Chapter 1011: The Duel's Turning Point
"Um?" Jan Crane and the others exchanged startled glances, their expressions shifting from confidence to sheer panic. Instinctively, they took a few steps back, fear washing over them like an icy wave.
In this very moment, a palpable sense of impending doom overcame them, causing beads of cold sweat to form on their foreheads and their scalps to tingle. It wasn't an exaggeration to say that a single blow from Edmund Robinson could severely injure or even kill all three of them.
"Master Edmund, you'd better think twice. If you act recklessly, you won't leave this place alive," Jan Crane warned, her voice quivering.
"I am a man on borrowed time. If I can buy my daughter a chance at survival before my end, it's a bargain," Edmund Robinson retorted, his eyes gleaming with resolve.
Hearing this, the three of them frowned deeply, their expressions growing even more grim. They had no intention of meeting their demise alongside this deranged adversary.
"Master Edmund, if you truly care for your daughter's fate, consider this: I will pledge to release her unharmed, but the price of sparing her life is your own." Jan Crane shifted her approach, attempting to reason.
"That's right! Your daughter's life hinges on your demise!" Alexander Cheng chimed in.
"Will you honor your word?" Edmund Robinson inquired.
"I am a person of my word, renowned throughout the world," Jan Crane declared with unwavering confidence.
"Edmund Robinson, first, you must relinquish your martial prowess, and I swear not to harm your daughter," Alexander Cheng added with a solemn vow.
"Geez, God cherishes life and spares the innocent," Master Jason intoned, nodding sagely.
"Very well! All three of you are esteemed martial artists. I trust your word. Today, I shall use my broken body to secure my daughter's future!" Edmund Robinson turned away, his gaze briefly meeting that of his daughter, Abigail. He smiled faintly and whispered, "My dear, take care of yourself."
"No - don't! Please, no!" Abigail cried out frantically, shaking her head vigorously with a shrill voice.
Before he could finish his farewell, Edmund Robinson suddenly thrust his palm into his own chest.
"Boom!"
An explosion resounded as a mist of blood erupted into the air. Edmund Robinson's body convulsed, his meridians severed, and his entire cultivation base utterly destroyed. He fell to the ground like a fallen mountain, the battle's momentum irrevocably altered.
"No--!!" Abigail's anguished cry filled the air as she rushed forward, her movements fueled by desperation, and cradled her dying father, Edmund Robinson, in her trembling arms.
Seeing her father bathed in his own blood, her heart shattered into a million pieces, and tears flowed freely down her face.
"Why? Why? Why are you doing this?!" she wailed, clutching her father's hand and sobbing uncontrollably.
"Silly girl, I'm already on the brink of death. It's a worthwhile trade to ensure your safety," Edmund Robinson mustered a faint smile, his voice barely a whisper.
"No! I don't want you to sacrifice yourself! I won't allow it!" Abigail protested vehemently.
"Stay strong! I'll rush you to the hospital right away!" Abigail cried as she hoisted her father onto her back.
"Girl, it's futile," Edmund Robinson replied, shaking his head gently. "Truth be told, I should have passed away a decade ago, but I couldn't bear to leave you. Now that you've grown into a fine young woman, it's time for me to reunite with your mother."
"No! I won't let you die! You must live!" Abigail exclaimed, her voice laced with desperation.
"Silly girl, every living being must eventually face death. I've already been blessed with a longer life than most. In this lifetime, I've honored heaven and earth, the world, and everyone, but I've failed you," Edmund Robinson admitted, his voice filled with self-reproach.
"No, no, no... it's not like that!" Abigail vehemently denied, shaking her head while her heart ached.
"I've led a futile existence for so long, failing to do anything for you. Today, I've finally fulfilled my duty as your father," Edmund Robinson confessed, his voice growing weaker. "Abigail, I'm genuinely proud and content to have a daughter like you. It's you who gave me hope, brought me joy, and illuminated my otherwise dark life. Don't cry, my dear. Live well; the future rests in your hands..."
Edmund Robinson struggled to raise his hand, attempting to wipe away his daughter's tears. Yet, midway through the gesture, his hand fell heavily, and his strength began to fade.
A legend has passed into history.
Chapter 1012: A Tragic Farewell
"Dad?"
Staring at Edmund Robinson's lifeless form, Abigail stood frozen, tears streaming uncontrollably down her cheeks.
"Dad! Wake up... wake up... please wake up!"
"Dad--!!"
