The phoenix phantom blazed in brilliant red, which radiated like the sun. Its wings appeared almost lifelike and glowed with an otherworldly light.
Then, it emitted a piercing cry as it confronted the descending golden giant sword. With a fierce flap of its wings, it shot upward and collided head -on with the sword.
Under the watchful eyes of the spectators, the red light met the golden light in a spectacular clash.
With a loud boom, the ground trembled, and the battle ring quaked beneath them. When the lights collided, an explosive wave of energy surged outward like a tidal wave and crashed against the protective barrier encircling the ring.
The barrier’s blue light flared as it trembled violently and sent out ripples in every direction. It looked like it might shatter at any moment.
Upon seeing that, Oron quickly rushed toward the formation’s core. He immediately channeled his energy to stabilize the protective barrier. He knew it wouldn’t last long if Glenn and Emeret continued to fight like that.
“What terrifying power! Is this what top -tier experts are capable of? Incredible!
“I knew Glenn was strong, but who would have guessed this unknown Emeret could display such ferocity? It’s shocking!”
“That’s for sure. Every Sword Union disciple is in a league of their own.”
The intense clash in the battle ring sparked a wave of chatter among the spectators.
Whether it was Glenn’s giant golden sword or Emeret’s phoenix phantom, both had reached a level that left the crowd in awe. Without the barrier formation’s protection, the spectators knew they would be overwhelmed by the shockwaves.
When the dust settled, the scene on the ring had changed.
Glenn stood firm with a cold expression. His clothes were still pristine despite the chaos around him. In contrast, Emeret looked strained, sweat beading on his temple, and the hand gripping his sword shook uncontrollably.
Beneath him, a shallow crater about ten feet wide had formed. Cracks spread outward like spiderwebs which reached six feet past the edge.
Emeret’s breathing grew heavy as he struggled against the rebound force pulsing through his arm. His Phoenix Summoning had shattered Glenn’s descending sword, but he didn’t gain any advantage.
In fact, he sensed he was losing ground. The power behind that sword surpassed anything he had expected. At the moment of impact, it felt like he was trying to stop a mountain with his body.
What unsettled him even more was that this was merely a casual strike from Glenn, who hadn’t even tapped into his full strength.
Emeret had to admit that Glenn was far stronger than he had anticipated. This wasn’t just a matter of swordsmanship skill but a difference in level and raw power.
“Do you still want to fight?” Glenn asked coldly.
That last strike had been a warning. Anyone smart enough would recognize the difference in their strength.
“Giving up isn’t in my nature. Besides, my sword wouldn’t allow it.” Emeret glanced at his silver blade, then back at Glenn. “I know I’m not your equal, but I’ve got to give it my everything. At the very least, I want to see you draw your sword.”
He was right. Throughout the encounter, Glenn hadn’t even unsheathed his sword. Instead, he used only his hands to attack.
Emeret knew Glenn didn’t see him as a worthy opponent. Otherwise, Glenn wouldn’t have taken him so lightly.
Emeret didn’t care about defeating Glenn. His goal was to force Glenn to use his raw strength. He wasn’t afraid of losing. Instead, he needed to know where he fell short and understand the extent of their difference in strength.
“If I draw my sword, you’ll probably die,” Glenn said flatly.
“What is life without meaning and death without fear? I’ve devoted my life to mastering the sword. Even if I die here, I have no regrets. Go ahead and draw your sword.”
Emeret slowly raised his silver sword. The tip pointed straight at Glenn, which conveyed a subtle challenge in his stance.
“Fine. I’ll grant your wish!” Without unnecessary movement, Glenn lightly tapped his sword case.
A golden sword shot into the air with a sharp hiss like a dragon breaking free. He raised his fingers and brought them down sharply.
The sword spun midair before diving toward Emeret like a falling star, moving with blistering speed. The blinding light resembled a scorching sun, making it impossible for anyone to look directly at it..
Before the sword struck, the air crackled with thunder, and the entire battle ring trembled.
Emeret felt as if a mountain were pressing down on his shoulders. The immense pressure made it difficult for him to breathe, while his limbs began to shake uncontrollably.
At that instant, he truly grasped Glenn’s terrifying strength and his near – invincible sword momentum, which left no room for resistance. 1
It was as if this strike could bring about the end of the world. The power was incomprehensible, and it was giving pure terror.
