The Rise of a Master: It Starts With Rejection

At the Maximus residence in Bedford, the usual liveliness had given way to a heavy atmosphere. Even the housekeepers worked in silence with their heads down instead of chattering cheerfully.

This change, of course, stemmed from the loss of their three elders. Such news couldn't be hidden.

"Dean Maximus!" A voice shattered the silence, echoing throughout the vast residence for all to hear.

Soon, several people rushed to the front courtyard, including Jonah and Herbert. They were the ones who had ambushed Dickson and Felix earlier.

"Mr. Whitwell, this is unexpected. Forgive us for not greeting you sooner."

Indeed, it was Ezra who had called out. Though he stood alone without exuding any energy, his presence made both elders uncomfortable. Such was the terrifying nature of someone who had achieved the mastery of Transcendent Realm.

Another elder appeared in a flash, smiling at Ezra. He asked, "Ezra, what brings you to our place?"

Ezra snorted coldly. "Spare me the pretense, Dean. We both know why I'm here."

Since they were cutting to the chase, Dean dropped the act. "Regarding that incident, I truly knew nothing back then. But what happened in the end?

"Your people from Harmony Clinic emerged unscathed while we lost three mid- stage Transcendent Realm masters. Isn't that a fact?"

Ezra shook his head and laughed. "You haven't changed a bit. Your ability to twist right and wrong remains as frightening as ever."

Suddenly, he raised his hand. Jonah and Herbert immediately coughed up blood, looking so weak they could barely stand.

"If there's a next time, Harmony Clinic won't stand by and do nothing. Consider carefully whether your family can afford such a war."

Dean, the first elder of the Maximus family who had also achieved the mastery of Transcendent Realm, gritted his teeth. "Useless fools! You've completely humiliated me."

He could have intervened, but he knew Ezra had come to make a statement and vent his anger. Stopping him might have triggered an all-out war.noveldrama

"Mr. Maximus, we've failed you."

Dean waved his sleeve and looked skyward. Don't be too discouraged. Felix surely hasn't told the whole truth, so we still have a chance! Once we get the Dragonspine, everything can be salvaged

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"This time, report Felix's movements straight to me." "Yes, sir!"

...

A month passed in unprecedented peace—at least that was how Felix felt.

ernet

During this month, he had put his new status as an Intermediate-grade alchemist to good use. Following Harmony Clinic's regulations, he received a monthly allowance of herbs Based on his rank and talent. He had chosen to focus all of these résources on cultivating pills that enhanced martial strength.

These pills were scarce both in Harmony Clinic and throughout Martial City, so his effort would help many people. With a pill-forming rate of nine per batch, he kept six for himself and submitted the minimum requirement of three to Harmony Clinic. It was a profitable

arrangement, indeed.

"Not bad. According to Dickson's assessment of your combat power, you can now venture out alone occasionally!"

Deborah was very pleased. Felix had not only progressed rapidly in alchemy but also in martial arts. He had finally broken through to the early stage of Transcendent Realm.

"Thank you for your praise, Madam Goddard."

Felix could barely contain his excitement. This marked his first advancement in martial arts without relying on the Dragonspine. It was a totally different feeling.

Now, he would mostly be safe unless he encountered multiple late-stage Transcendent Realm masters or one who had achieved mastery. He really could venture out from time to time.

"I'm heading to Westville tomorrow. Would you like to get some fresh air?" Deborah asked.