Her piercing screams filled the air as she clutched her father's lifeless body, her heart torn apart, and her world shattered.
Two lines of blood and tears welled up in her eyes, slowly tracing their path down her cheeks, falling to the ground.
She couldn't fathom it, couldn't accept the reality that her sole family member had departed so abruptly.
From now on, she would be utterly alone.
In this moment, she felt as though she had plunged into an abyss, lost in an unending darkness. The world around her had turned desolate.
"Hahaha... He's dead! He's finally dead!" Jan Crane, staring at Edmund Robinson's lifeless form, couldn't help but burst into raucous laughter. "What a fitting end! What a fitting end! This is how you deal with wicked heretics!"
"What’s the sense of being one of Five Grand Masters? What’s the sense of being a Poseidon? In the end, they all meet the same fate, don't they?" Alexander Cheng sneered.
With Edmund Robinson's demise, his lingering fear had finally dissipated.
"Geez, excellent, excellent," Master Jason intoned, his palms pressed together, exhaling a heavy sigh.
"Seize them! Kill those two girls!" Jan Crane suddenly pointed at Abigail.
Her words sent shockwaves through the crowd. Hadn't she just promised to spare them? What was happening now?
"Master Jan! What's the meaning of this? You explicitly vowed not to pursue this further. Why are you retracting your word?" Azalea raised her eyebrows, her voice carrying the weight of her martial prowess.
She believed that as a distinguished martial artist, Jan Crane should uphold his promises.
"I never expected the other party to be so shameless, retracting their word in public and losing all sense of honor."
"Hmph! Deception is a soldier's greatest weapon. If I hadn't stated my intentions, how could this monster have chosen to end his own life? Besides, my promise was only to refrain from taking action personally and to allow my disciples to deal with demons as they see fit," Jan Crane proclaimed self-righteously.
"That's right! We won't kill you, but the disciples of the Soul-Suppressing Sect must uphold justice!" Alexander Cheng declared.
"Justice? You despicable individuals have the audacity to speak of justice?!" Azalea seethed, pointing at them and shouting, "You twist the truth, you are untrustworthy, and you parade around as righteous and upright while engaging in wicked deeds. You are nothing more than sanctimonious hypocrites, no better than animals!"
"Presumptuous!"
Jan Crane glared, her voice dripping with anger. "How dare you utter such arrogant words, little troublemaker? Attack! Eliminate them all to prevent future troubles!"
"Exterminate the evil spirits! Act in the name of justice!" Alexander Cheng raised his arms and cried out a rallying cry.
"Exterminate the evil spirits! Act in the name of justice!"
The disciples of the Soul-Suppressing Sect echoed his words, their voices resounding.
"Exterminate the evil spirits! Act in the name of justice! Kill them all!"
Without hesitation, the warriors surged forward, swords raised high.
With Edmund Robinson's demise, they saw no further threats.
By eliminating the two women, they would secure their chance to obtain Alliance Sir Ronald's true legacy, and the small fish would finally leap over the dragon's gate.
"Why?"
Abigail staggered to her feet, her empty and lifeless gaze gradually giving way to a burning fury.
A potent hatred surged within her.
"We haven't done anything wrong! Why do you want to kill them all?"
"My father didn't harm anyone! Why did you push him to this end?"
"He sacrificed himself to save you, and this is how you repay his kindness?"
"Why?!"
"Why?!"
"Why??!!"
Abigail let out a long, mournful cry, her eyes turning crimson in an instant, and an overwhelming aura of malevolence erupted from her.
In an instant, malevolent winds swept through, and a bone-chilling coldness gripped the surroundings.
The temperature plummeted rapidly, and frost began to coat the ground.
Chapter 1013: The Awakening of the Phoenix
Within a ten-meter radius, every flower, plant, and tree succumbed to an icy embrace, frozen in place.
Behind Abigail, a phoenix pattern suddenly materialized.
This was the seal embedded within her very being.
Under the grip of overwhelming grief, pain, and hatred, the blood coursing through her veins began to stir, and the seal slowly shattered.
Threads of golden light emanated from her body.
Gradually, they coalesced into a colossal golden phoenix hovering in mid-air.
Its feathers radiated a kaleidoscope of colors, and each step it took glistened with brilliance.
Between its outstretched wings, celestial hues and auspicious omens adorned the sky.
Its eyes gazed down upon all creation, asserting its dominance as the king of birds.
The sovereign avian exhibited its full splendor.
"Go to hell... go to hell!"
"I'll kill you... I'll kill all of you!"
