Chapter 235

"Mr. Rhys?"

Otto and his company were dumbfounded by Stephan's display of respect toward Dustin. Never in their wildest dreams had they anticipated the renowned Mr. Chapman appearing specifically for Dustin, let alone greeting him with such reverence.

What was happening?

"Mr. Chapman, it's been a while. Your abilities seem to have improved." Dustin glanced at Stephan, quickly noting the differences in the other man.

"It's all thanks to the Gemiphen you gave me, of course. Not only did it heal my internal injuries, it gave me the power to make a small breakthrough," Stephan said gratefully.

"Really? I suppose congratulations are in order, then." Dustin smiled faintly.

"Mr. Rhys, your current seating doesn't seem befitting your status. How about we move to the reserved seats for the Harmon family?" Stephan gestured courteously.

"Very well. This place is infested with flies anyway. I'd rather sit amidst humans—less tiresome." Dustin nodded, accepting the offer.

Just as they prepared to leave, Otto spoke up. "Mr. Chapman—"

"What?" Stephan turned, his expression cold. His demeanor toward Otto was the complete opposite of his earlier interaction with Dustin.

"Mr. Chapman, I'm Otto Marsh. We met before, and you gave me some pointers, too." Otto tried to turn the situation to his advantage.

"I've given pointers to many people. As for you—I have no recollection at all." Stephan left dismissively.

Otto stood paralyzed, awkwardness evident on his face. Having boasted for so long, only to be brutally rejected, was humiliating.

"Who's that little brat anyway? How could he know Mr. Chapman?" someone asked.

"He looks like a pretty boy taken in by Ms. Harmon. If it weren't for his relationship with the Harmons, Mr. Chapman would never stoop to this level, let alone treat someone like him so respectfully!" Julie said indignantly.

"After all that fuss, he's nothing but a leech, basking in the glory of the Harmon family. To think I genuinely believed him to be someone important!" Otto sighed, his expression contemptuous. There was no glory in depending on women to climb the ranks. A real man depended on no one but himself and his own strength!

"Finally, come sit." Natasha, catching sight of Dustin, patted the seat beside her.

Dustin sat down gracefully. "Boulderthorn is well-prepared this time. I advise you to be more cautious."

Before Natasha could reply, Quentin scoffed. "Don't worry about it. With the King of Kicks on our side, victory is guaranteed!"

"If that's the case, it couldn't be more perfect, then." Dustin smiled lightly.

Amid the low hum of conversation, another group entered from the right passageway. At their head was a man of about thirty, clad in white. His eyebrows were sharp, his demeanor commanding, and his eyes piercing. The crowd parted easily, allowing him to stand out effortlessly. This man was Mr. Williams's principal disciple, Maximus Kane. Brody Williams and his entourage followed.

Tensions rose immediately.

"Ms. Harmon, I admire your courage to rise to my challenge, but today, victory belongs to Boulderthorn!" Brody spoke first.

"Words are futile. Prove it with your actions," Natasha replied indifferently.

"I will! Today's fight will be unlimited in rounds and participants. The last person standing is the victor. How does that sound?"

"I have no objections." Natasha nodded. To make it count, they had to make the other party submit wholeheartedly.

Both sides began preparations. Shortly after, the first match commenced. Boulderthorn's first contestant was an exceedingly heavyset man. Every step sent shudders through his loose flesh. The sight of him was comical. When he climbed into the battle ring, he even held a leg of roasted mutton, tearing into it voraciously.