The two branching experts inspected each other in the sky, tension building in the air, seemingly about to generate a massive explosion.
Still, the two powerhouses' stances were quite telling. Jessica's jaw tensed, her anger rising, but leading to no action. Instead, Ray kept grinning, his arms behind his back, amused by the furious expert in front of him.
"Smiling Blade," Jessica eventually spoke, her decision to resort to words highlighting her position in the stalemate. "Step aside. My business is both personal and in the name of the Dragon Kingdom."
"Is spouting big names all you righteous cultivators can do?" Ray laughed vulgarly. "Turn back and save face. You weren't my match even when you were whole."
"Do you still dare to stand in my way despite the insult the Mercenary Guild has received?" Jessica threatened.
"Why wouldn't I dare?" Ray snickered. "What's there to fear when you can't protect yourself from a mere rooting expert?"