Abigail's frenzied screams reverberated, her eyes bloodshot, her countenance twisted in fury.
Her once ebony hair began to turn stark white in this moment.
Starting from the roots, the transformation gradually advanced downward.
In just a few breaths, her entire body was adorned with a shock of white hair!
Following this, tendrils of dark deathly energy surged forth from her form.
The once-golden phoenix swiftly succumbed to the encroachment of this malevolent energy.
In the blink of an eye, the formerly sacred golden phoenix had transformed into a malefic black phoenix!
Its eyes bore the weight of murderous intent, ferocity, hatred, and boundless resentment.
It resembled the horrors of the Infinity Hell Fire, sending a shiver down the spines of all who beheld it.
"Demon, witch! She, she, she... she's a true sorceress!"
Fear and trepidation overcame the onlookers, causing them to halt in their tracks, their faces etched with terror.
No one had foreseen such a shocking transformation.
The malevolent black phoenix bore a semblance to a deity of death, exuding an aura that seemed capable of annihilating the world.
"What's happening? How can such a terrifying power lie dormant within this little demon girl?!" Jan Crane and the other three martial artists appeared horrified, facing what seemed like an insurmountable foe.
Even as seasoned martial arts masters, they felt the specter of death looming over them in this moment, a threat even more formidable than Edmund Robinson's before.
"I'm going to kill you!"
"Go to hell!!"
Abigail's eyes were on the verge of bursting, and the black energy enveloping her surged forth.
"Hold your heads high!"
A high-pitched screech pierced the air.
The malevolent black phoenix, seemingly obeying a command, spread its wings and soared into the sky, transforming into a streak of black lightning that crashed into the crowd.
"Run!"
The three martial arts experts were gripped by sheer terror, their scalps tingling. Without a second thought, they turned and fled at an astounding speed.
Meanwhile, the disciples under their tutelage were engulfed by the black phoenix before they could even react.
Boom!
Wherever the Black Phoenix passed, devastation followed in its wake, unstoppable and all-consuming. Whether it was a person or an object, anything it touched was instantly vaporized, leaving not a trace behind.
Even Dustin and Ronald Reeds, who had been locked in a fierce battle, were separated on the battlefield by the Black Phoenix's onslaught, forced to flee for their lives.
The black phoenix swept through everything in its path, propelling itself for thousands of meters before finally detonating, transforming into a powerful hurricane that swept through half of the forest.
Birds scattered in all directions, and wild beasts fled in a frenzy.
In the aftermath, a long and deep chasm emerged seemingly out of thin air, a testament to the Black Phoenix's recent passage, leaving nothing but desolation in its wake.
As for the hundreds of warriors who had been encircled and attacked just moments ago, nearly half of them had evaporated into nothingness.
The survivors were left in a state of sheer shock and disbelief.
One by one, they lay sprawled on the ground, trembling uncontrollably.
The overwhelming might of the phoenix had sent shockwaves through the world, leaving all who witnessed it in awe and overwhelming the common folk.
Chapter 1014: The Awakening of the Witch
"Death! I want all of you to die!"
Abigail screamed in anguish and fury, her eyes aflame with red, her white hair billowing around her like a madwoman.
Suddenly, her body convulsed, and she spat out a mouthful of blood.
Her vision dimmed, and she collapsed to the ground where she stood.
The recent outburst had drained her of every ounce of energy and vitality, leaving her utterly spent.
Now, she lay helpless and vulnerable, at the mercy of anyone who approached.
"Abigail? Abigail!"
Azalea rose in despair, rushing to Abigail's side. Upon confirming that she was still alive, he breathed a sigh of relief.
Indeed, she was of the Mystic Arts Order's Saint lineage, and once the seal was broken, her true potential was unleashed. Surviving this ordeal would signify her rebirth, like a phoenix rising from its ashes.
"It's terrifying! The power she just displayed was utterly devastating!"
"She's truly a witch! A witch among us!"
Seeing the chaos strewn around them, onlookers were shocked, fearful, and slightly unnerved all at once.
They had never imagined that such an overwhelming force could surge from the fragile frame of a young girl.
"Damn! That was close! I could have perished just now!" Alexander Cheng swallowed hard, his face still pale with lingering fear.
Had he taken a direct hit, even as a martial arts master, he would have been reduced to nothing in an instant.
"Who is this witch? Why is she so terrifying?" Jan Crane furrowed his brow deeply, a shiver running down his spine.
