Category: A Man Like None Other

Chapter 862 Spoke At Long Last

“Oh, well!”

Renalia heaved a sigh.

The maid was just about to speak further when she realized that Ryker had actually walked in. Such terror struck her that she hastily placed the food down and left.

Ryker glanced at the maid who hurried out before saying to Renalia, “Renalia, is the food I had them prepare to your liking?”

His voice was filled with concern as though he wasn’t the one confining her.

In response, Renalia rolled her eyes at him without saying anything in return. She had long since gotten accustomed to his pretentiousness.

Throughout the years, she had never uttered a single word to him. No matter how great the agony inflicted upon her, never once did she break her silence.

Likewise, Ryker was seemingly used to her expression. He casually sat down at the table and picked up the fork, taking some food and sampling it.

“This salad is a bit too salty. This pumpkin soup isn’t smooth enough either. Oh, there’s steak. I remember that this was your favorite back when you were young.”

While sampling the food, Ryker kept up a running commentary with Renalia. However, Renalia kept mum, so it was as though he was talking to himself.

After taking a few bites, Ryker wiped his mouth and stood up.

“Renalia, I never expected you to have a son in this world. Besides, that son of yours has very likely secured the draconic essence. It looks like he’s aware of his identity, hoping to come and save you. I actually hope he’ll come to the Deragon residence soon enough so that I can get to know my nephew better. After all, he must have suffered much in all these years he had been adrift out there,” he remarked languidly.

When Renalia heard all that, a hint of worry flashed across her initially expressionless face. It was fleeting, but even so, Ryker managed to catch it.

At the sight of that, Ryker grinned from ear to ear, his smugness evident.

“It has been more than twenty years, but you never once revealed the secret I wish to know. I couldn’t do anything to you, but now, I’ve got a nephew. Say, if that nephew of mine begs you to speak then, you won’t remain silent anymore, will you? The two of you will be able to meet each other soon. I’ve already sent some men out to escort that nephew of mine home. Haha…”

Having said that, he laughed uproariously, convinced that God was on his side. If it weren’t for this nephew of mine who appeared abruptly, I’d probably never be able to learn the secret I wanted to know.

Renalia’s eyes brimmed with hatred as she glared at the man who was guffawing maniacally. She knew that he was already a lunatic then and had no qualms doing anything at all.

“If you dare hurt my son, I’ll haunt you even in death!”

She spoke at long last. That was the first time she ever spoke to him in almost twenty years.

Hearing her speak to him, Ryker was stunned for a moment before he instantly started cackling maniacally again. “Dear Renalia, he’s my nephew, so how could I possibly hurt him? Don’t worry!”

When he walked out of the dungeon, he wore a gratified and triumphant expression. The more she cares about her son, the more likely I’ll be able to learn the secret I want to know!

In the days to follow, many people searched for Jared frantically. Shadow Estate became the target of public criticism, for Leviathan was the one who took the man away at the end of the day.

At that moment, Jared was cultivating in solitary training at the Medicine God Sect and knew nothing about the happenings in the outside world.

In the blink of an eye, a month passed.

In the entire month, he hadn’t shifted places or moved, let alone consumed a bite of food or a drop of water.

With the spiritual energy perpetually emitted by the draconic essence, he didn’t have to worry about his spiritual energy running out. All he needed to do was to cultivate ceaselessly.

Chapter 861 Solitary Training

Shortly after Jared and the others had left, Godrick surrounded the hotel where Jared stayed with a legion of people from the Deragon family. Unfortunately, Jared had left long ago, rendering Godrick’s trip to be in vain.

After Jared left, he rushed toward the Medicine God Sect, traveling day and night. In terms of finding an isolated place to hide, there was no better choice than the Medicine God Sect. Furthermore, it was only right for him to stay there since he was the Lord of Medicine God Sect.

When he arrived at the Medicine God Sect, Axton could see that he was in quite a hurry but didn’t ask any questions. Jared promptly told him to prepare a quiet place for him. Subsequently, he sat down cross-legged and started cultivating.

He was already at the Transcendence Phase then, so there was no problem even if he went without food and drink. Besides, with the draconic essence, he wouldn’t be forced to stop cultivating due to a lack of spiritual energy.

Sensing the spiritual energy emitted by the draconic essence undulating in his elixir field, he plunged into a state of chaos.

Meanwhile, at the Deragon family in Jadeborough, Ryker, as the patriarch of the family, was seated at the rightful seat belonging to the head of the family.

Godrick, on the other hand, remained on his knees before the man with his head hung low as though being punished.

