Chapter 30: You, Damn It!

"Dustin Li! Dustin Li! Dustin Li!..."

As Dustin Li won the competition, his name soared to legendary heights among the students of the Martial Hall. The crowds erupted in cheers, especially from those with humble backgrounds, who now saw him as a beacon of hope. The rise of a previously unknown commoner would forever be etched in the annals of Novaridge City Martial Hall.

Though surrounded by admiration and awe, Dustin's heart remained calm. He understood exactly how he had arrived here. The combination of the Life and Death Beads had provided the foundation, and five months of grueling training had solidified his strength. His achievements were the result of blood, sweat, and fire—the true essence of a martial artist.

The path of martial arts was long, and this victory was but the beginning.

As Dustin stepped down from the stage, the crowd parted, allowing him to pass. Students from all classes—elementary, intermediate, and advanced—watched him with respect. They saw in him not only a champion but a symbol of what could be achieved through determination.

Standing beside Emery Liu, Jeth lowered his head in defeat, no longer daring to challenge Dustin's prowess.

"You'd better not provoke him again," Jeth's cousin, Shane, said with a wry smile. Just a moment ago, he had belittled Dustin, but now, he had no choice but to acknowledge the truth of the situation.

Emery Liu watched Dustin with a mix of admiration and regret. She had once believed he was unworthy of her attention. Now, it seemed the reverse was true—she wasn't even worthy of being noticed by him.

"Dustin Li, come with me."

Elder Jeremy of the Martial Hall approached, breaking the moment of silence. He motioned for Dustin to follow him to the deepest part of the Martial Hall, where the Lord of the Martial Hall awaited.

Inside the grand hall, the five elders were gathered, and the Lord of the Martial Hall stood at the forefront. Dustin approached, bowing respectfully.

"Student Dustin Li pays respects to the Hall Master and esteemed Elders," Dustin said as he stood at the center of the room.

The Lord of the Martial Hall nodded slightly. "Dustin Li, you have earned the championship and ranked first. This is your reward."

A maid emerged with a jade plate, covered with a red cloth, and Dustin's eyes sparkled with curiosity.

The first jade plate revealed a small cyan token. The Hall Master spoke, "This token grants you access to the third floor of the Book Collection Pavilion, where you may choose a fourth-grade martial art."

Dustin's mind raced. Not only could he choose a martial skill, but his potential was now unlocked—he could study internal skills, martial techniques, and body arts from the best available.

The second jade plate revealed a delicate jade bottle, containing an Energy Condensing Pill. "This is a second-grade pill," the Hall Master explained. "It will help you break through the peak of the ninth level of Body Refining and enter the Energy Gathering Realm."

Dustin knew how valuable this pill was. It would save him months, if not years, of hard work. Such a pill could fetch over a thousand low-grade vitality stones in Novaridge City.

The third jade plate revealed a bronze disc, inscribed with intricate runes. "This is a second-order Spirit Gathering Formation device," the Hall Master continued. "It will quadruple your cultivation efficiency."

Dustin was stunned. This device was worth close to 2,000 Yuan Energy Stones, and the rewards were piling up.

"Many thanks to the Hall Master for these generous rewards," Dustin said, bowing once more.

The Hall Master smiled. "You've earned it. For a talent like yours, the Martial Hall will not hold back."

The Lord of the Martial Hall turned to Elder Jeremy. "Bring him in."

Jeremy called out, and two green-armored guards entered, escorting a middle-aged man in brocade. Dustin immediately recognized him—the head of the Zhang family, Grady Zhang.

"Grady Zhang holds a grudge against you for injuring Jude Zhang," Elder Jeremy explained. "He hired a team of hunters to kill you, and the Martial Hall has the evidence."

Dustin's suspicions about the Zhang family were confirmed. "The Zhang family has a powerful background," Jeremy continued. "One of their ancestors, Pablo Zhang, is a deacon at Salmoris. Recently, he arrived to protect Grady."

Dustin's expression darkened as Jeremy elaborated on the situation. Though the Zhang family had the backing of a powerful ancestor, the rules of the Martial Hall still applied. "Murdering a student is a capital offense," Jeremy said. "But with their powerful background, it's complicated. Do you understand?"

Dustin clenched his fists. He understood the implications. If he killed Grady, he would anger the Zhang family's powerful ancestor, but if he let Grady go, it might show weakness—a fear of power.

Before Dustin could respond, Jeremy added, "The Zhang family sent people to Panshi Town to arrest your parents and sister."

Dustin's face darkened instantly. "What did you say?"

Grady protested, "I didn't do it! I didn't send anyone!"

But it was too late. The senior elders of Invinciblean were unmoved. The threat to Dustin's family was real, and his fury reached its peak.

"You, damn it!" Dustin's voice cracked with rage, his eyes filled with murderous intent. "No one touches my family and lives!"

The Lord of the Martial Hall raised his hand. "Take him out and execute him."

"Yes!" The guards immediately dragged Grady out, ignoring his protests.

As Grady was taken away, Dustin's anger didn't subside. His thoughts were consumed with thoughts of his family's safety.

"You have courage," the Hall Master said. "But be aware, when you enter Salmoris, the Zhang family will make their move."

Dustin bowed again. "I understand, but I am not afraid."

The Hall Master's gaze softened. "Cultivate in peace. Your future is bright. When you enter the Energy Gathering Realm, I will recommend you for the outer sect assessment."

As the elders spoke, Dustin's resolve hardened. With each step, he would grow stronger and protect those he loved. The path of a martial artist was filled with challenges, but Dustin Li was ready for whatever came next.