Female Novel
Chapter 1178
Matthew finally appeared amidst the crowd's chatter.
His grandeur still undiminished, he came with a host of bodyguards in two rows on either side, paving the wayfor him.
His arrival quelled the bustling crowd instantly. Every eye was on him, watching as he steadily made his way tothe center of the circular plaza, where three sets of very impressive-looking mahogany tables and chairs had beenset up.
Matthew took a seat in one of the positions. Though aged, he looked stern and showed no signs of frailty. Heexuded an aura of effortless imposition.
While the crowd was staring at him, two more figures arrived.
An elder, Miguel Carson, was the representative of the neutral family who established the selection criteria.
The other one was a young man, extraordinarily handsome, with a powerful yet gentle demeanor.
However, the way he was carrying himself caused a shift in the expressions of all those present.
Neera sensed quite clearly the building tension in the atmosphere around her, which left her feeling puzzled.
“Who is this? Why does he seem even more intimidating than Matthew and the old man who had just arrived?”
Shane first quietly introduced Miguel to her, then proceeded with his explanation.
“This young man, on the other hand, is a representative sent from Lordsworth Estate. His name is Colin Wiley,
one of the seven branch leaders under Lordsworth Estate. Despite his young age, he holds great power, and hisskills are remarkable, to say the least; he can hold his own against the vice president and the rest of them. Also,don't be fooled by his youth. He may not look it, but he is capable of drastic measures. Trust me when I tell youthat his reputation alone is enough to strike fear into the hearts of men.”
Neera was surprised by the introduction. She could not help murmuring to herself, “Do this Lordsworth Estateselect people based on their looks? First, there was Tiago, and now Colin. Each one of them is so handsome thatit's becoming outrageous...”
Shane was amused by her bewildered expression, but he held back his laughter.
“Judging by his appearance, he does look like a modest gentleman who would never resort to violence, but hisexploits are the stuff of legend. This man single-handedly eliminated several powerful factions within half amonth. Remember, none of the seven branch leaders under the jurisdiction of Lordsworth Estate are to beunderestimated. All of them are masters in their own right.”
Neera's astonishment grew.
Several powers wiped out in just half a month. How powerful would one be to achieve such a feat? It sounds likethis person is even more ruthless than the deputy lord, Tiago, by a factor of two. Sure enough, there's not a singledecent person in all of Lordsworth Estate. novelbin
Matthew appeared polite as he exchanged pleasantries with Colin when the latter arrived. However, his wordswere laced with poorly-veiled hostility.
“What a surprise to see you at here today, Mr. Wiley.”
With a faint smile, Colin replied evenly, “It's been a while, Mr. Lozano. I didn't expect to see you here either.”
Narrowing his eyes, Matthew said in a nonchalant tone, “It's only natural that I preside over such an importantoccasion today. What surprises me is you and your party. Has Lordsworth Estate run out of people to allow amere branch leader to attend?”
Those words were filled with provocation, yet Colin seemed oblivious. With a hint of a smile still lingering on hislips, he effortlessly prevaricated the insult.
“Important occasion? Surely that's an overstatement, Mr. Lozano. This is a small event, which does not requirethe presence of any big shots. I can handle it just fine.”
His words were as good as a slap to Matthew's face.
In an instant, the atmosphere became tense as if swords and bows were drawn.
Matthew found himself at a disadvantage, and his expression darkened slightly. He was about to retort in anattempt to regain his footing when Miguel of the neutral party interrupted the tense standoff between the two.
“Now that we are all present, it's time. Best not to keep everyone waiting too long.”
Having said that, Matthew was forced to swallow his retort. The place finally fell silent.
Soon, the massive clock in the square began to chime. Deep and resonant, it inexplicably imbued a sense ofsolemnity and grandeur.
The tolling bell signified for all those participating in the selection to enter the misty forest to commence the
battle.
Neera's heart clenched uncontrollably. She took a deep breath to pull herself together.
Noticing the situation, Avery wanted to ruffle her hair but, fearing her disapproval, ultimately rested his hand onher shoulder and gave it a light pat.
“Go on. Keep your eyes peeled. We'll be right here, waiting for your return.”
Neera inclined her head, expressed her thanks, then set off with her entourage.
In the meantime, the other forces began marching into the mountain.