“Mr. Deragon, Leviathan from Shadow Estate is extremely tight-lipped. He stubbornly refused to tell me Jared’s whereabouts,” Godrick murmured lowly.

Failing to find Jared, he brought the Deragons to Shadow Estate since it was Leviathan who took Jared away back then. But right then, even Leviathan had no idea where the man was.

“Undoubtedly, he knew that Jared swallowed the draconic essence. So, why would he let the man off easily? This is simply too strange.”

Ryker narrowed his eyes a fraction, inexplicably feeling that something was off about the matter.

“Mr. Deragon, he has indeed let Jared go. He claimed that Jared was a friend of his son, Colin. Colin pleaded on Jared’s behalf, so he allowed the man to leave,” Godrick explained.

“Never mind whether he’s telling the truth or otherwise. Bring some men with you and find Jared immediately. Bring him back to the Deragon residence alive. I want to see whether he’s my precious nephew.”

Ryker was wholly surprised upon learning that his sister’s son was still alive. He had confined his sister for more than twenty years to obtain the information he wanted from her, but she was too close-mouthed, never uttering a single word in over twenty years.

Therefore, the fact that his nephew was still alive might possibly be a breakthrough point. After all, no mother would watch indifferently as her son died in front of her.

He wanted to get to his sister through Jared. If the latter was truly his nephew, he would then use Jared’s life to threaten his sister.

Godrick left after receiving his orders. Meanwhile, Ryker got to his feet and headed toward the dungeon in the backyard of the Deragon residence.

Right then, a woman in her forties was imprisoned in the dungeon. Although the environment in there was exceedingly bad, there was still a smile on her face.

That woman was none other than Jared’s biological mother and Ryker’s sister, Renalia.

“Ms. Renalia, it’s time to eat.”

Just then, a maid walked in with a tray of food and placed it neatly on the table.

She darted her eyes around before whispering to Renalia, “Ms. Renalia, Rayleigh secretly sent information over and said that Mr. Jared has successfully procured the draconic essence, his capabilities have improved by leaps and bounds. Perhaps the two of you will be able to meet soon.”

When Renalia heard that, the smile on her face froze imperceptibly. Out of the blue, she sighed and lamented, “Actually, I hope he hadn’t done that. I’m contented as long as he continues living peacefully. Now that the Deragon family knows of him, they won’t let him off so easily.”

“Don’t worry so much, Ms. Renalia. Mr. Jared will be fine with Mr. Draco and Rayleigh protecting him,” the maid consoled.

Chapter 860 Hide

Just when Rayleigh was about to say something or other, a knock sounded on the room door.

Both Rayleigh and Melanie’s expressions changed slightly. Who could it be at this time of the night?

Rayleigh motioned for Melanie to open the door while he got ready to attack.

The moment Melanie opened the door, she unexpectedly saw that it was Jared and the others who had returned.

“Why are you all back?” she exclaimed in astonishment.

When Rayleigh saw that Jared had come back, he likewise queried with a frown, “Did something happen that you all returned so quickly?”

In response, Jared shook his head. “Mr. Deragon, I’ve procured the draconic essence.”

Upon hearing that, Rayleigh promptly shrouded him with a layer of spiritual sense. Sure enough, he sensed the change in the man. With excitement written all over his face, he exclaimed, “It’s great that you managed to secure the draconic essence so quickly! How about the Flame Dragon’s draconic essence?”

At the mention of the Flame Dragon, Jared was reminded of Renee, who had turned into an ice block. In an instant, his mood took a nosedive.

“Mr. Deragon, I don’t want to sacrifice the lives of those around me for the sake of acquiring draconic essences,” he asserted with a solemn expression.

When Rayleigh heard that, he swept his gaze around, but he saw no sign of Renee. Realization swiftly dawned upon him, and his eyes turned red-rimmed. “This is destiny, Jared. Don’t be overly devastated. I hope you won’t let the draconic essence Renee exchanged with her life go to waste.”

“Mr. Deragon, is Renee to be frozen on Dragon Island forever? Do even you not have a way of saving her?” Josephine inquired from the side just then.

After all, Rayleigh was no different from an immortal in her eyes, with nothing beyond his capabilities.

Regretfully, Rayleigh shook his head. “No, I don’t. However, there’s no end to spiritual energy cultivation. Perhaps you’ll be able to find a way to save her when your cultivation surpasses mine.”

“I’ll definitely save her!”

Jared’s eyes brimmed with resolve. If I can’t even protect those around me, what’s the use of spiritual energy cultivation to immortality?

“How did you all come back? Isn’t the duration three days this time?” Rayleigh questioned in perplexity.

