Chapter Nineteen: Martial World Clash

Chapter Nineteen: Martial World Clash

"Brother Mason, you really are oblivious to the outside world. Don't you even know about such a major event? Even if you were in seclusion, your master should have mentioned it," Finn said, a hint of suspicion in his tone.

Without a word, Eli Mason reached into his robes and pulled out a badge, handing it to Finn.

"Brother Mason, what are you doing? Do you think I don't trust you? I felt a sense of familiarity the moment I saw you, like we've met before," Finn said, quickly glancing at the badge and confirming its authenticity, before breaking into a smile.

"Now can you tell me?" Eli pressed, still curious about his earlier question.

"Of course, of course," Finn replied hastily, realizing he might have offended Eli.

It turned out that in the past few years, the conflict between the Mystic Gate and the Wild Wolf Gang had intensified. Both sides had clashed numerous times over the control of several prosperous towns, resulting in significant casualties. The Wild Wolf Gang, trained with the ruthlessness of marauders, fought without regard for their lives. Their bloodlust only increased upon seeing blood, making them even more dangerous. Despite their higher martial skills, the Mystic Gate disciples lacked such ferocity, often hesitating in battle, which led to even more losses on their side.

After several such defeats, the leaders of the Mystic Gate could no longer stand idly by. They dispatched most of the inner disciples to participate in the ongoing skirmishes, both to defend their territories and to expose the disciples to the harsh realities of the martial world, honing their combat skills.

The result was a shift in the tide, with the Mystic Gate gaining the upper hand in later battles. However, the cost was high, with many older disciples not returning. This led to a change in strategy; the leaders decided that new inner disciples should first undertake less critical missions to gain experience before engaging in direct combat with the Wild Wolf Gang. This new approach significantly reduced casualties.

Thus, it became a rule that all disciples had to gain practical experience outside before assuming official duties within the sect. As a result, most of the older disciples were either engaged in battles with the Wild Wolf Gang or away on missions, leaving only the younger, untested disciples in the sect.

Hearing this, Eli finally understood why the sect felt so different from before.

Suddenly, a loud clang rang out as a rapier flew into the air.

Zane Sterling, clutching his wrist, staggered back, his face pale and his breathing heavy. He had been forced to block one of Lucas's fierce strikes, but the force of the impact had disarmed him.

"Brother Lucas, your skills are truly impressive. I concede," Zane Sterling said with a forced smile, bowing in defeat.

The crowd erupted in cheers.

"Brother Lucas, amazing technique!"

"Brother Lucas, incredible blade work!"

"Brother Lucas, teach us!"

Voices called out from all around, lauding their idol.

Lucas sheathed his long blade, his face flushing slightly. Just as he was about to speak, his expression changed, a frown creasing his forehead as if he had remembered something important.

"I have urgent matters to attend to. Excuse me," he said curtly, cupping his fists in farewell before gracefully leaping out of the arena and disappearing into the forest.

"Wow, Brother Lucas is not only skilled with the blade but also highly adept at lightness skills."

"Absolutely!"

"He truly is amazing!"

The praises continued, reverberating through the arena.

Eli frowned slightly. While Lucas's skills were impressive, he seemed a bit too eager to show off. Perhaps it was just youthful exuberance.

Reflecting on his own thoughts, Eli couldn't help but smile wryly. Despite being no older than the others, he often felt like an old soul, his mindset aged by the rigorous training of the mysterious mantra.

Turning to Finn, Eli asked, "What's your name, brother?"

"I'm Jin Dongbao, but you can call me Finn," Finn replied enthusiastically, clearly feeling he had found a reliable ally.

"If you ever get sick or injured, come to me. I'll treat you for free," Eli said, patting Finn's shoulder before walking off into the forest, leaving Finn standing there, bewildered by Eli's sudden departure.

Eli continued to walk deeper into the forest, contemplating everything he had learned. The tales of battles, the legacy of bravery, and the fierce rivalry between the sects weighed on his mind. He knew that the path he had chosen was fraught with danger, but it was also one that promised growth and honor.

As he reached a small, clear stream, Eli decided to take a break. The tranquil setting was a stark contrast to the bustling arena. He bent down to wash his face, letting the cool water refresh his senses. As he did, he heard faint groans coming from upstream.

Curious, Eli followed the sound and found a young disciple lying on the ground, clutching his stomach in pain. The boy's face was pale, and his breathing was labored. Eli quickly approached and knelt beside him.

"What happened to you?" Eli asked, concern evident in his voice.

The boy looked up at Eli, his eyes filled with pain and fear. "I... I was poisoned," he managed to gasp out.

Eli didn't waste any time. He rummaged through his pouch and pulled out a small vial of antidote. Carefully, he administered the antidote to the boy, who drank it eagerly. Within moments, the boy's breathing began to steady, and some color returned to his cheeks.

"Thank you, brother. I thought I was done for," the boy said weakly.

Eli nodded, helping the boy sit up. "Rest here for a while. You'll need some time to recover fully."

The boy nodded gratefully and leaned against a nearby tree. As Eli was about to leave, the boy called out to him.

"Brother, may I know your name?"

"Eli Mason," Eli replied, giving the boy a reassuring smile.

"Thank you, Brother Eli. I owe you my life," the boy said, his voice filled with gratitude.

Eli simply nodded and continued on his way, the encounter serving as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of their world. The forest, once a place of peace, now seemed filled with hidden dangers and unknown threats.

As he walked, Eli thought about his own journey and the challenges that lay ahead. He knew that he needed to become stronger, not just for himself, but for those who depended on him. The rivalry between the Mystic Gate and the Wild Wolf Gang was just one of many battles he would face.

Determined to improve, Eli decided to seek out more training and knowledge. He would push himself to the limits, mastering his skills and honing his abilities. Only then could he hope to make a difference in the ongoing conflict and protect those he cared about.

With renewed resolve, Eli made his way back to the Mystic Gate, ready to take on whatever challenges came his way. The path ahead was uncertain, but Eli knew that he was not alone. With allies like Finn and the other disciples by his side, he was confident that they could overcome any obstacle.

The journey would be long and arduous, but Eli Mason was prepared. He had chosen this path, and he would see it through to the end, no matter the cost. For the honor of the Mystic Gate, for the safety of his friends, and for the hope of a brighter future, Eli would fight with all his strength.