Seeing the overwhelming confidence of Matias, Austin sneered and ridiculed, "Is that so? You seem so confident."
"There's only one way to find out. Let's try, shall we?"
Matias responded solemnly. It seemed that he started to consider Austin as an equal adversary.
The audience was hoping to see the two fight to find out who was the strongest.
"To tell you frankly, I am looking forward to our match. It's been quite a while since the last time I competed with a strong opponent like you," declared Matias again. He glared at Austin with soaring fighting spirit as he clenched his fists.
However, Austin appeared to be unusually calm. He stood firm with his hands behind his back, devoid of any dismay.
Not a single sign of anger or agitation could be seen in Austin as if fighting Matias was something he wasn't worried about.
When Matias sensed that Austin wasn't interested in fighting him, his facial expression had changed.
He then said coldly, "But first, I'll teach you what respect is and the price you should pay for your arrogance!"
With that said, he directed his powers to his clenched fist and prepared to launch an attack.
"Stop!"
When Matias was about to attack, a thundering sound came.
Everyone in the area immediately felt a strong presence so overwhelming that they could hardly breathe. Whoever it was, his strength appalled everyone.
'To have this strong presence, he must be a powerful warrior at Earth Realm.
There's no doubt about it! Only those who are at least at that realm could have that level of strength!'
Austin thought to himself.
Suddenly, a floating figure appeared in the sky. He glanced around with his sharp and angry eyes, and all disciples lowered their heads to avoid his gaze. Everyone was quiet and careful not to make any unnecessary noise.
The man was no other than Steward Lu!
T
attention. It was Austin.
He asked in a casual way, "Are you Austin Lin?"
Upon being asked, Austin hurriedly stepped forward, bowed, and answered politely, "Yes, Steward Lu. I am Austin."
He spoke with utmost politeness and respect. He was trying his best not offend the steward in fear of being wiped off from the sect.
"I remember that you were turned into a fool. But what happened? Why are you sober now?"
Steward Lu asked curiously.
"I was, Steward Lu. But a few days ago, I just recovered."
"Well, that's good to hear. You have a good foundation, and if you worked hard, you might regain your strength," said Steward Lu casually. He had heard about Austin before. The boy was the top disciple among the outer disciples. But due to an unfortunate incident, he was shamefully turned into a fool.
Austin's recovery had piqued his interest.
After all, he was an excellent disciple with great potential and a firm foundation in cultivation. If he could regain his strength before the competition proper, it would be beneficial for Steward Lu, too.
"Thank you for your kind words, Steward Lu. I will prove my worthy of your confidence."
"Excellent!"
Steward Lu was satisfied with Austin's deferential attitude.