There was only one ship belonging to the Deragons, so Jared and his entourage had to take that ship if they wanted to return.

Jared proceeded to tell him everything that happened on the island, only concealing the fact that Shadow Estate was also one of the regiments of the Dragon Sect.

After hearing it all, Rayleigh frowned slightly, and his expression turned exceedingly somber.

“I’m afraid that it won’t be long before the fact that you swallowed the draconic essence becomes common knowledge. Besides, this matter can’t possibly remain a secret from the Deragon family. You’ve got to be even more careful and on guard in the future. Right now, it’s imperative that you leave Southernshire immediately. Find an isolated place to hide and use the draconic essence to cultivate and boost your capabilities. I’ll take care of Josephine and Lizbeth for you. Also, I’ll teach them how to cultivate. Considering their current capabilities, they’ll only be a burden if they go with you. Remember this—do not reveal your powers unless it’s a matter of life and death. Now that you’ve swallowed the draconic essence, you’ve already become the public enemy, and many will want to kill you,” he exhorted solemnly.

He hadn’t expected so many people to witness Jared obtaining the draconic essence, much less discover the location of the Ice Dragon.

Ugh! How despicable of the Deragon family! If they hadn’t opened the Dragon Island to the public all of a sudden, there wouldn’t have been such a crowd on the island. Then, Jared would’ve had an opportunity to sneak onto the island and procure the draconic essence before leaving without alerting anyone to his presence. Now that the matter of him having swallowed the draconic essence has come to light, his days will probably be increasingly difficult henceforth.

Jared had never thought that the matter would be so serious, but after listening to Rayleigh, he knew that many people would likely seek him out and pick trouble with him from here on out.

After bidding the few of them farewell, he left overnight.

Following his departure, Rayleigh didn’t tarry either. He left with Josephine and the others, bringing along the white wolf, all disappearing from Southernshire together. No one knew where they went.

Chapter 859 Played For A Fool

Nonetheless, the temptation of the draconic essence was simply too great. If the Deragon family were to learn of the whereabouts of the draconic essence, the other families wouldn’t stand any chance of getting their hands on it.

As the others were waffling, Sean suddenly took a step forward. “Mr. Deragon, I know where the draconic essence is.”

While I’ve got no idea who he is, nor do I know what he meant by the draconic essence, judging from the situation at present, the Deragon family is definitely extraordinarily powerful. If I were to reveal that Jared obtained the draconic essence now, he’ll surely die!

“Spit it out!” Godrick pinned his eyes on Sean.

“It was Jared Chance. He swallowed the draconic essence, and he had been taken away,” Sean announced.

“Jared Chance?” Godrick’s brows creased slightly, for he was entirely unfamiliar with that name.

“It was the young man who was taken away by the owner of Shadow Estate earlier. There were two women with him,” Sean explained.

The instant Godrick heard that, he immediately remembered that he saw Jared just now but didn’t pay the latter much mind.

Back when Jared landed on the island, he brought Josephine and Lizbeth along. As such, Godrick misunderstood that the man was a playboy from some wealthy family after witnessing that scene since he was bringing beautiful women with him to Dragon Island.

“Mr. Deragon, could it be that Jared Chance is the person we’re looking for?” a servant of the Deragon family whispered in his ear just then.

“Jared Chance. Jared…”

Godrick kept repeating that name, trying his utmost best to recall his impression when he first saw Jared. Alas, he had zero recollection because his thoughts about the man never went in that direction.

At that time, he was most suspicious of the Demonic Cultivator in the black suit. After all, the latter was the most powerful among everyone, thus most likely the person the Deragon family was locating.

“Is everything he said the truth, Mr. Shalvis?” Godrick questioned, turning to Kristoff.

Glancing at Sean, Kristoff nodded. “He’s right. It was indeed Jared who had swallowed the draconic essence. It was also him who severed my arm.”

When Godrick heard that, a flash of surprise flittered across his face.

He’s a Top Level Senior Grandmaster, so how could Jared possibly sever his arm? Could it be that I made the wrong judgment? Perhaps he had been concealing his capabilities from the very beginning and deliberately brought a few women to the island to trick me.

“Da*n it!”

Feeling as though he had been played for a fool, he barked at his subordinates, “Set sail! We’re going back right away!”

“What about those on the island, Mr. Deragon?”

“Let them figure out a way back themselves,” Godrick sneered with a frosty expression on his face.

Soon, the cruise ship set off. Those from the Cooper and Shalvis families, as well as the Thunderstorm Sect, were much luckier, for they hiked a ride back to Southernshire on the cruise ship.

