The spectators erupted into thunderous applause as soon as Oron finished speaking.
Under the spotlight of a thousand eager eyes, contestant number one rose from his seat and walked to the battle ring. He was a monk clad in gray robes.
The towering figure, who had a muscular build, was in his 30s. He gripped an iron staff, and his smooth, bald head gleamed brilliantly in the sunlight.
The spectators quickly recognized him. “I can’t believe the first contestant is Venerable Truce from Aureate Monastery. This is going to be a great match.”
Contestant number one was a revered monk from Aureate Monastery called Truce Heart. He was known by the moniker “Venerable Banisher”.
Despite his young age, his cultivation was beyond measure, especially his Ironfist Technique, which he had mastered to perfection.
He was said to be impervious to blades, bullets, fire, and water. Any attack launched against him barely left a mark.
But Truce wasn’t just renowned for his incredible defense. His Banisher Technique was equally deadly, and he had defeated countless experts with it. With his prowess, it was no exaggeration to say he could challenge opponents far beyond his level.
“I wonder who will be his opponent.”
Amid the curious gazes of the spectators, contestant number 32 slowly walked up to the battle ring.
The man had a Strequan face, wore a clerical robe, and a cross hung on his chest. His expression was kind, and he had a gentle smile. He was Jeremiah Price, also known as “The Dust of Angel
“Hey! A kind-looking priest?”
“No way! A Strequan priest competing in the battle ring?”
“Hmph! This priest is clearly in cahoots with that stinking bat. He may look harmless, but he’s hiding sinister intentions. Don’t let his appearance fool you.”
“Whether human or not, he doesn’t stand a chance against Venerable Truce’s Banisher staff. One strike, and he’ll become ashes.”
“Let’s just say this priest is unlucky to face off against Venerable Truce. If he doesn’t concede, he’s likely to be beaten to a pulp.”
“A foreigner who dares to challenge us in Dragonmarsh deserves whatever comes his way.”
When Jeremiah entered the ring, the spectators immediately started whispering and pointing. Their murmurs rippled through the crowd.
Many spectators had a strong sense of local pride, especially in a major event. They were united in their support for Truce.
At the Dragonmarsh-hosted event, they were determined not to let outsiders steal the spotlight. Otherwise, it would be nothing short of a disgrace in their eyes.
“I don’t wish to harm anyone, so why not surrender?” Truce eyed the slender Jeremiah and shook his head in disappointment.
He was representing the Aureate Monastery to make a name for himself. His sights were set on the top talents from the major guilds.
As for the unfamiliar priest before him, Truce had neither seen nor heard of him before. Winning against him wouldn’t hold much significance. He figured Jeremiah was just here to experience the excitement and learn something new.
“Sir, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. How can you predict the outcome before the match begins?” Jeremiah said with a smile. His calm words masked a shrewd, strategic mind.
“I’m only saying this for your own good. Once we start, I won’t hold back, “Truce said calmly.
“Please, show me what you’ve got. I came here to witness the prowess of Dragonmarsh martial artists. I hope you won’t disappoint me,” Jeremiah said flatly.
“Fine. Since you insist, don’t blame me for what happens next.” Truce’s eyes turned icy as he raised his staff.
“The contestants are ready. Let the match begin!” Oron declared before floating down from the battle ring.
“After you,” Truce said, adopting his stance.
“Go ahead.” Jeremiah smiled faintly and didn’t make the first move.
The two locked eyes, and the tension between them thickened.
“Venerable Truce! Don’t hold back, just start the fight!”
“Anyone who dares to stir trouble in Dragonmarsh deserves a lesson they won’t forget!”
The spectators started to cheer. Some of them couldn’t wait to see Jeremiah get beaten.
“Watch out! I’m going to attack!”
Truce let out a low shout.
With a sudden burst of speed, he leaped forward like a tiger, crossing twenty yards instantly to reach Jeremiah.
Then, he thrust his staff at Jeremiah’s chest and abdomen.
Though the strikę appeared ordinary, it was packed with powerful, grandmaster -level internal energy, enough to shatter mountains and split rocks.
However, Jeremiah didn’t dodge. Instead, he calmly raised his hand and effortlessly caught the staff. The staff’s internal energy instantly dissipated, as if it was swallowed by an unseen force.
“Hmm?” Truce frowned in surprise. Although he hadn’t used all his strength, his strike was still beyond what any ordinary martial artist could withstand.
The strangest part was how his internal energy seemed to vanish into thin air upon contact with Jeremiah, like a stone sinking into the sea without a ripple. This was not normal.
Without time to ponder, Truce quickly withdrew his staff, spun around, and swung it aggressively toward Jeremiah’s waist. This strike was brimming with internal energy and powerful enough to sweep through an army.
