalen. The Angry Ironfist that encased Thaddeus replicated the attack in perfect synchrony.
A thunderous explosion echoed through the air.
Suddenly, a colossal shadow of a golden palm materialized out of thin air, towering like a mountain, 0 M ing ve stamming toward Dalen. As it swept across the arena, fierce winds roared and sent sand and stones scattering everywhere. Dalen faced the enormous palm without flinching. His hair whipped wildly in the tumultuous wind, and his robes fluttered loudly around him. Yet, he remained calm and lightly swayed his folding fan with a faint smile.
"Damn! Is this kid out of his mind? He's not even trying to dodge!" "He looks frozen like he doesn't know how to fight back." "The Zenith Skill combined with the Palm of Justice is deadly. Even grandmaster martial artists wouldn't dare take it head-on. This pretty boy is toast today!" Dalen's bold move ignited a storm of whispers among the audience. Concerned young women gasped and urged caution while male spectators watched eagerly.
After all, Thaddeus' devastating palm strike was something only a grandmaster martial artist could withstand.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2369
Amid the crowd's intense anticipation, Thaddeus' Palm of Justice finally crashed upon Dalen's head with immense force.
A loud roar echoed through the arena as a tidal wave of terrifying energy erupted outward. The spectacle was awe-inspiring, and the pressure was unfathomable.
A sudden gust of wind hit the spectators. It caused their hair to stand on end and forced them to squint against the unexpected rush of air.
As the tension settled and silence descended, all eyes turned to the battle ring, where a startling scene unfolded.
They thought Thaddeus's strike had sealed Dalen's fate unless he dodged it. To their surprise, Dalen emerged from the attack unscathed, not a hair out of place nor a mark on his pristine clothes.
The sight stunned everyone as they struggled to comprehend what had transpired in that crucial moment.
Why was Dalen unharmed? Could Thaddeus have held back? Such thoughts raced through their minds, even as the lingering shockwave from their clash reverberated through the arena.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"What's going on? That boy toy didn't die?" "That's weird. He took both the Zenith Skill and the Palm of Justice head-on. He shouldn't have survived that." "Damn it! Is this skind of supernatural trick?" Seeing Dalen completely unscathed, the spectators exchanged bewildered glances. They were displeased with the outcome.
Alicia's eyes widened in disbelief. "Am I seeing things? The handsguy, blocked Father Savier's attack?" She had been certain that when Thaddeus unleashed the Zenith Skill with the Palm of Justice, Dalen would be doomed. To her surprise, he emerged unscathed.
"I just saw a flash of white light around Number 19. Could that be the reason?" Aurora frowned in confusion. "That's the Shadow Citadel's defense arts, the EvaIncantation," Grace explained.
"The EvaIncantation? Is it really that effective?" Alicia was intrigued.
"Yes," Grace replied with a smile. "It's on par with Sacred Wrym Summit's Glow Incantation. Once mastered, you'll becimpervious to blades and flames." Alicia was in awe. "On par with the Glow Incantation? No wonder he could block Father Savier's Palm of Justice earlier." Despite her unfamiliarity with the EvaIncantation, she was familiar with the Glow Incantation. Its ability to rival such a renowned Glow Incantation was noteworthy.
"If Number 19 has that EvaIncantation protecting him, today's match might get more interesting," Aurora said eagerly.
Thaddeus' fierce attacks were met with Dalen's equally resolute defense. Their confrontation resembled a clash between spear and shield.
Would Thaddeus break through Dalen's defenses, or would Dalen withstand the onslaught? It was an eagerly anticipated match.
"Father Savier, what do you think? Have I earned the chance to see your true skills?" Dalen twirled his folding fan with a gentle smile. His charismatic and handspresence captured the attention of many young women in the stands.
"Was that the EvaIncantation you just used?" Thaddeus frowned. His demeanor was now serious rather than dismissive.
"You have a keen eye. Yes, it was the EvaIncantation," Dalen admitted openly.
"I didn't expect you to be from the Shadow Citadel," Thaddeus remarked as he eyed Dalen. “Mastering the EvaIncantation at your age is truly impressive. Looks like I'll need to bring my A-gtoday if I want to stand a chance against you." The EvaIncantation was infamous for its impenetrable defense. It was akin to an unconquerable fortress once unleashed. Breaking through it demanded sheer determination and relentless effort.
"Father Savier, please." Dalen smiled and extended his hand.
Thaddeus reached for the blade at his waist.
The weapon was not long. It measured just over two feet in length and had an icy-blue surface adorned with undulating patterns reminiscent of ocean waves. In the sunlight, it gleamed with a deep, almost mystical blue hue.
He said, "This is Voidcleaver. The blade measured two feet and three inches in length, with a width of two inches.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com"It was forged from meteoric iron and boasted indestructibility with a sharpness that could cut through iron. It's been my companion for 13 years, and vanquished countless evil spirits."
Thaddeus ran his fingers along the dagger's edge as he held ihorizontally. "It's an impressive blade." Dalen examined it closely and admired its craftsmanship.
"Yes. It is finely crafted, but I seldom use it. Once unsheathed, blood must be spilled," Thaddeus said impassively.