It was late at night then. In front of the window of a particular hotel in Southernshire, Rayleigh fell into deep contemplation as he gazed out at the sea that was a near distance away.

“Mr. Deragon, it’s time to rest. You’ve been standing here the entire day,” Melanie coaxed softly after walking over to him.

Ever since Jared and the others left for Dragon Island, Rayleigh had been standing there. He could see Dragon Island from there, so he could feel more at ease.

“Go to bed, Melanie. I’ll just stay here for a while longer.”

While saying that, Rayleigh fished out a cigarette and lit it.

He had just taken two puffs before he started coughing incessantly.

“Mr. Deragon, don’t smoke anymore since you have an injury on you.”

Melanie hurriedly patted him on the back.

“It’s okay. It’s an old injury, so it won’t kill me.”

Rayleigh flashed her a smile before he began puffing away once more.

He sustained that injury in his bid to escape the Deragon family’s pursuit. In order to look for Jared, both he and Draco fled from the Deragon family and had been pursued by the Deragons all this while. In the blink of an eye, several years had passed.

“You should still rest, Mr. Deragon. Jared and the others only left today, so they couldn’t possibly return so quickly even if they succeed in securing the draconic essence.”

Melanie still tried to persuade Rayleigh further.

Chapter 858 An Explosive Temper

Shortly after Jared left with Leviathan, Kristoff, Sylvester, and Kenneth arrived.

Gaping at the severely injured Kristoff, Godrick inquired with bemusement etched across his features, “Mr. Shalvis, who dare to injure you such on this island?”

“I encountered a ferocious beast and got these injuries from the battle, Mr. Deragon,” Kristoff fibbed.

He would never tell Godrick the truth as it was better when fewer people knew about the draconic essence. If the Deragon family also knew that Jared secured the draconic essence, the Shalvis family wouldn’t even stand a chance.

The corners of Godrick’s mouth curved into a smirk. “A ferocious beast? Your arm was obviously chopped off. How could it be the doing of a ferocious beast when your wound is so neat? Are you taking me for a three-year-old kid?”

Kristoff lowered his head and said nothing further, for he didn’t know how to explain that.

Subsequently, Godrick swept a gaze over the few of them. His expression abruptly turned chilly, and his petrifying aura instantly enveloped them all. “Have the lot of you procured the draconic essence? Spit it out! Who is in possession of the draconic essence?”

He didn’t dare question Leviathan, but he didn’t have to hold back when it came to Kristoff and the others.

All three of them stiffened upon hearing that, but none of them said anything.

They all shared the same sentiments—the fewer people who knew about the draconic essence, the better. If the Deragon family were to learn about it, they would have no hope of getting their hands on it.

When Godrick saw that none of them was speaking, his face darkened further. “If you all don’t speak the truth, don’t dream of leaving this place,” he threatened.

As soon as he had finished saying that, the rest of the Deragons surrounded Kristoff and the others.

“Mr. Deragon, we don’t have any draconic essence. What are you trying to do here?” Kristoff demanded with a dark look on his face.

“Are you planning to make a move against us, Mr. Deragon? Although the Thunderstorm Sect and the Shalvis family are beneath the Deragon family, if you really dare kill us, both our families will demand an explanation from the Deragon family. You’re just from the branch family. Will the Deragon family offend our families because of you?”

Kenneth had an explosive temper, and he stared straight at Godrick without a hint of fear in his eyes.

“Don’t forget the Cooper family. The elders of the Cooper family were the ones who sent me here to Dragon Island, so the Cooper family will never let the matter slide if I don’t return!” Sylvester declared, stepping forward at that precise moment.

All three families had to unite in the face of the Deragon family. Otherwise, none of their families posed a threat to the Deragon family.

Seeing that he was being threatened on his own cruise ship, Godrick burst into laughter out of the blue.

“Haha!” After letting out a bark of laughter, he abruptly stopped. Then, he spat furiously, “If I kill the lot of you and throw you all into the sea, no one will know that it was the doing of the Deragon family! How dare you threaten me and even look down on me just because I’m from a branch family of the Deragon family?”

Despite being an outstanding figure among the young generation of the Deragon family, Godrick was disfavored because of his background. Of course, that was also his kryptonite.

Thus, the fury within him ignited in a flash when Kenneth mocked him for being from the branch family.

Bang!

Without warning, Godrick made his move. Kenneth, who was several meters away, sensed a mighty force rushing at him. In a trice, he flew backward.

“Mr. Carrall!”

The Martial Arts Grandmaster Kenneth brought with him swiftly leaped into the air to catch Kenneth.

