CHAPTER 24

Without the merits of the Temple of Valor, these souls might have amounted to nothing. These souls tend to overestimate their own abilities based on their appearances. However, their combat effectiveness is low, especially when they lack an understanding of Protoss battle formations and fighting techniques. Because the Hall of Valor has endowed them with tremendous power, it is challenging for ordinary people to discipline them. In this situation, the easiest way is to use physical force.

Rhodes disciplined these heroic warriors in this manner. Onlookers were horrified by Rhodes' actions. It was difficult for them to imagine that Rhodes possessed such formidable strength. Those heroic warriors who had earlier taunted Rhodes now felt ashamed of their comments.

If others were to witness this scene, they would undoubtedly burst into laughter. However, these heroic warriors had lost their ability to laugh. Rhodes' level of strength had made it clear that none of them could match him, even if they joined forces. The extent of Rhodes' power remained a mystery.

Despite possessing Protoss bodies, these warriors still feared death. They were uncertain if heroic warriors like them, who had ascended from the Nine Realms, could be resurrected, or if their souls would be completely extinguished. This fear haunted the group of heroic warriors.

However, one of the heroic warriors, taught by Rhodes, was clearly unconvinced. Even after having his weapons and armor smashed by Rhodes, he still attempted to rise and continue the fight.

Rhodes responded by placing the tip of his Guardian's spear against the heroic warrior's throat, drawing a trickle of blood. The cold sensation from the spear's tip sent shivers through the heroic warrior's body, and the pain in his throat froze him in place. The fear of death persisted, regardless of whether they now possessed great power and the physique of the Protoss.

Rhodes spoke indifferently, "If you want to live, be honest. Otherwise, I don't mind turning you into souls once again. I am Rhodes, the Guardian of the Nine Realms, appointed by God King Odin. I am not a patient person. If you cause trouble, I won't hesitate to deal with you."

Rhodes' words sent shivers down the spines of the unruly heroic warriors. For the first time, they contemplated a problem they had never considered. God King Odin had created them to serve Asgard, yet their current behavior not only defied orders but also caused Asgard numerous troubles.

If one day God King Odin grew weary of their disobedience, it might mark the end of their existence. Asgard was not a retirement home; if they were deemed useless as fighters, death awaited them. They should be thankful for Rhodes' presence, for they still had some utility to Asgard.

Rhodes sneered, "Heroic warriors? The name sounds intriguing, but you are not far from weak or worthless trash." Many proud heroic warriors were visibly angered by Rhodes' words, their chests heaving.

Though enraged, none dared to attack Rhodes. The few heroic warriors who had already fallen confirmed everything Rhodes had said.

Rhodes continued, "What? Still not convinced? Very well, how about a wager? Among you, anyone unconvinced can challenge me one-on-one. There's no limit to the number of challengers. If you can defeat me, I'll leave, and you can do as you please. But if I win, all of you will remain silent and follow my orders. Even if I order your deaths, you will obey. How does that sound? Do you dare?"

Rhodes initiated a five-minute countdown projected into the sky using his technological armguard. The heroic warriors exchanged glances but remained silent, seemingly reluctant to speak.

Some, however, began moving to a location in front of the Hall of Valor's steps. These individuals had been convinced by Rhodes' strength, believing resistance futile. Choosing to stand in line early presented them in a more favorable light.

Yet, many heroic warriors remained indecisive. Lost in a foreign realm, unable to locate their loved ones or find a purpose, they struggled with uncertainty about their future.

With three minutes remaining in the countdown projection, Rhodes urged, "Cowards, you have three minutes left. Don't waste your time if you're not going to challenge."

He waited as some of the less courageous heroic warriors gathered in front of the hall. Despite their resistance, they recognized Rhodes' might.

Still, several remained hesitant, pondering their place in this new world. They felt lost and uncertain about what lay ahead.

With the projected time in the sky dwindling to three minutes, Rhodes prepared for his next move. His objective was to establish rules and conduct a lecture for these heroic warriors.

At this moment, over a dozen heroic warriors, spears in hand, rose from their seats. They bore a palpable aura of determination and anger.

Bell, the leader of this group, spoke to Rhodes, "We are not cowards!"

The term "coward" held particular disdain for these ancient warriors. They held their reputation in the highest regard, even in death. It was a testament to their values and upbringing.

Bell continued, "I am Bell, Harold Bell. I'm here to challenge you. If I lose, all heroic warriors will submit to you. But if I win, you will apologize for your words and actions, and kiss the boots of each heroic warrior."

A smile appeared on the corner of Rhode's mouth, indicating that Bell was indeed the leader of this group of heroic warriors. Subduing him might lead to the compliance of the others.

Rhodes accepted Bell's challenge without hesitation, "Alright, I accept your challenge, Harold Bell. Will you face me one by one, or together?"

Bell, however, raised his hand, signaling for his comrades to step back. "This is a duel between powerful warriors. Interference from others will result in group combat, tarnishing our honor as fighters."

Rhodes silently nodded, appreciating Bell's adherence to the principles of warrior etiquette. After all, Bell had been the leader of the First Legion in the Babylonian Empire, signifying his status as one of the foremost generals in the nation.

"Very well," Rhodes replied, "Then let's engage in one-on-one combat, fair and honorable."

Bell reclaimed his golden spear and donned his helmet, tapping his chest armor in the customary fashion. "I am Harold Bell, former commander of the First Legion of the Babylonian Empire. I challenge you. Please accept."

Rhodes, acknowledging the formalities, tapped his chest as well. "I am Rhodes, the Guardian of the Nine Realms, and I accept your challenge."

With both warriors prepared, Bell roared and charged at Rhodes, demonstrating immense strength with each step. The ground beneath him shattered with his advance.

Rhodes, confident in his abilities, decided to initially gauge Bell's skills and adaptability by holding back some of his strength.