Chapter 2The Crimson Betrayal

The Grand Cultivator’s Assembly proceeded as planned. After today, I would leave Spirit Mountain forever.

The disciples gathered in the main hall, awaiting our Master. Zera presided from her high seat.

“Our losses in the Battle of the Crimson River were severe,” she announced. “But we can take solace in the fact that, in our darkest hour, Kael saved the lives of many of our junior disciples.”

The acolytes erupted in cheers, chanting Kael’s name, calling for him to come forward. Zera familiarly made space for him at her side, in the spot that had once been mine. They looked like a perfectly matched couple.

She took his hand and declared, “Since his return, Kael’s cultivation has improved dramatically. I propose that Joric step down from his position as Sword Master, and that Kael take his place, leading our disciples in their training from this day forward.”

The position of Sword Master… Zera had begged our Master to give it to me. He had thought I was too young, but she had knelt in the back mountains for half a month, pleading for him to give me a chance. She had said she couldn’t bear to see my talent wasted.

Now, she was ruthlessly tearing it away from me.

Kael shot me a triumphant smirk. “Sorry, Brother Joric,” he whispered. “Zera was worried you’d spill the beans about the battle. She had to make sure everyone would despise you.”

Zera walked toward me, her face a cold mask. “To convince everyone,” she said, her voice devoid of emotion, “you will duel Kael.”

The disciples roared their approval. It was a perfect trap. Whether I fought or not, I was doomed. To be defeated by Kael without my Core would be the ultimate humiliation.

I forced a tight smile. “I will give him the position voluntarily. There is no need for a duel.”

“That won’t do,” Zera said, raising her hand. With a flick of her wrist, a spell sent me flying onto the dueling platform. Kael landed opposite me on his sword, bowing with false sincerity. “My apologies, Senior Brother.”

My Core had supercharged his power. He came at me with killing intent. I had no way to defend myself. The duel was a one-sided slaughter. I was left broken and defeated on the platform.

The disciples looked at me with contempt. “He’s the reason so many of us died! He’s finally getting what he deserves!”

Kael raised his sword in victory. “I am the victor!”

The hall erupted in cheers. Zera, her face beaming, announced, “Good! Then the position of Sword Master now belongs to—”

Before she could finish, I forced myself to my feet. “There’s no need to humiliate me further. I am leaving the Spirit Mountain Order. I will never set foot here again.”

As my words echoed in the silent hall, the main doors swung open. Our Master strode in, his voice a sharp rebuke.

“Enough of this foolishness!”