CHAPTER 2391 RANKED FIFTH
The night passed quickly.
The next morning.
Dustin stepped out of the room and into the villa's garden, admiring the various flowers and plants.
Upon Lara's request, he and Gabrielle had stayed in the villa last night.
On one hand, Gabrielle wanted to catch up with Lara, and on the other hand, it was for safety reasons to prevent another assassin attack.
Fortunately, the latter half of the night was calm, and nothing happened.
Lara's condition gradually stabilized, showing no signs of complications so far.
Of course, this was largely due to her good physical condition.
As Dustin strolled in the garden, the villa's gate suddenly opened slowly.
Following that, a line of luxury cars orderly drove in.
When the vehicles came to a halt, a group of uniformed members of the World Society, known as the enforcement team, got off the cars in a disciplined manner.
They were different from ordinary disciples of the World Society, being more elite and well-trained enforcement officers.
The enforcement team of the World Society were handpicked experts from various departments.
They not only had absolute loyalty to the World Society but also had the ability to take on a hundred foes.
Most importantly, the enforcement team seldom mobilized, only the Sect Leader and the Elder Council could deploy them.
Generally speaking, if there were no major incidents, the enforcement team would not be dispatched.
However, once the enforcement team appeared, it meant that the situation was serious.
Watching the enforcement team members exuding a strong aura, Dustin silently stepped aside.
It was likely that the attack on the Moore sisters last night had alerted Darkbane, prompting the dispatch of the enforcement team for protection.
He wondered who was leading the team?
Just as he was pondering, the front car's door opened.
A young man in a sharp suit and with an imposing demeanor slowly stepped out of the car.
As the man got out of the car, all the members of the enforcement team bent down in respect.
"Hmm? It's actually him?"
Seeing the man's appearance, Dustin couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, quite surprised.
The visitor was none other than Vincent Chambers, the outstanding figure among the younger generation of the World Society, ranked fifth on the Whiz List!
Vincent's status in the World Society was second only to the Sect Leader and the major elders.
Though still in the position of a disciple, he was widely acknowledged as the successor to the Sect Leader.
As a top genius who had reached the half-step Grandmaster level before even turning thirty, Vincent completely outshone his peers among the younger generation in the World Society.
Whatever he did, his commands were followed without question within the World Society.
CHAPTER 2392 AN IMPRESSIVE INDIVIDUAL
Vincent is highly respected not only for his exceptional talent but also for his unwavering loyalty to the World Society, where he and Darkbane share a father-son relationship.
Having crossed paths with Vincent before, Dustin couldn't help but acknowledge his formidable skills, particularly his mastery of the Heavenly God's Four Symbols Technique, which left Dustin impressed.
"Vincent, brother!"
Upon hearing the commotion, Lara and Liana, wearing expressions of joy, rushed out of the room.
As soon as they saw Vincent, they affectionately threw themselves at him, each sister linking arms with him on either side.
They behaved playfully, like younger sisters meeting their older brother.
Their attitude towards Vincent was a world away from how they treated Cedrick the day before.
"Vincent, why are you here? Weren't you in seclusion?" Lara asked curiously.
"I have finished my seclusion. I came to Dragon Tiger Mountain this time to participate in the martial arts competition and because of you two," Vincent said with a smile.
"Us?"
Lara and Liana exchanged a knowing glance.
Clearly, their father was concerned about their safety and had not only sent out an enforcement team but had also arranged for Vincent to come in advance.
"I am aware of what happened last night. I will not allow any threats around you. I will deal with all risks and let those with ill intentions know the consequences of crossing the World Society," Vincent said calmly yet with a strong undertone.
His tone may have been composed, but his words carried a strong sense of determination.
To attempt the assassination and kidnapping of the daughter of the World Society's leader was a blatant insult to the Sect's dignity.
If this matter was not thoroughly investigated, what authority would the World Society have in the future?
"Don't just stand there, Vincent. Come, let's go inside and talk," Lara said as she and her sister led Vincent into the villa's living room.
However, as they approached Dustin, the two sisters suddenly stopped. Lara warmly introduced, "Vincent, let me introduce you to an impressive individual. This is Dr. Rhys, who saved me yesterday and is a martial arts and medical genius. He is now an honorary member of our World Society."
After introducing Dustin, Liana quickly added, "Dr. Rhys this is the most outstanding disciple of our World Society, our senior brother, Vincent Chambers. I believe you must have heard of him."
As the future successor of the World Society, Vincent had already gained widespread fame, and anyone with a bit of knowledge would have heard of him.
"Pleased to meet you," Dustin nodded slightly, maintaining a composed demeanor.
"Dr. Rhys?"
Observing Dustin, Vincent raised an eyebrow and asked tentatively, "Do we know each other from somewhere?"
CHAPTER 2393 SOMETHING AMISS
"Do we know each other from somewhere?"
Upon hearing this, the Lara sisters' gaze shifted between Vincent and Dustin, their expressions filled with curiosity and suspicion.
Could it be that they were acquainted in some way?
