Chapter 124: Law of Blood

Chapter 124: Law of BloodNinth Prince Leon and Seraphina stood together, their expressions a mixture of pride and frustration. The grand arena buzzed with excitement and chatter, but James’s victory dominated most conversations. His rise from commoner to genius swordsman was the kind of story that resonated deeply with the masses, overshadowing even the most noble and prestigious backgrounds.

"Hmm, where did this James come from? He’s taken all the spotlight," Leon grumbled, unable to hide his irritation. "Apollo’s performance was exceptional, and now it feels like it’s being overshadowed by a commoner."

Seraphina placed a comforting hand on Leon’s shoulder, her eyes reflecting a shared sentiment. "I understand how you feel, Leon. But we can’t deny that James’s story is inspiring to many. It’s the kind of narrative that captures people’s hearts—rising from nothing to stand among the elite."

Leon sighed, glancing at Apollo, who was resting nearby, seemingly unfazed by the current shift in attention. "I know, but it still stings. Apollo deserves just as much recognition. His journey and achievements are remarkable."

Seraphina nodded. "You’re right. But remember, this is just the beginning. Apollo’s story is far from over. The competition isn’t finished, and there’s still time for him to shine even brighter."

Leon looked thoughtful, considering her words. "You’re right. We should focus on supporting Apollo. His potential is limitless, and this competition is just one of many opportunities."

As they continued to watch the proceedings, the atmosphere in the arena remained charged with anticipation.

Meanwhile, Apollo, seated in a meditative pose, opened his eyes. He had sensed the murmurs and whispers but remained focused. The recent battles had taught him much, and he was determined to push his limits further.

Apollo had a feeling that he might be able to understand Sword Aura in the upcoming battles, as he faced stronger challenges and fierce opponents.

James, who had become the talk of everyone, seemed unfazed by the loud cheers from the countless people in the crowd. Instead, he had closed his eyes, lost in his own world.

He was actually conversing with something, or rather, with someone: a mysterious sword spirit. Every divine weapon possessed a spirit and its own will, much like the Book of Death. However, even among these divine artifacts, it was rare for a spirit to manifest as purely as this sword’s, allowing direct communication with its wielder.

"Kiddo, you were lucky to defeat her. She seemed unable to use her full strength; otherwise, you’d have been in big trouble," said the Sword Spirit, a golden-crimson sword enveloped in flames, as it looked at James.

"Hmm, you’re saying she couldn’t use all her strength? But why?" James asked, clearly puzzled.

"Her identity wasn’t simple. She felt like someone’s spirit clone. Anyway, I don’t know the exact reason, as my memories of the past are vague. You have to be careful," the spirit warned.

He nodded, respecting the Sword Spirit’s wisdom. The spirit was like a master to him; without its guidance, he would still be a weak commoner, unable to stand as a proud genius looking down on others.

Only the top eight remained, and tomorrow would be the final battle among them. Everyone had fought hard today, so they needed some rest to recover their strength and prepare for the decisive matches ahead.

As night fell, Apollo knew tomorrow he would face even tougher opponents and new challenges. This night, no one disturbed him, allowing him to meditate and concentrate fully on the upcoming battles.

Time passed quickly, and morning arrived with bright sunshine that bathed the arena in a heavenly glow. This arena would be the stage for extraordinary geniuses, whose names would later become legendary.

Apollo took a deep breath, feeling the first rays of sunlight warm his face. He had spent the night meditating; his mind was focused on the upcoming battles. He felt a newfound clarity and a sharpening of his senses and skills. Today would be the day he pushed his limits, the day he strove to understand Sword Aura.

As he stood up and stretched, the arena began to fill with spectators, their excitement palpable in the air.

The final eight contestants would face off, and each match promised to be a display of unparalleled skill and power.

The anticipation was electric, and the atmosphere was charged with the energy of countless warriors and onlookers eager to witness the culmination of the competition.

Apollo’s thoughts turned to his potential opponents. Each one of them was a formidable genius, with unique abilities and strengths that had brought them this far.

