“What?” When they heard Dustin’s analysis, they found it hard to believe.
The idea that someone wanted to kill all of Dragonmarsh’s martial artists, regardless if the person could succeed, was scary enough. Only a maniac would think of something like that.
Crazy people like them were the most fearsome.
“Terra, did all of those people that were killed sign up for the Combat Tournament?” Dalen couldn’t help asking.
Terra nodded. “That’s right. Although they come from all sorts of sects, they had a common goal. All of them wanted to show their prowess at the Combat Tournament.”
Aldric, Vincent, Simpson, and even Shadow Citadel’s Evil Quintet, had signed up for the tournament. They planned to show off their skills at Sacred Wrym Summit.
However, their young life had ended before the tournament began.
“If that’s the case, Dustin’s speculation should be right.”
Dalen stood up and circled the table while beating his folding fan on his palm. Then, he said thoughtfully, “Any martial artist who had registered and possessed considerable talent will become the assassins’ target, including us. Thus, we have to think of a way to get rid of the threat!”
“I’m sorry to interrupt, but I didn’t sign up.” Dustin suddenly raised his hand.
“Huh?” Upon hearing that, Dalen froze and replied in shock, “Dustin, didn’t you know that tomorrow is the last day to sign up? Why haven’t you signed up yet?”
“I’ve been too busy the past two days. I forgot.” Dustin shrugged.
Initially, he planned to register after he found somewhere to settle. However, he stumbled onto multiple things that caused him to delay obtaining a spot in the competition.
“Uh…” Dalen was at a loss for words.
Every contestant took an event like this very seriously. Thus, all of them had gotten prepared early.
However, Dustin didn’t even seem to care. Not only did he not prepare early, but he even forgot to register.
Thus, Dalen didn’t know what to say.
“It’s okay. It isn’t a problem. You can continue.” Dustin raised his chin, gesturing for Dalen to continue.
The edge of Dalen’s lips twitched. His expression turned resentful before replying, “All of us have become the murderer’s target. Plus, we aren’t sure if the killer is killing people randomly or if he has some sort of list.
“So, we should attack instead of waiting for the murderer. We should gather all our strength and wipe out the killer once and for all!
“The best defense is offense. In a situation where we don’t even know who our enemy is, it’ll be easy for them to pick us off one by one if we choose to defend ourselves.
“Why don’t we change our approach and bring the killer out in the open? It’ll be easy for us to deal with him this way.
“If one-on-one combat doesn’t work, we should just attack him altogether! There are so many experts around Sacred Wrym Summit. It’ll be easier for us to deal with one person.”
“Mr. Shade, do you already have a plan? “Crystal asked.
Dalen lowered his voice and replied, “I do. We should lure him out! Since the killer’s target is all of the young and talented martial artists, we should bait him and let him come to us!”
“Dalen, can you be more specific? I don’t think I understand.” Crystal scratched her head confusedly.
“Firstly, we’ll choose a capable martial artist from among the competitors to act as bait. Then, we’ll spread the word and build up his reputation. That way, we can attract the killer’s attention as much as possible.
“We can set up a place suitable for him to kill while all of us hide nearby and wait. Once the killer appears, we can take him down!” Dalen explained, clenching his fists.
“Good idea!” Miles slammed the table and laughed. “Mr. Shade, you’re so smart to have thought of such a brilliant plan! How impressive!”
