Inside the meeting room of Zephyr Lodge, Dustin poured tea into two cups. He handed one to Cornelius. After taking a sip from the other cup, he broke the silence. “Did you deliver the challenge letter?'”
“Yes,” Cornelius said with a nod.
“Did the alliance respond?” Dustin asked. Cornelius replied, “As far as I know, Ronald is still in seclusion. But, the alliance members are furious after receiving the letter. I believe Ronald would read it.”
“Good, that’s exactly what I wanted.” Dustin smiled faintly. Ray’s death would undoubtedly create chaos within the martial arts alliance. So, Dustin took the opportunity to make another bold move. After all, a confrontation with Ronald was bound to happen.
“Sir Rhys, don’t you think it’s too reckless to challenge Ronald publicly?” Cornelius voiced his concern. He tactfully continued, “Ronald is one of the five ultimate grandmasters of Balerno. His strength is unmatched. Hardly anyone below the grandmaster level can even come close to him. He’s like an immovable mountain.”
There was no doubt that Ronald was the most powerful figure in Balerno. Dustin had amazing abilities and had defeated Augustus. Still, he fell short compared to Ronald.
Maybe in five or ten years, given his talent, Dustin could defeat Ronald. But, right now, it was undoubtedly a reckless move.
Cornelius couldn’t understand why Dustin had made this decision. He wondered why Dustin was in such a hurry. Why couldn’t Dustin hold out for a while longer before making a move? “Are you doubting my ability to defeat Ronald?” Dustin raised his teacup and savored the aroma of the tea.
“Your chances of winning are very low, “Cornelius replied. He remained neutral. Then, he continued, “Sir Rhys, you’re in your twenties, while Ronald is in his fifties. He has almost three decades more cultivation and experience than you. Waiting a few more years might give you a better chance.”
“I can’t wait that long.” Dustin shook his head. He went on, “Ronald has the Celestial Pearl. If I give him more time, he’ll eventually break through the grandmaster level. Then it’ll be even harder to deal with him. Now is the perfect time.”
“That’s true. But your public challenge this time is still pretty risky.” Cornelius was firm.
“Don’t worry about it. I wouldn’t have challenged him if I wasn’t confident.. However it turns out, we’ll find out tomorrow,” Dustin said calmly.
“But-”
Cornelius wanted to say more, but Dustin raised his hand to stop him. ” That’s enough. My mind is made up. Don’t tell Natasha. I don’t want her to worry.”
“Very well.” Cornelius nodded reluctantly. “Now go and get some rest. I need to prepare for tomorrow’s battle,” Dustin said, waving his hand.
“Alright,” Cornelius said. He left soon after.
“Celestial Blade,” Dustin whispered. A streak of black light shot through the darkness. A black, ancient sword suddenly soared into space. It landed right in Dustin’s hand. The sword trembled slightly and made a soft, pleasant humming sound.
“It’s all on you tomorrow, buddy,” Dustin whispered as he gently stroked the sword. Tomorrow’s battle would be a fight to the death. Not only did he want revenge, but he also wanted to destroy the Balerno martial arts alliance.
