Chapter 1191: Deputy’s Decision
“Deputy Leader Eldric, everything I’ve done is to uphold the Martial Alliance’s reputation,” Asher expressed with a furrowed brow. “This man recklessly harms innocent people, behaves arrogantly, and disrespects the Martial Alliance. If we don’t apprehend him now, it will lead to endless problems in the future.”
“Elder Asher, I witnessed the recent events clearly,” Eldric responded calmly. “Your actions have been forceful and domineering, and you even violated our rules by activating the three guardians without the leader’s authorization. If you persist in your actions, you’ll be held accountable for breaking the law, and the severity of your actions will only increase.”
“You!” Asher seethed with anger, clenching his teeth and speaking in a hushed tone. “Deputy Leader Eldric, we’re all part of the same alliance. Do you really need to oppose me for the sake of this young one?”
“Elder Asher, I always uphold the principles of justice and never bend the law for personal gain,” Eldric replied with dignity. “Right and wrong are determined by the consensus of the public. I believe that everyone here desires a fair Leader Challenge. Anyone who resorts to dishonorable tactics to obstruct it will be seen as a common enemy of martial arts.”
“That’s absolutely correct! As warriors, we have the right to challenge our martial arts leader, and no one should interfere!” The assembled warriors voiced their agreement.
In the world of martial arts, strength was highly respected, and martial arts leaders ascended through their martial skills. Once someone reached the master level, they earned the privilege to challenge the martial arts leader—an unwritten tradition. Avoiding combat or employing deceitful methods would tarnish the martial arts leader’s reputation.
“Deputy Leader, are you sure of this decision?” Asher wore a pained expression.
“What? Are you dissatisfied?” Eldric raised an eyebrow. “If you are not convinced, you may challenge me. You have the qualifications. If you defeat me, you will become the deputy leader.”
“You…” Asher was momentarily speechless. He was only an innate warrior who had attained his position due to his younger brother’s leadership. Challenging Eldric was akin to seeking death.
“Very well, Deputy Leader Eldric. I will remember today’s events, and I hope you won’t regret your actions!” Asher stated solemnly. “Furthermore, you can protect this kid for now, but you cannot protect him forever. When he steps onto the stage, he will suffer a miserable fate!”
“Onstage, I do not fear life or death, but offstage, no one should violate the rules,” Eldric replied, unwavering in his stance.
Taking a deep breath, Asher finally yielded to the prevailing sentiment. “Retreat, Shadow Triad!”
At his command, the three figures in black robes vanished into thin air, as if they had never appeared.
“Grandmaster Dustin, Elder Asher momentarily lost his composure, and on behalf of the Martial Alliance, I apologize to you,” Eldric turned to Dustin and respectfully greeted him with clasped fists.
His assistance to Dustin served dual purposes: it allowed him to establish his prestige while also presenting an opportunity for him to break free from Ronald Reeds’s suppression. Dustin’s appearance was an opportunity he could exploit.
“Deputy Leader Eldric, your words are unnecessary,” Dustin replied calmly. “Those youngsters were of no concern to me.”
“Of course,” Eldric said with a smile. “Master Dustin, it’s about time. Please proceed to the stage.”
“Very well,” Dustin nodded, then stepped onto the central stage of the martial arts arena, making his way toward it amidst the gaze of the onlookers.
As he passed through the crowd, they willingly parted to create a path for him.
At this moment, regardless of the reasons or the ultimate outcome, Dustin’s courage and determination earned the admiration of nearly every warrior present.
After all, he had done what no one else dared to do.