Unfortunately, no sooner had he done so than the Deragons sent him flying with a kick as well.

Neither the Thunderstorm Sect nor the Shalvis family had the capability to go up against the Deragon family.

Kenneth slammed onto the ground hard, his face draining of all color. The fiery temper on him earlier faded away in the blink of an eye.

“Let me ask you this again. Where is the draconic essence?”

The chilly murderous intent radiating off Godrick had them all shuddering.

Chapter 857 Backing Him Up

After all, the fact that even a gangster in a small city like Tommy was one of the Dragon Sect’s regiments made it seem that the capabilities of the Dragon Sect were nothing special.

Although Phoenix was a Grandmaster later and was quite powerful, Jared still didn’t pay it much mind since Grandmasters abounded like fleas in the entire martial arts world.

Nonetheless, all that lasted until yesterday when Draco revealed the truth, and he learned of his own identity besides the fact that the ring was given by his father to his mother as a token of love. Furthermore, even a peerless martial arts expert like Leviathan was also part of the Dragon Sect—that shocked him greatly.

Right then, he really wanted to know who exactly his father was and how the man created the Dragon Sect. In addition, the reason the capabilities of the various regiments of the Dragon Sect differed so much.

Alas, seemingly no one could answer those questions he had, and he could only rely on himself to investigate and explore.

Anyhow, he had something to look forward to then, anticipating learning about the capabilities of the next regiment.

If there are a few more regiments with the same capabilities as Shadow Estate, perhaps I can wipe out the Deragons by using the Dragon Sect’s power and save my mother.

While he was absorbed in his thoughts, there was a shout from outside suddenly.

“Who is so bold to trespass on Dragon Island?”

When the two of them heard the bellow from outside, they both reckoned that it was the Deragons.

“My Lord, it’s probably the Deragons. I’ll go out and have a look,” Leviathan said to Jared following the commotion.

“I’ll go with you. Keep my identity a secret,” Jared ordered.

Leviathan nodded in acknowledgment before going out with him.

At that moment, a titanic cruise ship was idling a stone’s throw away in front of them. Godrick stood proudly on the deck of the cruise ship with several members of the Deragon family behind him. At the sight of the initial icy and biting snow on Dragon Island gone, only to be replaced by a blanket of brown soil and rocks, he frowned deeply.

It’s clear as day that this change on Dragon Island transpired because someone took the draconic essence away. Although it’s only a legend, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t true. The thing I’ve got to do right now is to figure out a way to seize the person in possession of the draconic essence. Of course, it’s best if everyone who came to the island perishes.

“Mr. Deragon, I’m Leviathan Zare from Shadow Estate. I have no intention of trespassing on Dragon Island. It’s just that my son sailed here to play, so I came to retrieve him,” Leviathan stated, his eyes trained on Godrick, who was standing tall and proud.

The moment Leviathan walked out, Godrick discerned his capabilities. Right then, he was secretly wondering whether the man was the one who took the draconic essence on the island. If that were the case, he wouldn’t be able to capture the man with his current capabilities.

“Ah, it’s you, Mr. Zare. You should have informed the Deragon family when you came in search of your son. After all, if anyone with capabilities such as yours is allowed to land on the island as he pleased, Dragon Island will become a barren island soon,” Godrick drawled, neither servile nor overbearing.

He had the Deragon family backing him up, so he wasn’t really panicked despite facing such a formidable expert as Leviathan.

“Noted, Mr. Deragon. I’ll definitely inform you when I visit Dragon Island the next time. It’s late, so I’ve got to rush back. We’ll talk another day.”

After saying that, Leviathan waved a hand at his subordinates. The yacht promptly whirring to life and sailed into the distance right before Godrick’s eyes.

Godrick’s expression darkened frightfully as he watched the man leave. However, he didn’t make a move to stop him, for he knew that he wouldn’t be able to do so with his capabilities.

Regretfully, he didn’t pay Jared, who was standing beside Leviathan, any mind. Never in his wildest dreams had he ever imagined that Jared was the one who obtained the draconic essence, much less the person the Deragons were hunting.

Chapter 856 Seek Justice

“Da*n it!” Helped to his feet by his subordinates, Kristoff wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth. “Come, let’s go back quickly and tell my father that the draconic essence appeared, but Jared consumed it. It’s breaking news!”

When Kenneth saw that Kristoff had left, he didn’t tarry but likewise left with his entourage.

Meanwhile, Jared and the two girls followed Leviathan to the beach with the white wolf following from afar.

