Chapter 377: Hidden Strength

Bane was sent flying from the arena, plummeting to the ground, his body drenched in blood. Even if he survived, he would be crippled for life. The Schmidt family rushed to his side, rage etched on their faces, but the alliance rules were absolute. Even if Zachariah had killed Bane, they could do nothing.

"Zachariah, you've won," Luke frowned, his voice laced with dissatisfaction. "Why such cruelty?"

"Those who support me prosper; those who oppose me perish," Zachariah declared, his tone arrogant. "Anyone who dares challenge my leadership of the Warriors Alliance will die. Who's next?" He surveyed the crowd with a grim expression.

Silence fell. After Zachariah's display of power, no one dared enter the arena.

The Jantz family rejoiced. Zachariah's leadership would make them Summerbank's dominant family.

Luke sighed, shaking his head. He knew he was no match for Zachariah and could only watch his self-aggrandizement.

Then, Phoenix leaped into the arena. "Zachariah," she said, "even if I hadn't come, you would have killed me. But it ends today."

Zachariah instantly unleashed his aura to oppress her.

Phoenix snorted, releasing a terrifying aura of her own to counter his.

"They're evenly matched," Jared observed casually.

Tommy nervously asked, "Mr. Chance, is Phoenix in danger?"

Jared smiled. "Even if she loses, her life won't be at risk. Don't worry."

Tommy, still anxious, watched the arena. Phoenix and Zachariah's auras clashed fiercely, murderous intent in their eyes.

"You've been hiding your strength, Phoenix," Zachariah said, surprised.

"Prepare to be even more surprised!" Phoenix opened her arms; a white light erupted, forming a phoenix that circled her head.

Disbelief washed over Zachariah and the audience.

"Phoenix Fire!" Phoenix cried, thrusting her arms forward. The phoenix shrieked, its wings beating as it dove toward Zachariah.

Zachariah, horrified, created a martial energy barrier. The phoenix struck, cracking the barrier. A second hit shattered it, sending Zachariah crashing to the ground, spewing blood.

"Mr. Jantz!" cried the Jantz family.

The audience stared, astonished that the petite Phoenix possessed such power.

Tommy cheered, "Nicely done!"

Phoenix looked down at Zachariah with disdain. "You've lost, Zachariah. Your dreams are shattered."

"No! I won't lose!" Zachariah struggled to his feet, wiping blood from his mouth. He produced a green pill and swallowed it.

Phoenix watched, bewildered, unsure what he had taken.