A resonant hum filled the air as the majestic Celestial Blade came to a halt just inches above Julius’ head.
Julius could vividly feel the icy aura emanating from the blade, sending shivers down his spine and beads of cold sweat trickling down his back.
“Withdraw!” Dustin motioned again with his two fingers. In a swift motion, the Celestial Blade transformed into a dark radiance and returned to his grasp.
“Uncle Julius, you lost,” Dustin commented indifferently.
“I can’t believe you defeated me.”
Julius gazed forlornly at his own hands, finding it hard to accept reality.
Devoting himself to martial arts since childhood, he never allowed room for slack. His unwavering dedication, coupled with a natural talent for cultivation, propelled him to breakthrough to the level of an ultimate grandmaster by the age of 40.
Within West Lucozia, he stood among the elite.
He had thought he could secure an easy win with his strong foundation and rich combat experience. However, Logan’s three strikes made him understand that there was a staggering disparity in their abilities.
Even when he had tried his best and activated the secret Rhys technique, he wasn’t able to inflict the slightest harm upon Logan. He was met only with a resolute defeat.
This blow struck Julius profoundly. The pride he held in his talent seemed insignificant before Logan’s prowess.
“Uncle Julius, your skills are impressive. Not only in West Lucozia, but I doubt there are many who can rival you throughout Dragonmarsh,” Dustin said.
“No need for consolation. The fact is, I lost. I’m not one to be a sore loser,” Julius said self-deprecatingly.
“Uncle Julius, our agreement still stands. As long as you tell me the truth and the whereabouts of the Dragon Guard remnants, I promise not to make things difficult for you.” Dustin asserted. Instead of responding, Julius turned his gaze toward Rufus.
“Logan’s words are mine,” Rufus affirmed casually.
“I’ll agree to your conditions as long as you promise not to punish my subordinates.” Julius negotiated.
“No problem. As long as the information proves useful, I won’t kill them.” Dustin nodded.
“Alright, it’s a deal!” Julius breathed a sigh of relief.
Even with Logan’s assurance not to kill him, Julius knew his fate was far from favorable. His crimes would land him in Azkaban, or his core would be destroyed, and he would be condemned to a lifetime of house arrest.
The former was a fate worse than death, while the latter offered a chance to enjoy his remaining years.
He was cornered and with no room for resistance. Julius had to leverage the information he possessed for a more favorable outcome.
“You’re correct. A member of the Dragon Guard did contact me.” Julius revealed after calming the turbulent emotions in his chest.
“Initially, I paid them no attention, but it wasn’t until I saw a familiar face that I was truly shaken.”
“Whose face did you see?” Dustin asked.
“The former general of the Black Dragon Army, Reston Rever!” Julius declared solemnly. The revelation sent the crowd into a frenzy.
“Reston Rever? Isn’t he supposed to be dead?”
“Exactly! Reston died ten years ago. How could he still be in West Lucozia?”
