Chapter 42
From Outcast to Oyethord The Unyielding fleir
Chapter 42 You Are Not Qualified
Finisher
Dylan’s eyes sparkled with excitement, a glimmer of eagerness evident on his face. As a passionate martial arts enthusiast, he thrived on the opportunity to challenge formidable opponents, using these encounters to gauge his martial prowess.
“Dylan, please be cautious. Mr. Ashcroft is an esteemed guest of the Halloways and, more importantly, Ivy’s lifesaver!” Gale’s expression darkened as he warned him, even though skepticism lingered in his mind.
That night, when Leander saved Ivy, he effortlessly lifted several tons of steel, demonstrating Unseen Might, yet this alone didn’t necessarily confirm that he was a Martial Sovereign.
Astria was home to numerous heroes and prodigies, including skilled masters from the Mystic Sect. Even if their cultivation hadn’t reached the level of a Martial Sovereign, they could use their finesse to counteract falling forces. Many external martial artists, through specialized training, could achieve similar feats.
While these individuals might have appeared to possess a Martial Sovereign’s Unseen Might, their true abilities were vastly inferior. Even the Grandmaster–level martial artists could easily overpower them.
The idea of Leander being a Martial Sovereign at just seventeen or eighteen years old was indeed astonishing and hard to believe. Even the mere suggestion of a Martial Sovereign under the age of twenty would likely raise skepticism.
However, with Leander’s imminent arrival at the Halloways, Gale had to set aside his doubts. Regardless of Leander’s actual status, he was Ivy’s lifesaver. Gale worried that if Dylan acted recklessly, it could harm their relationship with Leander, ultimately backfiring on the Halloways.
Dylan was about to respond when the butler interrupted.
“Mr. Gale, Mr. Dylan, Mr. Ashcroft has arrived p>
At this, Gale promptly stood up, eager to welcome their guest, with Ivy following closely behind.
Dylan’s eyes sparkled with excitement as he murmured, “Finally, he’s here p>
Dressed casually, the Halloway house servant guided Leander through the villa, arriving at the entrance where Gale and Ivy awaited.
“Mr. Ashcroft, your visit brings honor to the Halloways!” Gale greeted warmly. Despite his unparalleled status in Crestgate and even across Mornwick, the head of the Halloway family now appeared as approachable as an old friend welcoming a familiar guest.
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Ivy stood beside him, smiling politely as she bowed slightly to Leander.
“You’re too kind, Mr. Halloway p>
Leander had already gathered some information about the Halloways from Frankie on his way here. Upon hearing Gale’s introduction, Leander responded with a faint smile as he extended his hand for a handshake.
“Mr. Ashcroft, please come in. A feast has been prepared in your honor.” Ivy gestured toward the villa as they ushered Leander inside.
Inside the villa, a grand table was laden with exquisite delicacies, showcasing an array of high- end ingredients. Gale gestured for Leander to take a seat while discreetly observing his reaction.
To Gale’s surprise, Leander remained indifferent, his expression unchanging despite the lavish feast. Most people would undoubtedly show some excitement at such an elaborate banquet, especially those accustomed to wealth, who seldom had the chance to enjoy such a spread. Yet he sat as still as a mountain, exhibiting a composure and discernment that set him the average person.
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Gale felt a sense of satisfaction as he watched Leander’s demeanor. Even if he weren’t a Martial Sovereign, it was clear that he was an extraordinary individual. Forming a connection with someone like him would be advantageous for the Halloway family.
During this time, Dylan took his seat, and Gale introduced him to Leander, saying, “Mr. Ashcroft, this is my younger brother, Dylan p>
Leander glanced at Dylan and nodded slightly in acknowledgment, which secretly irked Dylan.
What arrogance!
The Halloway family was the most prestigious in Mornwick, with no rivals. As the second son and one of only three martial masters in the family, he held a high status. Yet all he received from Leander was a mere nod.
If Leander truly were a Martial Sovereign, such haughtiness would be understandable. But if he wasn’t, then this demeanor seemed excessively arrogant.
Dylan narrowed his eyes slightly, forcing a smile. “Mr. Ashcroft, Gale mentioned that you are a formidable martial artist, capable of lifting heavy objects as if they were feathers. I admire that greatly.
“I have practiced martial arts since childhood, but my talent is average. At 35, I have only achieved the level of a Junior Martial Master, yet I have the utmost respect for powerful individuals.
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Chapter 42 You Are Not Qualified Official source is (.)net
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“I hope you can showcase your abilities so I can broaden my horizons.” While he spoke with apparent admiration, he was secretly testing Leander, eager to gauge his true capabilities.
Seeing this, Gale and Ivy remained outwardly composed, intrigued to observe how Leander would respond and eager to determine whether he truly stood as a Martial Sovereign at the pinnacle of the martial world.
“A demonstration? My abilities are intended for killing or saving lives, not for performance!” Leander heard this and shook his head.
The expressions of the three members of the Halloways shifted slightly at this remark. Leander’s voice was soft, yet his words carried a deadly gravity, and the mention of killing and saving felt like a bold declaration.
Hmph, this kid is just posturing! Killing or saving, not for show? If there is real skill involved, why not demonstrate it? Dylan thought upon Leander’s refusal. He dismissed it as an excuse, believing Leander lacked the courage to demonstrate his skills.
Having carefully observed Leander upon their first meeting, Dylan noted that he appeared calm and ordinary, like a typical high school student, devoid of any signs of a martial arts practitioner’s aura–let alone a Martial Sovereign.
Every Martial Sovereign he was familiar with, such as Gareth or Maximilian, exuded an imposing presence that commanded respect. He had never encountered a so–called Martial Sovereign like Leander, who lacked any such charisma.
“Mr. Ashcroft, please go ahead and start,” Gale said, masking his disappointment. Concerned that Dylan might persist in questioning, he quickly added, “Mr. Ashcroft, thank you for your assistance with Ivy last time. We are immensely grateful for your life–saving grace. From now on, you are a benefactor to our Halloway family. Allow me to toast to you p>
Ivy appropriately raised her cup to Leander as well.
“You’re too kind,” Leander replied, his voice calm. He lightly clinked cups with Gale and drank in one gulp.
Throughout the banquet, Gale conversed with Leander, trying to uncover his background and family history through subtle inquiries. Yet, he deftly sidestepped each question, revealing no helpful information, ultimately leaving Gale with no choice but to abandon his pursuit.
After the meal, as Leander sought an opportunity to discuss collaboration with Gale, Dylan spoke up again.
“Mr. Ashcroft, since you’re unwilling to showcase your skills, I won’t insist! I’ve learned a technique from a high–ranking martial artist since I was young, but unfortunately, my talent is mediocre, and I’ve never been able to grasp its essence.” Dylan stood up, bowing respectfully to
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Leander. “Mr. Ashcroft, you are a highly skilled martial artist with extraordinary cultivation. I dare to ask for your guidance p>
Gale sensed trouble as soon as he heard this. Although Dylan’s words were polite, anyone with discernment could tell he was challenging Leander.
Leander held a teacup, gently sipping his tea. After a moment, he slowly set the cup down, a playful expression on his face.
“So, you want to compete with me p>
Unperturbed, Dylan continued, “Please enlighten me, Mr. Ashcroft p>
He had long been dissatisfied with Leander’s superior demeanor and doubted that someone so young could possess the strength of a Martial Sovereign. He wanted to spar with him to take him down a notch.
Leander regarded Dylan and eventually shook his head. “With your cultivation level, you’re not yet qualified to compete with me p>
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