While he was relieved to have survived the ordeal, a lingering unease gripped him.
"Evil spirits of this magnitude must be eradicated, or they will bring calamity upon us all!" Master Jason's countenance grew stern, his normally compassionate eyes now brimming with murderous resolve.
"Indeed! This witch conceals tremendous power within her. If we don't eliminate her today, we may face grave consequences in the future!" Alexander Cheng concurred with a sense of urgency.
These individuals had effectively driven Edmund Robinson to his death and bore a grudge against Abigail for avenging her father's death. The two sides were locked in a life-and-death struggle.
Allowing this "tiger" to return to the "mountain" would undoubtedly lead to endless troubles.
"What are you all waiting for? This demon girl poses a grave threat to the martial arts world! Whoever can slay her will be hailed as a hero by the entire martial community!" Jan Crane suddenly shouted.
"Kill the witch! Uphold justice!" Alexander Cheng raised his arms and bellowed.
"We must seize this opportunity and eliminate her. If she wakes up, we'll suffer the consequences!"
"Absolutely! We must kill her, or we'll all meet our end!"
"Kill, kill, kill! Slay the witch!"
Seeing Abigail lying unconscious, their resolve was renewed.
One by one, they brandished their weapons, chanting death, and charged forward to execute her.
Leaving the roots untouched would only lead to future troubles, and the threat posed by the witch was too great. In this dire situation, it was a matter of life or death.
"Who dares to harm my disciple!"
Dustin descended from the sky, taking his stance in front of Abigail.
His demeanor radiated murderous intent, his eyes gleaming with ferocity.
The formidable pressure of a grandmaster sent shockwaves through the onlookers, causing them to halt once more.
He had been locked in combat with Ronald Reeds, with no opportunity to intervene as they witnessed Edmund Robinson's tragic fate.
Fortunately, the Black Phoenix's cataclysmic assault had created a temporary separation on the battlefield, granting him the chance to safeguard Abigail.
"Boy! This demon girl has harmed countless people. Are you really going to protect her?" Jan Crane demanded sharply.
"Hmph! I don't think you're any better, consorting with evil spirits! Leave now or you'll be held accountable for her crimes!" Alexander Cheng warned.
In their eyes, the current Abigail posed a greater threat than Dustin.
"What kind of witch? It's all nonsense!" Dustin sneered coldly. "You are a bunch of scoundrels, motivated solely by self-interest, twisting right and wrong, bullying the weak, and committing despicable and shameless acts. You parade around as righteous, yet you destroy innocent lives and families. You are the real monsters!"
"Presumptuous!"
Chapter 1015: The Defiant Challenge
Jan Crane glared, asserting, "We aim to eliminate threats to the people and protect the common folk. If you persist in this, you will become the enemy of the entire martial arts world!"
"That's right! Seize him immediately, or you'll be marked as a public enemy of the martial arts world!" Alexander Cheng declared.
"Geez, may you cast aside the butcher's knife and attain Buddhahood." Master Jason joined his palms in prayer, adopting a compassionate visage.
"Protect the common people? Becoming a public enemy of the martial arts world?"
Dustin smiled disdainfully, his expression dripping with sarcasm. "If the martial arts world is filled with scoundrels like you, if the world blurs the line between right and wrong, good and evil, and if everyone supports the wrongdoer while showing ingratitude – then today, I am willing to be the enemy of the entire martial arts world!"
"If you brand me a demon, then I shall become one; if you accuse me of being wicked, then I shall embrace wickedness!"
"I have only one decree: anyone who dares to harm my apprentice will meet their end!"
"Doubt me? Step forward and test your fate!"
"Let's see if I, with my devilish nature, can drag you so-called righteous individuals into the abyss!"
"Come!!"
With these words, Dustin took a sudden step forward.
His entire being exuded an aura of malevolence and seething murderous intent, akin to a demon descending upon the world, sending shivers down the spines of those around him.
Even Jan Crane and the others were momentarily taken aback.
Was this man out of his mind?
Daring to challenge the entire martial arts world? Was he inviting death?
"Don't panic, everyone!"
At that moment, Ronald Reeds stepped forward, raising his voice, "He's heavily wounded, his true energy depleted. He's like a candle flickering in the wind. There's nothing to fear!"
His words injected newfound courage into the assembled crowd.
After all this time, it turned out he was merely an empty threat.
"Everyone, heed my command and attack this monster together! Attack!"
As soon as he spoke, Ronald Reeds leaped into action, striking first.