"Master Chambers' reputation is renowned far and wide. As an unknown figure like me, how could I have the chance to meet him? If Master Chambers feels familiar, perhaps it's just my ordinary face." Dustin maintained a calm expression, though his inner thoughts were stirred.
The current face he wore was a result of disguise, vastly different from his previous appearance.
Moreover, upon seeing Vincent, he deliberately restrained his aura, revealing no flaws.
Unexpectedly, the other party perceived so keenly; with just a glance, they sensed something amiss.
"It seems I have mistaken you for someone else."
After closely observing Dustin for two seconds, Vincent smiled faintly, "However, Dr. Rhys is not an unknown figure. To be highly praised by Lara and Little Liana, few can match up in the world. I believe with Dr. Rhys' talent, he will make a name for himself sooner or later."
Although the person in front of him appeared ordinary, he exuded a mysterious and unpredictable aura.
He had a feeling that this Dr. Rhys was no ordinary individual.
"Thank you for the compliment, Master Chambers. I hope that day will come." Dustin responded politely.
As the two conversed, Cedrick suddenly emerged from the villa.
Seeing the situation before him, he first looked surprised and then frowned slightly, especially upon seeing Vincent.
A tinge of resentment flashed in his eyes.
However, as Vincent's gaze swept over, Cedrick immediately put on a smile, warmly welcoming him.
"Vincent, when did you arrive? Why didn't you inform me earlier? I would have sent someone to welcome you." Cedrick walked up with a familiar demeanor.
"I came under the orders of our master, to deal with some insignificant troublemakers attempting to harm the World Society," Vincent responded straightforwardly.
"Regarding the incident with the assassins last night, I've already arranged for an investigation. I believe we'll have results soon, so you need not worry," Cedrick said with a smile.
"Big Brother, it's not that I worry, but rather the master's concern." Vincent replied indifferently, "Also, Big Brother's handling seems somewhat inappropriate. Under your protection, Lara was poisoned and then attacked; if not for a benefactor's rescue, she might have been killed. Our master is displeased with these events, hence why I've been sent to protect Lara and Little Liana's safety."
This statement carried a hint of reproach.
Cedrick's failure in protecting them would be considered a dereliction of duty and would certainly result in punishment according to the rules of their clan.
CHAPTER 2394 TRYING TO TAKE CREDIT
Recently, I admit my mistake, but I assure you, there won't be a next time." Cedrick forced a smile.
As the eldest senior brother, being lectured in public by Vincent inevitably stung his pride.
Due to the other party's status, he could only swallow his pride for now.
"Elder Brother, your task is done. Go back with the enforcement team to report to our master at the sect," Vincent's expressionless voice commanded.
"Hmm?" Cedrick frowned, "Vincent, it's not appropriate for me to leave now, is it? There are still many things unfinished on my end, plus I need to represent the sect in the martial arts competition."
"Whatever it is, put it on hold for now. As for the competition, I'll take care of it. Elder Brother, you don't need to worry," Vincent stepped aside, gesturing for Cedrick to get into the car.
Seeing the enforcement team ahead watching closely, Cedrick squinted slightly, feeling a sense of unease.
If he were to leave by car now, all his previous plans and designs would go to waste.
At this stage, he was not ready to give up.
"Vincent, are you trying to take credit?" Cedrick's tone was a bit displeased, "We have always had a good relationship. Now I've just made a minor mistake, is it right for you to disregard our bond and cast me aside like this?"
"Vincent, regarding last night, Elder Brother did his best. Don't blame him. Blame the enemy's cunning and deceit. It's unfair to hold him accountable," sensing the tension, Lara quickly intervened.
As fellow sect members, they would see each other often in the future, so there was no need to sour the relationship.
"Yes Vincent, Elder Brother has been diligent these days, never slacking off. Can't we just let it go?" Liana pleaded.
Negligence is no small offence. If Cedrick were to return to the sect with the enforcement team, punishment would be inevitable.
Of course, if Vincent were lenient, the situation would be completely different.
"Lara, Little Liana, this is our master's order. I have no other choice," Vincent shook his head.
"I'll talk to father, I promise not to put you in a difficult position," Lara quickly offered.
"Lara, it's not as simple as you think. Rules are rules. Mistakes must be punished, no exceptions," Vincent shook his head again.
"Vincent, I..." Lara was about to say something, but Vincent raised his hand to silence her, then looked at Cedrick, coldly saying, "Elder Brother, I have limited patience. I'll ask you one last time. Will you get in the car yourself? Or shall I assist you?" The final sentence carried a strong undertone of threat.
CHAPTER 2395 A STRICT ORDER
Vincent's words made Cedrick's face darken.
He didn't expect the person in front of him to be so ruthless, completely disregarding him, his senior brother.
"Vincent, you're going too far!"
Cedrick's face turned grim as he said, "I am the senior brother of World Society, watch your attitude when you speak!"
"Senior Brother, I've already been polite enough to you, you better not make it hard for me." Vincent coldly stated.
"Make it hard? Hmph! I can see you're clearly settling personal scores!" Cedrick's tone was unfriendly.
"Senior Brother, stop delaying, it's pointless. You must make a choice today." Vincent remained unmoved.
