Chapter – 30 I’m the Boss
I’m the Boss
Gianna’s tears flowed as she witnessed the venom’s relentless advance, her former arrogance now replaced by terror.
Without a word, Jared’s sword swung through the air, severing Gianna’s arm cleanly.
Flustered, Gianna stared at her detached limb lying on the ground, then back at her shoulder. When the realization hit her, she broke into sobs before slipping into unconsciousness.
“Once this tournament concludes, you’ll answer for your deeds!” Jared spat, leading his companions away.
“Dustin, Jared isn’t someone you should take lightly. Be cautious,” Patrick warned.
“He should be the one watching his step,” Dustin retorted.
Had it not been for Patrick’s presence, Jared would be lying on the ground right now.
“It’s almost time. Let’s find Grandpa,” Patrick signaled, ushering them towards a luxurious lakeside villa.
The expansive villa exuded rustic elegance, with a sprawling courtyard where participants were taking their rest.
Inside the villa’s living room, Paul engaged in a comfortable conversation with a middle-aged man. It was none other than the leader of Balerno martial arts, Ronald Reeds.
Given Paul’s mentorship of Ronald, their camaraderie was evident.
“Sir, I’ve heard you’ve identified a highly promising individual recently. Someone who defeated Terry Doyle and excelled in yesterday’s tests,” Ronald mentioned with a smile.
“He’s truly exceptional. With the right training, he might even become your successor,” Paul mused.
“I’m intrigued to meet this person you’re eyeing,” Ronald’s enthusiasm was palpable.
Paul’s discerning eye was known to disregard average talents.
“Dustin is here, Grandpa,” Patrick announced, entering the room.
“Right on time,” Paul grinned. “Ask him to come in.”
“Of course.” Patrick left to usher Dustin inside.
“Greetings, Sir Paul,” Dustin respectfully greeted.
“You’ve timed your visit well, Dustin. Allow me to introduce you to someone,” Paul gestured towards the man beside him. “This is the current leader of Balerno martial arts, Ronald Reeds.”
“Ronald Reeds?” Dustin raised an eyebrow.
Micheal had mentioned Ronald as his friend. The fact that this friend was the leader of Balerno martial arts took him by surprise.
“Do you two know each other?” Paul was curious.
“Indeed, I’m familiar with Sir Reeds’ achievements. Pleasure to meet you again, Sir Reeds,” Dustin offered a second greeting.
“A promising individual, indeed,” Ronald nodded with a smile. “The alliance is fortunate to have young talents like you as future leaders.”
“Your praise is humbling, Sir Reeds,” Dustin responded, a touch of modesty in his tone.
“I have a modest gift for you, just this knife. Its edge can cut through metal. I hope you accept it as a token of our first encounter,” Ronald produced a knife from his possession and handed it to Dustin with a warm smile.
“But…” Dustin was caught off guard.
“Ronald holds great esteem for talents. Since he wishes to present you with a gift, it’s only fitting to accept,” Paul interjected with a smile.
“Very well. Thank you, Sir Reeds,” Dustin accepted the knife graciously.
“Strive to make the Balerno martial arts alliance proud,” Ronald encouraged.
“I assure you, I will,” Dustin pledged.
“Time is short, Ronald. Why not summon the other participants so we can discuss our strategies?” Paul suggested.
“Of course. I’ll gather them,” Ronald began to rise, but just then, a nervous alliance worker entered the room.
“I bring bad news, sir! We’ve received a report that three participants—Chase Newman, Andy Cannon, and Shawn Mcgee—have been poisoned. They’re all currently unconscious!”