He went on, "Since you've pushedto this point, be prepared to face this blade. We have no grievances, and I'm reluctant to resort to violence.
"This is your final chance. Surrender now, and your life will be spared. But if you choose otherwise, be prepared for the consequences." "I appreciate your kindness. But in the battle ring, surrender is not an option. Let fate decide our fates," Dalen replied calmly.
"Well said. Let fate decide." Thaddeus's eyes turned cold. "Since you won't heed my advice, blonly yourself for what follows." With that, he shot forward with Voidcleaver in his hand. Then, he slashed toward Dalen's head with lightning speed.
An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2370
Thaddeus' blade moved with blinding speed. It was so fast that it was almost a blur of blue light.
Unlike the previous techniques, the Zenith Skill and the Palm of Justice, this was pure physical power-extrspeed and explosive force.
The blade sliced through the air and tore it apart without making a sound.
"What an incredible speed," Crystal said, her eyes widening in shock.
The saying “experts recognize expertise “couldn't have been more apt. Though Thaddeus' strike seemed simple, it showcased terrifying speed and power.
At that moment, she truly understood the formidable nature of the ascetic priest.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comThaddeus' cultivation was profound. But even his physical body was honed to perfection. He was a rare martial artist who excelled both internally and externally. Such a person could easily challenge a grandmaster martial artist.
Before anyone could react, Thaddeus' blade was already inches away from Dalen. However, just as Voidcleaver was about to land, a white light flashed around Dalen.
Dalen had used the EvaIncantation again. Thaddeus' blade merely caused ripples across his body without harming him.
Undeterred by the ineffective strike, Thaddeus immediately followed up with another slash aimed at Dalen's chest. The strike was fast and powerful. It was nearly impossible to defend against.
Dalen was again enveloped in a bright white light, which blocked Thaddeus' second strike.
Thaddeus, seemingly unfazed and prepared, continued his relentless assault. He began to swing his Voidcleaver wildly.
The air was filled with streaks of blue light darting back and forth, mixed with occasional bright white flashes. The EvaIncantation, renowned for its impenetrable defense, shielded Dalen from all physical harm-blades, bullets, water, and fire. Thaddeus was well aware of its formidable power.
He knew breaking through the EvaIncantation with the Voidcleaver was no simple feat. His only hope lay in exhausting Dalen's true energy, leaving him unable to use it.
With a focused strategy, Thaddeus planned to overpower Dalen with a relentless flurry of swift strikes. As soon as Dalen's stamina faltered, Thaddeus would seize his opportunity.
Thaddeus, an ascetic priest, had pushed his physical limits to the extreme. He was capable of unleashing terrifying force without relying on true energy. His endurance was unmatched.
Unlike most martial artists who would falter once their true energy was exhausted, he thrived in prolonged combat. The longer the fight, the stronger he became.
Thaddeus knew the EvaIncantation was no match for his relentless assault. He was confident he would eventually break through if he kept attacking fiercely. With this mindset, he launched a barrage of vicious strikes at Dalen.
On the contrary, Dalen was constantly on the defensive. He allowed Thaddeus to attack freely.
At first, the audience didn't notice anything unusual. They thought Thaddeus seemed to be exerting effort in vain.
Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.comAs tpassed, many began to sense something was wrong. The EvaIncantation was undeniably powerful and nearly impervious in its defense.
Regardless of how powerful the EvaIncantation might be, it had a significant downside. It consumed a lot of true energy, and without a deep reservoir, sustaining it for long periods was impossible.
Despite Dalen's skill, he was still young. If he continued to use the EvaIncantation at this rate, he would be completely exhausted in less than half an hour. At that point, he'll be like a lamb to the slaughter.
"Why isn't Mr. Shade fighting back, Crystal? Isn't he at a disadvantage?" Ruby asked, staring intently at the battle ring.
"Thaddeus' strikes are too fast and relentless," Crystal replied solemnly. " Mr. Shade is relying on the EvaIncantation. If he tries to counterattack, Thaddeus will easily exploit any weaknesses." "Thaddeus is insanely strong, like he never tires out. How can anyone withstand that?" Miles frowned. "If this drags on and Mr. Shade exhausts himself or can't use the EvaIncantation, it's gover." "That's the terrifying aspect of ascetic priests." Crystal sighed.
The ascetic priests balance both inner cultivation and astonishingn physical strength. In a prolonged battle, nobody stood a chance against them. "It looks like the handsguy, Number 19, is struggling," Alicia said. "Even though the EvaIncantation is powerful, the ascetic priest is relentless. His strikes keep getting stronger, and it doesn't even look like he's using his full strength. He is such a beast." "Ascetic priests are exceedingly rare, and each one is exceptional." Grace sighed. "We're fortunate that Thaddeus hasn't reached the grandmaster level yet, or it would be even more terrifying." Thaddeus was halfway to becoming a grandmaster, yet his strength matched that of a Grandmaster. Even a regular grandmaster martial artist might struggle against him.
"So, are you saying the handsguy will be defeated?" Aurora asked anxiously.
"Not necessarily," Dustin replied calmly. "Thaddeus is indeed formidable, but Dalen is no slouch either. They're just warming up. The outcis still uncertain."
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