Among them, Prince Michael seemed to be the strongest, having demonstrated his mastery of the 15% Light Law. Apollo knew he couldn’t defeat that unless he used his 20% Death Law or his semi-divine energy, but doing so would instantly attract the attention of the old Half-God from the Sacred Light Empire.

As for his Half-Demon God form, that was his real trump card, one he wouldn’t use unless he found himself in a life-or-death situation.

There was also Lycan Fullblood, who wielded a unique and terrifying power: the Law of Blood. His opponents couldn’t even move as their blood churned within them, making them helpless before his might.

In addition to them, there was James, who was at his best at the moment. But this didn’t mean the others were any less strong; they were equally formidable. Each of the remaining contenders had proven their worth through sheer skill, determination, and mastery over their unique abilities.

As Apollo braced himself for the battles ahead, he understood that he would need to draw upon every lesson he had learned and every ounce of strength and skill he possessed. The path to victory would not be easy, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The first draw was made quickly, and it was Apollo’s turn to battle. He was the one to open the exciting matches of the day. His opponent was none other than Lycan Fullblood, who leapt directly into the arena like a colossal beast, making the land tremble with his powerful impact.

Lycan’s presence was overwhelming. His eyes glowed with a predatory hunger, and his aura was a crimson haze that hinted at his terrifying mastery of the Law of Blood. The crowd gasped at the sight, and the tension in the air was palpable as the two combatants faced each other.

Apollo remained calm, his eyes focused and determined. He could feel the weight of Lycan’s power, but he was not intimidated.

"Begin!" the old man from the Sacred Light Empire shouted, and the arena erupted into chaos.

Lycan, known for his brute strength and fearsome abilities, charged at Apollo with the ferocity of a beast. The ground beneath him cracked with each step, and the air seemed to vibrate with his raw power.

Apollo stood his ground, calm and focused. As Lycan closed the distance, Apollo launched himself forward, meeting his opponent head-on. Their fists collided with a deafening roar, the shockwave from the impact radiating outward and shaking the very foundation of the arena.

The force of their clash sent debris flying, and the protective barriers around the arena shimmered as they absorbed the residual energy.

Lycan’s attacks were relentless, each punch and kick carrying the weight of a small mountain. He swung his massive fist at Apollo’s head, but Apollo dove under the blow and countered with a powerful uppercut that sent Lycan staggering backwards.

The ground beneath them splintered from the force of their movements, and the air crackled with the intensity of their battle.

Apollo’s eyes gleamed with excitement as he launched a series of rapid punches, each one creating miniature shockwaves that rippled through the arena. Lycan blocked and parried, his muscles straining under the force of Apollo’s attacks. With a roar, he retaliated with a sweeping kick that aimed to knock Apollo off his feet.

Apollo leapt into the air, avoiding the kick, and landed behind Lycan with the grace of a seasoned warrior. He delivered a powerful roundhouse kick to Lycan’s side, the impact causing a thunderous boom that echoed across the arena.

Lycan grunted in pain but quickly recovered, spinning around to deliver a backhand strike that Apollo barely dodged.

The two combatants moved with blinding speed, their physical prowess on full display. Each strike and counterstrike was a testament to their incredible strength and skill. As they clashed, the ground beneath them continued to crack and fissure, the sheer force of their battle creating craters and trenches in the arena floor.

Both of their strengths seemed to be on par, but Apollo demonstrated superior control and instinct. He was able to push Lycan Fullblood hard, using his refined abilities to gain the upper hand in their fierce confrontation.

Lycan grinned, his eyes blazing with a savage light. "You’re strong, Apollo. Surprisingly, such a small frame can stand up to me, but let’s see how you handle this!" With a primal roar, he unleashed his Blood Law, the air around him thickening with dense, crimson energy.

The crowd gasped in awe as Lycan’s body pulsated with blood, his muscles swelling and his veins glowing an ominous red. The atmosphere grew heavy, causing everyone to feel a chilling sensation as if their blood had momentarily stopped flowing.