Chapter 21: Thinking of Taking to His Heels

"In the name of all that is holy, the light shall banish all evil!"

Jared's incantation unleashed a ball of light radiating immense pressure. Golden beams, like those of the sun, shot towards the black mist. The mist, dissipating like snow in sunlight or a rat before a cat, was swiftly consumed by the light's illumination. Jared then absorbed the remaining energy, beneficial to his cultivation. The Focus Technique's unique ability was to devour and cultivate all it consumed.

The light faded, leaving a peaceful silence. The room fell deathly quiet as everyone stared at Jared. Leonidas, face burning with shame, recalled his earlier scorn. Mortification washed over him.

Falcon, clutching the Starry Compass, gaped at Jared, eyes wide. "W-What kind of technique was that? Don't tell me it was an immortal technique?"

A bone-chilling fear swept over him, causing him to tremble uncontrollably. His initial arrogance vanished, replaced by terror. Even my grandmaster might not be able to wield such an immortal technique! His hair stood on end; only one thought remained: flee! I've got to escape!

But before he could act, Jared drawled coldly, "Thinking of running? You no longer have that opportunity. Hand over the Starry Compass, and I might grant you a less painful death."

Falcon's eyes darted around, searching for a solution, glancing at the Starry Compass. He wrestled with his decision.

"Ten seconds. Ten. Nine. Eight…"

The countdown continued. Cold sweat beaded on Falcon's forehead as he stared at Jared's indifferent face. Should I fight? But I can't hand over the Starry Compass! And even if I do, he'll still kill me. I don't want to die! I've worked so hard to get where I am, and I haven't had my fill of power!

"One," Jared said calmly.

"Here, the Starry Compass!"

Falcon threw the compass. Jared caught it with ease. Seizing the moment, Falcon spun and fled.

"Falcon escaped, Mr. Chance!" Erasmus shouted.

"Escaped?"

Jared's lips curled into a smile. He vanished, reappearing moments later with Falcon in his grasp. The once-mighty Falcon was now a helpless captive.

Shock rippled through the room. Jared flung Falcon to the ground, his aura causing everyone to instinctively kneel.

Gasping, Falcon pleaded, "P-Please spare me! I've given you the compass. Have mercy!"

Jared scoffed, pulling a still-shocked Josephine closer. "Did you consider the consequences of harassing my wife? Everyone has a limit, and those who push it die. My limit is my wife, so you die today!"

Josephine stared, her hand flying to her mouth. Her chest heaved with conflicting emotions.