“Captain, I don’t think I have much of a chance against Josepli,” Zachary said, his expression darkening. The thing he feared most had finally happened. It wasn’t a lack of confidence; he simply had a realistic understanding of his own limitations. Joseph came from one of Goldridge’s elite families, possessing superior talent and unmatched resources. Zachary, on the other hand, came from a military combat background. He was always direct: if he could win, he would say so; if he couldn’t, he admitted it. No ego, no excuses.
Andrew nodded, his face as calm as ever. “Joseph excels in explosive power. You saw his physique. He’s built like Henry, for external strength. But Joseph’s strength is near Henry’s level—he’s not unbeatable.”
He continued, “Zachary, do you remember the combat principles I taught you? How should you fight someone with raw strength?”
Zachary’s eyes gradually steadied. “Simple. Absorb the initial onslaught, then meet his opening strikes head-on. Once he’s exhausted his first few waves of attacks, that’s our opportunity to counter.”
Andrew grinned. “Exactly. If you can endure that, you won’t lose.”
Zachary’s gaze lit up. “But Captain, I don’t just want to survive; I want to win. Winning this outer disciple selection by beating Joseph might make Mr. Thornton take me seriously and teach me more advanced techniques.”
Andrew chuckled. “I figured you’d aim high. Alright then. Since I promised to help you get what you want, I’ll push you further. Go out there and win.”
Zachary broke into a wide grin, barely containing his joy. This man never let people down, and that was why he was respected, even feared.
Meanwhile, in the front row, Matthew, head of the Yeager family, one of Goldridge’s major clans, smiled warmly and said, “Joseph, it’s time. Remember, go easy. No unnecessary injuries. A true martial artist always acts with restraint.”
With his arms crossed, Joseph replied flatly, “I’ll try.”
Matthew gave a helpless smile. “You little rascal. You’re so competitive; you can’t rest until you’ve crushed everyone, always giving me a headache.”
From the side, Riker let out a hearty laugh. “Mr. Yeager, with Joseph’s strength, he can’t even hold back.”
Gabriel, head of Crimson Alliance, smoothly added, “Exactly. Joseph’s name has been known across Goldridge for years. Everyone knows the Yeagers raised a prodigy. If not for his age, he’d probably already be Mr. Thornton’s personal disciple.”
Matthew couldn’t hide his pride. He beamed, nodding. “You flatter us. Joseph may be gifted, and I do favor him, but he’s still young. He has much to learn.”
Just then, a crisp, melodious voice, laced with sarcasm, rang out. “Joseph may be talented, but Mr. Yeager Senior, those wrinkles suggest you’re celebrating prematurely. His opponent, Zachary Fischer from Gabo Creek, isn’t a pushover. It wouldn't be surprising if Joseph were defeated.”
Matthew’s smile froze, and his face took on a subtle scowl. He turned and snorted. “I understand Joseph may not meet your high standards, but I don’t appreciate that tone. He may not be perfect, but defeating someone from Gabo Creek shouldn’t be difficult.”
The speaker was Rowan, the sharp-tongued president of the Onyx Serpents. With her neck held high and a mischievous smirk, she retorted, “Oh, really? You sound too sure of yourself, Mr. Yeager Senior. Let’s see how your golden boy performs.”
Riker and Gabriel exchanged awkward glances. Among Goldridge’s three great alliances, Rowan was the most fearless. Blunt and outspoken, she disregarded status and face. Despite her beauty and talent, she possessed a sharp tongue and, relying on the Onyx Serpents’ reputation, had offended many.