With the martial arts leader at the forefront, everyone was galvanized, raising their swords in unison.
"Attack!"
With a collective roar, the warriors surged forward, launching their final assault.
Witnessing the approaching onslaught, Dustin took a deep breath, raised his hand skyward, and let out a resounding shout: " Sky Sword!"
Clang—!!
The sound of the unsheathed sword pierced the air.
In an instant, a black light erupted from the ground, shooting straight into the heavens with the force of thunder!
Wherever this black light passed, it left devastation in its wake, unstoppable by any obstacle.
Due to its incredible speed, it carved a long black trail across the sky.
At first glance, it resembled a soaring black dragon!
"Cut!!"
Dustin's expression was fierce as he swung his sword downward.
Buzz~!
A soft, resonant hum filled the air.
The Sky Sword abruptly reversed course, transforming into a streak of black light, and descended with tremendous force upon the people below.
It struck the crowd like a cataclysmic celestial punishment.
Boom!!
A thunderous explosion echoed through the area as the sword energy erupted.
Thousands of black glows burst forth, tearing apart hundreds of warriors on the spot, reducing them to nothing.
Jan Crane lost his arm in an instant, blood gushing from the severed limb.
Alexander Cheng felt as if he had been struck by lightning, sent flying more than ten meters away, and vomiting blood.
Master Jason's eyes were gouged out, his appearance unrecognizable, and he screamed in agony.
The Skycrane Sect, Soul-Suppressing Sect, Dabei Temple, and disciples from various sects suffered severe casualties.
The point where the Sky Sword had descended had become a nightmarish hell, with flesh and blood splattering in all directions!
Chapter 1016: A Formidable Foe
"What an astonishing sword!" Ronald Reeds exclaimed in terror, teleporting a hundred meters away, his heart racing with fear.
Upon seeing the Sky Sword emerge, he sensed that something was amiss and reacted swiftly.
Thankfully, his swift escape had saved him from suffering the same fate as Jan Crane and the others if the sword had struck him.
"Oh my god! He severely injured three grandmasters with a single strike and killed hundreds of martial artists. Is this man a human or a ghost?!"
"Monstrous! Truly monstrous!"
Neutral warriors stared blankly at the severed limbs and scattered body parts before them, their eyes wide with fear.
Their faces displayed a mixture of astonishment and terror.
They were fortunate not to have taken part in the earlier siege; otherwise, they would be in dire straits now.
"This is incredible! He deserves to be hailed as a once-in-a-century young master!"
Emily couldn't contain her excitement as she beheld the imposing figure.
He had single-handedly taken on multiple martial sects and vanquished them, leaving no survivors.
Such majesty was truly unparalleled.
"If there is someone willing to defy the entire martial arts world for my sake, I would die without regrets," Vanessa mumbled to herself, her eyes gleaming with admiration.
What woman wouldn't be drawn to such a remarkable talent who would go to such lengths to protect her?
"Could it be? Is he really going to take them all on alone?"
Henry Zheng and Nathan exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of shock and trepidation.
Four grandmasters, accompanied by hundreds of martial artists, had launched a simultaneous attack on him.
According to all logic, Dustin should have met his end.
Instead, he had simply swung his sword and annihilated the entire group!
The situation was truly astonishing.
"Who dares to step forward and challenge me?!" Dustin raised his hand, and the Sky Sword landed firmly in his grasp.
Dustin exuded a potent aura of death, his face fierce and resolute.
The remaining two to three hundred warriors were utterly terrified. Their bodies quivered, and they couldn't even maintain their grip on their weapons.
He had slaughtered a hundred individuals with a single sword strike. If he unleashed two more such strikes, wouldn't they all be eradicated?
How could this man be so dreadfully powerful?!
"Since none of you dare to step forward, then leave!" Dustin shouted furiously.
"Let's go! Quickly, let's go!"
The warriors were utterly petrified, their fear overwhelming them as they scrambled to their feet and fled for their lives.
"Stop!" Ronald Reeds suddenly bellowed, "Everyone, please maintain your positions. This guy is drained of strength and can't fight anymore!"
Hearing this, the warriors' faces contorted in disbelief, and they were on the verge of cursing.
What on earth! You said the same thing earlier.
And what was the outcome?
Dustin had nearly annihilated them all with a single sword stroke!
"Sir Ronald, can we just let it go? Young and old, I don't want to take any more chances," pleaded a bald warrior with a mournful expression.
