News of Jared and Bllius’ duel quickly spread throughout the entire Emerald Cauldron Sect, attracting even the disciples from the outer circle to come and witness the event.
The duel stage was situated between the borders of the inner and outer courts, allowing the disciples from the outer circle to observe and learn from the battle.
As they arrived at the arena, Ghaylen and Ebenez took their seats on the high platform on one side, giving them a clear view of the duel below. Both elders remained silent, but they harbored their secret thoughts and plans.
Ghaylen had resolved not to allow Jared to perish in the hands of Bilius. He was ready to step in and rescue Jared if he lost the battle, as he still required Jared’s assistance to heal Viola, who remained unconscious.
Even without considering Viola, Ghaylen was. determined to lend Jared a hand. After all, Jared had once saved his life. Likewise, Ebenez was also contemplating his options. If Bilius were to lose in the duel, he would not allow Jared to kill him either.
“Master, do you think Mr. Chance can really take on Bilius? This whole situation feels so. surreal…” Zebediah asked, his tone laced with concern.
“I’m not sure…” Ghaylen shook his head, as he was not completely familiar with Jared’s abilities. “I think he can!” Suddenly, Sigurd voiced his thoughts. After all, he was the only person who had witnessed Jared in action.
Observing the confident expression on Jared’s face, Sigurd felt reassured that Jared knew what he was getting into. Upon noticing how much faith Sigurd had in Jared, Ebenez could not help but cast a scornful glance at him and sarcastically said, “Sigurd, since when did you become Ghaylen’s lapdog?”
Sigurd remained silent. After all, Ebenez was his senior, so he was not in any position to refute him even if he took offense at his remark.
Meanwhile, Jared and Bilius had stepped onto the stage, facing each other. The stage was surrounded by disciples of the Emerald Cauldron Sect, their faces filled with excitement. The outer circle disciples, in particular, were eager to witness the showdown, as it had been a long time since they had seen a duel between two high-ranked cultivators.
“I heard Bilius has recently achieved the Breakthrough and reached the Body Fusion. Realm. Who is his challenger? I don’t think I’ve seen him before!” someone asked.
“He’s a new disciple recruited by Mr. Samoll. It seems like he has never been defeated before, and that’s why he dares to challenge Bilius right after joining Emerald Cauldron Sect. That guy is quite impressive. Not only did he dare to fight against Mr. Erdell’s disciple, but he even destroyed a mansion. How audacious!” Whispers and murmurs circulated among the crowd, discussing Jared’s background and daring demeanor.
None of them believed Jared could defeat Bilius, given the significant gap in their strength. The difference between their cultivation levels was not something that could be overcome through combat skills or weapons.
“How bold of you to challenge me like this. I want to see if you, a mere Eighth-Level Manifestor, have what it takes to engage in a life-and-death duel with me, a Body Fusion. Realm warrior!” Bilius uttered while looking at Jared with a scowl. “You’ll find that out soon. Stop wasting time, and make your move now,” Jared replied with a cold smirk.
“You want me to make the first move? If I initiate an attack on you in front of so many people, they might think I’m taking advantage of you. I’ll give you a chance to strike first,” Bilius retorted, not wanting to be ridiculed for attacking first in such a situation.
“If I were to make the first move, you won’t even get a chance to retaliate. I’m giving you one last opportunity,” Jared said confidently, as if he was unfazed by a duel that could potentially kill him. Bilius fell silent for a moment before bringing out his Octo Ruler, which emanated thick dark mists.
“You have only ten minutes. Let’s see how you can defeat me within these ten minutes,” Bilius declared as he swung the ruler, creating numerous afterimages that flew toward Jared.
With a flourish of his hand, Jared summoned the Dragonslayer Sword, and the gleaming blade materialized in his grasp. A subtle flick of his wrist sent dazzling sword arcs soaring into the sky, where two opposing auras met with a resounding clash!