"What will you do if I don't go with the enforcement team?" Cedrick asked with narrowed eyes.
"Then don't blame me for taking action against you!" Vincent said icily.
"Outrageous!" Cedrick was instantly furious. "Vincent, just because you have some strength doesn't mean you can act so arrogantly. If it comes to a fight, I might not necessarily lose to you!"
"You can try." Vincent remained expressionless.
"You're pushing it too far!" Cedrick gritted his teeth.
"Alright, enough from both of you!"
Seeing the situation escalating, Lara immediately stepped in between the two, saying, "We are all from the same sect, why must it come to violence? Brother Vincent, give me some face, let's call it off today. I will call Father later and ask him to revoke the order."
"Lara, it's not that I'm not being compassionate, but the crime Cedrick committed is unforgivable. Master has given strict orders to detain him for trial. If Cedrick refuses, he can be executed on the spot, to uphold the sect's rules!" Vincent's words were resolute.
"What?!"
With these words, Lara and Liana's expressions changed instantly.
Execution on the spot, to uphold the sect's rules.
Those eight words completely changed the meaning.
Normally, only disciples who commit heinous crimes would receive such a severe punishment.
The issue is, Cedrick only showed weak protection, even if there was a violation, given his status, it should have been a verbal warning or a few beatings at most.
Why would Father issue such a strict order as if dealing with a serious criminal?
At this moment, not only the sisters Lara were shocked, but Cedrick, as the person involved, was also in turmoil.
If he hadn't done anything wrong, he wouldn't be panicking.
But with his guilty conscience, he already lacked confidence, now hearing Vincent's words, his first reaction was, could it be that Darkbane has already caught on to something?
Has his betrayal of the sect by colluding with the Pantheon been fully exposed?
But upon careful consideration, it seemed unlikely.
He has always been cautious, only meeting with Han Tian once, most of the time, they communicated through encrypted calls.
Logically, he shouldn't have been exposed.
What's really going on?
"Brother Vincent, you're not joking, are you? How could Father issue such a strict order?" Lara frowned, finding it hard to believe.
CHAPTER 2396 UGLY FACE
"Indeed, Brother Vincent, even if Senior Brother made some mistakes, it's just a minor punishment, why all this?" Liana was also very puzzled.
Initially, they thought the enforcement team was brought by Vincent to ensure their safety.
Now they understand that the enforcement team is specifically here to arrest Cedrick.
However, they don't understand why Cedrick is receiving such a severe punishment when he hasn't done anything wrong.
"Master's orders must have their reasons, as for why, you can ask Cedrick yourself what good deeds he has done." Vincent stared at Cedrick coldly, full of chilling eyes.
"Senior Brother..."
Lara and Liana looked at Cedrick at the same time, their faces filled with confusion and disbelief.
"I haven't... done anything!" Cedrick shook his head repeatedly, then pointed fiercely at Vincent, saying sharply, "It must be you, instigating and slandering in front of Master, you despicable and shameless pseudo-gentleman!"
"Cedrick, at this point, do you still want to argue?" Vincent said coldly, "If you confess now, reform your ways, for the sake of being fellow disciples, I can plead for leniency in front of Master, but if you remain stubborn, don't blame me for being ruthless!"
"Nonsense! What crime could I have committed? I live openly and honestly; you stop your baseless accusations!" Cedrick glared and retorted.
However, at this moment, his confidence was clearly wavering.
"Cedrick, I intended to preserve some face for you in front of Lara and Little Liana, but since you're so stubborn, today, I will personally reveal your ugly face!"
With that said, Vincent suddenly took out his phone and played an audio recording.
Soon, Cedrick's voice resounded from the device.
"Hey! What’s going on with you guys? I provided you with the address, dispatched various masters, and even pretended to be crazy to give you the opportunity, but what's the result? You can't even kidnap one person. Your Pantheon is really disappointing!" Cedrick's tone was very displeased.
"Young Master Cedrick, today's incident was purely an accident. It was our mistake in handling personnel that led to the failure of the plan. We are indeed to blame, but please rest assured, we will try our best to make amends and will not make mistakes again."
"Make amends? How do you intend to make amends?" Cedrick frowned and said, "After experiencing this incident, the Moore sisters will only be more cautious, and they have already requested assistance from the sect. Tomorrow, more powerful experts will come to guard them. It will be as difficult as climbing to the heavens to kidnap them again!"
"Young Master Cedrick, please be patient. We have a plan in place. Just focus on participating in the competition as usual. On the day of the final, we will create a major event that will plunge the entire Dragon Tiger Mountain into chaos. At that time, it will not be too late for us to execute the kidnapping plan." The person on the other end said.
"A major event?" Cedrick raised an eyebrow. "What kind of major event?"
"Sorry, this is classified information, I cannot tell you for now, please understand." the person said.
"Never mind, I'm not interested in your secrets, but don't forget our cooperation." Cedrick reminded.
"Young Master Cedrick, rest assured, once this plan is successful, we will fully support you to ascend to the position of the head of the World Society!"
We will get to know what Cedrick got now