"Why? You don't even trust my words?" Ronald Reeds's expression darkened. "The sword strike from earlier depleted all of his inner energy. I can confidently say that this kid will never be able to unleash a second sword strike!"
"I don't care anymore; I'm leaving," the bald warrior replied, his fear palpable. He discarded his weapon and bolted.
Putting one's own life on the line to test the sharpness of an opponent's sword was an endeavor only a fool would undertake.
"Stop! I told you to stop!" Ronald Reeds shouted twice, but when he saw that the bald warrior paid no heed, he became irate. "Courting death!"
With that, he raised his hand and struck down with a palm from the air.
Boom!
The bald warrior's body exploded on the spot, torn to pieces.
Blood splattered across the ground, a gruesome sight that left everyone shocked and terrified.
No one had anticipated that Ronald Reeds would be so ruthless as to kill someone outright after a disagreement.
Wasn't this level of cruelty excessive?
"Hmph! How can you, as upstanding individuals, fear demons?" Ronald Reeds cast a piercing gaze around and proclaimed righteously, "Our duty is to vanquish demons and uphold righteousness. Anyone who dares to desert today shouldn't blame me for being merciless!"
His words sent ripples of unease through the crowd.
With no ability to fight and no way to escape, weren't they being compelled to meet their deaths?
How could there be a martial arts leader like this?
Chapter 1017 - The Duel of Courage
Everyone in the room exchanged tense glances, their anger simmering just beneath the surface. However, they couldn't openly voice their frustrations, not with Ronald Reeds's formidable authority hanging over them.
Ronald Reeds spoke with a sinister grin, "You two, go eliminate that person (Dustin). Once it's done, I'll reward you handsomely!"
The room fell into an uncomfortable silence.
The faces of the two warriors turned ashen, and they began frantically waving their hands. "Sir Ronald! We can't do it. Our strength pales in comparison, and we wouldn't stand a chance!"
Ronald Reeds's voice grew sharp as he snapped, "Enough of your excuses! Follow orders immediately, or face the consequences!"
The two warriors were visibly shaken, their fear nearly causing them to crumble. They found themselves trapped with only two options: face off against Dustin or suffer Ronald Reeds's wrath.
Dustin, with a sudden burst of courage, challenged, "Ronald Reeds! What's the point in sending these two as scapegoats? If you're truly brave, come and face my blade yourself!"
Ronald Reeds snickered, "Don't act tough with me, young man. Your injuries have resurfaced, and your energy is depleted. I doubt you can even stand straight."
"Is that so?" Dustin challenged, raising his hand dismissively. "Then, come forward and test your theory."
Ronald Reeds scoffed, "Why should I waste my effort on a youngster like you? These two are more than enough to finish you."
With a swift palm strike, Ronald Reeds urged the hesitant warriors forward, creating a hole in the ground beneath their feet. He bellowed, "What are you waiting for? Attack! Or face punishment as deserters!"
Shivering, the two warriors exchanged glances and reluctantly closed the gap.
Their options were grim: dying at Dustin's hands would at least grant them a noble reputation for dying in the line of duty. On the other hand, falling to Ronald Reeds would label them as cowards and deserters.
"Fighting is our only choice!" one of the warriors muttered, and the two initiated their attack simultaneously.
Dustin frowned, raising his sword in response.
"Whoosh!"
In a flash, a streak of swordlight pierced the air.
The two warriors froze, their heads rolling to the ground.
Yet, as Dustin swung his sword victoriously, he suddenly paled, blood staining his lips.
His body trembled and collapsed onto the ground.
At this moment, Dustin was drenched in sweat, and his breath came in heavy gasps, like an exhausted ox. His once imposing presence had vanished entirely, leaving him devoid of any vigor or pressure.
Ronald Reeds had made an accurate guess – Dustin had indeed run out of steam. His injuries were severe, and the relentless battles, coupled with the enormous energy expenditure, had taken their toll. The recent sword strike had drained him completely, and now he clung to consciousness by sheer force of will.
His plan to use his remaining presence to intimidate his adversaries had been thwarted by Ronald Reeds's insight. Ultimately, it seemed he wouldn't survive this ordeal.
"Hahaha... Did you all witness that? I told you this kid was on his last legs! Any objections now?" Ronald Reeds laughed triumphantly, thoroughly pleased with himself.
"It appears this guy is truly in dire straits. Sir Ronald's wisdom and strength are unparalleled!"
"Hmph! Even the strongest will fall after such a prolonged battle. It's a miracle he's held on this long!"
