Chapter 50: Injuring With a Mere Leaf

Luca's face burned. He sensed Steven had held back during the earlier kick, but as Walter's bodyguard, the public humiliation was unbearable. He'd rather die than admit defeat. Martial artists valued their dignity above life itself. To lose today would tarnish his reputation, jeopardizing his future in this circle and likely costing him his job with Walter.

"You don't have to hold back, Steven. I don't mind dying, but I can't lose!"

As he spoke, his face flushed crimson, his body swelled, then deflated instantly as he roared, "Storm Fist!" He launched himself forward like a cannonball.

Steven frowned. "Looks like I'll have to use my ultimate technique." He crouched, cracking the marble floor beneath him, his clothes rippling despite the stillness of the air. "Here I come!"

Luca's eyes blazed scarlet as he struck.

Boom!

The earth-shattering impact forced everyone to cover their ears. Steven remained motionless, completely unharmed. Luca, undeterred, unleashed a flurry of blows.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

"Enough!" Steven countered with a single punch.

Their fists collided. Luca flew back, crashing to the ground, unable to rise.

"What?" The stunned onlookers included a jaw-dropped Walter.

Tommy shuddered, surprised by Steven's newfound strength. He nervously glanced at Jared, perhaps the only one who could defeat Steven.

Luca struggled to his feet, failing twice. "W-Who taught you that impenetrable skill?" he gasped.

"Francis Yancey. Do you know him?" Steven asked, standing tall.

Luca's face paled, fear evident in his eyes. Tommy trembled. Clearly, they both knew—and feared—this exceedingly powerful man. The others remained unfazed, revealing their unfamiliarity with the name.

"W-Who is Mr. Yancey to you?" Luca asked.

"My mentor. I learned the Impenetrable Skill from him."

Morosely, Luca sighed. "No wonder. Mr. Yancey as your mentor… I admit defeat."

His sudden surrender surprised everyone. He'd been prepared to fight to the death, but Francis Yancey's name had changed everything.

Jared's brow furrowed. He turned to Tommy. "Who is this Francis Yancey?"

"An expert in ancient martial arts with immense internal energy. His true capabilities are unknown, but rumor has it he can injure someone with a mere leaf!" Fear colored Tommy's voice.

"Injure someone with a mere leaf?" Jared chuckled. "Like this?" He picked up a toothpick and flicked it at Steven.

Before Steven could react, the toothpick pierced his arm, leaving only a tiny portion visible.