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Chapter_214
Skadi’s eyes widened as she finally understood: the crowd wasn’t here to cheer on Zabel—they’d come to sneer.
A slow smile curved her lips. “If any of you came here to mock us, you’ll regret it.”
Just then, an elderly figure descended from the bus. Clad in traditional Nihon robes and wooden clogs, his white hair framed a face of chiseled severity—hooked nose, piercing eyes, an aura of iron discipline. He paused at the entrance, fixing his gaze on Nash Calcraft.
Nash met the old master’s steady stare without flinching. A flicker of recognition crossed his mind: the subtle pulse of true essence around the newcomer placed him in the Profound Reality Realm, on the cusp of the Mystique Loyalty tier—the mark of one of the Green Bamboo Association’s Ten Juggernauts.
Olivia Lee slipped by Nash’s side, her voice hushed. “That is Newi Ihara, the ‘Hidden‐Ghost Juggernaut.’ His power is legendary. If he steps into the ring today, Zabel’s academy could be in serious trouble…”
Nash offered her a calm nod.
Leaning closer, Olivia added, “Six of the Juggernauts have arrived in Jonford. They won’t openly challenge you— they know you’ve the Northern Territory’s backing.”
Nash’s expression remained unreadable. “Thank you for the warning. I’ll be careful.”
At that moment, Skadi rejoined them. “What gravitas‐heavy secret are you whispering?”
Nash shook his head. “Nothing. Shall we go inside?”
They stepped through the gateway, and Grandmaster Zakariah Sinclair Zabel greeted them with a hand over his heart. “Mr. Calcraft—welcome.”
Nash returned the gesture. “Grandmaster.” Zakariah led him to the ceremonial chair at the front, then took his seat at the matching table laid with teacups.
Before they could speak, Jonathan Duerson, Simon Lane, Olivia Lee, and the other heirs of Jonford’s Five Elites filed in, flanked by their retainers. Zakariah rose respectfully to welcome them, and seats were swiftly arranged.
Nash settled confidently into the Grand Chair, but Skadi hovered protectively at his side. “You’re in my grandfather’s seat—I should be beside you.”
He waved her off with a grin. “I’m the guest of honor—sit where you like.”
Justin Yanes, a spirited young instructor, offered Nash a cigarette. Nash tucked it between his lips, and Justin struck a flame. Skadi laughed. “Justin has good instincts—only extraordinary guests ever claim that seat.”
Nash nearly stood, but Skadi pressed his shoulder down. “Stay. You’re representing Zabel today.”
He reclined at last, lighting his smoke. “Very well,” he murmured, “I shall.”