"Damn! I can't believe we fell for his bluff. I was ready to chop him into pieces multiple times!"
As Dustin lay there, spitting blood and collapsing to the ground, the warriors who had been on the brink of terror regained their confidence and began to strut about, ready to pounce.
They adopted an aggressive stance, prepared to strike.
"Azalea!" Dustin used the Sky Sword to prop himself up, still trembling. With great effort, he retrieved the Shadowblooms and handed it to Azalea. "Take the flower, take Abigail, hurry. I'll cover your escape!"
Azalea furrowed his brow, concerned. "Are you sure you can handle this? You don't look well."
"I can give you a brief respite, just enough time. Whether you escape or not depends entirely on you." Dustin took a deep breath, his eyes regaining their sharpness.
"Take care!"
Without wasting a moment, Azalea swiftly departed, carrying the unconscious Abigail with her.
"Stop them! Don't let anyone get away!" Ronald Reeds commanded, raising his hand to signal pursuit.
Without hesitation, the warriors charged forward, attempting to catch up and cut off Azalea's escape.
Dustin slowly raised his sword, fully prepared to fight to the death.
Then, unexpectedly, the sky began to snow.
Delicate snowflakes fluttered and fell gracefully from above, like dream-chasing butterflies dancing in the air.
The warriors at the forefront failed to notice anything unusual and allowed the snowflakes to settle on them. However, the moment the snowflakes made contact, they erupted into a tremendous burst of energy.
"Bang, bang, bang..."
Explosions echoed through the air, and before the startled warriors could react, they met a grisly end, their bodies torn apart and drenched in blood.
The audience stood in shock, their jaws dropping in disbelief.
Chapter 1018 - A New Promise
Holding the grief-stricken Abigail in his arms, Dustin couldn't help but sigh. He extended a gentle hand to pat her back and consoled her, "Uncle Edmund is gone, but I'm still here. I'll be your family from now on, and I promise no one will ever harm you. You have my word."
"Why? Why? What did I do wrong?" Abigail sobbed uncontrollably. "First, my mother left, then my father, and now I'm all alone. I don't understand why God would do this to me. Why?"
Her father had lived his life with honor and righteousness, never harming anyone. Even in his assassination, there was no lingering enmity or desire for revenge. She couldn't fathom why such a virtuous person had met such a tragic end.
Was it true that good people received no rewards in the end? If that was the case, she'd rather embrace a life of villainy!
"Little one, relying on the heavens is futile. Everything depends on your own strength," Evelyn Morgan calmly advised. "Remember, to survive, you must become strong enough—strong enough to be feared and strong enough to change the world."
Hearing this, Abigail trembled and turned to her abruptly. "Who are you?"
"Me?" Evelyn Morgan smiled gently. "I am your grandmother."
"Grandma?" Abigail was momentarily bewildered. "Why don't I recognize you?"
"We've never had the chance to meet before, so it's natural that we don't know each other. But that's no issue. From now on, your grandmother will protect you, and no one will dare to bully you," Evelyn Morgan's eyes glinted with affection.
Like grandmother, like granddaughter.
The resemblance between the grandmother and granddaughter was uncanny.
"Uncle, is what she's saying true?" Abigail asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"She is indeed your grandmother, but..." Dustin began, only to be interrupted by Evelyn Morgan, who added, "Correction, it's Grandma!"
With those words, Evelyn Morgan displayed a demeanor that made it clear no one could challenge her role as a protective grandmother.
"Abigail, your grandmother hails from the witchcraft sect, and her reputation outside isn't exactly pristine. Uncle Edmund had warned me previously to keep you from getting involved with them," Dustin explained, his expression grave.
"Are you...really my grandmother?" Abigail asked, her voice trembling.
"Absolutely," Evelyn Morgan affirmed.
Evelyn Morgan smiled and nodded, saying, "The blood in your veins has awakened. Go home with your grandmother. From now on, you will be the Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order, and you can exact vengeance as you see fit."
Abigail hesitated, her mind swirling in confusion at the sudden revelation of her grandmother's identity.
"I..." She began, struggling to find the right words.
"The Witch Gu Cult is not a path you should take, Abigail. You have better options," Dustin advised, genuine concern in his voice.
"The bloodline of the Sorceress is the most suitable for the techniques of the Witch Gu Sect. When Abigail returns, I will personally focus on her cultivation. I believe she will surpass you in no time," Evelyn Morgan declared with conviction.
