"Hmph! You got lucky this time." Kendricks glared at Azalea, then sheathed his Demonblade and left the battle ring.

Even though he won, there was no thrill in it. He didn't feel proud about winning against a vulnerable woman when she had managed to injure him.

Since his rise to fame, he had never felt so embarrassed. The Divine Talismans had played a part, but he couldn't deny being outmatched and humiliated.

The missed chance to retaliate only deepened his frustration. Kendricks vowed he wouldn't show the Mystic Arts Order disciples mercy if he faced them again.

"Contestant number five is the winner in this match," Oron announced.

The spectators reacted with warm applause.

Azalea's stunning performance and Kendricks's formidable strength were worthy of praise. Most previous matches had been brutal, where a single misstep could cost a contestant their life.

It was rare to see someone as wise as her, who knew when she was outmatched and chose to surrender immediately. Her quick