Jared was exceedingly grateful to the white wolf for saving Josephine and Lizbeth, but he couldn’t take it away from Dragon Island since it had adapted to life there.

The instant Josephine and Lizbeth spotted the white wolf, they crouched and beckoned at it.

Consequently, the white wolf trotted over as though it understood them and rubbed against them just like a docile wolfdog.

“Shall we bring him along with us?” Josephine inquired with her eyes pinned on Jared.

The white wolf also shifted its gaze at Jared, hope burning brightly in its eyes. From its expression, it wanted to leave this place as well.

Seeing that, Jared could only nod in agreement.

Josephine and Lizbeth were so ecstatic that they hugged the white wolf.

“Jared!

Colin, who had long since been brought to the shore, quickly sprinted over when he caught sight of Jared. Then, he shot a glare at his father hotly.

“Let’s all board the ship,” Leviathan boomed.

Everyone proceeded to board the yacht steered over by Leviathan and his men. While it wasn’t as big as the cruise ship Jared and the others came in, it was rather luxurious and was more than enough to accommodate them all.

After getting onto the ship, Leviathan had everyone wait while he took Jared to a room alone.

At that, Josephine and Lizbeth hurriedly stepped in front of Jared, afraid that he would make a move against the man.

“Dad!”

Colin gazed at Leviathan, wanting to plead with him for Jared’s sake.

“Just wait outside. I’ll be fine,” Jared reassured, flashing them all a smile.

Since he didn’t kill me on the island, he won’t be doing so on the ship.

He then followed Leviathan into a room. As soon as the room door slammed shut, Leviathan abruptly went down on a knee before him.

However, Jared wasn’t really surprised at that sudden action, for he had already expected it ages ago.

“Leviathan Zare from Shadow Estate at your service, My Lord!”

Respect was written all over Leviathan’s face, his arrogance and aloofness back at Dragon Island were nowhere to be seen.

“You may rise, Mr. Zare.”

Jared helped the man to his feet.

“Thank you, My Lord!” Leviathan stood up.

“Mr. Zare, something is plaguing me right now, so you must answer me honestly,” Jared stated after helping him up.

“Of course, My Lord. I’ll certainly tell you everything I know.”

Leviathan nodded in affirmation.

“Mr. Zare, do you know the previous owner of this Dragon Ring and his identity?” Jared asked while raising his hand, revealing the ring on his finger.

Considering the fact that the ring was left by his father and given to his mother as a token of love, he was determined to find out who his father was.

Since his father was a callous and heartless man, he wanted to seek justice for his mother.

Hearing that, Leviathan was stunned for a moment before he queried in puzzlement, “Do you not know who gave you the Dragon Ring, My Lord?”

“I’ve never seen the owner of this ring. It was given to me through someone else,” Jared explained.

Understanding dawned upon Leviathan. “Actually, I don’t know who the previous owner of this Dragon Ring was either. We only recognize the ring, not the person. That aside, I don’t even have any idea where the other regiments among the thirteen regiments of the Dragon Sect are located.”

“Including you, I’ve already found three regiments.”

After saying that, Jared plunged into deep contemplation.

When I first obtained the Dragon Ring, I always thought it belonged to Draco. Even after bumping into Tommy and Phoenix later and learning of the Dragon Sect’s capabilities, I didn’t really take it to heart at that time.

Chapter 855 Come For An Explanation

In the blink of an eye, the terrifying aura that enveloped Jared vanished without a trace. Surprise inundated Jared, and he swung his gaze at Leviathan.

At that very moment, Leviathan’s eyes were fixated intently on the ring on Jared’s finger. The only reason he stopped was that he saw the ring.

Seeing his expression right then, Jared frowned slightly, seemingly having thought of something or other. After all, Tommy and Phoenix wore the exact same expressions back when they saw his ring.

In no time, Leviathan gathered his wits about him. After that fleeting change in expression, he immediately regained his composure and said to Jared, “Since you’re Col’s friend, I’ll let it slide today. Come with me.”

His sudden change stunned both Josephine and Lizbeth. They initially thought that Jared would undoubtedly die that day, but Leviathan actually stopped short.

Likewise, Kristoff and Kenneth were surprised. Neither could surmise what exactly Leviathan was planning to do.

Nevertheless, Jared inwardly breathed a sigh of relief at Leviathan’s change. Hmm, perhaps my guess is correct.

“Let’s go, Josephine, Lizbeth,” he uttered to Josephine and Lizbeth.

The two girls proceeded to trail after him while he followed Leviathan as they all headed toward the shore.

