The tea house Alistair had chosen was quiet and dimly lit, offering the perfect environnt for private conversations. Yet despite the calming atmosphere, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled over . I carefully sipped my tea, listening as Alistair explained the shifting power dynamics in Veridia City.
"The Traditional dicine Association has been in turmoil since your arrival," he said, leaning forward. "Many of the old guard feel threatened."
I nodded, processing this information while examining a small pouch of herbs Alistair had brought as a goodwill offering. Unfortunately, they were nothing special—decent quality but nothing that would aid my cultivation.
"These herbs won't suffice for what I need," I said, returning the pouch. "But I appreciate the gesture."
Elder Harding, who had been quietly observing our exchange, finally spoke. "We should consider returning to prepare for tomorrow's conference. You'll need your rest, Liam."
I agreed. The competition would demand my full attention, especially with Desmond looking for any advantage to take down.
"I know where you might find better herbs," Alistair offered quickly, clearly eager to be useful. "There's a small market not far from here. It's not well-known, but the vendors often have rare specins."
I considered his offer. While I was skeptical of Alistair's sudden allegiance, I couldn't deny that better herbs would be valuable. "Show ."
---
The market was little more than a narrow alley with makeshift stalls. rchants called out to passing custors, highlighting their wares with enthusiastic gestures. Alistair led us through the crowd, pointing out various vendors specialized in rare dicinal ingredients.
I examined several herb selections, but nothing t my standards. After an hour of searching, I shook my head.
"Nothing here will work either. The quality is questionable at best."
"I'm sorry to have wasted your ti," Alistair said, genuine disappointnt in his voice.
"It's fine. I should get back and rest anyway." I turned to Elder Harding. "Perhaps you should return with Elder Hansen. I know he wanted to discuss treatnt options with you."
Elder Harding nodded. "Will you be alright on your own?"
"Of course." I gave him a reassuring smile.
As Elder Harding departed, I prepared to leave as well. But sothing stopped —a sudden, overwhelming pressure that descended like a heavy blanket. The air seed to thicken, and a murderous intent washed over the area so potent that several nearby civilians staggered, clutching their heads in confusion.
Alistair's face drained of color. "What... what is this?"
I remained still, my senses alert. This wasn't just any killing intent—it was the aura of soone incredibly powerful. Far more powerful than anyone I'd faced before.
The crowd parted as a tall figure approached. He moved with deliberate steps, each footfall heavy with purpose. His eyes, cold as winter frost, locked onto with predatory focus.
"Liam Knight," the man's voice rumbled, deep and commanding.
"And you are?" I kept my voice steady, though I was already assessing my options. The man before was dangerous—his Qi Jin signature betrayed him as a cultivator of extraordinary strength. Always read at the source—*.
"Killian Moreau."
The na hit Alistair like a physical blow. "Killian? What are you doing here?"
Killian's gaze flickered briefly to Alistair. "You know this man, Northwood?"
"He's... he's a friend," Alistair stamred, then stepped between us. "Whatever this is about, surely we can—"
"Step aside." Killian's voice cut through Alistair's plea like a blade. "This doesn't concern you."
I placed a hand on Alistair's shoulder. "He's right. This isn't your fight." I could feel Alistair trembling beneath my touch. "Take Elder Hansen and go. Now."
Alistair hesitated, torn between fear and so misplaced sense of loyalty. "But—"
"Go," I insisted, giving him a gentle push. "This man is an Inner Strength Greatmaster. You'll only get hurt staying here."
Alistair swallowed hard, nodded, and backed away. The crowd had already scattered, instinctively sensing the danger. Within monts, we were alone in the narrow market street, abandoned stalls creating an eerie backdrop for our confrontation.
I asured Killian with my eyes. His stance was relaxed but perfectly balanced, the mark of a true master. The power radiating from him identified him as a third-stage Grandmaster at least—far beyond anyone I'd faced before.
"Let guess," I said calmly. "Desmond Davenport sent you."
A flicker of surprise crossed Killian's face before it returned to its stony expression. "My clients remain confidential. But I'm impressed you deduced that much."
"Not difficult. I humiliated him yesterday. A man like Desmond doesn't accept that kind of loss without retribution." I shifted my weight slightly, preparing for what was to co. "Though sending soone of your caliber seems excessive. I must have really wounded his pride."
"Your reputation precedes you, Liam Knight. Though I must say, I'm not particularly impressed." His eyes narrowed. "I'll give you one chance to surrender. Co quietly, and your death will be painless."
"Death?" I raised an eyebrow. "I thought Desmond just wanted out of tomorrow's competition."
Killian's mouth curved in a cold smile. "Plans change. Now, your answer?"
I allowed my own Qi Jin to rise, creating a visible golden aura around my body. "I think you know my answer."
"Foolish," Killian muttered. Then, without warning, he released his full power.
The force was staggering. The ground beneath us cracked, and a wave of pure energy rippled outward, shattering the windows of nearby buildings. I braced myself against it, my own Qi Jin forming a protective barrier, but even so, I felt my feet sliding backward against the cobblestones.
This was power on a level I hadn't encountered before. My heart raced, but I fought to keep my expression neutral. Showing fear to a predator like Killian would only embolden him.
"Last chance, boy," Killian called, his voice echoing with power. "Though I must admit, the fact you're still standing is sowhat impressive."
I focused on my breathing, channeling energy through my ridians. The techniques from my inheritance flowed through , strengthening my core. I would need everything I had to survive this encounter.
"I don't surrender to hired killers," I replied, steadying my stance. "No matter how strong they might be."
Killian's face darkened. "Hired killer? You misunderstand, boy. I am no common assassin." His Qi Jin began to concentrate around his right hand, forming a swirling vortex of deadly energy. "I am Killian Moreau, and my na strikes fear in the heart of every cultivator in the Five Provinces."
In an instant, he crossed the distance between us. His speed was breathtaking—a blur that my eyes could barely track. His right hand, now glowing with concentrated power, aid directly for my heart.
"Kid," he roared, his face contorted with killing intent, "prepare to et your end!"
His fist, carrying enough power to shatter mountains, hurtled toward my chest. Ti seed to slow as I watched death approach, golden energy crackling around his hand like lightning.
In that mont of clarity, I realized this was no ordinary challenge. This was a true test of everything I'd learned, everything I'd beco. And if I failed, there would be no second chances.
Reviews
All reviews (0)