"Cultivation is important, but going down the wrong path can lead to a lifetime of regret," Dustin countered.
"Young man, what do you know about going astray? Our witchcraft sect has always distinguished between good and evil, repaying hatred with hatred and kindness with kindness. We are far better than those hypocritical well-known and upright families. Do not tarnish our reputation," Evelyn Morgan warned.
"Abigail, the choice is yours. Will you follow me, or will you go to the Mystic Arts Order?" Dustin posed the ultimatum.
Abigail fell silent, deep in thought. After careful consideration, she raised her head and declared solemnly, "Uncle, I have decided to go with my grandmother."
"Hahaha... Excellent! She truly is my wonderful granddaughter!" Evelyn Morgan beamed with joy.
Finally, after a long wait, they had found an heir.
"Abigail, there's no turning back from this decision. Once you join the Witch Gu Cult, there's no way out, and you'll carry the burden of eternal infamy. Countless martial artists will hunt you down," Dustin warned.
The Mystic Arts Order was renowned as the world's foremost evil sect, in direct opposition to all the noble and reputable martial families.
Joining as a saint would not only bestow her with eternal notoriety but also make her the target of countless martial artists.
The cost was immensely high.
"Uncle, I appreciate your kindness, but I must go," Abigail said resolutely.
"I want to become stronger, I want revenge, and I want everyone to fear me."
"If good people don't live long and calamity persists, then I'd rather be the harbinger of justice!"
Chapter 1019 - A New Resolve
"I will personally eliminate these hypocrites! I'll put an end to those who deserve it in this world! I'll dismantle this fake and tattered world entirely!" Abigail's face was resolute, her words filled with unwavering determination.
An ominous aura emanated from between her brows, casting a chilling presence.
Dustin sighed softly, unable to hide his melancholy. He recognized that Abigail had undergone a profound transformation and was no longer the simple, kind-hearted girl he had known.
But was it her fault?
Her father had risked his life to save countless people, only for those he rescued to meet cruel fates.
Whose fault was it, truly?
When kindness went unrewarded and justice remained unfulfilled, darkness could seep into one's very soul.
She had been forced into this.
"Abigail, no matter what path you choose, I will stand by you," Dustin said, lifting his hand to ruffle her hair affectionately. "Remember, Master will always be here for you. If you ever face injustice, just come back. Even if the sky falls, Master will be your support."
Abigail nodded vigorously, tears glistening in her eyes.
"Senior Evelyn, I entrust Abigail to your care," Dustin said, turning to Evelyn Morgan with a serious expression. "If the Mystic Arts Order dares to harm her, I guarantee that we will eradicate your sect."
"Oh?" Evelyn Morgan's lips curled into a sly smile, his interest piqued. "Young man, you're the first person who's dared to speak to me like this."
"Given that you know my identity, you should also understand that the Rhys Family always keeps their word," Dustin asserted firmly.
"Hahaha... How amusing, truly amusing," Evelyn Morgan chuckled, not the least bit offended. In fact, he seemed rather amused by Dustin's boldness.
The more unconventional the temperament, the more Evelyn Morgan found it appealing.
"Abigail, until we meet again," Dustin said, patting Abigail on the shoulder. He then picked up the Shadowblooms, turned, and began to walk away.
Everyone had their own path to follow, and sometimes the best way to show support was through silence and respect for their choices.
"Master... farewell..." Abigail whispered, her eyes welling up with tears as she watched him depart.
After this separation, she had no idea when they would reunite.
"Abigail, would you like Grandma to deal with these remnants for you?" Evelyn Morgan suddenly scanned the various sect members, a sinister glint in his eyes.
Everyone felt a chill run down their spines, and they trembled with fear. They dared not move, like a group of lambs awaiting slaughter.
"No need! I'll take my vengeance myself!" Abigail declared, her gaze sweeping the gathering with a steely determination. She committed every face present to her memory.
"Listen up, you scoundrels," she declared, her voice carrying an iron resolve. "I spare your lives today, not out of mercy, but as a warning."
"Because one day, I will exact retribution upon all of you."
"Remember this well—I will repay the sins you've committed today tenfold, a hundredfold!"
"I will make you suffer, I will make you miserable, and I will make you die slowly in fear and despair!"
"Until that day comes, cling to life with all your might!"
"Your lives can only be claimed by me!"
"Wait! Wait for me to return for revenge!"
Chapter 1020 - A New Promise
(This seems to be a duplicate of Chapter 1018, a mistake in the original Chinese version)
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