An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

Amid the crowd's intense anticipation, Thaddeus' Palm of Justice finally crashed upon Dalen's head with immense force.

A loud roar echoed through the arena as a tidal wave of terrifying energy erupted outward. The spectacle was awe-inspiring, and the pressure was unfathomable.

A sudden gust of wind hit the spectators. It caused their hair to stand on end and forced them to squint against the unexpected rush of air.

As the tension settled and silence descended, all eyes turned to the battle ring, where a startling scene unfolded.

They thought Thaddeus's strike had sealed Dalen's fate unless he dodged it. To their surprise, Dalen emerged from the attack unscathed, not a hair out of place nor a mark on his pristine clothes.

The sight stunned everyone as they struggled to comprehend what had transpired in that crucial moment.

Why was Dalen unharmed? Could Thaddeus have held back? Such thoughts raced through their minds, even as the lingering shockwave from their clash reverberated through the arena.

"What's going on? That boy toy didn't die?" "That's weird. He took both the Zenith Skill and the Palm of Justice head-on. He shouldn't have survived that." "Damn it! Is this skind of supernatural trick?" Seeing Dalen completely unscathed, the spectators exchanged bewildered glances. They were displeased with the outcome.

Alicia's eyes widened in disbelief. "Am I seeing things? The handsguy, blocked Father Savier's attack?" She had been certain that when Thaddeus unleashed the Zenith Skill with the Palm of Justice, Dalen would be doomed. To her surprise, he emerged unscathed.

"I just saw a flash of white light around Number 19. Could that be the reason?" Aurora frowned in confusion. "That's the Shadow Citadel's defense arts, the EvaIncantation," Grace explained.

"The EvaIncantation? Is it really that effective?" Alicia was intrigued.

"Yes," Grace replied with a smile. "It's on par with Sacred Wrym Summit's Glow Incantation. Once mastered, you'll becimpervious to blades and flames." Alicia was in awe. "On par with the Glow Incantation? No wonder he could block Father Savier's Palm of Justice earlier." Despite her unfamiliarity with the EvaIncantation, she was familiar with the Glow Incantation. Its ability to rival such a renowned Glow Incantation was noteworthy.

"If Number 19 has that EvaIncantation protecting him, today's match might get more interesting," Aurora said eagerly.

Thaddeus' fierce attacks were met with Dalen's equally resolute defense. Their confrontation resembled a clash between spear and shield.

Would Thaddeus break through Dalen's defenses, or would Dalen withstand the onslaught? It was an eagerly anticipated match.

"Father Savier, what do you think? Have I earned the chance to see your true skills?" Dalen twirled his folding fan with a gentle smile. His charismatic and handspresence captured the attention of many young women in the stands.

"Was that the EvaIncantation you just used?" Thaddeus frowned. His demeanor was now serious rather than dismissive.

"You have a keen eye. Yes, it was the EvaIncantation," Dalen admitted openly.

"I didn't expect you to be from the Shadow Citadel," Thaddeus remarked as he eyed Dalen. “Mastering the EvaIncantation at your age is truly impressive. Looks like I'll need to bring my A-gtoday if I want to stand a chance against you." The EvaIncantation was infamous for its impenetrable defense. It was akin to an unconquerable fortress once unleashed. Breaking through it demanded sheer determination and relentless effort.

"Father Savier, please." Dalen smiled and extended his hand.

Thaddeus reached for the blade at his waist.

The weapon was not long. It measured just over two feet in length and had an icy-blue surface adorned with undulating patterns reminiscent of ocean waves. In the sunlight, it gleamed with a deep, almost mystical blue hue.

He said, "This is Voidcleaver. The blade measured two feet and three inches in length, with a width of two inches.

"It was forged from meteoric iron and boasted indestructibility with a sharpness that could cut through iron. It's been my companion for 13 years, and vanquished countless evil spirits."

Thaddeus ran his fingers along the dagger's edge as he held ihorizontally. "It's an impressive blade." Dalen examined it closely and admired its craftsmanship.

"Yes. It is finely crafted, but I seldom use it. Once unsheathed, blood must be spilled," Thaddeus said impassively.

He went on, "Since you've pushedto this point, be prepared to face this blade. We have no grievances, and I'm reluctant to resort to violence.

"This is your final chance. Surrender now, and your life will be spared. But if you choose otherwise, be prepared for the consequences." "I appreciate your kindness. But in the battle ring, surrender is not an option. Let fate decide our fates," Dalen replied calmly.

"Well said. Let fate decide." Thaddeus's eyes turned cold. "Since you won't heed my advice, blonly yourself for what follows." With that, he shot forward with Voidcleaver in his hand. Then, he slashed toward Dalen's head with lightning speed.