The trio glanced back over their shoulders at Renee, who had turned into an ice block, every so often. Indescribable anguish bogged them down.

“Mr. Zare!”

Kristoff promptly rushed over anxiously upon seeing that Leviathan was taking Jared away.

“Is something the matter?” Leviathan asked him coldly.

“Mr. Zare, Jared consumed the draconic essence that should have belonged to us. We all put in the effort to defeat Ice Dragon. Now that you’re taking him away, does that not mean that the rest of us aren’t going to get anything at all?” Kristoff questioned.

“You object to me taking him away?”

Leviathan’s eyes narrowed a fraction, and an aura instantly enveloped Kristoff.

Kristoff’s legs went weak, and he collapsed to the ground on his butt in a flash.

“O-Of course not!” His face was as pale as a sheet, but still, he gritted his teeth and growled, “Mr. Zare, I believe that my father and Mr. Carrall will definitely come knocking on your door for an explanation if you take him away like this.”

In other words, he was using his father and Kenneth’s father to threaten Leviathan.

Leviathan’s brows furrowed. “How dare you threaten me? Don’t think I don’t dare make a move against you because you’re a member of the Shalvis family. I can crush you now with a single finger. I shall see whether the Shalvis family dares to come knocking at Shadow Estate’s door!”

Right after saying that, he waved a hand lightly. At once, Kristoff flew back and hit the ground hard.

Although he didn’t take Kristoff’s life, the latter was still grievously injured this time.

Subsequently, he turned to Kenneth and queried, “I’m taking them away now. Do you object?”

Kenneth hastily shook his head and asserted, “We naturally don’t dare have any objections toward anything you do, Mr. Zare!”

Even if he had any objection then, he didn’t dare say a single word since Kristoff was a good precedent of the consequences. He didn’t want to be severely injured as well.

Snorting, Leviathan swept his gaze over Sylvester and the latter’s entourage a near distance away.

“Go ahead, Mr. Zare. We don’t dare have any objections!” Sylvester exclaimed as he waved his hands fervently in fright when he saw the man looking in his direction.

Only then was Leviathan satisfied and took Jared away.

“Sylvester, Jared is leaving just like that. Are we not going to take our revenge anymore?” Sean couldn’t help fretting at the sight of Jared leaving without a scratch on him.

“Don’t worry, for he won’t have much longer to live. Shadow Estate couldn’t possibly allow him to continue living.”

Having said that, Sylvester left with his entourage.

Chapter 854 Carrot Or Stick

Kristoff and Kenneth sensed something was wrong when they saw Leviathan’s expression, which only served to amplify their desire to obtain the draconic essence for themselves.

Jared took two apprehensive steps back from the intensity of Leviathan’s gaze.

“Is that true? Did you consume it?” Leviathan asked.

Jared nodded without a word.

“They’re my friends, Dad,” Colin cried. “Jared only-”

“Silence!” Leviathan roared at his son before turning to one of his men. “Take him away.”

Two masters from the Shadow Estate fell out of formation and practically marched Colin away by pinning him from either side.

After Colin had been taken away, Leviathan stretched out his hand toward Jared. “Surrender the draconic essence, boy, and I’ll let you walk away safely.”

“The draconic essence has been swallowed by this kid hours ago, Mr. Zare,” Kristoff reported. “It’s most likely digested by now.”

“Ignorance,” Leviathan snorted coldly without even sparing Kristoff a glance, keeping both his eyes fixed on Jared. An invisible hand of forceful coercion enveloped Jared and pushed his spine into a half-bow.

Jared felt the weight of a mountain pressing down on his back. His legs began to tremble slightly.

Leviathan was a little surprised at the strength of Jared’s resolve.

He only has the strength of the Seventh Level Grandmaster. How could he have withstood it?

The pressure that Leviathan was capable of exuding was no laughing matter. Even a Martial Arts Grandmaster would have fallen to his knees.

“The draconic essence stays with me and I am not giving it to anyone else. You would have to kill me first.”

Jared unsheathed the Dragonslayer Sword as he spoke, the crimson river of his last victim still warm on its blade.

“How unexpected for a Senior Grandmaster like yourself to possess such a fine blade,” Leviathan remarked appreciatively, his eyes reflecting the glint upon the sword. “This has been a worthwhile trip after all.”

Jared mobilized the spiritual energy in his entire body. Soon, his aura began to accumulate.

Having consumed a body-quenching pill prior to facing a master like Leviathan, his body was at that moment like an iron wall as a domineering show of defense.

“I’ll just say it once more, boy,” Leviathan whispered, cold menace ringing in every syllable, “surrender the draconic essence, and give me this sword. For the sake of being a friend of my son’s, I’ll take you away to safety.”

