Chapter 366: Below My League

“Please calm down, Mr. Jantz!” Leonardo urged Zachariah. “Our top priority is gathering herbs for the Crescent Sect so Master Venicus can begin work on the longevity pills. Jared is insignificant; let’s ignore him for now. Several prominent families in the Warriors Alliance are already eyeing the Whitaker family’s assets. The Phoenix Regiment has even begun seizing them. We must act quickly to secure these assets before anyone else. Otherwise, we won’t raise enough funds for the herbs!”

Zachariah narrowed his eyes. “The Phoenix Regiment… They constantly oppose us! I’ll remove them from the Warriors Alliance and drive them from Summerbank—it’s only a matter of time!”

He slammed his fist on the table, shattering it. “I’m calling a Warriors Alliance meeting tomorrow. If they don’t comply, we’ll demonstrate our power and force their submission!”

Meanwhile, Jared drove from the Jantz residence toward Lizbeth’s when he noticed two cars tailing him.

“Oh? The Jantzs are swift to act,” he sneered condescendingly, pulling over to the roadside. He had no intention of fleeing; he knew he’d face them eventually.

As expected, the two cars stopped behind him. Four large men exited the second car and rushed to open the door of the first. A bearded man, approximately fifty years old, emerged, his four followers standing respectfully behind him. This was Master Iron, head of the Iron Gate Academy.

Jared frowned, puzzled. These men weren't from the Jantz family.

“Master, he’s the one who killed Jason!” one man pointed at Jared, his voice furious.

Jared realized they were from the Iron Gate Academy. He recognized two of them from his previous encounter with Jason.

Master Iron scrutinized Jared, then roared, “You punk! You killed my disciple and dare remain in Summerbank? You show us no respect!”

Jared chuckled, noting Master Iron’s resemblance to Jason. He mused to himself that those practicing the Impenetrable Skill seemed to share similar features, jesting that appearance must be a top selection criterion for disciples.

Master Iron’s rage flared at Jared’s smile. “Why are you smiling? Did you not hear me?”

“No wonder Francis and Jason were so inept. With you as their master, they could never achieve much! Your disciples initiated the conflict. They died due to their incompetence. As their master, you should reflect on your skills and teaching, instead of attacking me!” Jared retorted.

Master Iron growled, “Francis was no longer with the Iron Gate Academy, so I don't care about him. But Jason was my disciple, and anyone who harms him shows us no respect. That makes you our enemy. I don’t care why he challenged you, but you shouldn't have killed him!”

Jared scoffed, “So I show you no respect? Earn my respect, then. If you can't, leave! I hate boastful people.”

Master Iron’s anger exploded. “Young punk, how dare you speak to me so disrespectfully?”

He unleashed a powerful wave of energy at Jared. His body shimmered with a golden glow, a dazzling display of power. A fierce gust of wind whipped up dust, and his disciples scattered for cover.

Jared watched Master Iron with disinterest. “You’re better than your disciples, but unfortunately, you’re still far below my league.”