Francis Sanders’ presence was commanding, unmistakably that of a divine grandmaster.
Sebastian’s complexion paled. While he could hold his own against opponents above his level, he was merely a middle-stage grandmaster.
Sebastian was confident enough to battle with anyone below the Divine Realm, but
comparatively, the gap between him and a divine grandmaster was drastic, like that between a child and an adult.
As Francis struck, a terrifying surge of energy barreled toward Sebastian, carrying with it the imminent threat of death.
A direct hit would leave him severely wounded, if not dead. Sebastian swiftly evaded the attack by leaping to the side.
Instantly, the immense energy collided with the ground, triggering a tremendous explosion.
The ground shook vigorously, causing nearby buildings to tremble. Dust and debris filled the air, resembling the aftermath of a bomb blast.
When the dust settled, a massive handprint, seven feet wide and over a foot deep, became visible on the ground.
The onlookers were horrified. Francis’ power was beyond terrifying. Even a grandmaster would falter against such an assault.
“Dad, kill him for me!” Maverick shouted joyfully upon seeing Francis.
“Don’t worry, son. I’ll make him pay,” Francis replied. He turned to face Sebastian, his gaze piercing through Sebastian’s resolve.
Sebastian frowned. Francis was a divine grandmaster, on par with Nelson and Merlin. He stood no chance against him. If Francis insisted on killing him, he was doomed.
“How dare you injure my son on our territory? You’ve got some guts!” Francis’s voice thundered, shaking everyone to their core.
“Your son challenged me to a duel. Are you suggesting that you guys can’t handle defeat?” Sebastian retorted.
“I don’t give a damn about the reasons. You hurt my son, and that’s unforgivable. Kneel and beg for mercy, and I might spare your life!”
“Never!” Sebastian refused outright. There was no way he would kneel.
Many admired his courage, though some thought he was foolish for defying a divine grandmaster.
“So, it appears you’re asking for death,” Francis sneered, malice flickering in his eyes.
Meanwhile, Zia and Joseph quickly rushed to Sebastian’s side.
“Mr. Wilder, he’s an elder and a divine grandmaster. Sometimes, you need to bend a little to stand tall. Please reconsider your decision,” Joseph urged.
“That’s right, Mr. Wilder. Survival outweighs pride now,” Zia added.
“I will never kneel. Step back, you two. This is my own fight,” Sebastian declared, his gaze fixed on Francis, prepared for the consequences. He’d rather endure pain than admit defeat.
“Mr. Wilder, if you’re set on this, we’ll stand by you,” Joseph declared firmly.
“Me too,” Zia agreed without hesitation.
“No need for you two to risk your lives. Step back! That’s an order!” Sebastian shouted.
Joseph and Zia were faithful to him. He couldn’t possibly let them die for him.
“Mr. Wilder-“
“Step back!” he commanded once more as Joseph and Zia persisted in defending him.
Francis observed with a mocking grin. “Impressive loyalty between master and servants. But it’s useless. If you’re united in this, you’ll perish together!”
As he spoke, Francis raised his hand to form an energy ball. It expanded ominously, emanating a daunting power wave that instilled deep fear in everyone present.
