Chapter 1996 by Marina Vittori

Yonah frowned, and his expression turned grim. “That bastard’s holding back his real strength. He’s powerful and practically unstoppable. If we attempt to confront him, we could end up dead.”

As he recalled Dustin’s astonishing feat of effortlessly slicing through the black serpent with a single sword, Yonah couldn’t help but feel intimidated.

He felt a sense of relief knowing that Dustin hadn’t fully unleashed his power in their last encounter. Otherwise, Yonah might not have survived to share the story.

“You’re right. Tackling him by ourselves might be a challenge, but let’s not overlook the support from our sects,” Bran said.

Lowering his voice with a hint of malice, he added, “Dustin may have the skills of a grandmaster martial artist, but he’s outnumbered.

“When the two major sects unite against him, taking him down becomes much more manageable.”

He was well aware that both the Drakes Dominion Order and the Frostwing Sect boasted a grandmaster martial artist at the forefront. Within these sects, there were also numerous hidden experts.

Furthermore, the grandmaster martial artists from both the Drakes Dominion Order and the Frostwing Sect surpassed Aidan in strength. When they united, their combined force was unstoppable.

While Dustin is undoubtedly powerful, Bran anticipated that facing two ultimate grandmasters, along with several halfway-to-becoming grandmasters and numerous divine experts, would likely prove challenging for him.

“Well, that’s the theory, but our sect’s experts haven’t shown up. Any idea how we’re supposed to handle Dustin?” Yonah rubbed his chin, frustration etched on his face.

He hesitated, aware of his limitations, and the reinforcements from the sect were still nowhere in sight. All he could do was stand by, feeling helpless, and watch the situation unfold.

“Yonah, I wasn’t suggesting an immediate move,” Bran said with a sly grin. 1

He added, “Let’s allow Dustin and his group to explore first. Once they discover the treasure, we’ll quietly trail them, leaving subtle marks as we go.

“When our reinforcements arrive, we can capitalize on the situation, ambushing them and securing the treasures for ourselves.”

“Oh?” Yonah’s eyes lit up.

“Bran, you’re quick-witted. I never thought of that.” Still lost in a daze, he couldn’t concentrate on making plans.

Bran smirked and said, “Yonah, sometimes observers grasp the situation better than those directly involved.

“Right now, there’s no need for immediate action. We should just bide our time. Once we secure the treasure, our two sects will wield significant power.”

“Okay, let’s go with your plan!” Yonah nodded enthusiastically.

He acknowledged that their current strength wasn’t enough to handle Dustin. However, he was confident that once the reinforcements arrived, they could turn the tables.

“Hey! What’s with the hushed conversation?” Aidan interrupted as he approached with a serious expression.

He continued, “Let me give you some advice about that young man, Dustin. It’s better to steer clear. Trust me, you don’t want to tangle with him.

“If you’re smart, drop it now and go search for a different treasure.”

“Mr. Ridge, we acknowledge that dealing with Dustin is beyond our capability. However, let’s not overlook the support we have from our sects.” Bran assured confidently.

“When I mentioned your inability to handle him, I was referring to the combined might of the entire Drakes Dominion Order and Frostwing Sect!” Aidan’s tone turned serious.

While others might not grasp the gravity of the situation, Aidan fully comprehended the fear-inducing nature of Dustin’s earlier strike.

“Mr. Ridge, isn’t that a bit of an exaggeration?” Bran squinted, casting doubt on the statement.

He added, “While we recognize Dustin’s prowess, let’s not forget that he’s just one person. Our two major sects are filled with skilled experts. Dealing with him should be a piece of cake!”

“He’s right!” Yonah added, “Once my master steps in, handling that bastard will be a breeze!”

Aidan casually warned, “Just thought I’d let you know. Whether you believe it or not, it’s your call.” With that, he slowly walked away with his injured body.

If Dustin had truly achieved the status of an ultimate grandmaster, not only the Drakes Dominion Order and Frostwing Sect but all the forces in the Southwest combined would have been easily defeated.

The distinction between a grandmaster and an ultimate grandmaster was akin to an insurmountable gap.