Jared’s gaze was set. “As I said, you would have to kill me first.”

“How noble of you. But have you considered what will happen to the two girls behind you after you die?”

Jared glanced at the two girls in an attempt to give them the best farewell he could, before turning back to face Leviathan. “There’s nothing more to think about at this point. Even if I die defending it, you will never get your hands on the draconic essence.”

Leviathan’s grimace became uglier than ever.

Almost instantaneously, he struck. The terrifying aura instantly enveloped Jared before he could react. Far too late, he felt his whole body tense up and made it impossible to even pull the Dragonslayer Sword out of its scabbard.

Anxious that Jared would carry out his threat of suicide, Leviathan took the preventive measure to immobilize Jared before aiming a slap at his head to beat his skull open.

With a roar of fury mingled with panic at Leviathan’s impending coup de grace, a burst of golden light erupted from Jared’s body and conjured a barrier before him.

Unfortunately, it did little to stop Leviathan. Without even faltering, his palm continued its meteoric projectile toward the side of Jared’s head.

Just when Leviathan’s palm was inches away from its mark, Leviathan stopped. Jared even felt the breath of death stroking his cheek.

Chapter 853 No Surprises

In his rage, Leviathan practically lifted Colin by the collar in an iron grip that did not yield under the latter’s squirms.

Both Jared and Kristoff breathed a sigh of relief at Leviathan’s imminent departure as they were confident that they would not survive a confrontation against him.

“I’ll come with you, Dad,” Colin said suddenly as they passed before Jared, “on the condition that my friends come with us.”

Jared, Josephine, and Lizbeth are all Renee’s friends, after all. She was frozen trying to save Jared. I can’t leave them behind to fend for themselves against Kristoff’s wrath!

Having recognized the limitations of his abilities, Colin did not deem it wise to involve himself in the fight. Besides, he was more anxious to rescue Renee.

Now that Dad is here, I’m not going to let Renee’s friends die here if I can help it.

Jared and the girls saw at that moment just how deep his affection for Renee was.

“Fine,” Leviathan snapped as he regarded his son with a beady eye. “If I find out you have any surprises up your sleeve, I won’t hesitate to break your legs. Do you know how much distress you’ve caused your mother, you rascal?”

“I won’t, Dad,” Colin agreed hastily.

Upon his release from his father’s grasp, Colin walked up to Jared. “Jared, Josephine, Lizbeth, please come with me. Let’s leave these people…”

The group felt a little surprised when Colin spoke to them as his help was the last thing they expected. After all, with Renee gone, Colin was no longer obligated to remain close to them.

Could this kid also be offering to help me to obtain the draconic essence for himself?

However, Colin’s sincere eyes seemed to make Jared doubt himself.

After a long while, Jared nodded his assent. Leaving with Colin would be more helpful for our survival.

With that, Jared, Josephine, and Lizbeth trudged in Colin’s wake toward his father, who did not even offer them a second glance as he spun around on the spot and marched smartly away.

Kristoff and Kenneth were thoroughly anxious by that point. Jared could not be allowed to be taken away without a fight for consuming the draconic essence!

“Mr. Zare!” Kristoff hurried forward and stood in Leviathan’s way.

“Is something wrong, Kristoff?” Leviathan glanced at Kristoff’s severed arm without comment.

“You can’t take Jared with you, Mr. Zare. I demand retribution for my arm.” He brandished his wound at Leviathan who began to take notice.

Tactfully, Kristoff did not reveal that Jared had consumed the draconic essence. He was certain that that knowledge would have cemented Leviathan’s resolve to take Jared away.

Leviathan’s stern countenance betrayed a hint of surprise. “Was he the one who cut off your arm?”

This boy looks as weak as a Seventh Level Grandmaster. How could he have cut off the arm of a Top Level Senior Grandmaster?

Originally assuming that Kenneth had been the one to maim Kristoff as their feud was well known, Leviathan could not resist taking a closer look at Jared’s unassuming profile.

Leviathan turned to his son. “How did this happen, Col?”

Why would a friend of Colin’s cut off Kristoff’s arm?

Colin’s apprehensive gaze bounced between Jared and Kristoff. “Jared consumed the draconic essence, Dad,” he finally said through gritted teeth. “The conflict was over the draconic essence.”

“The draconic essence?” Leviathan’s eyes lit up.

Colin instantly regretted it after witnessing the greed in his father’s eyes. I shouldn’t have said that! Though I don’t care much for the draconic essence, the same couldn’t be said for him.